Happy New Year! I hope that you and your family and friends had a wonderful holiday season and a very happy and successful New Year! For my family, my son was home from college, and we were able to spend Christmas with family in Granbury and ring in the New Year with a fun concert at Dickie’s Arena.
Speaking of fun, the TCBA Annual Holiday Party on December 12 was a great success. The decorated trees, the food, the music, and the networking were as good as ever. Thank you to Chair Shannon Pritchard and all of the committee members for a job well done. And for those who attended and those who participated in the tree decorating competition, know that TCBA was able to donate 10 trees to Justin’s Place
Appellate Law Brown Bag
Tarrant County Bar Association
Friday, February 7, 2025
Women in the Law Luncheon
The Fort Worth Club Thursday, March 6, 2025
Bench Bar Conference: 30th Anniversary
Accepting Nominations: 2025 Law Day Professionalism Award
The Law Day Professionalism Award Selection Committee is accepting nominations for the Law Day Professionalism Award. Anyone in the legal community, attorney or non-attorney, may nominate a TCBA member who best exemplifies, by conduct and character, professional traits that others in the bar should try to emulate.
Download nomination form at www.tarrantbar.org/2025-Nomination-Form
Nominations Deadline: February 28, 2025 by 5 p.m.
Tarrant County Bar Association
LAWYER
REFERRAL & INFORMATION
SERVICE
The Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) is a service of the Tarrant County Bar Association that benefits both TCBA member attorneys and the public.
TCBA’s Lawyer Referral & Information Service is completely customizable for participating attorneys with:
practice areas
LRIS averages more than more than
Referral & Information Service
Time Frame: January 2023 – March 2024 & calls each month
specialized practice areas from which to choose.
Approved by the American Bar Association, LRIS allows member attorneys to receive client referrals and build their business, while helping callers quickly find an attorney in the area of law they need.
The program is intended to help individuals who are able to pay normal attorney fees but have difficulty finding legal representation due to lack of experience with the legal system, lack of information about needed services, or fear of costs. Membership costs range $150 - $200 annually.
The LRIS is pleased to announce that Greg Jackson has earned the title of Top Referral Attorney for TCBA's Lawyer Referral & Information Service for the period from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. Jackson earned $100,000 through his dedicated participation in our program!
Why Join LRIS?
• Maximize Your Earnings: Like Greg, you can earn substantial rewards by offering quality referrals.
• Grow Your Practice: Connect with clients in need of your expertise and grow your client base.
• Build Your Reputation: Build valuable relationships and be recognized for your exceptional service.
For more details about joining LRIS, please visit www.tarrantbar.org/JoinLRIS or reach out to us at lris@tarrantbar.org.
Members of the 2024-2025 100 Club
*List Reflected Below is as of January 15, 2025
Adams, Lynch & Loftin, P.C
Albert, Neely & Kuhlmann, LLP
Anderson & Cummings, LLP
Anderson & Riddle, LLP
Baker Monroe, PLLC
Barlow Garsek & Simon, LLP
Blaies & Hightower, L.L.P.
Bonds Ellis Eppich Schafer Jones, LLP
Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, P.C.
Brackett & Ellis, P.C.
Brown, Proctor & Howell, LLP
City Attorney’s Office-City of Fort Worth
Curnutt & Hafer, L.L.P.
Decker Jones, P.C.
Dismuke & Waters, P.C.
Forshey & Prostok, L.L.P.
Freeman Mills P.C.
Friedman, Suder & Cooke, P.C.
Gardner, Smith & Vaughan, PLLC
Griffith, Jay, & Michel, LLP
Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.
Harrison Steck, P.C.
Haynes and Boone, LLP
Holland Johns & Penny LLP
Jackson Walker LLP
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP
Killen & Dennis, PC
KoonsFuller, P.C.
Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP
Lively & Associates, PLLC
McDonald Sanders, P.C
Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, PLLC
Nelson Bumgardner Conroy PC
Noteboom - The Law Firm
Padfield & Stout, LLP
Pham Harrison, LLP
Phelps Dunbar LLP
Pope, Hardwicke, Christie, Schell, Kelly & Taplett, L.L.P.
Robbins Travis PLLC
Ross & Matthews P.C.
Second Court Of Appeals
Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office
Taylor, Olson, Adkins, Sralla & Elam, LLP
Texas Business Court, Eighth Division
The Blum Firm, P.C.
The Colaneri Firm, P.C.
Underwood Law Firm, PLLC
Varghese Summersett PLLC
Watson, Caraway, Midkiff & Luningham, LLP
Whitaker Chalk Swindle & Schwartz PLLC
Whitley Penn, LLP
Wick Phillips
Winstead PC
To be eligible for the 100 Club, any law firm, government agency, law school, or corporate legal department with four or more members must attain 100% TCBA membership compliance for the 2024–2025 bar year. This qualifies them for the “100 Club.” The firms/organizations listed above have already paid their membership dues and qualify for 100 Club membership for
the new bar year. Any firm/organization that qualifies in the future will have its name published in every issue of the Bar Bulletin for this bar year. TCBA takes pride in the participation of these law firms and other groups. The new bar year began on July 1. If you have not paid your renewal invoice, please contact Tiffany Myles at tiffany@tarrantbar.org. g
TEXAS LAWYERS FOR TEXAS VETERANS
By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director
TARRANT COUNTY CHAPTER
John J. Corbin, Chair
Alexis Allen
Brittany Allen-Brantley
Rachel Barr
Francine Bennett
Robert Blankenship
Robert Boudreau
Kirsten Clark
Scott Conyers
Byrolyn Daniels
Thomas Duffy
Alexandra Esparza
Carlos Galliani
Chnequa Harrison
John Johnson
Samantha Kehl
Deborah Krane
George Muckleroy
Brenda Pfieff
David Pritchard
Joe Robles
Karon Rowden
Aaron Sigal
Brian Singleterry
Melissa Sircar
Emily Teel
Amber Tilly
Rheana Whelchel
George White
Dora Zamora
If you are passionate about providing legal assistance to veterans in need and have creative solutions and ideas to share, consider joining the TLTV committee. Contact sarah@tarrantbar.org for more details. g
attorney that I spoke to was very attentive to my issue of concern. She was very helpful with the advice that she gave me, and it was a substantial
John Broude has had a distinguished career spanning 50 years in the legal profession, alongside 50 years of marriage—though he often jokes that he’s uncertain which has been more challenging (though he’s certain what his spouse would say). A graduate of The University of Texas School of Law, Mr. Broude has been board certified in Commercial Real Estate Law since 1997. Beyond his legal expertise, John has dedicated much of his time to community service, having served as president of the boards for Beth-El Congregation, Cassata High School, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County.
