Tulsa MagazineLawyerAugust 2024
A Message from the President Michael E. Esmond
You don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here.
This message is the equivalent of “last call” for my term as President of the TCBA. August 31 will mark the end of my term. Serving in this role has been an honor and a privilege. As I prepare to step into the coveted position of Past President, I wanted to reflect on the past year and share my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has made it such a great experience.
First, a big shout-out to the TCBA staff—Tami, Jeril, Heather, and Milly. They are the real MVPs. They each have a unique combination of talent and dedication to the mission of the TCBA that consistently leads to outstanding results. Having worked closely with them over the past year, I’ve learned that they also have tremendous patience and grace. On more occasions than I would have ever imagined, they deal with challenging situations and difficult personalities. Their hard work and organizational skills are the backbone of our Association, and I can't thank them enough. We’re lucky to have them.
To our amazing members who have volunteered, sponsored, and supported our initiatives—thank you! You've helped us make practicing law in Tulsa better and improved the lives of our fellow Tulsans in many ways. And you’ve also made all of our events possible (and a lot more fun).
A special thank you to the Executive Committee: Philip Hixon, Stephanie Jackson, Michael Taubman, Austin Birnie, Barrett Powers, Lizzie Riter, Justin Munn and Colton Richardson. And, of course, the Board of Directors for their faithful service. Your dedication and commitment have been invaluable.
Because of all of you, TCBA had a great year and was recognized by the OBA with the Outstanding County Bar Association Award. Here are some highlights:
• The Bench and Bar Committee led efforts to educate us all about the use of AI in the legal profession, coordinated several great Brown Bag CLE sessions at the Tulsa County District Court, and participated in presenting gavels to several newly appointed judges.
• The Litigation Section held a seminar to raise awareness and build relationships with the magistrate judges for the Northern and Eastern Districts. It was so well attended that we had to book a larger venue for the event.
• The Street Law program spent another successful year serving KIPP University Prep High School students—future lawyers in the making!
• The Court Assistance Program coordinated dozens of pro bono attorney hours advising tenants facing eviction.
• The Children and the Law Committee and the Juvenile Law Section’s Holiday Challenge helped many families have a good Christmas.
• We graduated the second class of talented young lawyers through our Leadership Academy.
• We supported the TCBF’s Law Week activities (which were also recognized with an OBA award for excellence), golf tournament, and community outreach activities and events.
These are just a few examples of how our Association makes Tulsa a better place to live and practice law.
I’m excited to cap this year off with the Association's (and Foundation's) annual meeting and awards ceremony on August 22nd, at the Discovery Lab. Our speaker will be Attorney General Gentner Drummond. Purchase your tickets soon.
As I step down, I am confident that Stephanie Jackson’s leadership will bring another outstanding year for the TCBA. She has great plans for our Association and I look forward to supporting her term as President.
Here’s to the continued success of the Tulsa County Bar Association!
Sincerely,
Michael E. Esmond TCBA President, 2023-2024
Job postings are free for current members and $50 per posting for nonmembers. Job postings will stay posted for 30 days unless asked to remove early. TCBA reserves the right to refuse any job posting for any reason.
Judges Visit TCBA from Armenia
In June, the Tulsa Global Alliance hosted a delegation of judges from Armenia. This visit was part of an international exchange program aimed at fostering cross-cultural understanding and professional development. During their stay, the Armenian judges toured the Tulsa County Courthouse, where they engaged in insightful discussions with local judges and attorneys about the intricacies of the American judicial system.
They also had the opportunity to visit the Tulsa County Bar Association, meeting with several board members who provided valuable insights into the organization’s role in supporting legal professionals. A key area of interest for the visiting judges was the American jury trial process, which sparked many engaging conversations and exchanges of ideas.
While most of the Armenian judges were proficient in English, an interpreter was on hand to assist those who required translation services, ensuring a seamless and informative experience for all participants.
and Shena Burgess.
