LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – District Judge John “Trey” McClendon has announced his retirement from the 137th District Court of Lubbock County, effective Aug. 7, 2026.
McClendon’s legal career spans more than three decades. Before his election to the bench, he worked for the Seventh Court of Appeals in Amarillo and the State Bar of Texas. He later served as a Lubbock County prosecutor under then-District Attorney Bill Sowder, holding roles as chief felony prosecutor of the 237th Judicial District Court and chief prosecutor for the South Plains Auto Theft Task Force. He subsequently entered private practice, where he practiced law alongside his father and brother.
During his tenure on the 137th District Court, McClendon presided over felony offenses across a wide range of case types. He also spent nearly 12 years presiding over the Lubbock County DWI Recovery Court.
“Serving the people of Lubbock County has been the honor of a lifetime,” McClendon said. “I am incredibly proud to have served in a courthouse alongside so many excellent lawyers and judges. I want to extend my deepest thanks to my fellow judges for their camaraderie and wisdom, and to our incredible court staff whose dedication keeps our justice system moving. I owe a special debt of gratitude to my longtime court coordinator, Audrey Beckham, and my court reporter, Breann Luna, for their exceptional loyalty and hard work. Audrey has been working with me since 1998 and has been a constant source of support and friendship.”
Following his retirement, McClendon said he plans to sit as a visiting judge, work as a mediator, and assist a friend with a growing business. He also cited plans to travel with his wife and pursue hobbies including hunting, fishing, and working with bird dogs.
McClendon noted his support for Laura Beth Fossett, who will serve as the incoming presiding judge of the 137th District Court. Fossett ran unopposed in the Republican Primary and does not have a Democratic challenger in the upcoming general election.
A retirement reception honoring McClendon will be held Aug. 7, 2026, at 3 p.m. in the 137th District Courtroom. Members of the legal community, justice-system partners, colleagues, friends, and members of the public are invited to attend.
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