On July 23, Chambers released its 2026 High Net Worth Guide recognizing the best professional advisers for international private wealth. This year, Chambers ranked the Bass, Berry & Sims Trusts & Estates practice in Band 1 for Tennessee – the highest Band ranking in the state. In addition, four firm attorneys were ranked in this year’s Guide:
- James Gooch – ranked as a Senior Statesperson
- Blaine Smith – maintained a Band 1 ranking
- Michael Sontag – maintained a Band 1 ranking
- Nicholas Gaffney – elevated to a Band 3 ranking
As reported during the research process, Chambers said: “Bass, Berry & Sims is a prominent firm in Tennessee that assists clients with estate and trust planning, as well as corporate and individual tax matters.” Additionally, clients said the following about Bass, Berry & Sims and our counsel related to private wealth law:
- Bass, Berry & Sims are very responsive, very thorough and very flexible. They always accommodate according to our clients’ needs. They are technical in their solutions and very knowledgeable both in a creative and commercial manner.
- This department can handle all aspects of estate and trust law. They have the competency to handle the most elaborate estate plan and are also able to communicate the plan simply to their clients.
- Their communication is clear, timely and collaborative, making even complex legal matters approachable and actionable.
- All of Bass, Berry & Sims’ attorneys are very skilled and demonstrate both EQ and IQ when working with clients.
- Bass, Berry & Sims provides exceptional service and expertise.
The Chambers rankings and insights are based on in-depth analysis and features the most informative and important editorial about the leading professional advisers to wealthy individuals and families in each market. In addition to ranking lawyers and law firms, the Guide also recommends top accountancy firms, private banks, wealth managers, trust companies and other professional advisers to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals globally. Additional details about the 2026 Chambers High Net Worth Guide can be found on the Chambers website.