Goranson Bain Ausley <\/p>\n
Goranson Bain Ausley (GBA), one of Texas\u2019s most respected family law firms, announces the addition of two new partners and six associates in Dallas, Plano, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Granbury.<\/p>\n
AUSTIN, TX, Oct. 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Goranson Bain Ausley (GBA), one of Texas\u2019s most respected family law firms, announces the addition of two new partners and six associates in Dallas, Plano, Fort Worth, Austin, San Antonio, and Granbury. This expansion underscores the firm\u2019s commitment to providing intelligent advocacy, constructive solutions, and trusted counsel to clients navigating complex family law matters throughout Texas.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur strength has always been our people. By adding talented attorneys who share our dedication to strategic, client-centered representation, we\u2019re enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional service and results for families across Texas.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u2013 Lindley Bain | Managing Partner, Goranson Bain Ausley<\/p>\n
New Partners<\/p>\n
John J. Kappel<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Plano Chad Elsey<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Plano New Associates<\/p>\n Brooke Baker<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Fort Worth Hailey Schmitt<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Fort Worth Heather Hudson<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 San Antonio Ashton McCary<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Dallas Lauren Restino<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Austin
One of only 11 attorneys in Texas Double Board Certified in both Family Law and Civil Appellate Law, John brings a distinguished blend of trial and appellate experience. He represents high-net-worth individuals in complex property divisions, business valuations, and sensitive custody cases\u2014often involving multijurisdictional or international issues.<\/p>\n
With more than 20 years of experience, Chad serves clients across North Texas, including Denton and Flower Mound. He combines trial-tested advocacy and financial insight to guide business owners, executives, and professional athletes through high-stakes family law matters.<\/p>\n
With more than 15 years of experience, Brooke handles complex custody, divorce, and property division cases across Tarrant and surrounding counties. She helps clients navigate transitions with honesty, empathy, and strategic advocacy both in and outside the courtroom.<\/p>\n
Hailey represents clients in all areas of family law, including divorce, custody, property division, and adoption. She takes a settlement-first, child-focused approach and provides confident courtroom representation when needed.<\/p>\n
With more than eight years of exclusive family law experience, including Collaborative Law, Heather helps clients navigate complex family matters with clarity, discipline, and care. Drawing on her background as a U.S. Air Force officer and her M.B.A., she brings structure, business insight, and sound judgment to help clients make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.<\/p>\n
A graduate of SMU Dedman School of Law, Ashton clerked in GBA\u2019s Dallas office and served as Chief Counsel of the VanSickle Family Law Clinic. She brings balanced judgment, technical precision, and empathy to every client matter.<\/p>\n
After clerking in GBA\u2019s Dallas and Austin offices, Lauren joins the firm with a strong foundation in family law and a client-centered approach. A member of the National Order of Barristers, she offers strategic advocacy and trusted guidance.<\/p>\n