Selling your business is more than a financial transaction — it’s the culmination of years of hard work, personal sacrifice, and investment. Whether you’re ready to retire, transition into a new venture, or simply step away, the sale of your company should reward your effort and secure your future. But without the right legal guidance, you risk leaving money on the table or exposing yourself to unnecessary liabilities.
At Champagne Law Firm, we understand the complexity of business sales in Tennessee. Led by Kelly Champagne-Deutekom, our team brings a rare advantage to the negotiating table: Kelly’s dual background as both a former financial advisor and now an experienced attorney.
Why You Need Legal Counsel When Selling a Business
Many business owners assume that once a buyer is found, the rest of the process is straightforward. In reality, the sale of a business is one of the most complicated transactions you can face. From deal structure to tax planning, every detail matters. An attorney ensures:
- Accurate valuation and fair pricing – Protecting you from undervaluation.
- Sound contracts – Drafting and reviewing purchase agreements, letters of intent, and transition provisions.
- Tax efficiency – Structuring deals to minimize capital gains or estate tax burdens.
- Risk management – Identifying liabilities and ensuring you aren’t left responsible for hidden obligations.
- Confidentiality protection – Safeguarding sensitive financial and client information during negotiations.
Without an experienced attorney, sellers often overlook terms that can cost them significantly after the deal closes.
The Advantage of Kelly Champagne-Deutekom
What sets Kelly Champagne-Deutekom apart is her deep understanding of both financial and legal strategy.
- As a financial advisor, Kelly previously guided high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business owners through investment management, valuations, and succession planning. She knows how buyers think, how deals are structured, and how wealth is preserved.
- As an attorney, she brings the legal expertise to negotiate strong contracts, protect intellectual property, and ensure compliance with Tennessee law.
This combination gives Kelly a unique ability to align the business side of the sale with the legal framework that protects her clients’ interests.
Key Considerations When Selling a Business
At Champagne Law Firm, we walk business owners through every phase of the sale, including:
- Deal Structuring – Should you sell assets or stock? How should payments be made?
- Non-Compete and Transition Agreements – Setting clear expectations for your role after the sale.
- Earn-Outs and Contingencies – Ensuring you receive the full value of what you’ve built.
- Regulatory and Licensing Compliance – Addressing industry-specific requirements in Tennessee.
- Integration with Estate Planning – Coordinating the sale proceeds with your family wealth and succession plan.
Our goal is simple: to maximize the value of your business while minimizing your risks.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Business owners who go into a sale without legal guidance often:
- Agree to unfavorable terms in the excitement of an offer
- Fail to properly disclose or protect sensitive information
- Overlook tax consequences that reduce their net proceeds
- Leave themselves exposed to post-sale disputes over warranties or representations
The right attorney prevents these missteps and positions you for long-term success.
Champagne Law Firm: Defending Today. Planning Tomorrow.
Selling your business is one of the most important financial events of your life. With her dual expertise as a financial advisor and attorney, Kelly Champagne-Deutekom is uniquely qualified to help Tennessee business owners maximize value and secure peace of mind. If you’re considering selling your business, contact Champagne Law Firm today. We’ll guide you from preparation to closing, ensuring your legacy is protected and your future is secured.
