Christopher J. Coats

Christopher J. Coats is a shareholder at Baker Donelson, concentrating his practice in estate planning, tax law, and business law. He advises high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and closely held entities on complex wealth preservation strategies, business succession planning, tax-efficient transactions, and trust and estate administration.

Mr. Coats earned his LL.M. in Taxation from New York University in 2005. He holds a J.D., cum laude, from the University of Mississippi School of Law and a Bachelor of Accountancy, magna cum laude, from the University of Mississippi. His strong academic foundation informs his nuanced understanding of tax and estate structures.

Mr. Coats is known for drafting sophisticated estate planning documents, including IDGTs, GRATs, revocable and QTIP trusts, and charitable remainder trusts. He has deep experience in gift and estate tax returns and navigating complex valuation issues with real estate and business appraisers for tax purposes.

Mr. Coats frequently advises on transferring and structuring family business interests, including LLCs, limited partnerships, and closely held corporations. He also guides the formation and operation of family entities and assists with corporate and partnership tax matters, offering practical and strategic insight.

In addition to his tax and business expertise, Mr. Coats regularly drafts and negotiates antenuptial agreements, helping clients safeguard generational wealth. His work ensures long-term financial security and seamless intergenerational planning for families and entrepreneurs.

Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® and Chambers High Net Worth Guide, Christopher J. Coats is highly regarded for his technical proficiency and client-focused counsel. His extensive legal experience makes him a trusted advisor for families managing complex estates and business interests.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Tennessee Bar Association
• Member, Mississippi Bar Association
• Member, Memphis Bar Associations
• Member, Memphis Estate Planning Council

Licensed State

• Tennessee
• Mississippi

Education

• New York University
  Master of Laws (LLM)
• University of Mississippi School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Mississippi
  Bachelor of Accountancy (BAcc)

Awards & Badges