Tray is an experienced trial attorney that knows how to protect his client’s interests. Tray grew up in the small town of Post, Texas where he learned the values of hard work and good, old fashioned common sense. He graduated from Texas Tech University in 1996 with a BBA in accounting and then received his JD in 2000 from Oklahoma City University. Tray worked as a state and federal prosecutor from 2000-2009 until he started his own firm, now known as PPTC.

Tray has achieved numerous successful outcomes in a wide range of legal cases. His goal is to help each client obtain the most favorable outcome possible under the law. Tray continues to put his experience and common sense to work for his clients each and every day, all the while understanding that dependability, loyalty and customer service must be an integral part of the lawyer/client relationship.

Matt brings over 25 years of experience to the firm in both criminal and civil law. Prior to joining the firm, Matt served as the Elected Criminal District Attorney for Lubbock County, Texas as well as the Chief Attorney for the Midland, Texas Independent School District.

Matt grew up in Amarillo and has lived in Lubbock for the last 24 years. He has achieved tremendous results in the cases he has handled and enjoys being the voice for people who need his help.

Matt has spent his entire legal career as an advocate for those in need and clearly understands that loyalty, communication and results are the key factors in an attorney / client relationship.

Lori is a Lubbock native who graduated from Texas Tech University undergraduate and Texas Tech University School of Law. She began her career working in civil litigation and creditor representation that took her frequently to the courtroom, mostly in the San Antonio and Austin areas of Texas.

Lori happily returned to practicing mostly in Lubbock and the surrounding areas in 2010 when she joined Tray Payne and began a more varied practice area, which now includes the following areas of law: family law; probate/estate administration; guardianship; debtor/creditor representation; general civil litigation; and personal injury.

She loves helping people, which makes working as an attorney a true joy for her. She works aggressively and sincerely for her clients. She also loves spending time with her husband, two sons, and their fun-loving dog.

Matt Chandler has a unique legal experience that can assist clients in and out of the courtroom.  Originally from Clovis, New Mexico, Matt and his siblings were raised with a strong faith and incredible work ethic. Matt’s father was a Magistrate Judge and New Mexico State Senator, which provided Matt with a glimpse of the legal world at a very young age.  That experience gave Matt the desire to graduate law school and return to his hometown to practice law.

ROLE AS A FORMER NEW MEXICO DISTRICT ATTORNEY:

ROLE AS A FORMER NEW MEXICO DISTRICT COURT JUDGE

Melissa grew up on a farm outside of Farwell, Texas, where she learned the value of hard work and determination. She also learned the true meaning of words like integrity, honesty and dependability.

After graduating magna cum laude from Texas Tech University, Melissa earned her law degree from Texas Tech University School of Law. Melissa spent time clerking for the Lubbock City Attorney’s office before joining the Lubbock County Criminal District Attorney’s office as a prosecuting attorney.

Melissa now lives in Hereford, Texas, with her husband, Shawn, and their two children where she enjoys supporting her family’s various endeavors and is active in her church and community.

Melissa practices in Hereford and the surrounding counties. Her practice involves family law, probate, estate planning, criminal justice and real estate. Melissa is caring and detail-oriented, and she looks forward to assisting her neighbors with their legal needs.

Stephanie has been a member of the PPTC family since 2011. Stephanie is a West Texas native and graduate of Texas Tech University. She has two daughters and two dogs. When she is not working hard for our clients, she is usually reading a good book or traveling to new destinations.

Hope has been a member of the PP&T family since 2014. She was born and raised in Lubbock and is a graduate from Lubbock High School. Hope offers great customer service in both English and Spanish. She is married with three sons, enjoys working out, cooking and the company of family and friends.

Marinda was born and raised in Lubbock. She has been in the legal field for 24 years, having worked in the Courts as well as for private attorneys. This experience has provided her with valuable knowledge of how both sides of the legal process operate. She is married with three sons and three grandchildren. When she is not working, Marinda enjoys going on cruises and spending time with her family.

Sonia was born and raised in Lubbock and graduated from Coronado High School. She has a great passion for helping people, with over 10 years of customer service experience. She is married and has 4 energetic boys. In her spare time Sonia enjoys crafting, catering events with her husband and getting involved in her boys’ extracurricular activities.

Majrlie Ruiz was born and raised in San Marcos Texas, but always knew she wanted to reside in Lubbock. After graduating in Portales New Mexico she quickly made her way to West Texas. She is currently enrolled in Real Estate school , and working to be a leader within her church. She enjoys being outside fishing , hiking or biking with her two pups by her side. Majrlie is a great addition to our PPT&C family.

Mabry was born in Lubbock and is attending Texas Tech University school of law. She will graduate in the spring of 2026.