Maxwell Locke & Ritter Ranked #3 Largest Accounting Firm in the Austin Area by Austin Business Journal

April 29, 2026

Maxwell Locke & Ritter is proud to announce that we have once again been ranked as one of the largest accounting firms in the Austin area by the Austin Business Journal (“ABJ”). Each year, ABJ publishes its list highlighting firms with a significant local footprint and deep ties to the business community. In this year’s ranking, ML&R placed third overall and was the largest locally owned firm on the list. ML&R has consistently ranked among the top three largest accounting firms in Austin and as the largest locally owned firm on the ABJ list. This recognition underscores our ability to compete at the highest level in Austin’s accounting market while staying true to our people-first approach.

This recognition reflects more than growth. It speaks to the strength of our people, the trust of our clients, and our ongoing commitment to serving businesses and organizations throughout Central Texas with experienced, relationship-driven service.

“Being recognized again among the three largest accounting firms in the Austin area is a meaningful reflection of the talented team we have built and the confidence our clients place in us every day,” said Lesley Hargraves, Incoming Leading Partner at Maxwell Locke & Ritter. “As we continue to grow, we remain focused on what has always mattered most: delivering exceptional client service, investing in our people, and staying deeply connected to the community.”

At ML&R, being one of the largest accounting firms in Austin is not simply about size. It’s about building the right team, serving clients with excellence, and creating a culture where people can thrive both professionally and personally. That approach has helped us become one of the most respected firms in the region.

As we celebrate this recognition, we remain grateful for the clients, team members, and community partners who continue to be part of our story. Their support has helped shape who we are today and continues to drive us forward as one of the largest accounting firms in the Austin area.

About the Austin Business Journal
The Austin Business Journal is a leading source for local business news, data, and rankings in Central Texas. Its annual list of the largest accounting firms in the Austin area is based on the number of local CPAs reported by participating firms.

Lesley Hargraves

As a partner in our financial statement assurance & advisory practice, Lesley leads client engagements across a range of industries, helping business owners and executives navigate growth and change with confidence. She brings a collaborative, practical approach to advising clients on complex accounting and financial reporting matters, including revenue recognition, equity transactions, and evolving professional standards.

Before joining ML&R, Lesley began her career with the Austin office of Ernst & Young LLP in the Assurance and Advisory Business Services group, serving both publicly traded and privately held companies. In her broader role at the firm, Lesley plays an active role in advancing the firm’s operational priorities and long-term strategic initiatives, contributing to ML&R’s continued growth and direction.

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