Christopher J. Coats
About Christopher J. Coats
Christopher J. Coats is a lawyer based in Memphis, TN and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2019. Christopher J. Coats is recognized in the following practice areas:
- Memphis, Tennessee
- Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships)
- Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law
- Trusts and Estates
Current Firm: Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz PC
Education: University of Mississippi, J.D., graduated 2005
Location: Memphis, TN
Nearby Lawyers
Mr. Carney's practice is grounded in federal, state, and local tax codes and regulations. He works directly with clients in employee benefits, tax planning, and estate planning. He understands the need to navigate these complex laws while providing options for each unique situation. His practice areas include but are not limited to the following: Employee and welfare benefit plans of private, tax-exempt, and governmental employers Other post-employment benefit trusts Executive compensation Co...
Keely N. Wilson is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Insurance and Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants. Keely N., who practices law in Jackson, Tennessee, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Keely N. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Whether in a courtroom or a duck blind, Clint Scott pursues excellence in all of his endeavors. With a demeanor that’s part Grizzly Bear and part Teddy Bear, he is not the typical lawyer, but then again the Firm isn’t a typical law firm. As an advocate, he is dedicated to the success of his clients. As the Firm’s managing partner, he devotes a substantial part of his time to securing the Firm’s continued viability via geographic growth and fostering an environment that...
David S. Jones is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management and Litigation - Labor and Employment. David S., who practices law in Memphis, Tennessee, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which David S. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Russell E. Reviere is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Insurance Law. Russell E., who practices law in Jackson, Tennessee, has been recognized since 2008. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Russell E. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
After graduating from the University of Virginia Law School in 1975, Mr. Cocke moved to Clarksdale, MS to begin practicing in a general litigation firm. In 1982, Mr. Cocke and Mr. Merkel left that firm and established Merkel & Cocke, P.A., and since that time the emphasis of Mr. Cocke's practice has progressed more and more toward medical malpractice. At the present time his practice is exclusively devoted to handling medical negligence cases for the plaintiff, either as a result of direc...
Vickie Hardy Jones is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Family Law and Family Law Mediation. Vickie Hardy, who practices law in Memphis, Tennessee, has been recognized since 2022. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Vickie Hardy is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Wendy Smith is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law and Real Estate Law. Wendy, who practices law in Memphis, Tennessee, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Wendy is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Jay Ebelhar guides company leadership through lawsuits and administrative proceedings to resolve complex employment disputes. He acts as a go-to resource for the full spectrum of employment matters, from harassment and discrimination claims to wage and hour challenges. Utilizing this varied experience, Jay partners with employers to explore options and develop sound strategies that manage risk in line with their organizational goals. Whether this means taking a case through trial or resolving...
Will Cochran concentrates his practice in the areas of business and commercial litigation, medical malpractice defense, personal injury and vaccine litigation and insurance defense and coverage litigation. A native of Kosciusko, Mississippi, Mr. Cochran received a B.A. in biology from the University of Mississippi in 1996. He earned a J.D. from the University of Memphis in 2001. While in law school, Mr. Cochran was a member of the University of Memphis Law Review and a two year recipient of t...
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
Build Your Legal Practice with Effective Online Networking
by Jamilla Tabbara
How thoughtful online networking supports sustained legal practice growth.
Blogging for Law Firms: Turning Content into Client Connections
by Jamilla Tabbara
How law firms use blogs to earn trust and win clients.
Reddit’s Lawsuit Could Change How Much AI Knows About You
by Justin Smulison
Big AI is battling for its future—your data’s at stake.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer