Sprouse Shrader Smith Attorney Named Magistrate Judge of Amarillo Federal Court

Lee Ann Reno has been selected to become the next U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern U.S. District Court of Texas. Ms. Reno will replace Magistrate Judge Clinton E. Averitte, who has served with distinction for 30 years as the Amarillo division’s first and only full-time magistrate judge. Ms. Reno will begin her service as magistrate judge on October 1, 2017. The Court will hold a formal investiture ceremony on October 16, 2017, at the J. Marvin Jones Federal Building and Courthouse in Amarillo.

Lee Ann Reno is a native of West Texas who grew up in Panhandle, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas Tech University where she earned a B.S. in Education as well as her law degree. Upon graduation from law school, Ms. Reno began private practice as an associate attorney at the Amarillo law firm of Sprouse, Mozola, Smith & Rowley, now known as Sprouse Shrader Smith. She has spent all 23 years of her law practice with the Sprouse firm. In January 2000, Ms. Reno became the second female partner in the firm, where her practice included cases in the areas of civil rights/governmental entity defense, personal injury defense, employment law, and commercial litigation.

“Lee Ann Reno joined our law firm over twenty years ago, and we’re grateful and honored she did. Lee Ann is a wonderful lawyer, and has accomplished many great things in her career,” said Jeffrey Shrader, Member of Sprouse Shrader Smith. “She has played a vital role in the growth and success of our law firm. We congratulate Lee Ann on her appointment as the new federal Magistrate Judge in Amarillo, and wish her all the best in her new role.”

A magistrate judge merit selection panel appointed by Chief Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn screened all applicants for the Amarillo magistrate judge position and made recommendations to the Court. Merit selection panel members were: Brian P. Heinrich, Esq., Chairperson; Mr. Elisha Demerson; Lisa J. Dunn, Esq.; Ms. Lilia Escajeda; Bonita L. Gunden, Esq.; Thomas C. Riney, Esq.; and Kelly Utsinger, Esq