Tulsa MagazineLawyer
A Message from the President Michael E. Esmond
Join the Tulsa County Bar Association: Enhance Your Practice and Strengthen Our Community
If you haven’t already heard, congratulations are in order. TCBA will be recognized with the OBA’s Outstanding County Bar Association award at the upcoming annual OBA meeting this month. In comments on the award, the OBA acknowledged TCBA’s “legacy of unwavering commitment spanning over a century,” and outstanding “dedication to helping members grow personally and professionally and creating solutions and assistance for the community.”
I’m obviously biased, but I think TCBA should win this award every year. The excellence acknowledged by the award is part of TCBA’s organizational DNA which has been promoted and fostered for decades by our professional staff and dedicated volunteer leaders and members. At last check, our total membership was 1,971. That includes 1,318 private practice lawyers, 129 public sector lawyers, 201 senior members, 58 judges, 10 law professors, 47 paralegals,1 and 208 new admittees/law students. Congratulations to each of you for making TCBA the best in Oklahoma year after year.
While we’re riding high from the well-deserved recognition, this strikes me as a perfect launching point for a message about upcoming TCBA membership
1 The paralegal section is growing – consider encouraging your paralegals to join and even paying for their dues as a professional development benefit.
renewal. As the current bar year winds down, you’ll soon be receiving renewal notices for the new year that will start on September 1, 2024. I’d like to take this opportunity to make the case for renewing your membership and encourage you to recruit new members.
Some of you don’t need convincing. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’re a consistent supporter (and possibly a “bar junky”) who would join and be active and engaged without any arm twisting and I love you for that. Others need more information about the benefits of membership before cutting a check for their annual dues – that’s fair. Let’s talk about the benefits so you can feel good about your investment and recruit your colleagues who aren’t members.
First, there are numerous concrete benefits that come with a TCBA membership, which include the following:
• Several opportunities each year for free CLE credits, including the popular Brown Bag presentations at the courthouse.
• Opportunity for section membership (for payment of an additional dues amount) which includes access to additional CLE presentations in specific practice areas.
• Exclusive access to OR privileges card.
• $100 discount on the price of a Tulsa County courthouse security badge.
• Opportunity to serve as a provider for TCBA’s lawyer referral service which serves as a resource to gain new clients, build your practice, and provide valuable service to the public.
• Discounts with several local businesses and opportunities to participate in free and discounted membership events.
• Tulsa Lawyer magazine subscription which offers insights into member achievements, TCBA activities, and news about the Tulsa legal community.
In addition to the tangible benefits of TCBA membership, there are several “soft” benefits. The primary benefit to me has always been the opportunity to meet, know and work collectively with a community of lawyers and judges beyond the office or the courthouse. Involvement in committees and sections, participation in the annual golf tournament, or attendance at luncheons and other events, allow you to make contacts and build and maintain relationships that are personally fulfilling and professionally helpful.
Giving back to the community is a core value of the TCBA and another source of member benefits. Through our pro bono programs and community outreach initiatives, you have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. Participating in these programs not only fulfills your professional responsibility but also brings personal satisfaction and a sense of purpose.
While there are other organizations that may offer some similar benefits of membership, it is the combination of all of these benefits in one place that is TCBA’s unique selling point. The TCBA thrives on the active participation and diverse perspectives of our members. I encourage you to join us and take full advantage of the opportunities and support TCBA provides.
Joining the TCBA or renewing your membership is easy. You can complete the membership application online at www.tulsabar.com or contact Tami or Heather at the TCBA – (918) 584-5243 for more information.
Sincerely,
Michael E. Esmond TCBA President, 2023-2024
This Land Was Made For You and Me
By Marvin G. Lizama, Esq. Chair, Diversity Development Committee
On Wednesday, May 15, 2024, thousands of people descended on the State Capital to conduct a peaceful rally against Oklahoma’s new anti-immigration law that has left many people wondering if the anticipated harm the new law will cause outweighs its purpose: the establishment of a bureau of immigration in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Constitution expressly states that the “[l]egislature shall have no power to appropriate any of the public money for the establishment and maintenance of a Bureau of Immigration in this State”.1
Demonstrators came from all over the State and representing the Oklahoma Latino immigrant community, as well as dozens from Africa and Asia. Most demonstrators were dressed in white, others came dressed in their work-clothes, and most all carried colorful signs with a unified message: “Immigrants Make America Great”, and “Keep Families Together”. The rally was organized to replace the annual Hispanic Day at the Capitol—in place since 2016—and established to afford Latino Oklahomans, regardless of their legal status, the opportunity to showcase their contributions to the State.