Randy Catterton served as a judge of the 231st District Court in Tarrant County, Texas, from 1993 until his retirement in May 2013 after 20 years on the bench. He was appointed to the position by Governor Ann Richards. Catterton earned his J.D. from the University of Texas at Austin in 1974 and was licensed by the State Bar of Texas in 1975. Before his judicial appointment, he spent 20 years practicing family law in Fort Worth, Texas, and earlier practiced law in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. He earned Texas Board of Legal Specialization Certification in Family Law in 1981.
Michael Frederick was born on February 25, 1950, in Hamlin, Texas. He has been married to Jennifer Hamilton Frederick for 54 years. They have two sons and four grandchildren. He graduated from Maxie Speer Elementary, Nicholas Junior High School, Arlington High School, North Texas State University, and the University of Texas Law School. His legal career began at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office, where he practiced from 1975 to 1978. He then worked at Forrester and Garrett until 1980, Foster, Frederick, and Hubby until 1981, Kugle, Stewart, Dent, and Frederick until 1990, Kugle and Frederick until 1991, and Frederick and Powell until 1994, before becoming a sole practitioner until his retirement in 2021. He extends special thanks to his family, Alex, Webb, Cindy Graham, and his many cherished clients. Practicing law in Tarrant County for 46 years was a fascinating and deeply gratifying journey.
Harvey Frye was admitted to the Texas Bar in 1975 and began his legal career working parttime for the firm of Gumm and Anderson in Hurst. His first full-time position was with the City of Fort Worth, where he worked under the leadership of legendary City Attorney S.G. Johndroe. After his time with the City, Mr. Frye joined Simon, Peebles, which later became Peebles, Betty and Brantley. He then transitioned to Phillip Treacy and Associates, where he served as staff counsel for Home Insurance Company in Dallas. He later returned to Fort Worth to work with Watson, Caraway, Harrington, Nelson, Midkiff and Luningham. In 2006, Mr. Frye returned to the City Attorney’s Office, continuing his longstanding commitment to public service and the legal profession.
Robert Gieb is a Ft. Worth native, has been married to his wife Mary for 47 years, and has two daughters and four grandchildren. He received a B.A. from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, and a J.D. from the University of Texas Law School. Between undergraduate and law school he taught high school in Colorado and Wisconsin. Upon graduation from UT, Mr. Gieb worked for the Tarrant County District Attorney’s office, first in the criminal division and then in the civil division. After leaving the DA’s office for private practice he worked with John Lively and Bruce Wilson. In 1984 he began his solo practice primarily in the area of probate law, both decedent’s estates and guardianships. Besides his membership in the Tarrant County Bar Association, Mr. Gieb is a founding director, past president, and current member of the Tarrant County Probate Bar Association, and is a founding member of the board of directors and current vice-president of the Tarrant County St. Thomas More Society. For eighteen years he has been chairman of the committee for the annual Tarrant County Red Mass.
Gary Ingram is a board certified attorney with more than 45 years of experience in successfully handling labor and employment law issues, civil rights litigation, personal injury litigation, and Texas non-subscriber litigation. Gary has repeatedly received peer recognition as being among the "best," "top," and "super" attorneys in the state in his areas of practice and has received personal accolades from trial judges before whom he has appeared. For more than twenty years, Gary served as the statewide leader of his law firm's Labor & Employment Practice Group, which has grown to include L&E lawyers in six offices. In addition to being recognized for his legal skills and qualifications, Gary has been honored for maintaining high levels of ethical standards, professionalism and legal scholarship. Gary has extensive experience in traditional labor relations issues arising under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and has handled numerous workplace accident and safety-related citation contests under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration Act (OSHA). He regularly assists employers responding to EEOC investigations and related litigation involving discrimination and retaliation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other workplace protection statutes and regulations. Successfully defending large wage and hour collective actions under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Equal Pay Act are among his many accomplishments. Gary's experience extends into the public sector, having defended civil rights and whistleblower suits, negotiating labor agreements with police associations, and successfully resolving department-wide wage and benefits claims with law enforcement and firefighting associations. Gary's advocacy skills in the courtroom have benefited his clients in non-subscriber injury claim arbitrations, in obtaining or resisting enforcement of non-compete agreements, and in presenting briefs and oral arguments to appellate tribunals.
Formerly a Justice on the Texas Court of Appeals for the Second District, David Keltner has served as lead counsel in over 450 appellate decisions. His legal writings have been cited with approval by Texas courts on numerous occasions. David continues to serve the Texas legal profession as a member of the Texas Supreme Court Advisory Committee and the State Bar of Texas Pattern Jury Charge Committee. David’s efforts have been recognized. From 2021-2024, he was recognized as a Star Individual in Appellate Law by Chambers USA, and has received Band 1 rankings every year since 2007. He was also recognized as the Go-To Appellate Lawyer in Texas by Texas Lawyer and was ranked as one of the Top 10 Lawyers in Texas by Thompson Reuters for the last seventeen years, receiving the No. 1 ranking seven times. In addition, David was named Best Lawyers® Appellate Lawyer of the Year for Dallas/Fort Worth in 2016 and 2018. David is a Fellow of the American Academy of Appellate Lawyers. He was humbled to be named the inaugural Gregory S. Coleman Outstanding Appellate Lawyer by the Texas Bar Foundation. He received the American Inns of Court James E. Coleman Jr. Award for Professionalism for the Fifth Circuit. He received similar awards from the College of the State Bar of Texas (Jim D. Bowmer Professionalism Award) and the Texas Center for Legal Ethics (Chief Justice Jack Pope Professionalism Award). David has also been actively involved in professional organizations. He served as Chair of the Board of Directors of the State Bar of
Texas, Chair of the State Bar of Texas’ Litigation Section, Chair of the College of the State Bar of Texas, Chair of the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation, and Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Committee of the Texas A&M University School of Law. David is proud to have served on the Texas Supreme Court Advisory Committee for Professionalism that drafted the Texas Lawyer’s Creed. He has served in the House of Delegates of the American Bar Association, and on the National Board of ABOTA. Locally, he served as President of the Tarrant County Bar Association and was the former Chair of West Texas Legal Services.
A native of Fort Worth, Steve Madsen attended the University of Texas at Austin and Baylor law school. He was admitted to the Bar in 1975, then served as a briefing attorney under Judge Connally McKay on the 12th Court of Civil Appeals in Tyler, Texas. He returned to Fort Worth in 1976 and joined the Cantey Hanger law firm as a trial lawyer, where he continues to practice. He has been recognized numerous times as a Super Lawyer by Texas Monthly magazine and is a former president of the Tarrant County chapter of ABOTA. Steve and his wife Nancy have been married for 52 years. They have three children and eight grandchildren, all of whom live in Fort Worth.