Above Seated in first row: Retired Judge Martha Rupp Carter, Judge Diana Ghukeyan of Court of General Jurisdiction of Kotayk Murz; facilitator Kristina Afoyan, Criminal Law Reforms Manager and Legal Specialist U.S. Embassy Armenia; Tatevik Sujyan, lecturer of Law Faculty and Chair of Criminal Procedure and Criminalistics, Yerevan State University.Second row, standing: Lewis Carter, Judge Gor Shahbazyan, Court of General Jurisdiction of Kotayk Marx; Judge Aramyis Asatryn, Criminal Court of First Instance of General Jurisdiction of Yerevan City; Allen Smallwood; Judge Rich Hathcoat; and Judge Meri Mosinyan, Anti-corruption Court of Republic of Armenia.
Above: The visiti ng judges pictured with TCBA President Michael Esmond,Stephanie Jackson, President Elect
TCBA KEYNOTE SPEAKERGentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General
The Tulsa County Bar Association is excited to announce that Oklahoma Attorney General, Gentner Drummond, will be the guest speaker at this year’s annual meeting and luncheon.
Gentner Drummond was sworn in as Oklahoma’s 19th Attorney General on Jan. 9, 2023. His law experience spans nearly 30 years and includes having served as an assistant district attorney in Pawnee and Osage Counties and as an attorney in private practice. In 1999, he founded the Tulsa-based firm, Drummond Law. In addition to his legal career, Drummond, a seventh-generation Oklahoman, has been a longtime rancher, banker, and businessman.
A U.S. Air Force jet pilot during the Persian Gulf War, AG Drummond led the first combat mission of that conflict. He was among the most decorated Oklahomans to serve in that conflict, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for “extraordinary achievement” as well as three Air Medals and four Aerial Achievement medals.
In his first year as Attorney General, Drummond assembled the office’s first-ever Organized Crime Task Force to clamp down on the state’s epidemic of illegal marijuana operations and other associated criminal activities, including human trafficking and the distribution of deadly opioids such as fentanyl. AG Drummond’s other chief priorities in office include improving tribal relations, ensuring transparency and openness in government, fighting a culture of corruption and scandal, and protecting Oklahoma against federal overreach.
AG Drummond earned his bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University and his law degree from Georgetown University. He and his wife Wendy have been married for 13 years and have a blended family of six children and five grandchildren.
Tickets to the luncheon are available for purchase for $50 each and includes lunch. There will also be SRO tickets available for $20 that do not include lunch or preferred seating. Seating is limited and tickets will go fast so purchase yours today online at www.tulsabar.com or by contacting any TCBA staff member.
TCBA HAPPENINGS
June 29th - Stained Glass Class with Tulsa Stained Glass.
JOIN US FOR MORE EVENTS SOON!
7/16 - Ice Cream Social with Oklahoma Access to Justice for Public Interest Groups
July 13th - Members and their company enjoy the Tulsa Oilers Football game!
YLD HAPPY HOUR
AUGUST 15 - SEE PAGE 17
CELEBRATE & FUND THE FOUNDATION
Michael Nesser
Michael Taubman
Rhiannon Thoreson
Kara Vincent
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.
Diversity Committee Update & Survey
By Marvin Lizama, Chair
The Diversity Development Committee is committed to developing diversity within the practice of law. The Committee approved Marvin Lizama and Matthew Ingham to continue as co-chairs for the 20242025 fiscal year. We look forward to working with President Stephanie Jackson and continue the work done by the TCBA in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion policies that strengthen the fabric of the legal profession.
The Diversity Development Committee is currently working on organizing a panel discussion focusing on DEI policies, legal challenges, and the government’s role in promoting said initiatives in the face of some State and local government’s opposition to said policies. According to data from NBC News, in 2024 alone, lawmakers in more than 30 States introduced and/or passed more than 100 bills to either restrict or end DEI initiatives in their jurisdictions. In Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt signed an Executive Order in December 2023 prohibiting and defunding DEI initiatives by State agencies. Ironically, the Governor’s Executive Order cites the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause as justification for ending DEI policies enacted to remedy racial discrimination in the State’s hiring practices at the agency levels.
We are asking our membership to take a few moments to answer the Survey Questions below by emailing your answers to heatherh@tulsabar.com or by directly accessing the online survey via the QR Code. Responses will be kept anonymous.
TCBA Diversity Committee Survey:
1. How do you define diversity?
2. Do you think it is important in the legal field? Yes or No; If Yes, please explain why.
3. Have you ever participated in diversity, equity, and inclusion training as a legal professional? Yes or No
4. Would you describe your current place of employment as diverse? Yes or No
5. How do you view diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the workplace? Positively or Negatively.
6. Would you be interested in attending a TCBA panel presentation on diversity, equity, and inclusion? Yes or No.
You are welcome to send any additional comments, feedback, or topics you’d like the Committee to consider to heatherh@tulsabar.com.
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 “OPT-IN” 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.
TCBA Members always have access to the digital issues of the Tulsa Lawyer magazine.
Lynn Miller Book Club - Upcoming Dates
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.
Members Recognized by Oklahoma Bar Association
The Oklahoma Bar Association held its annual meeting in Norman this July, and we were proud to see several TCBA members recognized for their significant contributions to the law.
Award of Judicial Excellence
Given for excellence of character, job performance, or achievement while a judge and service to the bench, bar, and community.
This year’s recipient is Magistrate Judge Paul Cleary, who has had a distinguished career as a U.S. magistrate judge in the northern district of Oklahoma since 2002. His patience and fairness, qualities that are not just admired by many but also inspire all of us, have significantly impacted the legal community and have been the hallmark of his service.
Neil E. Bogan Professionalism Award
Given to an OBA member practicing for ten or more years for conduct, honesty, integrity, and courtesy, as well as to those who best represent the highest standards of the legal profession.
A. Mark Smiling has nearly 40 years of experience as a trial lawyer and has tried and defended more than 500 jury trials. He is known for his courtesy, kindness, attention to detail, depth of understanding of the law, and overall legal abilities. He is regarded by fellow lawyers, courtroom reporters, judges, and others as professional, honest, and honorable. His dedication to ethics and integrity in the legal profession has made a mark on those who have worked with him.
Outstanding Young Lawyer Award
Recognizes an OBA Young Lawyers Division member for their service to the profession.
Caroline Shaffer Siex has been a member of the YLD for six years. During that time, she served in multiple leadership roles, such as hospitality chair, secretary, treasurer, and chair. She also was the ABA YLD district representative for District 24 (Oklahoma and Arkansas) from 2020 to 2021, working on an Oklahoma disaster. Caroline's dedication to various legal committees, including the Access to Justice Committee, Solo and Small Firm Conference Planning Committee, Budget Committee, the Tulsa County Bar Association Women in Law Subcommittee social chair, and the Wills for Heroes Program, is a testament to her commitment and service to the legal profession.
Maurice Merrill Golden Quill Award
Given to the author(s) of the best-written article published this year in the Oklahoma Bar Journal
Andrew J. Hofland and Justin A. Lollman are this year’s recipients for their article “Take Five, But Civilly: A Civil Litigator’s Primer on the Fifth Amendment,” which appeared in the January 2024 issue of the Oklahoma Bar Journal Mr. Hofland is a shareholder at GableGotwals, where his practice focuses on white-collar defense and commercial litigation. He previously served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma and a Navy judge advocate. Mr. Lollman is a shareholder at GableGotwals, where his practice focuses on appeals, complex commercial litigation, and white-collar criminal defense. Before entering private practice, Mr. Lollman clerked on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma.
Outstanding County Bar Association Award: Given for meritorious efforts and activities.
The TCBA has been a steadfast pillar of support for members of the legal profession and the community, earning a reputation for trust and reliability. The association works tirelessly to educate, assist, and empower its members and community. This dedication to helping members grow personally and professionally and creating solutions and assistance for the community is truly outstanding.