The rally was a direct outcry to the passage by the Oklahoma Legislature of House Bill 41562, a selfdescribed anti-immigrant law that makes it a crime for an “Alien” to be physically present in the State of Oklahoma while undocumented. The new law is a direct result of Texas’ own S.B. 4, passed in 2023 by the Texas legislature, and which made it a crime for a person to be in the state without legal status, and granted State law enforcement officers the authority to arrest people due to their immigration status. The creation of the new law in Texas resulted in the filing of federal lawsuits seeking injunctive relief by the U.S. Department of Justice, on
preemption grounds3, and by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), on preemption and other constitutional grounds.4 On February 29, 2024, the District Court granted the ACLU’s Motion for Preliminary Injunction, temporarily barring the State from enforcing the law.
Like the Texas law, Oklahoma’s version makes it a crime for an “Alien” to be physically present in the State of Oklahoma while undocumented. The Oklahoma Latino community believes that the language and the motive behind the new law are racist, and xenophobic. They see the new law as the granting of unrestrained authority for law enforcement to racially profile Latinos and treat them as criminals. According to the updated census figures from 20205, Latinos make up 12.4% of the Oklahoma population. Latinos are the most visible immigrant group in the State.
The bill had been kept secret for most of the legislative session. It came to light on April 15, 2024 when the bill was first presented, then followed by swift passage in the House of Representatives on April 18, 2024 by a vote of 77 to 20. The Senate passed the bill on April 23, 2024 by a vote of 39-8. It took the Oklahoma Latino community by surprised and quickly led to the creation of social media presence by numerous groups to organize and persuade Governor Kevin Stitt not to sign the Bill into law. All attempts to persuade the Governor to veto the Bill failed, and the Governor signed the Bill into law on April 30, 2024. The new law is expected to take effect July 1, 2024. On May 21, 2024 the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the State of Oklahoma to challenge H.B. 4156 under
3 United States of America v. The State of Texas, et al., 1:24-cv00008, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, Austin Division, filed 1-3-2024.
1 Okla. Const. Section Art. 5, Sec. V-48.
2 H.B. 4156, 2024 Reg. Sess. (Okla. 2024), http://webserver1.lsb. state.ok.us/cf_pdf/2023-24%20ENR/hB/HB4156%20ENR.PDF.
4 Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center, et al., v. Texas Department of Public Safety, et al., 1:23-cv-1537, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, Austin Division, filed 12-19-2023.
5 Source:https://www.census.gov/library/stories/state-by-state/ oklahoma-population-change-between-census-decade.html
the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause and Foreign Commerce Clause.6 On May 24, 2024, the ACLU filed a second lawsuit against the State of Oklahoma, seeking injunctive and declaratory relief, and challenging H.B. 4156 on preemption and other constitution grounds.7
House of Representatives Speaker Charles McCall, and Senate Majority Leader Greg Treat wrote H.B. 4156. Section 1(B) of the bill contains what amounts to a preamble and justification for the new law. It states there exists a crisis in Oklahoma wherein foreign nationals are coming to the state “illegally” in order to participate in the “ongoing illegal marijuana grow operations”. Specifically, the Oklahoma Legislature declares that “unauthorized entry” through the southern border with Mexico and continued presence “is endangering Oklahomans”. Thus, the Oklahoma State Legislature found it “imperative” to take steps to abate the “crisis” in the southern border with Mexico.
Section 2(A) defines an “Alien” as any person who is not a citizen or national of the United States.
Section 2(B) creates the new crime of “impermissible occupation”, defined as an alien who willfully and without permission enters and remains in the State of Oklahoma without having first obtained legal authorization to enter the United States. The crime is a misdemeanor for the first offense and carries a maximum punishment of imprisonment in the county jail for not more than 1 year, or by a fine of not more than $500.00, or both. In addition, the convicted person shall be required to leave the State within 72 hours following a conviction or release from custody. Any second or subsequent offense is a Felony and punishable by imprisonment in the custody of the Department of Corrections for up to 2 years and a $1,000.00 fine, or both.8
Federal law already makes it a crime for the unauthorized entry and re-entry into the United States. Title 8 of the United States Code, section 1325 expressly prohibits entry into the country by foreigners and
Continued on next page...
6 United States of America v. the State of Oklahoma, et al., 5:24-cv-00511-J, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, filed May 21, 2024.
7 Padres Unidos De Tulsa, et al., v. Gentner Drummond, et al., CIV-24-526-R, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, filed May 24, 2-24.
sets imprisonment and fines for violation of the law. Section 1326 of Title 8 of the United States Code makes it a felony for any person to re-entry the country without a proper visa after having been deported. In addition, data from the Justice Department shows that about 94% of all prosecutions for unauthorized entry and re-entry to the United States are against individuals from Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.9 Moreover, the State of Oklahoma is a signatory State with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) 287(g)10 program, which delegates authority to state and local law enforcement agencies to act as immigration enforcement agents and hold without bond any person who is arrested and booked into an Oklahoma jail and who is present in the State without a valid visa or valid legal immigration status.
