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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 Knoxville probate lawyer who has helped families throughout Knox 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 Knoxville 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 Knox 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville probate lawyer.

The Importance of Partnership Agreements A partnership agreement is the blueprint for how your business is managed and how disputes will be resolved. It can address voting rights, profit sharing, roles and responsibilities, and what happens if a partner wants to exit or sell their interest. Without such an agreement, Tennessee law fills in the gaps, but the default rules rarely reflect what the partners actually intended. This often leads to uncertainty and disputes that put the entire business at risk. Where Disputes Arise Partnership conflicts can stem from something as small as disagreements over day-to-day management or as large as disputes over ownership stakes. Arguments over compensation, expansion, or whether to sell the business often test the limits of trust between partners. In some cases, one partner may even act against the interests of the business, forcing the others to take legal action to protect the company and themselves. Buy-Sell Negotiations One of the most significant moments in any partnership is when a partner decides to leave. A buy-sell agreement provides a roadmap for valuing the partner’s interest and transferring ownership smoothly. Without one, disputes over price and procedure can drag on, damaging both relationships and the company’s bottom line. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent business partners across East and Middle Tennessee in enforcing and defending partnership agreements. We help draft clear agreements at the outset, resolve disputes before they become destructive, and litigate when necessary to protect our clients’ rights. From everyday operational conflicts to high-stakes buy-sell negotiations, our attorneys stand ready to ensure that your interests are fully represented. Taking the First Step When tensions rise between partners, the future of your business may hang in the balance. Having the right legal team on your side can mean the difference between collapse and continuity. At Champagne Law Firm, we give business owners the tools to navigate conflict, enforce agreements, and safeguard the investments they’ve worked so hard to build. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about partnership agreements and dispute resolution. When business partners come together, the goal is growth, success, and shared vision. But even the strongest partnerships can fall apart when disagreements arise. Everyday operational decisions, financial disputes, or questions about the future of the company often strain relationships—and without a clear agreement, the conflict can escalate into what feels like corporate warfare. For business owners in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and across East and Middle Tennessee, understanding the power of partnership agreements is critical to protecting your interests. The Importance of Partnership Agreements A partnership agreement is the blueprint for how your business is managed and how disputes will be resolved. It can address voting rights, profit sharing, roles and responsibilities, and what happens if a partner wants to exit or sell their interest. Without such an agreement, Tennessee law fills in the gaps, but the default rules rarely reflect what the partners actually intended. This often leads to uncertainty and disputes that put the entire business at risk. Where Disputes Arise Partnership conflicts can stem from something as small as disagreements over day-to-day management or as large as disputes over ownership stakes. Arguments over compensation, expansion, or whether to sell the business often test the limits of trust between partners. In some cases, one partner may even act against the interests of the business, forcing the others to take legal action to protect the company and themselves. Buy-Sell Negotiations One of the most significant moments in any partnership is when a partner decides to leave. A buy-sell agreement provides a roadmap for valuing the partner’s interest and transferring ownership smoothly. Without one, disputes over price and procedure can drag on, damaging both relationships and the company’s bottom line. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent business partners across East and Middle Tennessee in enforcing and defending partnership agreements. We help draft clear agreements at the outset, resolve disputes before they become destructive, and litigate when necessary to protect our clients’ rights. From everyday operational conflicts to high-stakes buy-sell negotiations, our attorneys stand ready to ensure that your interests are fully represented. Taking the First Step When tensions rise between partners, the future of your business may hang in the balance. Having the right legal team on your side can mean the difference between collapse and continuity. At Champagne Law Firm, we give business owners the tools to navigate conflict, enforce agreements, and safeguard the investments they’ve worked so hard to build. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about partnership agreements and dispute resolution.