Hicks Epton Law Day Award
TCBA & OCBA
For almost 50 years, the OBA has held Ask A Lawyer on Law Day, a statewide hotline providing free legal advice to the public. This service is only possible with the help of volunteer lawyers. The staff and dedicated volunteers at the Oklahoma County and Tulsa County bar associations have, for decades, ensured that the Ask A Lawyer phone lines are fully resourced to meet the needs of the public and provide this invaluable community service. The volunteers these bar associations recruit are the best and continue the long tradition of public service that is a bedrock of the legal profession.
Shannon Brown, Gwen Clegg & Sheila Naifeh
TCBA members Kara Vincent, Rick White and Ken Williams, network with other attorneys from around the state, including OBF Executive Director and Past TCBA President, Renee DeMoss.
OBA President Miles Pringle and Justin Lollman
Outstanding County Bar Association Award 2024
Hicks Epton Law Day Award 2024
Outstanding Young Lawyer
Caroline Shaffer-Siex
Mark Smiling - Neil E. Bogan Professionalism Award
Photos courtesy of Oklahoma Bar Association
OBA Presidents AwardAmber Peckio Garrett
Case of the Year: Galbraith v. GalbraithJim Gotwals, Mary Gutierrez, John Gotwals and Emalie Foster
OBA Family Law Section Award Winners
Guardian Ad Litem of the Year: Jordan Dalgleish
Mediator of the Year: Stacy Acord
Citizen Lawyer of the Year: Kacie Cresswell
OBA Presidents AwardKim Hays
Case of the Year: Galbraith v. Galbraith- Jim Gotwals, Mary Gutierrez, John Gotwals and Emalie Foster
Rising Star of the Year: Chandler Moxley
Wellness Programs Survey
Wellness programs can help individuals lead healthier lifestyles and avoid potential health issues. They can also improve well-being, both individually and collectively. Wellness programs can be customized to include initiatives focusing on improving physical and mental health, reducing stress, and promoting work-life balance. Please take this quick survey to help the TCBA develop its wellness activities for 2024-25: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ SYD6MX7
Pro Bono Committee Meeting
Monday, Aug 12 at noon Tulsa County Bar Center.
Members can attend in person or virtually. Register at www.tulsabar.com and click on events.
Need your Courthouse Security Badge for 2024-2025?
1 Finish processing payment for your Badge dues.
2 Complete and return to the TCBA Staff your Oath of Attorney to Obtain Courthouse Access Badge. Oaths are available at tulsabar.com > Member Services > Forms Available for Download, by emailing frontdesk@tulsabar.com, or you can pick up/have mailed a physical copy.
3 When we send out mailers in August, you will receive your Courthouse Badge Receipt. THIS is what you will take to the Public Services Unit of the Sheriff’s Office to be issued your badge.
4 When you go to the Public Services Unit, you must take: 1. Your TCBA issued Badge Receipt, 2. A state photo ID, and 3. You will be required to complete a background check once there. Then you will have your Badge!
Reminders: Both the oaths you fill out and the badges themselves are valid for one year according to the TCBA membership year (September - August). All expired badges MUST be given to TCSO after their expiration date as they are both issued by and remain the property of the TCSO. We have also heard that this Unit may be moving in the next couple of months - we will send virtual notice when this change occurs!
Need your OR Privileges Card for 2024-2025?
1. Finish processing payment for your OR dues.
2. Complete and return to the TCBA Staff your Oath of Attorney to Obtain OR Privileges.
3. When we send out mailers in August, you will receive your OR Card.
Reminder: OR and Courthouse Access privileges can be revoked or suspended at ANY point in time per the instructions in your signed Oaths. If you have questions or need assistance with these, please contact the Membership Director, Heather Heck, at heatherh@tulsabar.com
Spotlight on the TCBA Pro Bono Committee & Court Assistance Program
The TCBA Pro Bono Committee plays a crucial role in engaging members to volunteer for pro bono activities that benefit underprivileged individuals in the Tulsa metropolitan area. One significant initiative the Committee manages is the Court Assistance Program (CAP), which focuses on providing free legal representation to tenants facing eviction in the Tulsa County District Court.