Steve Maxwell is a native Texan, born in Amarillo and raised in Midland. He attended Trinity University where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1972. He then received his law degree from the University of Texas of Austin in 1975. He moved to Fort Worth upon his graduation from law school. He served as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Fort Worth from 1976 to 1977. After leaving the City Attorney's office, he has been in private practice ever since. He currently is a partner with the Bailey & Galyen Law Firm, where he specializes in civil litigation with an emphasis on personal injury litigation. He has been board-certified in personal injury trial law since 1984. Steve has served as President of the Tarrant County Trial Lawyers Association (1989-1990) and President of the Tarrant County Bar Association (1999-2000). He has also served as director of the State Bar of Texas (20012004). Texas Monthly Magazine has recognized Steve as a "Texas Super Lawyer" every year since 2004. He has been listed in the Fort Worth Business Press "Who's Who" for 2001, and in the "Who's Who in Texas" for 1990. He was recognized as an "Outstanding Young Man of America" in 1980. In 2012, he was honored by the Tarrant County Bar Association with the "Professionalism Award." Steve served as the Chairman of the Tarrant County Democratic Party from 2008 to 2013. He and his wife, Ivy, have three children, two grandchildren and a menagerie of pets.
Jonathan D. F. Nelson is an accomplished attorney with over 40 years of experience in general civil practice, civil litigation, and commercial litigation. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Tulane University of Louisiana in 1968 and his Juris Doctor, with honors, from Texas Tech University in 1975, where he was a member of the Delta Theta Phi, Order of Barristers, and Moot Court Board. Admitted to the Texas Bar in 1975, Mr. Nelson has been board-certified in Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization since 1991. He is licensed to practice in all Texas state courts, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. Over the course of his career, he has tried more than 120 cases to jury verdict. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Nelson has been an active member of several professional organizations, including the State Bar of Texas, the American Board of Trial Advocates, and the Texas Association of Defense Counsel. He served as President of the Fort Worth Chapter of ABOTA and as Vice President of the Tarrant County Civil Trial Lawyers Association. His community involvement includes leadership roles in organizations such as the James L. West Alzheimer's Center, Cook Children's Medical Center, and Samaritan House, which assists those affected by AIDS/HIV. He has also served on the City of Fort Worth Planning and Zoning Commission, the Housing Authority, and the Park
and Recreation Board. A United States Army veteran, Mr. Nelson served as a First Lieutenant in the Airborne Infantry during the Vietnam War, earning the rank of Combat Infantry Officer. David has also been actively involved in professional organizations. He served as Chair of the Board of Directors of the State Bar of Texas, Chair of the State Bar of Texas’ Litigation Section, Chair of the College of the State Bar of Texas, Chair of the Fellows of the Texas Bar Foundation, and Chair of the Dean’s Advisory Committee of the Texas A&M University School of Law. David is proud to have served on the Texas Supreme Court Advisory Committee for Professionalism that drafted the Texas Lawyer’s Creed. He has served in the House of Delegates of the American Bar Association, and on the National Board of ABOTA. Locally, he served as President of the Tarrant County Bar Association and was the former Chair of West Texas Legal Services.
Henry H. Robinson counsels and represents clients in all areas of labor and employment law and healthcare law. Clients value his advice and abilities in and out of the courtroom. He is named a Texas Super Lawyer by Thomson Reuters and listed in The Best Lawyers in America®. Mr. Robinson has extensive labor and employment experience in diverse industries such as transportation, retail, oil and gas, banking, finance, telecommunications, health care, technology, manufacturing and sales. His experience includes single-plaintiff and multi-plaintiff litigation, as well as class actions and collective actions. He has handled litigation before federal and state forums in Texas and many other states and before a host of arbitration forums. Mr. Robinson counsels clients on employment practices and policies designed to avoid potential problems and minimize risks. When an issue exists, he identifies options and their respective advantages and disadvantages. In litigation, he gives personal attention at all phases: discovery, motion practice, summary proceedings, settlement negotiations and mediation, trial and appeal.
Ross W. Stoddard, III, has served as a full-time professional mediator for over 35 years, conducting more than 6,000 civil and probate mediations with claims exceeding $40B. Since 1986, his office has been located in the Towers of Williams Square in Las Colinas. Ross earned his B.B.A. (with honors) from SMU and his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law. Prior to mediation, he practiced law for 11 years following his service as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force. Ross has also served as a law clerk for the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals and as Assistant Staff Judge Advocate for the San Antonio Contracting Center. In addition to mediation, Ross taught courses in SMU’s Executive MBA Program and has served on the faculty for numerous mediation training programs. He cofounded the American Academy of Attorney-Mediators and has presented at conferences worldwide. Ross authored the chapter on mediation in the ABA’s The Litigator’s Handbook and has been Co-President of the World Forum of Mediation Centres since 2022. Ross holds the Credentialed Distinguished Mediator designation and is passionate about traveling the world with his wife, June. They have two adult sons and six grandchildren.
Louis E. Sturns received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Kansas School of Law. Following graduation, he served three years as Captain in the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps. His long-spanning career includes the practice of civil, family, and criminal law in Tarrant County; as well as serving as a criminal district court judge, and as a member of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. He has also served on numerous state boards and commissions, including Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas Ethics Commission. He is a recipient of the Professionalism Award and the Civil Gavel Award from the Tarrant County Bar and is a Past President of the Fort Worth Black Bar Association and the Tarrant County Bar Association. He retired from the bench after serving 11.5 years as Judge of the 213th District Court.
Judge Everett Young was born in Fort Worth and attended Fort Worth Public Schools graduating from Paschal High School in 1968. He enrolled at Texas Tech University in Lubbock and graduated with a BA in Government in 1972. He then was admitted to Texas Tech University School of Law and graduated with a Doctor of Jurisprudence in December 1974. After being admitted to the Texas Bar in May 1975 he immediately started working as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Fort Worth and prosecutor in the Fort Worth Municipal Courts. In August 1977, at age 27, he was appointed by the Mayor as a Municipal Judge for the City of Fort Worth where he served until 1980. From 1980 until 1988 he was in general private practice of law in Tarrant County. In 1988 he became a candidate for Judge of the 297th District Court and was elected in November of that year taking office in December 1988. He was reelected for six additional terms to the 297th District Court and retired at the end of 2014 after 26 years of service. For the past ten years he has served as Senior District Judge - Sitting by Assignment to various criminal courts and cases primarily in the Eighth Judicial Region of Texas. He is married to his wife, Priscilla, and they are parents to four wonderful children and grandparents to seven precious grandchildren all residing in the area.
Table Sponsors
Judge Pat Gallagher
TARRANT COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION
IBy Brad Parker TCBF Chair
A Message from the 2025 Tarrant County Bar Foundation Chair
am absolutely honored to serve as the 2025 Chair of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation. The TCBF was formed in 1997, and its first Chair was Thos. H. Law. The initial board consisted of Sam Rosen, Kathy Landford, Brian Newby, Albon Head, Dee Kelly, Steve Maxwell, Chuck Noteboom and David Seidler. As we embark on the 28th year of existence it is important to reflect on the magnificent work the Foundation conducts in fulfilling its purpose:
Grants over $500,000 to more than 30 organizations have been awarded over the last 28 years. A few of those organizations include: Methodist Justice Ministry; Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court; L. Clifford Davis Legal Foundation; Pathfinders; Guardianship Services; and many others. The Foundation currently awards approximately $30,000 per year in grants and the deadline to apply for a grant from the TCBF ends April 15, every year.
Other than grants, the Foundation has served more than 3,935 veterans since the inception of the Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans-Tarrant County Chapter. In 2024 alone there were 18 free legal clinics held throughout Tarrant County; 250 Elder Law Handbooks distributed; approximately 196 hours / 787 calls made in the Legal Line program; served 61people through the People’s Law School; assisted 77 lowincome individuals with free legal representation in family law and estate planning matters; provided assistance to more than 50 guests related to homelessness at the True Worth Place Legal Resource Center; and more.
As the numbers demonstrate, TCBF has been remarkably busy. The programs provided and the grants awarded continue to grow as the TCBF thrives. At the recent Pro Bono Awards Luncheon more than nine local lawyers and firms were recognized for their tireless contributions to the programs of the TCBF. It takes not only money but volunteers to make these programs work. If you are not involved in any of these programs, I urge you to consider giving just a small amount of your time to continue the wonderful programs the TCBF supports and provides.
The TCBF is funded in part by grants from other charitable foundations and have included the Texas Access to Justice Foundation and the Fort Worth Foundation. Much of the Foundation’s funding comes from its Fellows whom number over 750. Additional funding is derived from the generous contributions from our wonderful legal community both in the form of individual contributions and from local law firms that have stepped up to assist with the dedicated cause of the Foundation.
Immediate Past Chair Andy Sims concentrated on seeking regular and sustained giving by local law firms for growth of the grant fund. It is from this fund that grants are made on a yearly basis. Obviously, the larger the grant fund, the more TCBF can do in supporting the excellent work of other organizations promoting and furthering its cause. I hope to be able to continue what Andy concentrated on. In that regard, please take my call when I call on you and your firm to help us with this mission. My goal is to raise the endowment fund this year by 10%.
Lawyers in Tarrant County can be proud of the accomplishments of the TCBF. As this year’s Chair I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the success of the TCBF. I have a fantastic Board of Directors who are committed to rolling up their sleeves and making certain that the programs and grants continue. I look forward to your continued support of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation. And thank you in advance for taking my call. g
Snippets
Civil and Criminal
Co-Editor Judge Carey Walker, County Criminal Court No. 2
by Judge Bob McCoy g County Criminal Court No. 3
ASK JUDGE BOB
What is a plea to the jurisdiction?
A plea to the jurisdiction is a dilatory plea challenging the trial court’s subject matter jurisdiction over a pleaded cause of action. Its purpose is “to defeat a cause of action without regard to whether the claims asserted have merit.” When a defendant’s plea to the jurisdiction challenges the plaintiff’s pleadings, we determine whether the plaintiff has alleged facts affirmatively demonstrating the trial court’s jurisdiction to hear the cause. Cockrell Inv. Partners v MPGCD, 677 S.W.3d 727 (Tex. App—El Paso 2023).
THE PACK’S MONTHLY PARAPROSDAKIAN
(a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently humorous)
Hospitality: Making your guests feel like they’re at home, even if you wish they were.
Abigail, Mary, and Martha
THE PACK’S QUOTE OF THE MONTH
You may drive a dog off the King’s armchair, and it will climb into the preacher’s pulpit; he views the world unmoved, unembarrassed, and unabashed.
Jean De La Bruyère, “Of Personal Merit”
THE Editor's NOTES FROM THE FARM
Don’t stop when you get tired. Stop when you get done.
CRIMINAL ITEMS OF INTEREST
1.Alternate Jurors
An alternate juror is not a member of the regular jury until a trial court makes the determination that a sitting juror is disabled or disqualified and the trial court then replaces a sitting juror who becomes unable to perform his or her
duties with an alternate juror.
Becerra v. State, 685 S.W.3d 120 (Tex.Crim.App. 2024).
2. Hearsay
An exception to the hearsay rule’s public records exception excludes the admission of law enforcement’s crime-scene or investigation observations because such observations, opinions, and narrations are made while the officer is engaged in the often competitive enterprise of ferreting out crime and are thus inherently adversarial and less reliable than other types of public records.
Karr v. State, 685 S.W.3d 206 (Tex.App.—Fort Worth 2024).
3. Automobile Exception
“Pursuant to the Fourth Amendment, a warrantless search is per se unreasonable unless it falls within a warrant exception.” Under the vehicle exception, police can conduct a warrantless search of a vehicle “if it is readily mobile and there is probable cause to believe that it contains contraband.”
Wilkes v. State, 681 S.W.3d 843 (Tex.App.—Austin 2023).
4. Plea Bargain
Plea bargains are an integral part of the criminal justice system. “At its core, a plea bargain is a contract between the state and the defendant.” “As a contract, once both parties have entered knowingly and voluntarily into a plea bargain, they are bound by the terms of that agreement once it is accepted by the judge.”
State v. Hatter, 681 S.W.3d 885 (Tex.App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2023).
5. Newly Discovered Evidence
A defendant who files a motion for new trial based on newly discovered evidence must show that (1) the newly discovered evidence was unknown or unavailable to the defendant at the time of trial; (2) the defendant’s failure to discover or obtain the new evidence was not due to the defendant’s lack of due diligence; (3) the new evidence is admissible and not merely cumulative, corroborative, collateral, or impeaching; and (4) the new evidence is probably true and will probably bring about a different result in a new trial.
Gonzales v. State, 680 S.W.3d 358 (Tex.App.—Eastland 2023).
6. Cross-examination
A trial judge retains the discretion to impose reasonable limits on such cross-examination to avoid harassment, prej-
Noah Elijah
udice, confusion of the issues, endangering the witness, marginally relevant evidence, or when the subject of the examination has been exhausted.
Gonzales v. State, 680 S.W.3d 358 (Tex.App.—Eastland 2023).
7. Error Preservation
To preserve a complaint for appellate review, a party must timely present its complaint to the trial court and obtain an adverse ruling or, if necessary, object to the refusal to rule. Bittick v. State, 680 S.W.3d 405 (Tex.App.—Fort Worth 2023).
CIVIL ITEMS OF INTEREST
1. The Uniformed Declaratory Judgment Act (UDJA)
The Uniformed Declaratory Judgment Act (UDJA) is “merely a procedural device for deciding cases already within a court’s jurisdiction.” El Paso County v El Paso County Emergency Servs. Dist. No. 1, 622 S.W.3d 25, 38 (Tex. App—El Paso 2020, no pet.).