When personal safety is at risk, Tennessee law provides a critical tool—orders of protection. Commonly known as restraining orders, these court-issued remedies are designed to stop abuse, stalking, harassment, or threats and to protect victims from further harm. At the same time, for individuals who have been served with an order, the stakes are equally serious: violations carry criminal consequences and can affect everything from employment to parenting rights. Whether you are seeking protection or responding to an order, understanding the process is vital. Who Qualifies for an Order of Protection? Tennessee law authorizes orders of protection for victims of domestic abuse, stalking, sexual assault, and certain other harmful conduct. Domestic abuse includes not only spouses and romantic partners but also former partners, roommates, and close family members. A person seeking protection may file a petition with the court. In urgent cases, a judge can issue a temporary ex parte order the same day before the accused party is even notified. This provides immediate protection. Within 15 days, a full hearing is scheduled where both parties have the opportunity to present testimony, evidence, and witnesses. The Tennessee Courts website offers forms, filing locations, and step-by-step instructions, but the process can still feel overwhelming without legal guidance. An experienced Dandridge order of protection lawyer can help ensure your petition or your defense is handled properly. What an Order Can Do An order of protection is more than just a “no contact” directive. Depending on the situation, a court may: Violating any of these provisions is a criminal offense. Beyond criminal penalties, a violation can affect professional licenses, background checks, and future legal matters. If You Are Seeking Protection The more evidence you provide, the stronger your case. Consider taking these steps: Document incidents: Keep a detailed log of dates, times, and descriptions of abusive or threatening behavior. Save evidence: Preserve text messages, emails, voicemails, social media posts, or photos that support your claims. Identify witnesses: Friends, neighbors, or coworkers who have seen or heard the conduct can provide powerful testimony. Act quickly in emergencies: If there is immediate danger, call 911. After filing, carry a copy of the order with you at all times. You may also want to inform your employer, school officials, or childcare providers so they can take precautions if needed. Having an attorney will help ensure your petition is persuasive and presented clearly to the judge. If You Have Been Served with an Order Being served with an order of protection can feel shocking and unfair. However, it is important to respond carefully. Ignoring the order or violating it even if you believe the allegations are exaggerated or false can lead to criminal charges. Steps to take include: Read the order thoroughly and follow it exactly, even if it feels inconvenient. Collect evidence such as texts, emails, or social media interactions that show consent or contradict the allegations. Identify witnesses who can testify on your behalf. Work with an attorney who can negotiate boundaries, prepare your defense, and represent you in court. Remember, an order of protection hearing is a civil proceeding, but violations are criminal matters. Having strong legal representation can help prevent collateral consequences to your job, family, and reputation. How Our Firm Can Help Orders of protection are often tied to larger issues like divorce, child custody, or criminal charges. Our attorneys understand how these cases overlap and take a comprehensive approach to protect your rights and your future. We recognize the stress these cases bring, and we strive to provide the guidance and advocacy you need. Contact a Dandridge Protection Order Lawyer Whether you need protection or are responding to an order, it is critical to act quickly and strategically. Our experienced attorneys at Champagne Law Firm handle these cases with the urgency and care they demand. Call 865-228-8080 today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Financial setbacks can happen to anyone. Job loss, medical emergencies, business downturns, or unexpected expenses can make it difficult to keep up with loan payments. In these situations, many borrowers and lenders turn to a forbearance agreement as a temporary solution. At Champagne Law Firm, we help individuals, families, and business owners in Tennessee understand, negotiate, and implement forbearance agreements that protect their immediate needs while preserving long-term financial stability. What Is a Forbearance Agreement? A forbearance agreement is a formal, written agreement between a borrower and a lender in which the lender agrees to temporarily reduce or suspend loan payments. In exchange, the borrower commits to resuming regular payments (and often repaying the deferred amounts) after the forbearance period ends. Forbearance is not loan forgiveness. Instead, it provides temporary relief by giving the borrower time to recover financially while keeping the loan from going into default. How and When Can They Be Used? Forbearance agreements are most often used in situations where the borrower is experiencing short-term financial hardship but expects to be able to catch up in the near future. Examples include: Typically, a borrower must demonstrate financial hardship and a reasonable plan to resume payments when the forbearance ends. Who Is Likely to Use Forbearance Agreements? Forbearance agreements are used by a wide range of borrowers: Lenders may also prefer forbearance agreements because they offer a way to work with borrowers cooperatively rather than resorting to foreclosure or litigation, which can be costly and time-consuming. Key Terms in a Forbearance Agreement Every agreement should be tailored to the specific situation, but common provisions include: Because the details can have long-term consequences, borrowers should carefully review and negotiate terms before signing. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help Forbearance agreements can be lifesaving tools when used properly, but they are also legal contracts with serious implications. Without careful negotiation, borrowers may find themselves facing balloon payments or unfavorable terms at the end of the forbearance period. At Champagne Law Firm, we help clients: Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom’s combined background as a financial advisor and attorney means she understands both the legal and financial sides of forbearance agreements—and how they fit into your broader financial picture. Final Thoughts A forbearance agreement can provide critical breathing room during financial hardship, allowing individuals and businesses to stabilize without losing their property or defaulting on obligations. But because these agreements carry significant long-term consequences, professional guidance is essential. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to learn more about forbearance agreements and how we can help you protect your financial future. We proudly serve clients throughout Middle and East Tennessee, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville. Call us at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation.

