Taylor A. Cates

Taylor A. Cates is a Member in Memphis, Tennessee. His practice focuses on complex litigation, including commercial and business litigation, products liability, real property disputes, and personal injury matters. He represents clients in state and federal courts and in arbitration, with extensive experience in business disputes and litigation.

Taylor earned his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law in 1999. He earned his B.A. from the University of Virginia in 1996. His education supports his work with clients who need clear legal guidance in business, litigation, intellectual property, media, and products liability matters.

Taylor has handled many matters in disaster restoration and construction litigation across the country. He also represents clients in intellectual property matters, including trademark and copyright infringement litigation. His work includes helping clients protect their intellectual property rights and address disputes that may affect their business interests.

Taylor has been a frequent speaker on intellectual property matters. He also speaks to industry groups in the disaster restoration field about best practices for maximizing collections and avoiding litigation. His presentations focus on practical steps that help clients and businesses reduce risk and solve problems early.

Taylor has been named to the Best Lawyers in America© list for Commercial Litigation and Product Liability Litigation from 2020 to 2026. He was named Best Lawyers® “Lawyer of the Year” for Product Liability Litigation – Plaintiffs in the Memphis area in 2024 and 2026.

Taylor served for many years as an Assistant Prosecutor and then as Chief Prosecutor for the City of Germantown, Tennessee. He also served as the first Municipal Judge of the newly established City Court in Lakeland, Tennessee. He is admitted to practice in Tennessee.

Taylor A. Cates is a member of the American Bar Association, Tennessee Bar Association, and Memphis Bar Association. He is also involved in the Memphis Interfaith Hospitality Network, where he has served on the Board of Directors from 2005 to the present.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Burch, Porter & Johnson, PLLC
• Member, Memphis Bar Association
• Member, Tennessee Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association

Licensed State

• Tennessee

Education

• Vanderbilt University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Virginia
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges