About John Thompson
John Thompson Shrader is a personal injury attorney based in Amherst, Virginia. He has been practicing law since 1982, specializing in various areas including personal injury, family law, business law, estate planning, probate, and elder law. A member of the Virginia State Bar, Mr. Shrader has built a robust legal career over the decades. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond, which he earned in 1975, followed by a Juris Doctor from the T.C. Williams School of Law at the same university in 1979. Before establishing his own practice, Mr.
Shrader worked working in the legal department at First Colony Life Insurance in Lynchburg, Virginia, now known as Pacific Life. This experience laid a strong foundation for his legal career. In 1982, he founded Shrader & Goad, a law firm located at 330 South Main Street, Amherst, VA 24521. The firm has since become a trusted resource for clients seeking legal assistance in personal injury, family law, business law, estate planning, probate, and elder law. Throughout his career, Mr. Shrader has held several significant positions within the legal community. He served as County Attorney for Amherst County and has been the attorney for the Amherst County Department of Social Services.
His role as a Commissioner of Accounts for both Amherst and Nelson Counties demonstrates his commitment to public service. Additionally, he has acted as a Commissioner in Chancery for both counties, further showcasing his extensive legal expertise and community involvement. Beyond his legal practice, Mr. Shrader has been actively engaged in the Amherst community. His dedication to service is evident through his pro bono work for local non-profit organizations, where he has provided legal assistance to those in need. Furthermore, he has been a firefighter with the Amherst Fire Department for 45 years, including a tenure as Chief. This commitment to public safety and community service highlights his deep-rooted connection to the area.
As of February 2026, Mr. Shrader continues to serve as Commissioner of Accounts for Amherst County and as a Commissioner in Chancery for both Amherst and Nelson Counties. His experience in personal injury and estate planning law has solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the Amherst legal community. With a career spanning over four decades, Mr. Shrader remains dedicated to serving his clients and the community, ensuring that justice and support are accessible to all.
