The Dallas Morning News has named Gray Reed attorney and Texas
State Representative Jeff Leach a 2024 Texan of the Year for his
groundbreaking work in criminal justice reform, recognizing his
courage to reach across political party lines to protect the
wrongfully convicted and improve the state's legal
system.
The honor specifically acknowledges Leach's pivotal role in
preventing the execution of death row inmate Robert Roberson III in
October 2023. Hours before the scheduled execution, Leach left his
son's birthday celebration at the State Fair of Texas to
successfully argue, from his vehicle, for a stay of execution,
demonstrating his unwavering commitment to justice even at personal
sacrifice.
"Jeff's recognition as Texan of the Year reflects not only
his exceptional legal acumen but also his moral courage to stand up
for what's right, regardless of political consequences,"
Gray Reed Managing Partner Kyle Sanders said. "Whether he's
serving our clients in complex litigation, helping them navigate
our state's legislative landscape or fighting for justice
reform in Austin, Jeff brings the same dedication to finding
practical, ethical solutions."
At Gray Reed, Leach focuses on complex commercial litigation and
construction law, serving as outside general counsel to major
contractors and construction clients. His unique position as both a
practicing attorney and state legislator gives him valuable insight
into Texas' legal and regulatory landscape, benefiting clients
across all practice areas.
The Dallas Morning News chose Leach, alongside Democratic State
Representative Joe Moody, for their bipartisan leadership of the
Criminal Justice Reform Caucus and their successful efforts to
create a more balanced and fair justice system in Texas. Their work
has included reforming the "law of parties" doctrine and
creating second-chance opportunities for inmates, initiatives that
strengthen public safety while protecting individual rights.
About Gray Reed
Gray Reed isn't just a full-service Texas law firm – we
strive to be the ultimate partner for businesses. With a
comprehensive range of litigation and transactional practice groups
focused on understanding our clients' businesses and
industries, our 150 attorneys are equipped to support companies,
and high-net-worth individuals and families, based in Texas or
operating within its borders. In addition, our commitment to
clients goes beyond providing legal services. Through our
subsidiary, Gray Reed Advisory Services, we further support our
clients with a team of consultants providing strategic business
solutions to drive measurable improvements in profitability,
efficiency, operations and compliance, along with expertise in
crisis communications, public relations and government affairs.
Discover what sets us apart at www.grayreed.com and www.grayreedadvisory.com.