Tray Payne
Tray Payne takes great pride in his West Texas roots. Having grown up in the small town of Post, Texas, he learned a thing or two about the importance of hard work, sensibility, and upholding integrity in the big moments and the small.
Tray has a reputation as an honest, dependable, and assertive trial attorney who is dedicated to the success of his clients. With over 100 jury trials and thousands of cases as both a prosecutor and defense attorney—including serving as Chief of Homicide for Lubbock County and Special Assistant United States Attorney—Tray brings unmatched courtroom experience to every case. He also served as Lubbock Mayor from 2022-2024. Serving Lubbock and West Texas.
Areas of Practice
Tray Payne & Family
Dedicated Husband & Father
As a dedicated husband to Heidi since 2000 and the father of four daughters, Tray is deeply passionate about the growth and education of young people. From 2015-2017, Tray served as a member of the Parent Leadership Council at Trinity Christian School, a Bible-based college preparatory program dedicated to the academic and spiritual development of students.
In addition, Tray served for many years as a coach and "buddy" volunteer for Lubbock Challenger Little League, an athletic program for developmentally and physically challenged youth. As a coach and "buddy," Tray had the honor of assisting players and teaching them the value of pulling together as a team.
If you are looking for a hard working, no-nonsense attorney who can handle your case, we are here to SERVE!
Credentials & Qualifications
Professional Background
Education
- Oklahoma City University, Juris Doctor 2000
- Texas Tech University, B.B.A., Accounting 1996
- Post High School 1992
Bar Admissions
- State of Texas
- Northern District of Texas (Federal)
- Eastern District of Texas (Federal)
Professional Associations
- State Bar of Texas
- Lubbock Area Bar Association
- Texas Tech Alumni Association
- Lubbock Chamber of Commerce
Education & Early Career
After his graduation from Post High School (Go Bold Gold!), Tray attended Texas Tech University and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting in 1996. Upon graduation, Tray accepted his first job as an auditor for Bollinger, Segars, Gilbert and Moss, a local Lubbock accounting firm. During his time as an auditor, Tray gained significant and valuable experience while learning the importance of diligence in detail.
After serving as an independent auditor from 1996-1997, Tray was accepted into Oklahoma City University's School of Law. In law school, Tray excelled as his 1st year class representative for the Board of Governors, 2nd year class President, and in his 3rd year he was elected Board of Governor's Vice-President, Phi Delta Phi Officer and the articles editor of the OCU law review. He also published and was cited in the law review and won multiple mock trial and mediation competitions, all while working as a law clerk.
In his third year, Tray was selected to serve as 2nd chair in two personal injury cases and a complex mass tort civil litigation case in the District Court of Oklahoma County. Tray began his dedicated legal career as a clerk for Sam Hammons, J.D., the former first administrative assistant for energy and natural resources to Governor David Boren (later Oklahoma's U.S. Senator and former President of the University of Oklahoma.)
Prosecution Experience
Chief of Homicide & Federal Prosecutor
After returning to his West Texas roots, Tray began working as a general practice attorney for Boatwright and Hamilton in 2000. In 2001, he was appointed as an assistant District Attorney under the Honorable Judge Bill Sowder. As a State Prosecutor, Tray quickly rose through the ranks to serve as Chief Felony Prosecutor in the 364th District Court. In 2003, he was appointed as Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) working on the President Bush initiated Project Safe Neighborhood.
In 2005, Tray was appointed as the Chief of Homicide for the Lubbock County Criminal District Attorney's office at just 31 years old. As Homicide Chief, Tray was responsible for the investigation and prosecution of all homicide cases in Lubbock County, including capital punishment cases involving the death penalty.
Educator & Entrepreneur
Private Practice & Teaching
In 2009, after years of serving Lubbock and the surrounding communities, Tray accomplished his dream of opening his own law firm, now known as Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler. Tray has taught numerous continuing education courses for the Texas Association of Counties, the Center for American and International Law, Texas District and County Attorney's Association, Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer's Association, and Texas Tech University.
From 2002 to 2010, Tray worked as an adjunct professor at Texas Tech University. He also obtained his broker's license from the Texas Real Estate Commission and has brokered hundreds of Real Estate Agents since opening his own brokerage firm in 2005.
communityService 2022 - 2024
Lubbock Mayor
In 2021, Tray felt a strong calling to serve the Lubbock community in a bigger way, and he answered that call by running for Lubbock Mayor. In May of 2022, Tray won the race in a landslide, defeating four other candidates without the need for a runoff. One of his key accomplishments was the $200 million streets and roads bond package, which passed with two-thirds of voters in favor in November 2022. He also focused on improving public safety by providing competitive pay for first responders and strengthening communication systems. Although he decided not to seek re-election in 2024, his time in office left a lasting impact on Lubbock.
Community Involvement
Beyond his legal career, Tray is heavily involved in serving his community. He serves on the Board of Parkridge Medical Clinic, a non-profit women's health organization that has provided free and confidential support services for women in Lubbock for over 30 years. Since 2024, Tray also serves on the University Medical Center Board of Managers. He volunteers for Lubbock Meals on Wheels and the West Texas Hero Homes, and is an active member of Indiana Avenue Baptist Church and the Llano Estacado Emmaus Community.
Current Practice & Legacy
Currently, Tray is practicing law full-time alongside his partners at Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler. He represents the Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas (CLEAT), numerous businesses and organizations, and continues success in his other business ventures, making him a well-rounded and connected Attorney in the Lubbock and West Texas area.
Tray's unique approach to advocacy has helped him succeed in obtaining the most favorable outcomes possible under the law for each of the clients he serves. His no-nonsense approach, coupled with his extensive legal and trial experience, has shaped a distinguished career and established him as a relentless attorney who is known for his hard work and integrity. Tray and his wife Heidi continue supporting the Lubbock Community, raising their family, volunteering and committing themselves to service.
Client Testimonials
I personally have never had to hire an attorney before so I had no idea what to expect through the process. I can honestly say that to work with Tray was a blessing. Him and his team made everything so smooth and as easy as possible. I was taken care of and made to feel very comfortable. Communication was solid. I HIGHLY recommend Tray.
Kelse Watts
Client
From the first phone call to the last detail, Tray Payne and his team were first class. Very informative and reassuring. Every detail and option was carefully discussed and re-discussed if needed. The communication was always timely and helpful. Everything Tray said he would accomplish, he accomplished. I can say without hesitance that I highly recommend Tray and his associates.
Troy Burton
Client
Nobody ever WANTS to hire an attorney. It is usually a need, and a need that is accompanied by high level of stress and uncertainty. Tray Payne displayed a level of knowledge of the law, but broke it down where it was super simple to comprehend. He was always accessible during the moments we needed him, and provided very clear guidance and instruction in dealing with a very scary time for our family.
Christopher Cater
Client
Tray and his team are amazing! They are compassionate and willing to help in any way that they can. 10/10 would recommend for anyone looking for quality services!
Hannah Brookshire
Client
I spoke with Tray for a consultation and found him very informative and helpful. I'll definitely be reaching out to him if my situation escalates.
Carrie P.
Client
Schedule a Consultation
Contact us today to discuss your legal needs. We offer free initial consultations for most cases.
Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler
Since its opening in 2009, Payne, Powell, Truitt & Chandler has been dedicated to serving clients all over West Texas and New Mexico. Tray's expertise extends far beyond the courtroom—he has spent countless hours working closely with clients, victims, and families, offering guidance and support as a compassionate and trusted counselor of the law. If you are looking for a hard working, no-nonsense attorney who can handle your case, we are here to SERVE!