Direct: 423.757.5937
Fax: 423.266.5499

Alan L. Cates

Partner

Alan counsels clients in taxation, estate planning, business succession planning and probate and trust issues. He also advises tax-exempt organizations. Alan has served on the faculty of the National Planned Giving Institute at the College of William & Mary for more than 25 years; he is also a member of the Tennessee Probate Study Committee, which reviews and comments on pending legislation in the areas of trusts, estates and similar issues.

Alan presents on topics including taxation, estate planning, business succession planning and probate and trust issues across the country for organizations such as the Tennessee Bar Association, the Tennessee Society of CPAs, estate planning councils, and at estate planning and planned giving seminars at Georgia Institute of Technology, Texas A&M University and The University of New Haven.

Prior to entering private practice in 1975, Alan served as the Planned Giving Officer for the University of Tennessee.

Awards & Recognitions

  • The Best Lawyers in America, Non-profit/Charity Law, Trusts and Estates, 2008-2010
  • Mid-South Super Lawyers, Estate Planning Probate Law, 2009

Professional Associations & Memberships

  • American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, Fellow
  • Chattanooga Bar Association, Fellow and Past President
  • Chattanooga Estate Planning Council
  • Chattanooga Planned Giving Council
  • Chattanooga Tax Practitioners
  • Tennessee Bar Association, Fellow
  • Tennessee Probate Study Committee

Civic Involvement

  • First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, Past President
  • University of Tennessee National Alumni Association, Past President