The passage of this new anti-immigrant law presents more questions than answers, the most pressing question being whether law enforcement will target Latinos by racially profiling drivers. This universal concern was loudly expressed to the legislature at the May 15, 2024 rally. There is also fear of mass raids and mass deportations as a result of this new law. Discrimination and unequal treatment under the law are nothing new to immigrants in the United States, and also to those immigrants who choose to make Oklahoma their new home where they search for the American Dream. Immigrants know that hope overcomes fear, even in the most dire circumstances, and they shall continue to believe that yes, this land was made for you and me.
9 Source: U.S. Department of Justice’s Prosecuting Immigration Crimes Reports, https://www.justice.gov/usao/resources/PICReport.
10 8 U.S.C. § 1357(g), Section 287(g) was added by Section 133 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996.
BAR CENTER SUMMER HOURS CLOSING AT 2PM FRIDAYS THROUGH AUGUST 30TH
CELEBRATE & FUND THE FOUNDATION
Stephanie Jackson
Michael Nesser
Michael Taubman
By being a member of the TCBA, you are also a member of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. As a general rule, the funds that come into the Foundation are the result of a fundraising event for our community, and the monies raised are immediately distributed back out into the community through non-profit organizations.
In an effort to assist the Foundation, we have implemented a monthly “Fund the Foundation” program. To participate we are asking each member who has a birthday this month to consider making a donation to the Foundation. You can do so with the QR Code shown here.
If you are not currently a Fellow, please consider joining that program. As a thank you (and let’s be honest, an encouragement to other members), if you donate before the 10th of the month we will include a shout out to you in the next issue of Tulsa Lawyer Magazine.
TCBA HAPPENINGS
TCBA Softball League Teams & Spectators hit the fields at Heller Park! Organized thanks to the dedication of TCBA Member, Daniel Gomez, from Conner & Winters.
Team Freebasers
Center: Ian and Daniel looking official discussing team rosters.
Right: Perfect weather for the spectators and players
May 16thCity Lights Volunteer Experience Rhiannon Thoreson & Daughter, Madison Cataudella & Ashley Webb
Tulsa Lawyer Magazine Updates
NOTICE:
Due to the increased costs of printing the Tulsa Lawyer publication, the bar is implementing an “opt-in” requirement to continue to receive the printed and mailed publication. Upon renewing membership dues this year, you will be asked to “OPTIN” to continue to receive the printed copy of the Tulsa Lawyer magazine. This change does not affect membership fees, and members who do not opt-in will not continue to receive the printed publication in the mail. This change affects dues-paying members only.
NOTICE:
For FY24-25, a Tulsa Lawyer magazine subscription will increase from $40 to $50. This increase does not affect membership dues and only applies to non-dues-paying members who subscribe to a printed copy of the Tulsa Lawyer publication.
July 4th & 5th
Lynn Miller Book Club - Upcoming Dates
July 23
Children Playing Before a Statue of Hercules, Edited and Introduced by David Sedaris
September 24
The Gentle Art of Swedish Death
Cleaning, Margareta Magnusson
October 8
The Nickel Boys, Colson Whitehead
November 26
H is for Hawk, Helen McDonald
• Registration is open for TCBA members for the Lynne Miller Law Day Book Club by emailing mruppcarter@yahoo.com.
• Registration is limited to the first fifteen registrants.
• All Book Club sessions are at the Bar Center and start at 5:30PM.
History:
KeeOnal “Kee” Dawkins was placed in foster care when he was nine years old. Children placed in foster care, within the custody of the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, every child is appointed an attorney. Kee needed an attorney, and that attorney would be my mother – she was a volunteer with Tulsa Lawyers for Children and took on his representation. She advocated for him – speaking on his behalf to all parties involved in the court case.
I had the joy of meeting Kee for the first time when I was eight (8) he was fifteen (15). It was Christmas time. Kee had recently moved back to Tulsa before the Holidays. My mom enlisted myself and my brother’s aid to help make Kee’s Christmas that year special. My family shopped for Kee and enjoyed wrapping and delivering his gifts which we did a few days before Christmas day. Upon reception of the gifts, Kee’s face shone and his eyes filled with hope – I’d not seen him this happy before. Later, Kee told us he held onto these gifts until Christmas day so he had something to actually open on the holiday.
I recall soon after those holidays, my mom lost contact with Kee. Like many foster children, he was moved from home to home and town to town. He was
Look good, Do good
Ragon Francy and Hope Cooper of Murphy Francy PLLC
assigned multiple case workers throughout his life which made it impossible for my mom to locate him. Years after that, my family attended my cousin’s high school graduation. Suddenly my mom’s being burst –emotions of pride and joy flowed through her. Kee’s name was announced as a graduate from this high school. Thanks to the social media age, my mom was able to post online to try and find contact information for him.
Unfortunately, we found out his most recent foster home kicked him out, DHS lost contact with him. Aside from this lack of support, he worked throughout high school and graduated – all while living on a friend’s couch. We learned that Kee had walked through a massive storm, the same one responsible for causing ORU to lose power, and he still walked two miles to the school to walk at graduation. Miraculously, Kee heard that my mom attempted to reach out to him and he called our home.
