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When a loved one passes away, the probate process can feel overwhelming especially if you’re navigating it for the first time. As a Rogersville probate lawyer who has helped families throughout Hawkins County and Tennessee, I’ve seen common mistakes that delay the process, create unnecessary costs, and sometimes even cause disputes among family members that may ultimately require the expertise of a Rogersville litigation attorney. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can save time, money, and stress. 1. Not Filing the Will Promptly In Tennessee, probate begins when the will is filed with the Hawkins County Probate Court. Waiting too long can result in administrative delays, missed deadlines, or even additional legal hurdles. Always file the will as soon as possible to begin the process. 2. Overlooking Required Notices The executor must notify creditors, beneficiaries, and other interested parties. Failure to provide the proper legal notice can lead to disputes or the reopening of probate later. Your probate attorney in Rogersville can ensure all notices are sent correctly and on time. 3. Skipping a Proper Asset Inventory Tennessee law requires a complete inventory of the deceased’s assets. Leaving items out intentionally or accidentally can cause disputes among heirs and delay distribution. This includes real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and even sentimental personal property. 4. Ignoring Tax and Debt Obligations Probate includes paying debts, final bills, and any applicable IRS estate and gift taxes. Failing to settle these obligations before distributing assets can result in personal liability for the executor. 5. Trying to Handle Complex Probate Without Legal Help While small estates may seem straightforward, more complex situations such as blended families, business ownership, or out-of-state property may require the guidance of an experienced Rogersville wills and probate attorney. Without proper legal support, costly mistakes are more likely. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we handle every stage of probate from filing paperwork to distributing assets while ensuring compliance with Tennessee probate laws. We also provide estate planning services to help families avoid future probate complications. If you need help with a current probate matter or want to prepare your own will, call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to speak with an experienced Rogersville probate lawyer.

Divorce is always a challenge, but when it involves business ownership, complex investments, or multiple real estate holdings, the process requires more than a standard approach. In these situations, you need an attorney who understands not just family law, but also the financial realities behind asset division. At Champagne Law Firm in Knoxville, Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom is a sought-after specialist in high-stakes and high-asset divorce cases. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly spent years as a financial advisor with one of the nation’s leading investment firms. This background allows her to analyze financial portfolios, business interests, and property holdings with precision—giving her clients an edge in divorce negotiations and litigation. Why Financial Insight Is Critical in High-Asset Divorce Dividing significant assets is not just about splitting numbers on paper. It often involves: Kelly’s financial background allows her to identify undervalued or overlooked assets, anticipate tax impacts, and ensure her clients are positioned for both immediate and long-term stability. A Team Approach to Complex Divorce Cases High-asset divorces often require input from multiple professionals. Kelly regularly collaborates with: This team-based approach ensures every angle is covered, giving clients confidence in both the process and the outcome. Protecting Your Future in Knoxville If you’re facing a divorce in Knoxville that involves businesses, investments, partnerships or complex property holdings, you need more than a traditional family law attorney. You need an advocate who can bridge the gap between finance and law to protect your wealth and your future. We proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to speak with a Knoxville high stakes and high-asset divorce attorney who brings both financial and legal expertise to the table. Call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

The Smoky Mountains are known for their breathtaking views, charming towns, and unique attractions. Among the most popular draws in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville are the mountain coasters—thrilling rides that wind down the slopes at high speeds. While these attractions are designed for fun, accidents can and do happen, often leaving visitors with serious injuries that cut vacations short and create long-term challenges. The Risks of Mountain Coaster Accidents Mountain coasters are part roller coaster, part alpine slide, and while marketed as safe family fun, they come with real risks. Riders can suffer injuries from: Common injuries include broken bones, head and neck trauma, back injuries, and severe bruising or lacerations. In more serious cases, victims may suffer long-term disabilities that affect their ability to work or enjoy everyday life. Why Legal Guidance Matters Attractions in Tennessee are regulated, but operators don’t always prioritize safety as they should. The Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development oversees amusement device safety, but when operators cut corners or fail to follow standards, riders pay the price. After an accident, companies may try to deny responsibility or push quick settlements that don’t come close to covering medical bills, lost wages, or long-term suffering. Having a lawyer who understands the unique challenges of amusement ride injury cases is essential to holding businesses accountable. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent both locals and visitors injured at Smoky Mountain attractions. We know how to investigate coaster accidents, gather evidence, and build strong cases against negligent operators. Whether you’re a tourist injured on vacation or a local who trusted a coaster’s safety, our firm is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Taking the Next Step After an Accident If you’ve been injured on a mountain coaster in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville, don’t try to handle the situation alone. Seek medical care immediately, document what happened, and contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can protect your rights. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation with a Mountain Coaster Accident Injury Attorney.

