Austin, Texas – March 15, 2018 – Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody today confirmed that its board of directors have appointed John McFarland its new president. A longtime Graves Dougherty attorney and shareholder, McFarland also leads its oil and gas practice, representing land and mineral owners in oil, gas and mineral law, water law and environmental law issues. He joined Graves Dougherty in 1978 and currently sits on the board of directors of Front Steps and Trinity Episcopal School, and the Endowment Committee of St. Stephen’s Episcopal School.
“I am honored to lead our firm through a time of great opportunity,” McFarland said. “Our commitment to our clients and our profession remain the priority for our attorneys and staff, and I’m proud to lead this dedicated team.”
Also joining the firm’s leadership are three new board members: shareholders Peter Cesaro, Matt Powers, and Mary Keeney. In addition, the board appointed associate Natasha Martin as ex oficio board advisor to represent the interests of non-shareholder attorneys at the firm.
Each new board member brings a strength and perspective to firm governance. Ms. Keeney, an appellate attorney, is focused on associate professional development and practice growth, working with Ms. Martin. Mr. Cesaro is real estate attorney with broad business and community relationships and a proud graduate of Notre Dame. Mr. Powers, a civil litigator, will help the firm navigate its future as a 21st-century law firm.
“Graves Dougherty has a long and close history with our community. We continue to practice law with commitment to our clients, a true fondness for our city and its unique character, and a deep appreciation for the legacy and efforts of our founders,” said McFarland.
About Graves Dougherty Hearon & Moody
Founded in 1946, Graves Dougherty was established on the principles of hiring great people, practicing first class law and focusing on accomplishing clients’ goals. More than 30 attorneys span a range of core competencies including litigation, appellate, real estate, trusts and estates, first amendment, regulatory and oil and gas law.