My family picked up where we left off – as if nothing changed. Immediately, my mom and dad started working with Kee to get him to attend college. One of my greatest memories involved his “wish list” for college. My mom posted his needs and desires on her legal business page – and his list was complete in less than one day. All his items were gathered together, provided to him and that same joy I mentioned before appeared on his face. A huge graduation party occurred for Kee with his friends, family, and teachers present. While most children heading to college are worried about how to decorate a dorm room, Kee had to worry about obtaining a valid ID, his birth certificate, and a social security card. Kee still needed to take driving classes in order to obtain a drivers license. The entire time Kee worked to obtain these items, with the help of my parents, he worked – and he worked hard in order to obtain all he needed to fulfill his dream of college. My entire summer was filled with Kee staying in our home off and on until he went to college at UCO. My
dad went with him to UCO for what is called freshman forge. I loved seeing Kee post every three minutes, like a normal teenager, on Snapchat – specifically, posting photos of my father stating “basically my dad.” I felt Kee had become my brother. My entire family was able to move him into college. The family packed up all his belongings and moved him into his freshman dorm.
Kee’s next goal was to become a nurse. Thanks to so many individuals in Tulsa, Kee had all he needed to start his first day of school and to deck out his dorm room. Kee did decide to take a break from college after his freshman year but as always, he continued working. He lived in the Edmond/OKC area, but would visit us from time to time in Tulsa. In the fall of 2023, Kee initiated his efforts to get back into UCO, and my mom once again worked with him to help with admission.
In November 2023, tragedy struck. Kee was found dead in his apartment. He passed away – I was shocked and in pain. Kee was an amazing human with qualities I saw in many people I love; one being my mother. He was funny, he lit up every room he walked into. He had amazing style – I always asked why he had so many shoes. This would make him laugh and he told me I would look good in the same pair of shoes. Kee was a person of passion, kindness, hard work and love. I want to mimic the love Kee gave me for other kids who need help like he did.
Mission:
One thing that mattered to Kee always was how he looked. He worked hard to be able to buy himself nice clothing and shoes. When we reconnected after his senior year, he was working and walking to and from his job at Dominos. It was a little over a mile from where he lived. I remember how hard he worked to not only look good but to feel good.
Kee taught me a lot about how much support teenagers need while in foster care. He told me horror stories about some of his placements and the difficulty he had maintaining his closet. I wanted to create Kee’s Kloset not just for the teens in foster care - I wanted to start it to raise awareness for ONLY teens in foster care. I want people to learn the responsibility of taking care of teens in need. Specifically, teenagers who deal with the difficulties like Kee experienced, and he experienced these alone.
My goal is to create a closet with quality and fashionable clothing for teens in foster care. When teenagers experience disruption in their lives, I don’t want them to also experience lack of proper clothing. My goals is to have a closet where they can have their
immediate needs met and to clothe them with the confidence and dignity that I get when I walk into my own closet. I have always believed in the comment, “look good, do good” and I hope to help others do everything they can with the best clothing available.
Action:
Now can we see why it is important to help children in foster care? Why should children in foster care not have the same ability to feel and exude confidence like children with means? Children in foster care not only lost their families, but can lose siblings, personal possessions, confidence, growth and opportunity. They are deserving of all of the same opportunities, necessities and wants that children who come from means have.
We ask you to donate your quality clothing, shoes, and accessories to Kee’s closet. Quit handing out your ratty or dirty clothing and provide love and confidence to a child in foster care today. The boujier the better – just like Kee would want.
And if you cannot donate clothes, make a donation to Tulsa Lawyers for Children, which houses Kee’s Kloset at www.tulsalawyersforchildren.org
Deadline Extended
The TCBA files members' CLE credits in the state of Kansas. Contact Heather Heck if you practice in both states and would like to take advantage of the membership perk.
How Can Lawyers Help with Elections?
Excerpt from Poll Worker, Esq.: How Lawyers Can Serve on Democracy’s Frontline By
Jason Douglas Kaune
©2024 by the American Bar Association. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.
The need for election workers to administer elections in a non-partisan fashion has never been greater. Lawyers are an ideal group of people to perform this work. Not just election lawyers but lawyers of every type and background are needed.
The ABA Standing Committee on Election Law1, in conjunction with the National Association of Secretaries of State and the National Association of State Election Directors, created the Poll Worker, Esq.2 campaign starting with the 2020 presidential elections to connect lawyers with resources needed
1 https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_interest/election_ law/
2 https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_interest/election_ law/poll-worker-esq/
to serve as election workers. Why lawyers? Election workers must follow many rules and standards to administer elections effectively. State laws have evolved significantly in the last two election cycles and continue to change before the 2024 election. Who better than lawyers to parse the relevant law and process?
