Catherine Reade

But the Texas native didn’t hold back once she got here. Since arriving, Reade has diligently served her clients at Haden, Cowherd & Bullock.

“Four years ago, I did not dream that I would be where I am today,” she said. “I have made Springfield and southwest Missouri my home and have been blessed with many friends and people whom I call family.”

Reade offers legal services to clients in the area of civil litigation, focusing on real estate litigation, medical malpractice defense and corporate law.

Reade said the person who has been most influential to her career is her dad, whom she describes as her inspiration, hero and best friend.

She plans to continue building a solid client base and hopes to one day earn an elected position on the bench as a judge.

Until that time arrives, Reade is filling her dream of serving on the bench by volunteering with the Teen Court, a local program offered through juvenile court that allows minors to be judged by their peers.

Reade also has volunteered her time with the Missouri State High School Mock Trial Association Tournament. She has served as the Kickapoo High School Mock Trial coach for the last three years and she was asked to serve as the assistant coach for the two Drury University teams.

Reade also has spoken at the Southwest Missouri Regional Teen Girl Scout Conference and the Missouri Academy of Public Affairs.

When she is not in the courtroom or coaching, Reade can be found raising money for the MS Society by riding her bike in the MS150 or raising money for the Lions by riding in the Race for Sight triathlon.

Born: 1976

What’s your favorite Web site? www.dualdesigngroup.com

What book do you currently have open? “Sassafras” – The Junior League Cookbook

Quote to live by: “To be a star, you must shine your own light, follow your own path and don’t worry about the darkness, for that is when stars shine brightest.”