For Tennessee business owners, the company you’ve built represents more than financial success — it’s your legacy. The question is not just how to grow your business today, but how to ensure it continues after you retire, transition leadership, or in the event of the unexpected. Without a thoughtful succession plan, even the most successful enterprises risk conflict, financial loss, or collapse. At Champagne Law Firm, we partner with business owners across East and Middle Tennessee from our offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville to create customized succession strategies. What sets our firm apart is the leadership of Kelly Champagne-Deutekom, who brings a rare combination of experience as both a former financial advisor and now as a seasoned attorney. Why Succession Planning Is Essential A succession plan ensures your business can thrive beyond your direct involvement. Without one, disputes may arise over ownership, management decisions, or distribution of assets. A strong plan can: In short, succession planning protects both the people you care about and the business you’ve worked hard to build. The Kelly Champagne-Deutekom Advantage Many attorneys draft legal documents for succession planning. Few bring the depth of financial and business insight that Kelly does. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom worked as a licensed financial advisor, managing complex portfolios, advising high-net-worth clients, and analyzing business valuations. She knows firsthand how assets are structured, how retirement and investment plans function, and how financial institutions view ownership transfers. Today, as an attorney, Kelly integrates that financial knowledge with legal precision. She understands not only what the law requires, but also how business, family, and financial interests must align for a plan to succeed in practice. This dual perspective makes her uniquely equipped to guide Tennessee business owners through every facet of succession planning. Tools for Effective Succession Planning At Champagne Law Firm, we use a wide range of strategies to create comprehensive plans tailored to each client. These often include: For business owners exploring long-term strategy, the Small Business Administration (SBA) succession planning resources offer helpful insights. Planning Early Brings Peace of Mind One of the most common mistakes business owners make is waiting too long to start succession planning. Unexpected illness, disputes, or economic downturns can create turmoil if no plan is in place. Starting early allows you to gradually prepare your successors, test strategies, and ensure the business is positioned for the future. At Champagne Law Firm, Kelly works closely with business owners to build plans that are both practical and protective. Her dual experience ensures that your strategy doesn’t just look good on paper, but also works in real-world financial and legal contexts. For Tennessee-specific resources, visit the Secretary of State Business Services Division, which provides guidance on business entities and legal filings. Champagne Law Firm: Defending Today. Planning Tomorrow. Your business deserves a plan as strong as the effort you’ve invested in it. With her unique combination of financial advisory experience and legal expertise, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom stands apart as a trusted advocate for Tennessee business owners. If you’re ready to protect your company’s future, contact Champagne Law Firm today to begin building a succession plan that safeguards your legacy and provides peace of mind for generations to come.

When a loved one passes away, families are often left facing not only grief but also the practical realities of managing their estate. If the person died without a valid will, the process can become more complicated. In Tennessee, this situation is known as dying “intestate,” and state law—not the individual determines how property is distributed. For families in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Nashville, and throughout East and Middle Tennessee, understanding what happens without a will can prevent confusion and help you prepare for the probate process. What Does Intestacy Mean? Intestacy occurs when a person dies without a will or when the will they left behind is invalid. Instead of following personal instructions, Tennessee courts apply intestacy laws to decide who inherits. This process may not reflect the wishes of the deceased, but it provides a legal framework for distributing assets. How Property Is Distributed Tennessee’s intestacy laws outline a clear order of inheritance: Who Manages the Estate When there is no will naming an executor, the court appoints an estate administrator. A surviving spouse usually has first priority, followed by children or other close relatives. The administrator is responsible for gathering assets, paying debts, and distributing property according to Tennessee law. In some cases, disputes can arise among family members over who should serve, which can delay the process. The Risks of Dying Without a Will Passing away without a will leaves loved ones with uncertainty and, sometimes, conflict. Families may disagree about property, guardianship of minor children, or the best person to serve as administrator. Without clear instructions, the probate process can take longer and cost more, leaving heirs frustrated and strained during an already difficult time. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we guide families through the challenges of intestacy. Our attorneys explain Tennessee’s inheritance laws, help administrators fulfill their duties, and resolve disputes that may arise along the way. We also work with individuals who want to create wills and trusts to make sure their wishes are honored and their families are spared unnecessary stress in the future. Taking Control of the Future No one wants to leave uncertainty for their loved ones. By planning ahead with a valid will or trust, you can ensure your legacy is passed on according to your wishes—not left to state law. And if you are facing the probate process after a family member has passed without a will, our team is here to help you through every step. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about estate planning or probate in Tennessee.