CAP, established in collaboration with key figures such as Retired Judge Millie Otey, Jim Proszek, and Steve Soule, initially operated under Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma (LASO) before transitioning to the TCBA Pro Bono Committee in December 2018. The program's primary objective is to offer tenants facing eviction the necessary legal support to navigate the complex eviction process.
Under the leadership of Mac Finlayson, the outgoing Chair of the TCBA Pro Bono Committee, significant strides have been made to enhance the program's effectiveness. Mac spearheaded the development of a comprehensive Eviction Defense Manual and conducted training sessions for volunteer attorneys to better equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to represent clients effectively. In Mac's tenure volunteering for this program, he has made 76 appearances at the Evictions Docket since CAP's inception, representing 296 pro bono client cases. This accounts for 401 hours of his time. This is the equivalent of $109,162.50 in donated billable hours.
CAP also has had a paid coordinator who assists the program's volunteer attorneys by conducting intakes of potential clients. Elizabeth “Beth” Nellis, CP, ACP, has served in this role since 2012. During her incredible tenure, she assisted 959 volunteers in 1,752 cases.
As Mac prepares to step down, the TCBA expresses its gratitude for his dedication and service, along with that of Beth Nellis, the former program coordinator. The Committee is pleased to welcome Jeril Haug as the new coordinator, bringing valuable experience and expertise to the role. Jeril is a paralegal with 15 years of experience and has been at the TCBA since 2020. Her experience providing information services to Tulsans facing eviction who call the LRIS line will be invaluable to our program.
The TCBA is excited to begin planning for the new fiscal year, starting September 1. We will continue to work on expanding the program as deemed appropriate by the Pro Bono Committee Co-Chairs, TCBA Board of Directors, the Grant Funders, and Volunteers. The next meeting of the Pro Bono Committee will be held on Monday, August 12, at noon. Please join us, meet the incoming chairs and coordinator, and help plan for the upcoming fiscal year.
TELL ME MORE ABOUT VOLUNTEERING FOR CAP:
The eviction docket operates Monday through Thursday, from 2 to 5 p.m., at the Juvenile Justice Center, 500 W. Archer. Adequate and free parking is available. The TCBA has malpractice insurance, and volunteer attorneys are covered by it. Each case is a one-time commitment. Volunteers are not expected or required to provide further assistance after the one-time aid.
Volunteering for CAP presents a meaningful opportunity for legal professionals to make a tangible impact in their community. Whether you are a young lawyer seeking courtroom experience, a retired legal practitioner, or a corporate attorney looking to give back, your involvement can provide invaluable support to families facing the threat of homelessness. If you are interested in volunteering for CAP, please get in touch with Jeril Haug at jerilh@tulsabar. com or call 918-587-6014. Your participation can make a difference in the lives of those in need and contribute to the continued success of this essential program.
Mac's CAP Stats since 10.18.16 • 76 afternoons volunteered • 401 hours • 296 cases • $109,162.50 billing equivalent at $300/hour
Five Reasons Why Attorneys Should Invest in TCBA Memberships for Their Paralegals
1. Professional Development – The TCBA offers paralegals access to a wide range of resources and opportunities for professional growth. Paralegals can enhance their knowledge and expertise by participating in continuing legal education programs, attending networking events, and engaging in skill-building activities. This benefits the individual paralegal and adds value to the attorney's practice by ensuring that the support staff is up to date on relevant legal developments and best practices.
2. Networking – Membership provides paralegals with valuable networking opportunities. By connecting with other legal professionals in the community, paralegals can expand their professional contacts, build relationships, and stay informed about industry trends. This sense of community can be beneficial for the attorney's practice, as paralegals who feel connected may be able to provide valuable insights, referrals, and resources that can help the firm grow and succeed.
3. Professionalism and Ethics – Membership reflects a commitment to professionalism, ethics, and excellence in the legal profession. Attorneys who support their paralegals'
membership demonstrate to clients, colleagues, and the broader legal community that they prioritize adherence to high standards of conduct and practice. This can enhance the firm's reputation and credibility, fostering trust and confidence among clients and peers.