The Supreme Court of Texas has held that sovereign immunity bars UDJA actions against the state and its political divisions absent a legislative waiver. City of El Paso v. Heinrich, 284 S. W.3d 366, 373 (Tex. 2009). Jurisdictional limitations cannot be avoided by merely pleading claims under the UDJA, as this procedural vehicle does not operate as a general waiver of sovereign immunity.
If there is no objection or if the trial court finds there is no reasonable basis for an objection, the trial court may compel litigants to engage in mediation or another format for the alternative resolution of the dispute. It is abundantly clear that in referring a case to mediation, the trial court may require the parties to send representatives with full settlement authority to attend mediation. However, the trial court does not have the authority to choose the representative of a party, or to mandate that one representative rather than another must attend.
In Re City of McAllen, 677 S.W.3d 746 (Tex. App—Corpus Christi 2023).
3. Plenary Power
A trial court may not issue an order that is inconsistent with its original judgment or that otherwise constitutes a material change in the “substantive adjudicative portions of the judgment” after its plenary power has expired.
Interest of A. H. S., 676 S.W.3d 355 (Tex. App—Tyler 2023).
4. Judicial Conduct
Media, movies, and television influence the public’s perception of their elected judges. Whether it be the wizened, yet stern, Judge Chamberlain Haller, or the witty, sharped-tongue Judge Judy, their performance on screen may easily be perceived as examples of how we should act. Yet, we are not them or Judge
Dredd or even Judge Elihu Smalls. We are not entertainers, but rather Texas jurists obligated to abide by actual rules as opposed to a story or show script.
In Re Rangel , 677 S.W.3d 918 (Tex. 2023).
5. Code of Judicial Conduct
Nonetheless, not every violation need be sanctioned. A brief quip, an instance of raised voice to garner attention and stress seriousness, an exasperated shake of head or rolling of eyes, a stern look or even a harsh word may not warrant sanction. We are human, after all, not robots. Our emotions may well show themselves in unique situations irrespective of the effort used to suppress them. It is for this reason that the measure of sanction, if any, is influenced by such things as the seriousness of the transgression, its frequency, its nature, its impact on the perception of the judiciary, the physical situs of its occurrence, its occurrence in private life or while performing duties of an elected office, the judge’s tenure, the judge’s effort to recognize and correct misbehaviors, repetition of the misconduct, and other relevant indicia.
In Re Rangel, 677 S.W.3d 918 (Tex. 2023).
6. Interpleader
Interpleader protects a person from multiple liability by allowing a disinterested party to tender payment, which allows interested parties to adjudicate amongst themselves.
[9-11] “A party cannot ask something of the trial court and then complain the trial court erred in granting the relief sought.”
In re of R.H.B., 660 S.W.3d 136, 154 (Tex. App—San Antonio 2022, no pet.). “The invited error doctrine applies to situations where a party requests the court to make a specific ruling, then complains of that ruling on appeal.”
12”A Mary Carter agreement exists when the settling defendant retains a financial stake in the plaintiff’s recovery and remains a party at the trial of the case.”
Cockrell Inv. Partners v MPGCD, 677 S.W.3d 727 (Tex. App— El Paso 2023).
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
There is a natural law, a Divine law, that obliges you and me to relieve the suffering, the distressed and the destitute. Charity is a supreme virtue, and the great channel through which the mercy of God is passed on to mankind. It is the virtue that unites men and inspires their noblest efforts.
—From the will of Conrad Hilton g
Debra and Vernell Sturns at Communities in Schools
LegalLine
By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director
Alexis Allen
Amy Allen
Brittany Allen-Brantley
John Barnes
Nick Bettinger
Robert Blankenship
Julie Camacho
Ola Campbell
Thomas Campbell
John Corbin
Sara Correa
Ali Crocker
Madeline D’Alise
Jackson Field
Do you have two hours to spare on a Thursday evening to assist those seeking legal advice? LegalLine is looking for attorneys from all areas of law to contribute their expertise and support the community. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact Sarah at sarah@tarrantbar.org. g THANK
Steve Gaylord
Ndidi Gbulie
Natalie Gullo
Dustin G. Hoffman
Merrit Klapperich
Deborah Krane
Cynthia Maragoudakis
Patrick McCarthy
Gary Medlin
Angelia Megahan
Patricia Nasworthy
David Pritchard
Karon Rowden
Upcoming Volunteer Dates
February 13 February 27 March 13 March 27
Tarrant County Bar Foundation 2025 Pro Bono Awards
LegalLine
Attorney Volunteer of the Year
Merrit Klapperich
Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas
Tarrant County Volunteer
Attorney Services
Attorney Volunteer of the Year
Mason Smith
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP
Tarrant County Volunteer
Attorney Services
Law Firm Partner
Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP
Texas Lawyers for Texas
Veterans - Tarrant County
Attorney Volunteer of the Year
Scott Conyers
LegalLine
Rookie of the Year
Patick McCarthy
McDonald Sanders, P.C.
Tarrant County Volunteer
Attorney Services
Paralegal Volunteer of the Year
Kenya White Title365
Tarrant County Volunteer
Attorney Services
Community Partner
Fort Worth Paralegal Association
Texas Lawyers for Texas
Veterans - Tarrant County
Steadfast Service Award
George Muckleroy
Sheats & Muckelroy, LLP
Texas Lawyers for Texas
Veterans - Tarrant County
Paralegal Volunteer of the Year
Rheana Whelchel
Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas
Thank You
To All of Our Volunteers:
Thank you for your dedication & services to the pro bono programs & projects of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation.
2025 TCBA BENCH BAR SPONSORSHIPS
SUPER BOWL $10,000
a. Listed as the title sponsor on all marketing materials – “Bench Bar brought to you by the Tarrant County Bar Association and [Your Firm Name].”
b. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).
c. Complimentary suite upgrade for one designated attendee (first-come, first-served).
d. One full attorney registration for the event.
e. 50% off a second registration for the event.
f. Four complimentary golfer registrations for the event.
g. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials. Includes a backlink to your website.
h. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.
i. Special recognition at the event, including the opportunity to address the crowd prior to the Friday night dinner.
j. Business cards/firm swag included in the attendee goody bags.
WORLD SERIES $5,500
a. 50% off one registration for the event
b. Complimentary suite upgrade for one designated attendee (first-come, first-served).
c. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).
d. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials. Includes a backlink to your website.
e. Two complimentary golfer registrations for the event.
f. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.
g. Special recognition at the event, with a representative or committee member publicly thanking your firm and addressing the crowd prior to the special event.
NBA FINALS
$3,500
a. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).
b. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials.
c. One complimentary golfer registration for the event.
d. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.
e. Special recognition at the event, with a representative or committee member addressing the crowd to thank your firm prior to the special event.
STANLEY CUP $2,500
a. Placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials.
b. 50% off one golfer registration.
c. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item.
d. Sponsorship of special event/item (see table for options).
