“I’ve never done a divorce for a couple who danced together.” – Pat English

Lea is an Austin trial lawyer since 1981. Early on, Lea successfully argued jury trials in family law, workers compensation, consumer protection, and criminal defense. From this broad background, Lea learned the importance of ignoring stereotypes and instead focusing on the unique personalities of each client, opposing counsel, judge, and individual juror.

Lea is consistently recognized by his peers as a go-to attorney: Lea has been honored as a Texas Monthly “Super Lawyer” and a U.S. News & World Report “Best Lawyers in America” since 2006.

Lea became Board Certified in Family Law in 1995, and three years later he and Pat English partnered up to form the original incarnation of the law firm: Noelke and English. Together they developed a family law practice dedicated to standing strong for their clients while avoiding making problems worse. This philosophy continues today at Noelke Maples St. Leger Bryant.

Lea graduated in 1977 from the University of Texas at Austin with an Honors degree in Plan II, and went on to earn his law degree from Antioch School of Law in Washington, D.C.