With tension and confusion rising among voters, lawyers can explain these rules and serve as intermediaries for election administrators. But more than that, lawyers are civic leaders. They are the mainstays of their community. In a time when election administration is under intense scrutiny, lawyers not only have a responsibility to learn how elections function, but they can also play an integral role in restoring faith in the electoral process simply by serving as election workers.
You do not need to be an attorney with experience in election law to get involved—in fact, most election lawyers are busy on and around Election Day. There is also a special need for young lawyers. According to the Election Assistance Commission, most election workers in the past election were over 60. As many current election workers retire from service, younger people must step up to continue serving and build the institutional knowledge that makes our elections run smoothly.
National Poll Worker Recruitment Day is September 1
Tulsa County Poll Workers Needed
Poll workers are the mainstay of the election system. Without them, elections wouldn't be possible. Tulsa County has 251 precincts that must be staffed with at least three election officials to ensure free and fair elections. Volunteers are aging out of the role, and finding replacements has been challenging for precincts nationwide. The Tulsa Area United Way recently launched “the Adopt a Precinct Initiative,” which encourages businesses to actively promote civic engagement by allowing their employees to be paid leave to serve as poll workers on election days. Companies that agree will be recognized as Civically Engaged Workplaces for supporting the election system. If there are firms who wish to participate, check out the tauw.org website. The ABA has also begun to encourage lawyers to serve as poll workers. Check out page #? for the ABA article on how lawyers can serve.There are three job positions, and some of their job duties are listed below:
• Inspector: Like the team leader of the poll. Responsible for managing the voting device, transporting election supplies from the Election Board to the poll, transporting supplies back to the Election Board on election night, and performing other duties as needed.
• Judge: Responsible for finding voters in the precinct registry and checking voter IDs, with other duties as needed.
• Clerk: This person works closely with the Judge to issue the correct ballot or ballots to the voter and performs other duties as needed.
Poll Workers are paid based on their job position, and thanks to recent legislation, a raise was implemented this July. Pay increases to $200 - $225, depending on the position. The Tulsa County Election Board does try to place workers as close to home as possible but asks its workers for flexibility and willingness to go to polls where there are openings. If TCBA members are interested in serving, visit the website at https://www2. tulsacounty.org/electionboard/resources/poll-workers for information and registration.
Tulsa County Poll Worker Requirements:
• Be a registered voter in Tulsa County.
• Have your own car.
• Be able to communicate through email and text messages. The election board contacts poll workers primarily through these methods.
• Attend a one-day training course taught by the election board. A class is scheduled once they have enough volunteers to make up a class.
• Be able to work an extremely long day. Workers must be at their assigned polling location from 6 a.m. on election day until at least 7 p.m. when the polls close and all job duties are completed. They are required by law to be at their assigned location for the entire election day (no split shifts, leaving early, or arriving late is allowed).
Tulsa County Election Board. (2024). Poll workers. Poll Workers - Election Board. https://www2.tulsacounty.org/electionboard/ resources/poll-workers
Gleason, M. (2024, January 26). Voting poll workers are needed - extra pay for your civic duty! Tulsa Area United Way. https://www.tauw.org/2024/01/26/poll-workers-needed-extrapay-for-your-civic-duty/
GET CONNECTED WITH THE TCBA
The Tulsa County Bar Association is committed to providing opportunities to foster engagement and connection for our members. One pathway to connecting and networking with members across the green country is volunteering to serve on an Association or Foundation committee. In addition to fulfilling the organizations' missions, these committees create a sense of community and shared purpose among members. The excellence of the Association and Foundation is directly due to the involvement and dedication of its members and the services these committees provide to the community. Meeting times vary by committee but are generally held over the lunch hour either monthly, quarterly, or as needed, depending on the committee. Learn more about committees by contacting the chairs on the committee or a TCBA staff member.