THE MASTERS $1,000
a. Placement on general marketing materials at the event.
b. Placement on t-shirts.
US OPEN $500
a. Mentioned on signage and marketing materials at the event.
WORLD SERIES
NBA FINALS
STANLEY CUP
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We are excited to begin the new 2025 term for the Corporate Counsel Section of the Tarrant County Bar. My name is Tom Ryder and I serve as the Section Chairperson, Antonio Allen serves as Vice Chairperson, Lauren Sorokolit serves as Treasurer, and Andrea Palmer serves as Secretary. We are thankful for and would like to recognize the service and leadership of Andrea Palmer, the outgoing Section Chairperson for the 2022-2024 terms.
The purpose of the Corporate Counsel Section is threefold:
1. To develop a forum for discussion of legal and nonlegal issues relevant to corporate counsel;
2. To provide a forum for providing continuing legal education on issues relevant to corporate counsel; and
3. To facilitate good communication and engagement between corporate counsel and counsel from private law firms.
The Section fulfills its purpose by organizing periodic meetings with its membership, including happy hours and luncheons with quality continuing legal education speakers. The CLE luncheons strengthen the Section and its members by providing a forum for members to attend, network, and earn CLE credits.
During the 2023-2024 term, the Section hosted the following events:
1. A continuing legal education lunch held on July 17, 2024, during which our speaker (Noel Kirsch, a digital forensic expert) presented on “Two Weeks’ Notice”: how corporate counsel should manage the issues surrounding a departing employee, including the protection of the company’s digital assets.
2. A CLE luncheon was held on November 9, 2023 during which our speaker (Andrea Palmer, Vice President –Legal & Compliance, TTI, Inc.) presented on “Claims & Your Clients File: A Broker’s Perspective: understanding how a client’s insurance claim is processed at the broker level, and how to partner as the client’s legal counsel.
3. The Section hosted two happy hours (free to members!) at Osteria and the Magnolia for the purpose of encouraging networking between corporate counsel, who represent a broad variety of prominent business entities in Tarrant County, as well as attorneys from a number of different law firms. Our section currently has 105 members who work in-house and at private law firms.
4. The Section sponsored a tree at the Tarrant County Bar Association Holiday Party, benefiting Justin’s Place.
In 2025, we look forward to building upon the Section’s current membership, growing the membership, but most importantly increasing member participation in Section activities.
Our 2025 goals are to:
1. Increase the Section’s active membership and attendance at CLE luncheons and happy hours;
2. Host regular scheduled happy hours; and
3. Organize and host in-person CLE courses focused on new topics, including:
a. “The Path to In-House Counsel,” a half-day CLE event for lawyers, law students, and paralegals interested in pursuing or advancing a legal career in-house, which we hope to make an annual event; and
b. A presentation on the legal issues surrounding AI technology and how to protect your company’s confidential information
Please keep an eye out for announcements and invitations for meetings and events in 2025. We would love to see you there. If you have any questions regarding how to register, please contact Tracy Card via email at tracy@tarrantbar.org.
Your support and involvement is a key ingredient in the Section’s success. Please feel free to reach out to any officer of the Section if you would like to volunteer or participate in a CLE event. Thank you again for your support of the Section. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming meetings. g
Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services
By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 2024 TVAS VOLUNTEERS
Susan Davis, Co-Chair
Joshua Ross, Co-Chair
Josue Barron
Whitney Beckworth
Bryan Berens
Robert Blankenship
Teddy Boschini
Tiereney Bowman
Brian Brisco
Sean Bryan
Summer Chappell
Kelly Cobb
John Corbin
Byrolyn Daniels
Devon Davis
Samantha Elliot
Alexandra Esparza
Janet Farmer
Matt Francis
John Fronk
Chakia Guevara
Kat Hopkins
Isabelle Hutchinson
Doris Jackson
Monica James
Shelby Jean
Deborah Krane
Ann Lopez
Christian Martinez
Zak Martinez
Alex McClintic
David Miles
Kathryn Moore
Daeja Pemberton
Kylie Rahl
Michele Rayburn
Victoria Rhodes
Chad Robbins
Joshua Ross
Karon Rowden
Julie Sherman
Julie Sladek
Mason Smith
Brandi Spillers
Thomas Swafford
Patrick Thorman
Philip Vickers
Kristine Vitemb
Rheana Whelchel
Kenya White
Jeff Whitfield
Melissa Wilks
Mallory Williams
Taylor Winn
Dora Zamora
Retirement Recognitions Susy Johnson
Please join me in congratulating my amazing mother, Susy Johnson, on her retirement!
After 47 years as a paralegal, 42 of which were spent serving the Tarrant County legal community, my mom has decided to give it all up for the cruise life!
Born and raised in Wisconsin, my mom moved to Texas by herself in 1983 in search of new opportunities and better weather. Armed with nothing but a few copies of her resume and access to a pay phone, she walked up and down Abram St. in Arlington, Texas looking for a law firm hiring. She was quickly scooped up by Hill, Heard, O’Neal, Gilstrap, and Goetz where she worked for 2 named partners focusing on real estate transactions.
In 1987, she moved to Law, Snakard, and Gambill, where her practice expanded to include litigation, corporate, and bankruptcy. During that time, she also gave birth to yours truly!
Finally, in 2001, she went in-house with The Woodmont Company exclusively handling commercial real estate.
Over the years, my mom served both the State Bar of Texas, Paralegal Division and the Fort Worth Paralegal Association (“FWPA”) in a number of capacities. From Membership Chair to Parliamentarian to President, there aren’t many hats she hasn’t worn at one point in time or another.
In 2016, she was voted Paralegal of the Year in recogni-
tion for her long-term dedication both to her profession and her community. In 2017, she became 1 of only 18 paralegals in the State of Texas to earn the Texas Board of Legal Specialization designation for Real Estate Law by demonstrating a mastery of both residential and commercial real estate. In 2020, she was voted FWPA Volunteer of the Year for her significant contributions to the FWPA’s pro bono endeavors, and she was awarded the 2021/2022 Pro Bono Award by the State Bar of Texas, Paralegal Division.
Those who have had the privilege of working with her will tell you she is loyal, passionate, and knowledgeable. As her daughter, I would also add that she is generous, genuine, and full of love. She believes in lifting others up, and everyone is better for having known her. I would not be the lawyer I am today without the foundation she laid.
Congratulations, Mom, on your well-deserved retirement! Thank you for being my role model all these years! If you would like to stay in touch, please send her an email: SusyJ0530@gmail.com.
2025 Fort Worth Paralegal Association Board of Directors
Michele Rayburn, President
Summer Chappell, President Elect/Education
Susan Davis, 1st VP Programs
Megan Goor, 2nd VP Membership
Michelle Wilson, Secretary
Carrie Sinks, Treasurer
Michele Rayburn received FWPA’s most esteemed honor: Paralegal of the Year Award.
