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Full-Service Law Firm

Nashville Special Needs Trusts Lawyer

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 21, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

Every parent or caregiver of a person with special needs shares one common concern, what will happen when they are no longer there to provide support. Establishing a special needs trust allows families to provide both stability and reassurance, offering a framework that safeguards benefits and secures long-term care.

With help from an experienced Nashville, TN special needs trusts lawyer, you can put a comprehensive plan in place that protects your loved one’s future. At Patterson Bray PLLC, we understand the sensitivity of these decisions and take pride in helping families develop trusts that reflect their long-term goals. Contact us today to begin working toward a thoughtful, well-structured plan that provides lasting peace of mind.

Special Needs Trusts Lawyer Nashville, TN

A special needs trust is a legal arrangement that allows families to set aside assets for a loved one with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for vital government programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This type of trust allows funds to be used to enhance a beneficiary’s quality of life by covering expenses beyond basic necessities, including education, medical care, housing, and recreation.

When establishing a special needs trust, the grantor names a trustee to manage the assets and distribute funds in accordance with the trust’s terms. The trustee has a fiduciary duty to act in the beneficiary’s best interest, making sure that resources are used responsibly and for approved purposes.

With legal guidance, families can customize a trust to reflect their loved one’s values and long-term goals for years to come. One of our Nashville special needs trusts lawyers drafts precise language that aligns with SSI and Medicaid rules, coordinates with caseworkers, and prepares letters of intent to guide future caregivers. We also advise on funding sources, such as life insurance, settlements, or beneficiary designations, and update the plan as laws and family circumstances evolve.

Why Experience Matters When Choosing A Special Needs Trusts Lawyer

Setting up a special needs trust takes time and precision, and missteps can be costly. A skilled attorney will guide you step by step, from the first conversation about needs and priorities to final signatures that put a durable plan in place.

The points below highlight our qualifications and the standards we bring to every case:

Our firm specializes in multiple practice areas, including estate planning, probate & wealth protection, business law, and personal injury litigation, demonstrating breadth and depth in legal services.
We maintain transparency through clear communication, accessible legal guidance, and a client-first approach that builds lasting trust and confidence in every representation.
Our attorneys bring decades of combined experience, with a strong track record of favorable results for individuals and businesses.
We bring negotiation and trial experience to each case, focusing on practical solutions while staying prepared for the courtroom.

Protecting a vulnerable family member’s future is too important to leave to guesswork. At Patterson Bray PLLC, we translate your priorities into clear terms and practical tools your family can use to make sound choices today and adapt as needs change. Connect with our firm today to explore options that provide long-term security and consistent support for your loved one.

Client Reviews

    
 
 
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   Nancy Wallace 
 10 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking to do estate planning, go with Patterson Bray! They are excellent to deal with!
  
 
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   Cheryl Adkins 
 11 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
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   Hailey Wade 
 35 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
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   Deb Clark 
 40 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
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   Tanya White 
 40 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
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   Charmaine Sego 
 41 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
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   Phil Chamberlain 
 57 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC - first class lawyers.
  
 
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   Catherine McGee 
 77 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
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   Marva Johnson 
 83 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
M.JOHNSON
  
 
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   Pam Nicole 
 84 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.

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