Practicing law for over two decades, Camellia Saunders Blair has established her passion for justice by fighting in the trenches alongside her clients. Camellia brings considerable diversity and understanding to her role as an attorney and advocate. She has tackled a series of complex cases from the non-profit legal arena to private practice.
Camellia grew up on the tough streets of New York City while maintaining her strong belief that strength and compassion are not mutually exclusive. It is that combination of both strength and compassion that instinctively draws her clients to her. Having received her B.A. in Psychology from Hofstra University in New York, Camellia is extraordinarily gifted at assessing her client’s needs and adeptly adjusting her approach and techniques to meet the specific demands of each case.

Camellia received her law degree from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and has made Tennessee her home ever since. Camellia worked and supported herself through college and law school and takes nothing for granted; especially her clients. She has volunteered at places such as Childhelp USA, Children’s Hospital and domestic violence shelters out of her commitment to never lose touch with the stark reality that some of her clients face on a daily basis.

Camellia participated as a Special Master in Knox County Fourth Circuit Court’s breakthrough endeavor of bringing the courthouse to the classrooms of the University of Tennessee College of Law. As Special Master, cases were brought before “Judge” Camellia Saunders alongside the Fourth Circuit Court Judge. Her judgment was authoritative and her decisions were upheld. The experience was so successful and well received by the law school that Camellia made a repeat performance as Special Master the following year.

There are many sides to justice and Camellia has seen them all. From behind the podium to behind the bench, justice has a defender in her.