Access to Justice supports, coordinates, and advocates for civil justice in the community. Chair: Pansy MooreShrier
Animal Law works closely with TU College's Paw Law to educate and advocate within the community and raise funds for local animal-affiliated organizations. Chair: Katy Inhofe
Bench & Bar comprises judges, practitioners, professors, and law students to promote civility, efficiency, and professionalism within the court system. Ongoing projects include the Brown Bag CLE series and the Judicial Dinner. Co-Chairs: Kevinn Matthews and Diana Cupps
Children & the Law committee works with the Juvenile Law Section, focusing on the young. It provides opportunities for lawyers to use their skills to help children in need and coordinates the yearly Holiday Challenge. Co-Chairs: Michael Nesser & Lexie Allen
Community Outreach supports civic organizations through various fundraising efforts and activities. This committee reviews requests for assistance and helps other committees and sections with projects as needed. Chair: Ashley Webb
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) coordinates highquality programs on subjects of current and practical interest. Chair: Pansy Moore-Shrier
Diversity Development is committed to developing diversity within the law and the local Bar Association. Co-Chairs: Marvin Lizama and Matt Ingham
*Fee Arbitration (Must be in Practice for 5+ Years). At no cost to lawyers or former clients, this Committee Resolves disputes involving the amount or reasonableness of attorney fees and expenses charged or to be charged by the lawyer for professional services for the benefit of the former client. Committee decisions are made by a majority vote of a quorum of at least 12 persons, including attorneys and non-attorneys. This committee does not resolve client grievances. Chair: Scott Savage
Golf Committee coordinates the annual fundraising event, promotes fellowship and networking among the legal community, and supports predetermined charities. Co-Chairs: Michael Thelen and Billy Duncan
Lawyer Referral Service supervises and oversees the panel of lawyers handling public referrals, establishes the panel's rules and procedures, and maintains the program to expand public knowledge. Chair: Karen Wilkins
Law-Related Education: Provides training seminars for teachers and lawyers in the Tulsa area to provide meaningful classroom activities. Currently oversees the Street Law Program (works with various community partners to bring legal life skills to middle and high school students). Co-Chairs: Kara Vincent and Pierre Robertson
Law Week coordinates activities during April/May, including Ask-A-Lawyer, the Student Art and Writing Contest, the First Responders Will Project, and the Law Day Luncheon. Chair: Tana Van Cleave
Membership Services recruit and encourage nonmembers to join and develop programs, activities, and partnership benefits for members. Chair: Kara Pratt
**Mentor/Mentee (Must Apply to be Matched): Coordinates mentoring, networking opportunities, and resources for current University of Tulsa College of Law students, recent graduates, and new attorneys. Chair: Shena Burgess
Military/Veterans comprises volunteer legal professionals who provide legal education on related veterans' legal issues and support various Tulsa County Veterans programs. Chair: Mitchell Garrett
Professionalism determines the appropriate criteria for recognizing ethics and professionalism in law practice and prepares brief articles on ethical practices for the Tulsa Lawyer Magazine. Chair: Rick White
Public Relations work to inform and educate the public about its rights and duties under our system of government and laws, to encourage good citizenship and civic participation by our members, and to publicize the services provided by our members to the community and our justice system.
Special Events members help with planning member events, happy hours, etc. Chair: Natalie Sears
Social Media works to build a team of online supporters who agree to amplify and generate the TCBA message on social networking.
Tulsa Lawyer Magazine: The Tulsa Lawyer, the official publication of the TCBA, is published monthly. This includes writing and editing articles, supplying photographs of general interest, and obtaining advertising to offset the cost. Chair: Michael Taubman
What's Your Extra?
GableGotwals is Tulsa Tough!
The TCBA wants to recognize what our members do outside involvement in law. If you want the opportunity to be featured, please reach out to Heather Heck at heatherh@tulsabar.com.
For those unfamiliar, the Saint Francis Tulsa Tough is what I consider one of the biggest cycling events in the country. This "three-day party on wheels" makes Tulsa the place to be for bicycle enthusiasts and spectators alike. Curious to know more? You can learn all you need to know about their races, rides, and associated happenings at tulsatough.com.
We've got a great group of TCBA Members who participate in this event and want to highlight a few at local firm and supporter, GableGotwals.
Bailey Barnes, Attorney
What did you ride?
I rode the Medio Fondo (65 miles) of Tulsa Tough
What's your motivation?
To work diligently toward a goal (outside of work) and achieve it.
What were you most looking forward to?
The camaraderie with everyone else out on the course, especially my GG colleagues!
Any tips for balancing work and training?
Sometimes it’s okay to leave the office early…
If you could give advice to encourage others to get involved in "extra" activities, what would it be?
Find an activity that “sparks joy” and lean into it!
Will Stringer, Transactional Associate
What did you ride?
The 65 mile Medio on Saturday.
What's your motivation?
I don’t need much motivation to get out and ride. As a lawyer working full-time and a dad with two small children, my time on the bike is something I look forward to all week!
What were you most looking forward to?
I just love the whole weekend! I think it is one of the best weekends in Tulsa and it is awesome to show off the city to people from out of town. I constantly hear people who are visiting that are surprised by what Tulsa has to offer. Whether it’s the Art Deco buildings, the Gathering Place, or the spectacle of Cry Baby Hill, people are impressed with Tulsa!
Any tips for balancing work and training?
This year I’ve been riding and training with several of my fellow lawyers at GableGotwals. So while it isn’t “work” in the traditional sense, I think it has been really great for building camaraderie and making practicing law in Tulsa a part of my everyday life, not just what I do in the office.
If you could give advice to encourage others to get involved in "extra" activities, what would it be?
I think many people view “extra activities” as optional or a hassle. But representing yourself and your firm in the community is an integral part of being a young professional. The neat thing is, whatever it is you love to do, there is almost certainly a community out there waiting for you to get involved. So go do it!
Bailey and Trent on Riverside
This year Tulsa Tough was held June 7-9. Tulsa Tough typically happens the 2nd week of June.
