Former President of Texas Automobile Dealers Association Joins Texas Law Firm

AUSTIN, Texas--Hilgers Bell & Richards, LLP announced today that Gene Fondren, former president of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association (TADA), has joined the firm. Fondren is a recognized expert in the field of automotive law, following a long career of representing the automotive dealer industry in Texas and across the nation.

“Gene Fondren’s extensive knowledge in automotive law and other regulatory legal matters will be a strong addition to the firm,” said managing partner Paul Skeith.

As president of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association from 1972 until 2004, Fondren directed TADA’s legislative efforts and dealt extensively with issues affecting auto dealers in Austin and around the country. During his tenure, he drafted and promoted the enactment of laws affecting the industry and later saw these laws adopted in many other states.

Also while at the helm of TADA, Fondren headed a number of association coalitions that were successful in gaining broad-based remedies affecting small business in Texas.

Fondren was widely recognized as the “dean” of the association world in the Texas Capital, and served as president of the Texas Society of Association Executives, chairman of the American Society of Association Executives, and as president of the Automotive Trade Association Executives.

Before joining TADA, Fondren served three terms in the Texas House of Representatives (1963-1968), representing a district in Williamson and Lee counties, and Williamson and Bell counties.

“I look forward to this new chapter in my career,” said Fondren. “Hilgers Bell & Richards’ high standards of ethics and quality representation for their clients are admirable and I am honored to join this talented and experienced firm.”

Fondren currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Public Television Council (KLRU-TV), on the board of directors of the Greater Austin Crime Commission and is a member of the Advisory Board of Meals on Wheels and More.

The mission of Hilgers Bell & Richards LLP is to provide excellent, full-service, legal representation and unsurpassed personal service to businesses, nonprofits, and individuals with the highest standards of ethics, fairness, and integrity. For more information, visit www.hbrfirm.com or call 512-476-0005.