05/27/2026
Joy Buck Gothard and Ashley Waters are happy to share that beginning June 1, 2026, attorney Taylor Beth Gothard will be transitioning from the Law Office of Joy Buck Gothard to Waters Law, PLLC, where she will work alongside attorneys Ashley Waters and Alexander Baker, with a primary focus on estate planning. This transition is especially meaningful because of the long history and relationships shared between our offices. Ashley began working with Joy while attending law school, later becoming an associate attorney and eventually Joy’s law partner. In 2019, Ashley started Waters Law, PLLC, with a vision of building a modern estate planning practice focused on innovation, technology, and exceptional client service. Through every stage of that journey, the friendship, mentorship, and mutual respect between Ashley and Joy have remained strong.
Both Ashley and Taylor Beth interned with Joy as law clerks while each attended law school and joined the firm upon passing the bar exam. Both have benefited from Joy's professional guidance and wisdom regarding counseling, planning, and advocating for clients in the practice of law. Additionally, Taylor Beth and Alex have collaborated on numerous cases in the area of conservatorships and look forward to working together.
Taylor Beth has been an integral and valued part of Joy’s practice, and Joy urges estate planning clients to reach out to Taylor Beth going forward, continuing the excellent service and personal connections nurtured over the years. While this is certainly a bittersweet time, it is also an exciting opportunity for Taylor Beth as she continues building her legal career. Taylor Beth is excited to continue serving clients while also embracing the technology-forward and future-focused direction of Waters Law. Joy, who marked her 40th year of law practice in 2025 and who serves as Cookeville City Judge, will continue as a solo practitioner, but with an intentionally reduced case load, planning for more family time with her two granddaughters, ages 4 and 2, and her mother, who just celebrated her 90th birthday.
More than anything, we want this announcement to reflect the support, encouragement, and goodwill shared by everyone involved. Our firms have deep roots, shared history, and genuine care for one another, and we are both grateful for the opportunity to continue serving our community with that same spirit of professionalism, friendship, and collaboration. Please join us in wishing Taylor Beth continued success and happiness as she begins this next chapter.✨