Megan Goor was honored with the President’s Award for her unequaled service to FWPA.
Kenya White received the FWPA Pro Bono Volunteer Award for outstanding service.
Welcome
New Members of the TCBA:
ATTORNEYS
Leanza Bethel
Julya Billhymer
John Brusniak
Cory Culver
Ricardo
De Los Santos
Carlos Flowers
Michael Gomez
Adam Greenfield
CJ Grisham
Zachary Hamlett
William Harris
J. King
Madison Lengel
Franceska Payen
Sarah Pricer
Leon Reed
Madeline Royal
Mary Smith
David Speed
Madison Speer
Lindsey Teklitz
Carla Vogel
JUDGES
Lori DeAngelis Griffith
Megan Fahey
LAW STUDENTS
Kyle Anderson
Vanessa MurraKapon
Joseph Otanez
PARALEGALS
Shelby Polvadore
Kenya Williams
ASSOCIATES
Kimberly Bulls
Kelsey Picken
Christopher Winton
LAWYERS ON THE MOVE &
in the News
Christopher A. Brown has been promoted to partner at Duane Morris LLP, representing the firm's Trial Practice Group in Fort Worth. Brown focuses his practice on commercial litigation, with a particular emphasis on construction law. He provides legal counsel to businesses, individuals, and governmental entities on complex construction disputes, including delay claims, defective design and construction issues, and differing site conditions. Additionally, he drafts and negotiates construction and design contracts.
AA 2014 graduate of Texas A&M University School of Law, Brown served as notes and comments editor for the Journal of Real Property Law and was inducted into the Order of the Barristers. He also holds a B.A., summa cum laude , from the University of North Texas (2011).
If you are a TCBA member and would like to place an announcement in the Bar Bulletin, we would like to hear from you.
Please submit information by email to Elizabeth Banda, Communications Director, at elizabeth@tarrantbar.org.
s we head into the new year, we are excited to report that TCBA membership is thriving! We now have more members than ever before, reflecting the growing strength and engagement of our legal community. Your continued involvement is key to our success, and we are so grateful for your support.
There are many exciting events coming up that we encourage you to participate in.
By Tiffany Myles, Membership Director
As always, if you have any questions about your membership renewal or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to me at tiffany@tarrantbar.org. Thank you for your continued support of the TCBA—we couldn’t do it without you!
Stay engaged, and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! g
WELLNESS COMMITTEE
By Kristina Voorhies Legan Law Offices of Kristina Voorhies Legan Wellness Committee Chair
This Is Not Your Weird New Neighbor from California’s “Wellness”
Do you struggle with feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, imposter syndrome? Have you noticed you break out in hives when you hear that Outlook “ding?” Have you ever fantasized about building a trapdoor in your office you could open with the push of a button and immediately disappear down a long slide into a Batcave-esque hideaway free from email, cell phone signals, and clients who think they shouldn’t have to pay you for drafting a motion for summary judgment because now they have ChatGPT?
Then the Tarrant County Bar Association Wellness Committee may be for you!
No one understands the soul-crushing stress of having tremendous responsibility and very little actual power like a fellow lawyer. We may not have the answers to all that ails you, but we definitely have some ideas, and if all else fails, plenty of shoulders you can weep on.
A recent article in Psychology Today looked at some of the reasons lawyers have a higher rate of suicide than people in other careers, and arrived at the less than earth-shattering conclusion that we are “stressed, depressed, overcommitted and lonely.” But – as so often happens – the solutions offered focused primarily on systemic changes like “changing the atmosphere of the legal profession” and “reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.” The only suggestions for changes an individual lawyer could make? “Mindfulness training” and “regular social interactions with peers and loved ones.” (Segato, 2023).
And that, gentle reader, is where we come in. OK, maybe you don’t consider your fellow lawyers “loved ones” and sometimes not even peers, but at least we GET YOU. We
understand that for some folks, the mere mention of the word “wellness” provokes snickering and eye rolls, but we aren’t here to sell you a colonic, or essential oils to enhance your aura. We just want to muddle through this journey with you, and along the way, hopefully we will all learn some helpful tips (like using super-quick breathing techniques to reduce anxiety).
I have high hopes for this committee this year. There is a dawning realization (in some circles, at least) that stressed, depressed, overcommitted lawyers cannot perform as well as lawyers that got a decent night’s sleep last night and don’t feel nauseous at the thought of dragging themselves into work. The virtual meeting last September was well attended and folks had great ideas, and the wonderful Tiffany Myles (our relatively new Membership Director) and I already discussed some of those (short videos you could access from your home or office with chair yoga, breathwork, mindfulness tips, for example) but are eager to hear more from you about what would or would not work for you.
Our first meeting took place via Zoom on January 22. Moving forward, regular committee meetings will be a combination of in-person and virtual, with scheduling details determined at the first meeting. We look forward to seeing you at the next one! g
Reference List
Segato, N. (2023, April). Why are lawyers at greater risk of suicide? Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/psymonsays/202304/why-are-lawyers-at-greater-risk-of-suicide!
AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR SECTIONS
Welcome 2025: Looking Ahead to a Productive Year .
Welcome 2025! It is hard to believe we have entered into a new year already. I would like to thank everyone for the hard work done to make this past year a rewarding one. There have been several great CLE luncheons held and several of you are gearing
By Tracy Card, Office Manager TCBA Sections Liaison
up to pull together several more informative CLE sessions. Remember that we are here to help you make those things happen. Feel free to reach out! If you have missed the recent course, be sure to look at our calendars for more wonderful opportunities to get caught up! g
By Kara Carreras, Carreras Law Group
This is an experience like no other! This is not just a CLE; it is a cultural experience where you will meet others who share a passion for travel, learning and adventure! Those who are interested can hone their Spanish skills by participating in the Spanish immersion classes.
But this CLE is not just for Spanish Speakers! CLE will be provided in Spanish and English. No Spanish knowledge is required to attend. This CLE is a fully immersive experience in Central American Culture combined with the opportunity to learn firsthand the judicial process and judicial system in Central America.
In past years, CLE participants have had the unique opportunity to visit the Tribunals (trials) and see firsthand how the courts function in another country. You will have the opportunity to meet top Costa Rican lawyers in their practice fields. We use this CLE to learn and in that process you will no doubt develop an even greater respect for our judicial system in the United States.
The best part of the CLE is that many participants bring their families to enjoy an amazing vacation while earning a full year of CLE credit! In years past I have brought my three children and my kids have such wonderful memories of all the fun they had in Costa Rica. There is plenty of time to enjoy and explore this beautiful country.
If you decide to bring your family and/or children, for the first time in 2025, you will also have the opportunity to sign your children up for interactive Spanish language classes while parents are in CLE.
As a practicing attorney, I have become a better advocate for my clients through this unique CLE experience. If you represent Spanish speaking clients, or even if you do not, this is the CLE for you!