Making decisions about medical care is never easy, especially during times of crisis. A healthcare directive, sometimes called an advance directive, allows you to put your wishes in writing before you are unable to speak for yourself. In Tennessee, these documents are an important part of estate planning and can bring peace of mind to you and your family. What Is a Healthcare Directive? A healthcare directive is a legal document that states your preferences for medical treatment if you cannot make or communicate decisions. It can include instructions about life-sustaining measures, organ donation, and pain management. A directive also allows you to appoint a trusted person known as a healthcare agent to make decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated. Why Healthcare Directives Matter Without a healthcare directive, your loved ones may be left guessing about your wishes in a medical emergency. This uncertainty can lead to family conflict, delays in care, or treatments you might not have chosen for yourself. By creating a directive, you maintain control over your healthcare decisions while easing the burden on your family. Creating a Directive in Tennessee In Tennessee, healthcare directives must meet specific legal requirements to be valid. The document should: You may update or revoke your directive at any time as long as you are capable of making your own decisions. Common Situations Addressed in Directives Healthcare directives often cover: How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we help clients across Tennessee prepare healthcare directives as part of a broader estate plan. We ensure the documents meet state requirements, reflect your wishes, and coordinate with other planning tools like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Taking the Next Step Planning for the unexpected is one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones. A healthcare directive ensures your voice is heard, even when you cannot speak. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation about healthcare directives and estate planning in Tennessee.

When it comes to tax matters, the rules can be complex and the consequences of mistakes significant. From audits to appeals, having the right professional by your side can make all the difference. One group of professionals uniquely authorized to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) are Enrolled Agents (EAs). At Champagne Law Firm, we often work alongside tax professionals, including Enrolled Agents, to help clients protect their financial interests and navigate both legal and tax-related challenges. What Is an IRS Enrolled Agent? An Enrolled Agent is a tax professional licensed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Unlike CPAs or attorneys, whose licenses are issued by individual states, Enrolled Agents hold a federal license that allows them to practice in all 50 states. They are the only federally licensed tax practitioners who specialize exclusively in taxation and have unlimited rights to represent taxpayers before the IRS. You can learn more about their role directly from the IRS – Enrolled Agents page. How Does Someone Become an Enrolled Agent? There are two paths to becoming an Enrolled Agent: In both cases, candidates must pass a background check and adhere to ethical standards. Enrolled Agents are also required to complete continuing education each year to maintain their credentials, as outlined by the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA). What Can Enrolled Agents Do? Enrolled Agents have unlimited practice rights before the IRS, similar to attorneys and CPAs. This means they can: Because their sole focus is taxation, many individuals and businesses turn to Enrolled Agents for specialized assistance with complex or high-stakes tax issues. Why Work with an Enrolled Agent? For many taxpayers, an EA can be an invaluable resource, especially when: Working with an EA ensures you’re dealing with someone whose entire career is dedicated to mastering federal tax law. How Champagne Law Firm Fits In While Enrolled Agents focus exclusively on tax matters, attorneys provide broader legal services that may overlap with tax issues—such as estate planning, business succession, or litigation. At Champagne Law Firm, we often collaborate with EAs, CPAs, and financial advisors to deliver comprehensive solutions that protect both your legal and financial interests. Attorney Kelly Champagne-Deutekom brings a unique perspective as both a former financial advisor and a practicing attorney. Her dual background allows her to create strategies that are not only legally sound but financially forward-thinking. When paired with the expertise of an Enrolled Agent, clients benefit from a team approach that ensures every angle—legal, financial, and tax-related is covered. Final Thoughts Tax issues can quickly become overwhelming, but you don’t have to face the IRS alone. Enrolled Agents are federally licensed experts who stand ready to represent taxpayers in even the most complex situations. When combined with the legal guidance of a trusted attorney, you gain a powerful team dedicated to safeguarding your assets and peace of mind. Contact Champagne Law Firm today to learn more about how we work with tax professionals, including IRS Enrolled Agents, to deliver complete solutions for individuals and businesses across 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 Jefferson City 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 Jefferson 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 Jefferson City 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 Jefferson City 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 Jefferson City estate planning lawyer and begin protecting your legacy.

