Matthew A Rhoads

Estate & Probate Attorney

Matthew A. Rhoads is an accomplished attorney who specializes in elder care and estate planning, with a significant focus on probate law.

His commitment to representing veterans is a unique value proposition, resonating deeply with those who have served our nation and seek legal guidance.

Matt’s journey in law began with a B.A. with honors from Mississippi State University, followed by a Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law.

His academic achievements include being a national finalist in the 2007 ABA National Moot Court Competition and receiving the prestigious Order of the Barristers.

In the realm of probate law, Matt’s expertise is evident.

He skillfully guides clients through the intricacies of estate administration, offering clear, comprehensive advice tailored to each client’s specific situation.

What sets Matt apart is his deep-seated commitment to veterans.

As an accredited attorney with the Department of Veterans Affairs, he brings a unique understanding and empathy to the legal challenges faced by veterans.

This dedication is a cornerstone of his practice and is a key aspect that resonates with veterans visiting the Douglass & Runger website, assuring them of a representative who not only understands their specific legal needs but also values their service to the country.

Licensed to practice in Tennessee, Matt is an active member of the Tennessee and Memphis Bar Associations.

His involvement in these associations keeps him at the forefront of legal developments, enhancing his ability to provide the best service to his clients.

Outside the legal sphere, Matt enjoys an active lifestyle, participating in various sports and being involved in the First Evangelical Church.

This balance of professional rigour and personal interests underscores his approachable and well-rounded personality.

Education

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with honors from Mississippi State University.
Juris Doctor from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law.
National finalist in the 2007 American Bar Association (ABA) National Moot Court Competition.
Recipient of the prestigious Order of the Barristers.

Associations and Memberships

Memphis Bar Association.
Tennessee Bar Association.

Practice Areas by Matthew

Elder Law

At Douglass & Runger, we offer expert elder law services in Tennessee. Our attorneys assist with estate planning, nursing home care, and government aid programs

Memphis Estate Planning Attorneys

Estate planning may sound complicated, but at its core, it’s about making sure your wishes are followed and your loved ones are cared for when you’re no longer able to do so. It includes creating essential documents like Wills, Trusts, and Powers of Attorney and implementing strategies to minimize taxes and streamline the process for your family.

Estate Planning for Business Owners

Protect your business with tailored estate planning in Memphis. Our attorneys help you secure your company's future and ensure your wishes are honored.

Medicaid Planning

Creating an estate plan is essential for deciding how your assets will be shared and your final wishes fulfilled.
But a good estate plan also prepares for your future care needs as you age.

Veterans Benefits Planning

The VA Veterans Pension is a need-based benefit that is available to wartime veterans who meet specific age and disability requirements.

FAQs by Matthew

Can a minor receive an inheritance in Tennessee?

Probate Law

Curt Runger of Memphis law firm Douglass & Runger answers the question of if a minor can receive an inheritance...

Do I Have to Open an Estate if all I Inherited in a Will was Real Estate?

Probate Law

Learn how to handle probate when a loved one leaves behind only real estate with attorney Curt Runger.

How Much Do Will Contest Lawsuits Cost?

Probate Law

Will contests are expensive and should only be pursued if a significant amount of money is at stake and you...

Legal Bases for a Will Contest

Probate Law

Curt Runger of Memphis law firm Douglass & Runger explains legal bases for a will contest.

Should You Get Your Last Will and Testament from LegalZoom?

Estate Planning

In this video attorney Curt Runger answers the question of if you should buy a will from the website LegalZoom....

Should You Pay a Loved One’s Bills After They Pass Away?

Probate Law

Wondering if you should pay a loved one’s bills after they pass away? Learn why it’s usually better to let...

What are the Duties of a Personal Representative aka an Executor or Administrator in Tennessee?

Estate Planning

Learn the essential duties of a personal representative aka an Executor or Administrator in probate, from managing assets to notifying...

What if I can’t find the original Will?

Estate Planning

Lost the original Will of a loved one? Learn the steps for admitting a copy into probate in Tennessee, the...

What is a Power of Attorney?

Estate Planning

Learn why a Power of Attorney is a crucial part of estate planning. Discover the different types of POAs and...

What is an inventory and when do I have to file one?

Probate Law

Learn about the probate inventory process, including what it is, why it’s important, and when you might not need to...

What is the Difference between a Living Will and a Last Will and Testament?

Estate Planning

Confused about the difference between a Last Will and Testament and a Living Will? Learn what each document does and...

What is the Process for Opening a Probate Estate in Tennessee?

Probate Law

Learn how to open an estate with guidance from Douglass & Runger. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your probate...

When do you need to open a probate estate in Tennessee?

Probate Law

The main consideration is whether there are assets titled solely in the deceased's name. If so, an estate likely needs...

Who has standing to file a Will contest?

Probate Law

Learn about legal standing for filing a will contest in Tennessee. Discover who can challenge a will and why having...

Recent Blogs

Embracing Uncertainty – The Heart of Estate Planning

We strive to build legacies to live beyond death, like putting our names on buildings or creating great works of art. Humans even do things to challenge death. In fact, we'd rather jump out of planes than look death in the eye.

Want to Write Your Own Will? – Know the Downsides of DIY

The biggest hurdle to creating an estate plan is convincing people they need one.

2025 Quality Business Award – Best Estate Planning Lawyer Bartlett Tennessee

At Douglass & Runger, PLLC, we’ve always prioritized one thing above all else: delivering exceptional service to our clients.

Will vs. Trust – How Trusts Outperform Wills in Estate Security

Navigating estate planning? This Will vs. Trust comparison highlights the benefits of each. Learn how trusts provide superior asset protection, bypass probate, and offer greater control compared to traditional wills. Make the right choice for your family's future.