CLE is just a few hours each morning and afternoons and evenings are free. There are daily group activities each afternoon and/or evening that include tours to coffee plantations, dining experiences, rainforest and volcano experiences. Do not miss this exciting opportunity! You will never regret it! I hope you will join us and make Costa Rica your new CLE choice! g
George J. Petrovich Jr 1933–2024
George J. Petrovich Jr, 91, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024. George was licensed on September 8, 1961, and was a longstanding member of the Tarrant County Bar Association.
Thomas Lee Farris
1943–2024
Thomas Lee Farris passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Tom was born on November 7, 1943 in Ponca City, Oklahoma to Neil and Maxine Farris. He was a graduate of the 1962 class of Lander Valley High School in Wyoming. He attended the University of Denver and graduated from the University of Oklahoma in 1966 with a degree in accounting. He then received his Juris Doctorate degree from Southern Methodist University in 1969.
After graduation, he relocated to Fort Worth and began his career with McDonald, Sanders, Wynn, Ginsburg, Phillips and Maddox. In 1979 he established his own law practice, teaming with several other attorneys over the years. In 1992, his daughter Tamara Farris Gordon joined this practice and remained until her death in March 2013.
Tom was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha, a long time member of Rivercrest Country Club where he enjoyed playing tennis for 40 plus years. He was a member of All Saint's Episcopal Church where he served on the Vestry 1973-76, Chancellor from 1976-79, he also served on the board of All Saints' Episcopal School.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Tammy.
He is survived by his loving wife Darlene; his daughter Paige (Ed) Chisholm; his grandchildren Tara and Patrick Gordon, Farris and Kaylee Chisholm; his brothers Clyde (Becky) Farris of West Linn, OR and Scott (Patti) Farris of Sacramento, CA; his sister Jan (Gil) Mallery of West Linn, OR; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. g
Published by Star-Telegram from Nov. 21 to Dec. 13, 2024.
Jill Cora LeClair
1956–2024
Jill Cora LeClair, 68, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024 after a brief illness.
Jill was the Assistant Director for Tarrant County Family Court Services from 1990 to 2018. She previously worked with the Florida Department of Health & Rehabilitation Services from 1978 to 1990. She attended The University of Tampa, University of South Florida and The University of Florida.
Jill was born in Schenectady, NY to Wakefield and Aurilla LeClair. She was preceded in death by sisters Leslie Weymann and Patricia Vasquez. Jill is survived by several nephews, a niece, great nephews and nieces.
Jill performed her job with the utmost professionalism caring deeply about her friends, case workers, clients, coworkers, judges and attorneys. Jill was a volunteer with the North Fort Worth Historical Society for more than thirty years. She had so many friends who loved her and were lucky to have Jill for a friend. Lost kittens, her dogs and horses were just some of her life long passions. g
Published by Star-Telegram from Jan. 8 to Jan. 12, 2025.
Jerry Loftin 1943–2025
Jerry James Loftin, Attorney at Law, passed away Sunday, January 26 at his home. He is survived by his children, Trey Loftin and Jennifer, Judge Trent Loftin and Dr. Laura Fenke Loftin, Kristen Loftin Miner and Dr. Scott Miner and Justin Sisemore and Evin; and 13 grandchildren. g
Published by Star-Telegram from Jan. 29 to Jan. 31, 2025.
James Stripling
1944–2025
James Lewis Stripling, 80, of Fort Worth, TX passed away peacefully on January 23, 2025, surrounded by family.
He was born in Fort Worth in 1944 to William K. Stripling, Jr. and Anna Bland Thompson Stripling. He attended Andover Academy then earned a B.A. in Economics from Yale University in 1966 and a J.D. from UT Austin Law School in 1969. From 1969 to 1975 he served in the Army JAG Corps, becoming a Captain while stationed in Vietnam and at Fort Sill. After returning home, he joined Decker Jones Law Firm, working there as a tax and estate attorney for the next fifty years.
Jim met the love of his life, Mahala Yates in 1975. They were married in Nantucket on September 24, 1979, and celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary in 2024. Jim said his marriage to Mahala was "by far the better half" of
his life. Jim was a beloved stepfather to Whitney, father to Lauren, and Grandad to Casey and Callaway.
Jim loved bluegrass and American roots music and played the banjo, mandolin, and guitar, all self-taught. He enjoyed TCU's Silver Frogs program, taking courses in 1960s music and teaching seminars on bluegrass, income tax, and the history of the Fort Worth Cats. He enjoyed long-distance bicycling, cryptic crosswords, and local sports.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife Mahala, daughters Whitney (Michael) and Lauren, granddaughters Casey and Callaway, brother Bill (Nancy), niece Kristen, and nephew Will (Denise). g Published by Star-Telegram from Jan. 29 to Jan. 31, 2025.
Member Benefits Vendor List
TCBA
may take advantage of
provided by the following vendors:
AMO Office Supply guarantees the lowest prices on office supplies for TCBA members, with next-day delivery and free shipping. Call 800.420.6421.
EVERNET Consulting has been a trusted partner in the legal industry for the past 17 years, providing expert services in email and network support, computer support, practice management, website design and marketing, social media, and client outreach. Since expanding nationwide in 2020, EVERNET has been serving law firms from coast to coast, offering tailored solutions to enhance business operations and support growth. Call 860.656.7810, ext. 130.
Falcon Document Solutions provides quick, efficient, and reliable process services, document scanning, printing, copying, electronic discovery, litigation displays, and trial boards. They are available 24/7 at 817.870.0330 or visit their website at www.falcondocs.com. TCBA members can enjoy discounts on their services.
Fort Worth JSB Co., Inc. offers a 10% discount for TCBA members on printed materials — business cards, letterhead, envelopes, business forms, brochures, flyers, and more. To receive a quote, call 817.577.0572.
Thomson Reuters Exclusive TCBA offer of 15% off new Westlaw subscriptions or upgrades to current subscriptions*, including our latest AI enhanced platform, Westlaw Edge. Please contact your local Account Executive, Ben Galloway, for more information: Ben.Galloway@TR.com. *Restrictions apply, please contact your AE for details.
For IT Help:
Juris Fabrilis provides members with discounted rates on web-based tools to assist in managing their law practices. For more information, call 817.481.1573 ext. 101.
For Shredding and Document Disposal:
Magic Shred is a secure shredding business that offers TCBA members a 10% discount to TCBA members. They provide on-site document shredding services. TCBA also organizes 4 free shredding events per year exclusively for its members. Members can bring up to five boxes for shredding free of charge. Call 940.783.6580 for details. g
Tarrant County Bar Association 1315 Calhoun Street
Fort Worth, TX 76102-6504 ADDRESS SERVICE
If any of your contact information is incorrect, please submit the corrected information to the TCBA office at 817.338.4092, or email tcba@tarrantbar.org