Planning for the future is about more than deciding who gets what—it’s about ensuring that your loved ones are protected, your wishes are honored, and your legacy is preserved. You may already have an idea of how you want your property and personal affairs handled but turning those intentions into a legally enforceable plan can feel overwhelming. Or perhaps you’re unsure where to start and need guidance in identifying your goals and the best way to achieve them. At Champagne Law Firm, our Rutledge estate planning lawyer helps individuals and families throughout Tennessee create customized, legally sound plans so you can move forward with confidence knowing your affairs are in order. Essential Estate Planning Documents A strong estate plan is made up of legal documents that work together to protect your assets and your personal well-being. Our Tennessee estate planning attorney can prepare and review: Trust and will attorneys also assist with business succession planning, charitable giving strategies, and asset protection plans to shield your wealth from creditors and lawsuits. If you are curious about the legal process after a loved one passes, the Grainger County Probate Court website offers helpful local information. High-Net-Worth Estate Planning Expertise At Champagne Law Firm, we specialize in complex estate planning for entrepreneurs, investors, business owners, and multi-generational family enterprises. Our experience with high-net-worth estate planning allows us to integrate asset protection and business succession strategies into a single cohesive plan. If you own multiple properties, have substantial investments, manage a closely held business, or wish to preserve wealth for future generations, our team at Champagne Law Firm brings experienced professionals in finance and law. The creation of an estate plan often involves estate planning attorneys working alongside your financial advisors, CPAs, and family office professionals to ensure every detail is addressed. Click here to view Champagne Law Firm’s publication on Yahoo Finance, titled Cracking the Code: The Husking of Financial Advisor Designations. Estate Planning for Second Marriages and Blended Families If you are in a second marriage or have a blended family, estate planning becomes more complex. You may wish to provide for your current spouse while also ensuring that children from a prior marriage receive their intended inheritance. Without proper planning, state law may not divide your assets the way you intended. Our estate planning lawyers in Rutledge use tools such as marital trusts, prenuptial agreements, and blended family wills to avoid conflict. A Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) trust, for example, can provide income for a surviving spouse during their lifetime, with the remaining assets passing to your children afterward. Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan Many believe estate planning is only for the wealthy, but anyone can benefit from a solid plan. Without one, state intestacy laws decide who inherits your property, which may not reflect your wishes. An estate plan ensures: Even though Tennessee no longer imposes a state inheritance tax, residents should still understand potential federal tax obligations. The Tennessee Department of Revenue’s estate and inheritance taxpage offers helpful information. Keep Your Estate Plan Current Life changes and your plan should too. Major life events like marriage, divorce, a birth, or changes in your financial situation should prompt an immediate review of your estate plan. Even without a major event, reviewing your documents every three to five years ensures they remain current and enforceable. Contact Our Rutledge Estate Planning Lawyer Today Estate planning can be daunting, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Champagne Law Firm we take the time to understand your priorities, explain your options, and craft a plan tailored to your needs. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with an experienced Rutledge estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy.

East Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Millions of people travel each year to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and the surrounding areas to enjoy hiking, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation. But many visitors are surprised to learn that citations issued inside the park are not handled like those in nearby cities or counties. If you receive a speeding ticket, DUI charge, or other citation from a National Park Ranger, your case will likely be handled in federal court, not Sevier County or the local city court. At Champagne Law Firm, we represent both visitors and locals who find themselves facing federal citations from their time in the park. How Park Citations Differ from Local Citations When you’re driving through Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville, a traffic stop typically results in a ticket that is handled in the municipal or county court system. However, once you cross into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you are on federal land. That means: Common Federal Citations in the Smokies Park Rangers have authority to stop vehicles, investigate violations, and issue citations. Some of the most common include: Why This Matters for Visitors Many visitors assume that a ticket in the Smokies is like a ticket in downtown Gatlinburg. The truth is, federal citations can carry much greater consequences and must be handled carefully. Ignoring a citation can result in additional fines, a warrant, and complications if you live out of state. If you’re visiting the area on vacation, your case may still require a court appearance in the federal courthouse in Knoxville or Greeneville. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, we assist locals and visitors alike who have received citations in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Our legal team can: Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom brings litigation experience and a deep knowledge of East Tennessee courts, including the unique federal rules that apply inside the national park. Final Thoughts While Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville may feel like vacation towns with local police and city courts, the moment you enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’re under federal jurisdiction. Citations from Park Rangers are handled very differently than those issued by local police—and the stakes can be higher. Contact Champagne Law Firm today if you’ve received a federal citation while visiting the Smokies. We proudly serve clients across Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville. We represent both residents and visitors facing charges. Call us at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Owning or renting property should be straightforward, but when disagreements arise with property management, the situation can quickly become complicated. From unpaid rent to maintenance failures or security deposit disputes, what begins as a business arrangement often turns into a stressful conflict that affects both tenants and landlords. In Sevierville, Gatlinburg, and across East and Middle Tennessee, property management disputes are a common part of community life—and knowing how to address them is key to protecting your rights. When Tenants and Landlords Disagree Disputes can arise for many reasons. Tenants may feel that a landlord or property manager has failed to provide safe, livable housing. Landlords may face tenants who refuse to pay rent or who violate lease terms. Issues such as repairs, lease renewals, property damage, or even the return of security deposits often become flashpoints for legal action. Without clear communication and proper documentation, these conflicts can escalate quickly. The Legal Side of Property Management In Tennessee, landlord–tenant relationships are governed by state laws and local ordinances that set out specific rights and responsibilities. Tenants are entitled to safe and habitable living spaces, while landlords are entitled to rent payments and reasonable care of their property. When one side fails to meet their obligations, legal remedies—including eviction proceedings or claims for damages—may be necessary. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent both property owners and tenants in disputes with property management. We assist with lease reviews, negotiation of conflicts, and when needed, courtroom representation. Our approach is tailored to protecting our clients’ investments, rights, and peace of mind, whether the issue involves residential rentals, commercial leases, or short-term vacation properties in the Smoky Mountains. Taking the First Step Toward Resolution Property management disputes are stressful, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Having the right legal guidance can mean the difference between a quick resolution and a prolonged, costly battle. At Champagne Law Firm, we listen to your concerns, evaluate your options, and work toward a solution that safeguards your future.