Being served with a civil warrant can be confusing and stressful, especially if you’ve never dealt with the court system before. In Tennessee, a civil warrant is commonly used to notify someone they are being sued in General Sessions Court often over issues like unpaid debts, breach of contract, landlord-tenant disputes, or property damage. If you’ve just received one, here’s what you need to know about the process and your next steps. Understanding a Civil Warrant A civil warrant is not a criminal charge it’s a legal document that starts a lawsuit against you in civil court. It tells you: It’s important not to ignore the warrant. Failing to show up in court could result in a default judgment, meaning the other side automatically wins. Your Options After Being Served When you receive a civil warrant, you generally have three options: Possible Outcomes in General Sessions Court Civil warrant hearings in Tennessee are usually quick. If the judge rules against you, they may issue a money judgment that could later lead to wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens. If you win, the case is dismissed. Either side may appeal the decision to Circuit Court, where the case is heard all over again. Why Legal Guidance Matters Civil cases may seem straightforward, but there are often defenses you might not realize you have such as expired statutes of limitation, improper service of process, or lack of evidence. Having an attorney ensures your rights are protected and can often make the difference between a costly judgment and a fair outcome. How Champagne Law Firm Can HelpAt Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we help clients across East and Middle Tennessee respond to civil warrants. Whether you’re being sued over a debt, contract dispute, or another civil matter, our team can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible resolution. Taking the Next StepIf you’ve been served with a civil warrant, don’t ignore it. Acting quickly gives you more options and a stronger chance to protect yourself. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation about civil warrant defense in Tennessee.

For many people facing criminal charges, probation offers a second chance. Instead of serving time behind bars, probation allows you to remain in the community under court-ordered conditions. But when those conditions are broken, the consequences can be serious. If you or someone you love is accused of violating probation in Tennessee, it’s important to understand what’s at stake and what options you may have. What Counts as a Probation Violation? Probation comes with strict rules, and even minor missteps can trigger a violation. Common violations include: In Tennessee, probation officers have wide discretion in reporting violations, and the court will ultimately decide what happens next. For more details, see the Tennessee Code – Title 40, Criminal Procedure. Consequences of a Probation Violation A probation violation can result in anything from a warning to being sent to jail or prison. Judges may: The outcome depends on the severity of the violation, your criminal history, and the circumstances of the case. Defending Against a Probation Violation Being accused of a probation violation does not automatically mean you’ll be sent to jail. You have the right to a hearing where the state must prove the violation occurred. An experienced attorney can challenge the evidence, argue that the violation was not willful, or present mitigating factors to reduce the penalty. Why Legal Representation Matters Probation violations move quickly, and without representation, you may lose your freedom before you have a chance to explain your side. An attorney can ensure the judge hears the full story and work to protect your rights. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we represent clients accused of probation violations across East and Middle Tennessee. Our attorneys understand how probation works, what judges look for, and how to craft strong defenses that protect your future. For more on probation and parole, visit the Tennessee Department of Correction – Community Supervision page. Taking the Next Step If you’re facing a probation violation in Tennessee, time is critical. The sooner you seek legal help, the stronger your defense can be. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a consultation about probation violations in Tennessee.

Being charged with theft in Tennessee is a serious matter that can affect your reputation, your record, and your future. Whether the accusation involves shoplifting, property theft, or more complex allegations like embezzlement, the penalties under Tennessee law can be severe. Understanding how theft is defined, the potential consequences, and how an attorney can help is critical if you or someone you love is facing these charges. What Counts as Theft in Tennessee? Tennessee law defines theft as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Theft isn’t limited to physical items—it can also include services, financial assets, or misappropriation of property. Common examples include: For the full statutory definition, see Tennessee Code § 39-14-103 – Theft of Property. Levels of Theft Charges The severity of a theft charge in Tennessee depends on the value of the property or services taken: Prior convictions or related offenses can also increase the severity of the punishment. Consequences Beyond the Courtroom A theft conviction does more than result in criminal penalties. It can follow you long after the case ends, making it harder to find employment, qualify for housing, or maintain professional licenses. For young people, even a shoplifting charge can create obstacles in school or future job opportunities. Defending Against Theft Charges Being accused of theft does not mean you will be convicted. Defenses may include showing lack of intent, mistaken identity, or challenging the value of the property involved. In some cases, negotiation may reduce charges or allow for diversion programs that keep your record clean. How Champagne Law Firm Can Help At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we defend clients across East and Middle Tennessee facing theft charges. Our attorneys investigate the facts, challenge the prosecution’s case, and fight for outcomes that minimize damage to your life and your future. For those in Sevier County, theft cases are often handled in the Sevier County General Sessions Court, where having local counsel can make a meaningful difference. Taking the Next Step If you are facing theft charges in Tennessee, it’s important to act quickly. The earlier you involve an attorney, the more options you have for building a strong defense. Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation about theft charges in Tennessee.