4. Access to Resources – The TCBA offers a range of resources and benefits to its members, such as a paralegal section, practice management resources, and discounts on services. By supporting their paralegals' membership, attorneys ensure that their staff has access to these valuable resources, which can improve efficiency, productivity, and the quality of work produced by the firm.
5. Community Engagement – The TCBA provides community outreach and public service activities. By encouraging your paralegals to participate in these initiatives through their membership, attorneys can demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. Involvement in such activities can help paralegals develop a sense of pride in their work, contribute to the betterment of society, and enhance the firm's reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.
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. Co-Chairs: Pansy MooreShrier and Katie Dilks
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. CoChairs: 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. Co-Chair: Ashley Webb and Madison Cataudella
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. CoChairs: 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 nonattorneys. 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. CoChairs: 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. 2024-25 Chair: Alan Barker
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). CoChairs: 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 non-members 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
Pro Bono Committee establishes programs and procedures to solicit members' participation in and volunteer for pro bono activities serving impoverished citizens of the Tulsa metropolitan area. Chair: Eric Yoder
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 Committee: 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
Important Committee Notice: Beginning in FY24-25, the TCBA will combine the following three committees, Social Media, Public Relations, and Tulsa Lawyer, into one committee called Publications. Combining these committees will help streamline communications, keep branding consistent, and be a more efficient utilization of TCBA resources. After the new fiscal year begins, members of these committees will be merged into one committee and may opt out if they so choose.
In memory of...
BARBARA "BOBBIE" LANE 1958-2024
Bobbie was my friend and colleague. That’s an unorthodox way to open an essay to remember a deceased member of a professional community. As I sat down to write this, the first thought that came to my head was not any of the details of the brief biography to follow, but that thought: “Bobbie was my friend and colleague.”
Barbara Brown, who went by “Bobbie,” passed away on July 1, 2024. Born in Tulsa, moving to New Jersey with her parents and three siblings at two weeks of age.. Another sibling later joined the Brown family. By the time Bobbie was nine, the Browns were back in Tulsa.
She studied nursing at the University of Tulsa but wasn’t fond of the required dissection of animals. A lifelong animal lover, she returned to school at Tulsa Junior College, studying to become a paralegal. She began working for her father, the late Everett Brown, at his family law practice. She went on to complete a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice at Northeastern State University (“NSU”), and then a Master's in Public Health at the University of Oklahoma (“OU”).
Devoted to her profession, she was active in local, state, and national professional organizations, including the now-defunct Tulsa Paralegal Association (“TAPA”), the Tulsa County Bar Association’s Paralegal Section (“TCBA”), the Oklahoma Paralegal Association (“OPA”), and NALA - The Paralegal Association (“NALA”) (from which she had earned the designation of Certified Paralegal, or “CP”).
She worked at Atkinson Haskins for twelve plus years and retired from paralegal work after approximately eighteen years at Jones, Gotcher, & Bogan. Combined with two solo ventures and work at her father’s law offices, she acquired four decades of experience as a paralegal.
She taught for TU, Rogers State University, NSU, and TCC. She raised three daughters (Chantel, Heather, and Brittany), and shared her life with her husband of forty-six years, Rick Lane, and enjoyed hobbies and community work. One hobby being training golden retrievers and papillons in obedience and agility. She laughingly said my beagles were “adorable but untrainable.” during a meeting.
She participated in equestrian sports, Reiki, hypnotism, tai chi, and yoga. At some point, she became proficient with throwing knives. As committed as she was to her profession, we were collectively a distant second to her family.
I knew her best as an educator when our paths crossed at TCC. Bobbie found time in her busy schedule to join the TCC Paralegal (“PLGL”) Studies Advisory Committee and was the driving force and the principal author of the Capstone Course in the TCC PLGL Program. She donated more than four hundred books from her collection, and would teach the Capstone Course for TCC. Pam Mitchell, retired Coordinator of the former TU Paralegal Studies Program, said of Bobbie, “(s) he was passionate for the profession and teaching . . . Students learned all aspects (of the profession) from her, the good, bad, & ugly.”