A criminal charge can follow you around for years even if it did not lead to a conviction. Background checks for jobs, housing, and professional licenses often reveal past arrests and dismissed charges. For many Tennesseans, this creates unnecessary barriers long after the legal matter has ended. Fortunately, Tennessee law allows certain charges to be expunged, meaning they are removed from public record. At Champagne Law Firm, our Sevierville expungement lawyer helps individuals take advantage of this powerful legal remedy so they can move forward without the weight of past mistakes. What Is Expungement? Expungement is a legal process where the court orders the permanent removal of eligible criminal records from public access. Once expunged, these records cannot be viewed by employers, landlords, or the general public. In Tennessee, qualifying cases include: Learn more about eligibility on the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts website:  Why Clearing Your Record Matters Many people underestimate the long-term impact of a single charge. Even without a conviction, the mere presence of a record can affect: For locals and newcomers alike, Sevierville is a competitive city. Clearing your record helps level the playing field. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help Because expungement law can be complex, attempting the process alone often leads to delays or missed opportunities. With our experience in Sevier County General Sessions Court, we know the procedures, the judges, and how to maximize your chances of success. Taking the First Step If you are ready to leave your past behind, an expungement petition may be the key to unlocking new opportunities. Every case is unique, and timeframes can vary depending on the charges involved. Acting sooner rather than later can save you stress and open doors. For more information about criminal records and employment rights, you may also want to explore the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Sevier County Criminal Court Clerk’s Office  Contact Our Sevierville Expungement Lawyer At Champagne Law Firm, we believe your future should not be defined by your past. Whether your charges were dismissed, or you qualify for expungement of a conviction, our legal team is ready to help. Champagne Law Firm serves the communities of Middle and East Tennessee with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Call us today at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Divorce is always a challenge, but when it involves business ownership, complex investments, or multiple real estate holdings, the process requires more than a standard approach. In these situations, you need an attorney who understands not just family law, but also the financial realities behind asset division. At Champagne Law Firm in Tennessee, Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom is a sought-after specialist in high-stakes and high-asset divorce cases. Before becoming an attorney, Kelly spent years as a financial advisor with one of the nation’s leading investment firms. This background allows her to analyze financial portfolios, business interests, and property holdings with precision—giving her clients an edge in divorce negotiations and litigation. Why Financial Insight Is Critical in High-Asset Divorce Dividing significant assets is not just about splitting numbers on paper. It often involves: Kelly’s financial background allows her to identify undervalued or overlooked assets, anticipate tax impacts, and ensure her clients are positioned for both immediate and long-term stability. A Team Approach to Complex Divorce Cases High-asset divorces often require input from multiple professionals. Kelly regularly collaborates with: This team-based approach ensures every angle is covered, giving clients confidence in both the process and the outcome. Protecting Your Future in Tennessee If you’re facing a divorce in Tennessee that involves businesses, investments, partnerships or complex property holdings, you need more than a traditional family law attorney. You need an advocate who can bridge the gap between finance and law to protect your wealth and your future. We proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to speak with a Tennessee high stakes and high-asset divorce attorney who brings both financial and legal expertise to the table. Call 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.