Bailey & Will waiting for the 7:40am start time of Saturday’s (June 8th) Gran Fondo rides.
Courtney Driskell
Associate Attorney at Schmook Law Firm
in Tulsa, OK
Extras: Weightlifter/bodybuilding competitor
How do you make time to do the above?
I don't give myself a choice. I began my fitness journey as a working single mom going through undergrad and law school, and I have made it a part of my daily routine. I base my decision to work out on discipline, not motivation. Motivation ebbs and flows; discipline does not.
Are there any other "extras" you are looking to add to your list?
I am training to compete in a bodybuilding competition. If you could give advice to encourage others to get involved in "extras", what would it be?
Push through the difficult, beginner stage, and make it a part of your routine. It is hard to get started, but once you start seeing results, it becomes an addiction. It is tempting to feel like you're too tired and busy after a stressful day of lawyering. But fitness is excellent stress relief and allows you to stay healthy and in good shape to handle those long days in the courtroom!
Gr apevine News
Mullican & Hart, P.C. is proud to announce the promotion of Allison Lee to equity shareholder, effective July 1, 2024. Mullican & Hart is an industry leader in railroad defense litigation and insurance defense litigation, securing defense verdicts in grade crossing and FELA litigation throughout the central United States. Allison joined Mullican & Hart in 2021, after beginning her practice in railroad defense at another firm in 2015. She has been a significant asset to Mullican & Hart, as her exceptional oral argument and trial skills have been instrumental in achieving favorable results for the firm’s clients. Allison has also been named to the 29th and 30th editions of The Best Lawyers in America® for her proficiency in appellate practice. She has demonstrated expertise in complex matters, including the interpretation of state and federal railroad regulations, the preemptive effect of the Federal Railroad Safety Act and the ICCTA, and nuances of state and federal procedure.
Mullican & Hart is pleased that its strong commitment to client service and proficiency in railroad defense continues to attract top talent, like Allison, ensuring that the firm can exceed client expectations for years to come. Welcome aboard, Allison!
GableGotwals is pleased to announce that Whitney Humphrey has joined the Tulsa office as a transactional associate. She advises clients in mergers and acquisitions, commercial lending and corporate finance, real estate transactions, securities, entity formation and restructuring, and general corporate matters.Whitney assists businesses of all sizes with drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, advising on corporate governance, risk management, shareholder relations, and regulatory matters, including compliance with federal securities rules and regulations. Her industry experience includes manufacturing, transportation, oil and gas, banking, healthcare, and professional services. She has also has experience representing buyers and sellers in asset and stock purchases and sales, as well as representing financial institutions and borrowers in complex commercial financing transactions.Within real estate, Whitney assists clients in commercial property sales and acquisitions, leasing, project development, transaction financing, and zoning and land use issues.She was named a Rising Star in Corporate Law and Land Use & Zoning by Super Lawyers
Whitney graduated with highest honors from The University of Tulsa College of Law, where she served as the Notes & Comments Editor of the Tulsa Law Review. During law school, she earned four CALI Awards, was named a Holloway Scholar, and completed externships at Oral Roberts University and a local non-profit organization. She received her B.A. in psychology with a minor in finance and philosophy from Oklahoma State University, where she graduated cum laude
C lassified a ds
The Law Firm of Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd, Fiasco & Edmonds is currently seeking an associate attorney with minimum 5 years of experience in litigation, bad faith a plus. The associate in this position will be responsible for court appearances, depositions, performing discovery, interviews and trials in active cases filed in the Oklahoma Eastern, Northern, and Western Federal District Courts and Oklahoma Courts statewide. Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd, Fiasco & Edmonds is primarily a defense litigation firm focusing on general civil trial and appellate practice, insurance defense, medical and legal malpractice, and Native American law. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please provide your resume, references and a cover letter including salary requirements to dbrown@abg-oklaw.com
Jon Starr
Mediator and Arbitrator
Contact DRC for scheduling 918-382-0300
Fun Fact:
Calvin Coolidge is the only president that was born on the 4th of July.
ATKINSON, BRITTINGHAM, GLADD, FIASCO & EDMONDS is seeking an associate attorney with zero to five years of experience who is proficient in research and writing. Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd & Fiasco is primarily a defense litigation firm focusing on general civil trial and appellate practice, insurance defense, medical and legal malpractice, and Native American law. Compensation and benefits package will be commensurate with the applicant’s experience. Applicants should submit a resume, writing sample and transcript to James N. Edmonds at jedmonds@ abg-oklaw.com.