Bobbie put the “pro” in Legal Paraprofessional. I learned a great deal from her and will miss her advice and her friendship.
On July 6, 2024, a celebration of Bobbie Lane’s life was held at the Mason Chapel of Asbury Church. There, I could see in the faces of her family and friends the pain of her sudden loss as well as the joy in having shared their lives with her. It is only through our own experiences of loss that we can begin to appreciate their sorrow and joy. We, her friends and colleagues, are fortunate that Bobbie shared a big slice of her life with us. And I know I am not alone in wishing that we’d had more time with her. Thank you, Bobbie. You are sorely missed.
~Michael Speck, Tulsa Community College Associate Professor & Coordinator, Paralegal Studies Program
BRYAN K. DRUMMOND 1967-2024
Bryan K. Drummond passed away on June 14, 2024. Bryan was a fixture at Rosenstein, Fist & Ringold for more than 25 years. His law practice was focused on the representation of public bodies, particularly public schools, cities and towns throughout Oklahoma. His practice was marked by his unwavering integrity and commitment to the law, and his deep sense of responsibility to always strive to do what was right, especially when it was hard.
Bryan was a continuous student of law and a recognized authority in Oklahoma on every aspect of education and municipal law. He very much enjoyed the practice of law and helping clients and non-clients alike across the state learn about laws relevant to their work and keep up with developments in the law. Bryan was an entertaining and popular speaker. Through his practice and public speaking, he earned the trust and admiration of many clients, who turned into loyal friends.
In addition to being a brilliant lawyer, a great law partner and an irreplaceable friend, Bryan was a character of the first order and enjoyed sharing his barbecue rub and telling the stories of his legal journey.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Ellen, and his adored daughter, Adeline, his extended family, his RFR family and a multitude of friends. Bryan was a friend to everyone he met and is greatly missed by all of us here at RFR.
Gr apevine News
The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is pleased to announce that Aaron Bundy, founder and principal of the law firm, Bundy Law, has successfully achieved recertification as a Family Trial Law advocate. The NBTA was formed out of a strong conviction that both the law profession and its clients would benefit from an organization designed specifically to create an objective set of standards illustrating an attorney's experience and expertise in the practice of trial law.
Aaron Bundy is part of a growing number of trial attorneys that have illustrated their commitment to bettering the legal profession by successfully completing a rigorous application process and providing the consumer of legal services with an objective measure by which to choose qualified and experienced legal counsel.
The elaborate screening of credentials that all NBTA board certified attorneys must successfully complete includes: demonstration of substantial trial experience, submission of judicial and peer references to attest to their competency, attendance of continuing legal education courses and proof of good standing.
Board Certification is the highest, most stringent, and most reliable honor an attorney can achieve. Board certifications are the only distinctions awarded by non-profit organizations. The NBTA as well as all board certifying organizations are committed to safeguarding the public’s ability to choose a good attorney.
Aaron Bundy earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tulsa. He is a graduate of The University of Tulsa College of Law and subsequently earned a certificate in financial planning from Southern Methodist University.
Mr. Bundy is licensed to practice in Oklahoma, Arkasnas, Missouri, New York, and the District of Columbia. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.
Approximately three percent of American lawyers are board certified, and Mr. Bundy is a member of a very select group who has taken the time to prove competence in their specialty area and earn board certification.
For more information on Attorney Aaron Bundy, please visit: www.bundylawoffice.com and www. nbtalawyers.org
TCBA is pleased to announce that TCBA Past President Anne Keele has been elected to serve as Secretary to the National Conference of Bar President’s Executive Counsel. The NCBP Executive Council is the governing body of the NCBP, an organization of the American Bar Association exclusively for Bar Presidents in North America. NCBP has organization members from various state, local, and affinity bar associations from 53 states and territories throughout North America. Keele was the first TCBA President ever selected to serve on the NCBP Executive Council in 2019, the first female chosen from Oklahoma, and the fourth Oklahoman ever selected since its inception in 1950. Congratulations!
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
Starr
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