2023-2024 TCBA CONTACTS, COMMITTEE & SECTION CHAIRS
www.tulsabar.com
PHONE: 918-584-5243
FAX: 918-592-0208
1446 South Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119-3612
Executive Director
Tami Williams tamiw@tulsabar.com Ext. 1002
Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees
Heather Heck heatherh@tulsabar.com Ext. 1001
Front Desk Coordinator
General Inquiries frontdesk@tulsabar.com Ext. 1000
Accounting accounting@tulsabar.com
Lawyer Referral & Community Resource Navigator Jeril Haug jerilh@tulsabar.com Ext. 1003
Tulsa Lawyer Editor - Michael Taubman michael@tulsafirm.com
Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com
TCBA OFFICERS
President ...................................................................Mike Esmond
Past President...............................................................Philip Hixon
President-Elect....................................................Stephanie Jackson
Vice President...................................................Michael P. Taubman
Secretary.................................................................... Lizzie Riter
Treasurer..................................................................C. Austin Birnie
Budget/Internal Operations........................................Barrett Powers
Foundation President ..................................................Justin Munn
Director at Large (1) Large Firm.................................Austin Birnie
Director at Large (2) Large Firm................................ Natalie Sears
Director at Large (1) Medium Firm.........................Jennifer Struble
Director at Large (2) Medium Firm..................................Kara Pratt
Director at Large (1) Small Firm............................Linda Morrissey
Director at Large (2) Small Firm..................................Mark Smith
Director at Large (2) Public Sector.................. Judge April Seibert
ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan
OBA Delegate..............................................................Philip Hixon
Library Trustee (1)..................................................... Kim Vojvoda
Library Trustee (2)........................................................ Julie Evans
Presiding Judge .......................................... Hon. Dawn Moody
Chief Judge, U.S. District Court ...................Hon. John F. Heil, III
Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court..........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister
TU Law School Student Representative ...................Eugene Flynn
TU Law School Representative.................................. Natalie Frost
YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION BOARD
YLD Chair.........................................................Colton Richardson
YLD Chair Elect...................................................Lacy Williamson
YLD Vice President........................................................Kyle Trice
YLD Treasurer......................................................Pierre Robertson
YLD Secretary..........................................................Kaia Kennedy
FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS
Law Day Co-Chairs ..............Tana Van Cleave and Mary Clement
Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb
Golf Co-Chairs..............................Billy Duncan & Michael Thelen
Scholarship Chair........................................................Randy Lewin
FOUNDATION
President.....................................................................Justin Munn
Vice President...........................................................Billy Duncan
Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert
Trustee........................................................................Jim Gotwals
Trustee...........................................................................Ann Keele
Trustee..........................................................................Rick White
Trustee...............................................................Michael Taubman
Trustee.........................................................................Lizzie Riter
Trustee ..................................................................Chad McLain
Trustee .......................................................................Kara Vincent
TCBA President.......................................................Mike Esmond
TCBA Pres. Elect..............................................Stephanie Jackson
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Access to Justice...............................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Animal Law .............Katy Inhofe
Bench & Bar........................................................Kevinn Matthews
Bench & Bar Co-Chair ...........Diana Cupps
Children & the Law.......................................................Lizzie Riter
Children & the Law Vice Chair..........Timothy Michaels-Johnson CLE..................................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier
Diversity Development...........................................Marvin Lizama
Diversity Development Vice-Chair ...........Matt Ingham
Fee Arbitration.............................................................Scott Savage Law Related Education / Street Law.............................Co-chairs .......................................................Pierre Robertson , Kara Vincent Lawyer Referral .........Karen Wilkins
Membership Services.......................................................Kara Pratt
Mentoring ........................................................ ........Shena Burgess
Military/Veterans ......Mitchell Garrett
Military/Veterans Co-Chair... ...Hon. David Guten Nominations & Awards ...........Philip Hixon
Pro Bono................................................................. Mac Finlayson
Professionalism .............Rick White
Public Relations/Social Media ..................................Collaborative
Special Events ..........Natalie Sears
Tulsa Lawyer................................................... ...Michael Taubman
Young Lawyers Division...................................Colton Richardson
SECTION CHAIRPERSONS
ADR/Mediation...........................................................Diana Cupps Bankruptcy ..Hon. Paul Thomas
Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman
Criminal Law ............Daniel Levy
Energy & Mineral Law.............................................Buford Pollett
Employment Law ............................................ ........Jessica Vaught
Family Law Co-Chairs..........................Anastasia Krich-Mahoney ..............................................................................Jordan Dalgleish
Health Law................................................................Shelby Fields
Juvenile Law. ............Lizzie Riter
Juvenile Law Co-Chair........................Timothy Michaels-Johnson Litigation.......................................................... Stephanie Jackson, ............................................Mbilike Mwafulirwa, and Mark Smith
Municipal Law..................................................Rhiannon Thoreson
Paralegals/Legal Assistant....................................Kathryn Keener
Paralegal /Legal Assistants Vice Chair.....................Gloria Jones
Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs................................. ...Kelly Jones ................................................................................Phillip Jennings
Solo/Small Firm .......................................................Mary Clement Tax............................................................................John Gotwals
Technology .....................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier
Workers Comp...........................................................Valerie Evans
* Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled
