A Message from the President Stephanie Jackson
FALL FORWARD!
As the autumn solstice settles in and daylight savings time approaches, we will soon be setting our clocks back, gaining that coveted extra hour of rest. But while we might be “falling back” in time, I want to challenge each of you to fall forward this November. You may be wondering, what does it mean to fall forward? To me, it’s about embracing courage, being bold enough to take risks, and viewing setbacks not as failures, but as opportunities for growth. It’s about celebrating progress over perfection, and understanding that every step, no matter how small, moves us closer to our goals. So, let’s fall forward and keep winning together this month!
As we enter November, a month filled with significant events, it’s a time for both reflection, thanksgiving, and action. This month marks Veterans Day on November 11th, a day to honor the courageous individuals who have served our nation in the armed forces. Their sacrifices allow us to enjoy the freedoms and privileges we often take for granted. Let’s take the time
to recognize and celebrate the veterans in our lives—whether they be colleagues, clients, or community members. Their stories and experiences enrich our society and remind us of our collective responsibility to support those who have served.
November also brings Election Day on November 5th, a reminder of the democratic process that veterans have fought to protect. In August, while attending this year’s joint 2024 ABA Annual Meeting and National Conference of Bar Presidents, there was a giant display that simply said, “Democracy Is . . .” It was set up in the main hallway to encourage attendees to add a sticky note with what they believed Democracy meant to them. Over and over, I saw sticky notes themed around voting, fair and impartial judiciary, the rule of law, and the like. So, I wanted to take this opportunity to encourage members that no matter what side of the aisle you fall, lean, or align with, be a part of the democratic process by exercising your right to vote and to be engaged citizens in the communities we serve. Voting is one of the most fundamental ways we can contribute to the ongoing improvement of our legal and political systems, and the best part is you get that world famous “I VOTED” sticker. Something about that sticker that brings me great pride every time I exercise my right to vote in an election.
CLE Hours: A Commitment to Excellence
While November brings reflection, and the opportunity to exercise our civic duties, it also serves as a crucial time to ensure we are up to date on our Continuing Legal Education (CLE) requirements. As attorneys, we are committed to professional excellence, and staying current on legal developments is essential to providing the best representation to our clients. If you haven’t yet completed your CLE hours for the year, I urge you to make it a priority during November and December. The Tulsa County Bar Association (TCBA) is offering several free CLE opportunities for members, both in-person and virtual, that cover a wide range of topics— from Brown Bag CLE presentations, ethics, and deposing tough witnesses to the lawyer’s role in preserving the rule of law, and much, much more.
Be sure to go to the TCBA website, and check out the calendar of events to see our upcoming CLE opportunities and take advantage of these resources. Don’t forget we also have a great selection of On Demand course options.
Holiday Challenge
In this month’s issue, as we approach Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it’s also a time to think about how we can give back to those who are less fortunate. In the spirit of community and generosity, I’m excited for the upcoming start of our annual Holiday Challenge. Every year, TCBA members come together to support families in need during the holiday season. This challenge provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on local families.
This year, I hope that each member of the TCBA, who is able to participate, will consider taking part in this great event. Whether you volunteer your time to assist the staff with wrapping donated gifts; or adopt a family as a solo practitioner, with your firm, or by partnering with colleagues, your generosity will make a real difference.
As always, I am deeply grateful for your continued dedication to our profession and our community. Let’s make this November a time of reflection, growth, and giving.
Thanksgiving: A Time to Reflect
As we celebrate Thanksgiving later this month, it’s also a moment to reflect on what we’re grateful for. Personally, I am deeply thankful for the continued dedication of our TCBA members to the legal profession, to the bar, and to the community. Your hard work, compassion, and commitment to justice are inspiring. Let’s use this season to express gratitude not only in our personal lives but also in our professional ones, through service and outreach. Let’s make this November a time of reflection, civic participation, and generosity.
As much as I enjoy the holiday season, I also know that the demands of work and the expectations of the holidays can take a toll on our well-being. I encourage you to prioritize self-care, whether that means taking time for yourself, setting boundaries, or simply reaching out for support when you need it. Remember, our OBA and TCBA have resources available to support you, and we also have multiple opportunities for volunteering that can provide a sense of purpose and community during this busy time.
Balancing work, family, and the pressures of the season can be challenging, but, by being intentional about our choices, we can find harmony. Whether lending a hand in one of our TCBA upcoming events or taking a moment to reconnect with loved ones, let’s strive to create a balance that nourishes both our personal and professional lives.
As always, please feel free to reach out to me or Tami Williams with any questions, suggestions, or concerns.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Jackson TCBA President, 2024–2025
ARMY
Brad Baker
John Barker
James Beauchamp
Craig Blackstock
Austin Bond
Ken Brune
Paul Brunton
Lawrence Chambers
Diana Cupps
Robert Curry
Sidney Dunagan
Barry Epperson
Joe Farris
Robert Gifford
R.H. Harbaugh
James McCann
Bob McCoy
Allen Pease
John Sharp
David Winslow
ARMY & NATIONAL GUARD
Travis Barnett
William Grimm
ARMY & NAVY
Kelly Smakal
ARMY RESERVE
Larry Yadon
COASTGUARD
Jonathan Eagle
MARINES
Roland "Terry" Funk
Mitchell Garrett
Allen Smallwood
MARINE CORP RESERVE
Craig Hoster
NATIONAL GUARD
Valerie Evans
NAVY
Brian Huddleston
Angelia Folks
Harry Rouse
AIR FORCE
Keith Bartsch
Lonny Davis
Michael Esmond
Phil Frazier
Judge David Guten
Judge Sharon Holmes
Skipp Holtmann
Anita O'Daniel
Gil Pilkington
Harlan Pinkerton
Thomas Reynolds
Mickey Wilson
AIR FORCE RESERVES
Lonny Davis
Charles Sublett
Thank you to ALL of our TCBA Veterans!
If we missed you on this list please let us know so we can include you in future recognition!
Allen Pease
Travis Barnett
Valerie Evans National Guard
EMBRACING ARBITRATION: A Solution to the Coming Storm of Legal System Overload and Increasing Legal Costs
By Edward G. Lindsey LL.M. FCIArb
With new laws, pressures on the Court system and the economic reality of escalating legal costs, it is time for arbitration to be considered a serious method of alternative dispute resolution.
The Oklahoma legislature recently amended the family law code to require courts to conduct a substantive (not proffer) temporary order hearing on child custody, visitation, child support, and other ancillary matters, including property.1 Where domestic violence is alleged, the same substantive hearing must be held within ten (10) days.2 The amendment becomes effective November 1, 2024.3 This will initially cause significant docket congestion in the larger legal communities such as Tulsa and Oklahoma counties. Practitioners can anticipate ‘cattle call’ dockets with hundreds of cases being disposed of with rapid-fire dispensation of the “substantive” hearings to meet this statutory deadline. Arbitration of these temporary order hearings, if embraced by the legal community, could alleviate much of the anticipated chaos. It would give parties the time and expert attention needed to resolve their initial temporary order, if not their entire case, thereby avoiding the madness of an overcrowded docket.
In civil cases, litigation costs have risen every year. Significant expenses are incurred on drawn out discovery disputes, deposition practice and extensive motion contests in litigation. Imagine two parties litigating a dispute under $75,000 paying their attorneys hourly. If fully litigated, the parties may very well spend the amount in controversy on legal fees. According to a 2023 survey by the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform, the average cost of a civil lawsuit in the US is $135,000. Often, the lawsuit becomes more about the expended fees than the controversy itself. Likewise, it cannot be settled without further litigation. Arbitration can be a less expensive and more efficient alternative to litigation.
The Aversive Myths Regarding Arbitration
Thirty plus years ago, lawyers were reluctant to utilize mediation in attempting settlement of their cases. Anxiety of revealing evidence, disclosure of trial strategy: these were compounded by fear of demonstrating negotiation
1 See 43 O.S. §110(B)2.
2 Id.
3 Id.
weaknesses to the other side. Mediation is now considered mainstream – frequently ordered by courts before pretrial conferences are scheduled; utilized in almost every case; and considered the ‘best hope’ in resolving difficult disputes.
But mediation is not effective in every case for numerous reasons. Parties may not reach compromise if they are too dug in to their positions; have overvalued their case or undervalued their opponent’s position; or want to be heard by a decision maker. Often, this impasse causes those parties to be the victims of litigation inefficiencies; financial burden of endless discovery disputes; and multiple delays at the courthouse. In these circumstances, Arbitration can be a better option.
Arbitration is a mechanism of settling disputes, and obtaining a final and binding decision, without recourse to a ‘traditional’ court of law. It is a private “quasi-judicial” determination of a dispute, conducted by an independent third party chosen by the parties. Arbitration is a form of alternative dispute resolution in which the parties to a dispute agree to be bound by the decision of the arbitrator they have appointed in a private system of adjudication.
Suggesting arbitration to a trial attorney generally draws a recoiling response. Most lawyers cite the lack of appealability, the expense, lack of rules and legal precedent as reasons not to arbitrate. While there is some legitimate hesitation, much of this anxiety comes from a lack of knowledge about arbitration law and procedure. Here are the myth busters:
Myth Buster 1: Appealability.
It is true that many arbitral decisions cannot be appealed on the merits. Given the small number of court judgments which are appealed, many might question what the litigator is really giving up. How many cases are appealed? The numbers are between 11-12% of all cases.4 And how many of those appeals are successful? In over 92% of appeals, the trial court is affirmed.5 These numbers worsen when the appeal involves abuse of discretion standards and evidentiary
4 “Caseload Highlights;” The National Center for State Courts, March 2007.
5 Steed, Jason, “Your Chances on Appeal – And How to Improve Them.” The Federal Lawyer; January/February 2016.
rulings. As such, ‘appealability’ becomes a tradeoff for the client and the lawyer alike. When placed against the benefits of Arbitration’s ability to provide cost efficiency, expedience and closure, reliance upon the small (8% percent) chance of success at appeal seems like a fallacy of choice.
Myth Buster 2: The Expense
Many arbitral institutions have fast track rules that include the provision of cost capping. Fast Track rules also limit discovery and expedite the hearing to avoid delay and unnecessary financial burdens on the parties. Even though the parties pay the arbitrator fees, they will likely spend far less at arbitration than at litigation.
Myth Buster 3: The Lack of Rules and Precedent
Arbitral institutions and organizations like the American Arbitration Association (AAA), Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS), and, locally, The Oklahoma Arbitration Center (OAC) have rules specific to the type of dispute and can be tailored to the needs of the parties. Most have model arbitration clauses and referral orders available on their websites. These allow for the selection of rules and the applicability of law to be used in the proceeding. All of these give similar predictability to the practitioner and party similar to that available in litigation.
So Why Arbitration?
The main advantages to arbitration are party autonomy (choice of decision-maker); efficiency; confidentiality; and finality.
Party autonomy
In arbitration, the parties nominate either the single arbitrator or a panel of arbitrators. In litigation, a party is randomly assigned a judge. Judges may have come from a variety of practices such as the District Attorney’s Office or the Public Defender’s Office having little experience in the civil or family courts throughout his or her career. More so now than before, the judge may have an overflowing docket where he or she is overwhelmed and incapable of giving the necessary time needed to a complex case. Arbitrators are generally seasoned practitioners, chosen by the parties
for their expertise in the subject matter of the dispute. He or she will dedicate the time necessary to reach a fair and just decision in the case.
Efficiency
Besides the fast-track rules and cost efficiency factors discussed, arbitration can be scoped, to deal with multiple or discrete issues. Imagine a scenario where parties have settled every issue in a divorce or paternity case but one. The issue at hand is the one "non-starter" for both sides. It is literally the “line in the sand.” Perhaps it is choice of school for children, the value of a family business, parental relocation, or spousal support, to name a few. Instead of compromising the other agreements and litigating the entire case, the parties may agree to the other terms and arbitrate the one issue still in dispute. This avoids months of unnecessary litigation, thousands of dollars in attorney fees, and extended periods of uncertainty for the parties. In this way mediation and arbitration are not mutually exclusive endeavors. Agreements may be made on several issues in mediation, and the remaining ones in dispute are then referred to arbitration.
Confidentiality
Arbitral proceedings are confidential and not for public record. This has multiple advantages. First, company business and trade secrets are protected. Second, parties’ sensitive financial information is hidden from public view. Third, the parties’ actions causing the dispute remain private, sparing them the embarrassment of being on oscn.net or pacer. Finally, the arbitral award remains confidential except where a party seeks enforcement in court. All these factors give arbitration a distinct advantage over litigation by maintaining a party’s privacy and preserving his or her reputation.
Finality
Oklahoma law is very favorable to the confirmation and enforcement of arbitral awards. There are very limited grounds to which an award can be contested under Oklahoma law. These may include a lack of impartiality, corruption, or misconduct by the arbitrator; the arbitrator exceeded his powers under the agreement; a lack of an arbitration
agreement or due process violations.6 It is, however important to note, that at litigation before district and appellate courts, the "bar" is set very high to achieve success on these grounds alone.
Summary
Arbitration presents a compelling and timely alternative to traditional litigation, offering party autonomy, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and confidentiality. As legal costs rise and court dockets become increasingly congested, arbitration provides a practical solution for resolving disputes. By choosing arbitration, parties gain control over the decision-making process, ensuring their cases are handled by experts with the time and focus necessary to reach fair outcomes. As the legal landscape evolves, arbitration stands out as a valuable tool for achieving justice swiftly and privately, making it an option worth serious consideration for both practitioners and their clients alike.
6 See 12 O.S. §1874.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Edward G. Lindsey LL.M. FCIArb
Edward G. Lindsey serves as the Director of The Oklahoma Arbitration Center and is a practicing attorney in Tulsa. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 1992 and in 2023, he enhanced his expertise with an LLM in Alternative Dispute Resolution from the University of Aberdeen in Scotland. In
recognition of his dedication to arbitration, he was named a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in 2024.
Mr. Lindsey is admitted to practice in all Oklahoma state and federal courts, the Muscogee Creek Nation, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. His legal focus includes alternative dispute resolution, family law and civil litigation. Ed and his wife, Tara, live in Tulsa and have four children.
Don't forget.... at least two of your 12 credits must also be approved for legal ethics.
VP's Corner Billy Duncan
The Power of Words
A major portion of any attorney’s practice, but an area on which little emphasis is held, is the business of words. We all know that in our legal practice a well-crafted argument can convince a judge or jury to rule in your favor. Or, that speech filled with understanding and empathy can soothe a hostile negotiation and plant seeds of compromise. But, how does this knowledge translate into how we handle our clients, our practice, and our community in everyday life? Did you know, half of the first section of the OBA Standards of professionalism is dedicated to how we communicate? That fact alone should give us pause and create contemplation as to the importance of our words. But do we apply this consistently? We will spend hours preparing for a hearing or drafting an airtight agreement, but how many of us handle our conversations with opposing counsel flippantly or, in a burst of frustration, demeaning the new attorney who made a mistake?
If you are anything like the rest of us, you are busy. We all have hours to bill, motions to draft, and meetings to attend. In the rush of business, you may feel it is not worth your time to invest additional energy into interactions that are not generating profit or solving a problem. Yet, to your own detriment, you are ignoring the potential of word choice, or its absence, outside of a courtroom. From client engagement and management to employee retention and development, what we choose to say has a much deeper and more comprehensive impact than many of us understand.
From our first meeting with a potential client, we begin to set the tone of our future interactions. We can choose to feed their aggression, to tell them of our success, or to educate them on their proposed course of action. While all three may inspire the recipient to trust you with their business, these approaches are not created equally. If you find yourself frequently representing clients that require protracted efforts to de-escalate, you may have developed a habit of feeding a
client’s thirst for conflict. While this may be beneficial from an advantageous position, if your client’s stance begins to appear untenable, you may become the target of the very fire you once fed. My preference is a milder approach. By intentionally calming a client's errant and understandable emotions while clearly explaining processes, expectations, and potential pitfalls, you help your client feel more at ease. This milder approach fosters a relationship where the client seeks your guidance rather than trying to direct you as if you are a puppet wielding a weapon.
I am a firm believer that words have the power to build others up or tear them down. We all remember the saying we were taught as children, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”, is far from any truth – words have power. Typically, our words hold the most power with those to whom we are closest to, which, for many of us, are others within our firm. If you doubt this, a simple search online reveals that a growing number of studies show that the largest driver of a person’s mental health is their manager. I think we would all agree that we do our best work when we feel supported, valued, and respected. The main driver of this is the communication of those with whom we work. Going a step further, I would assert that the communication you choose to allow within your own firm creates the foundation of its very culture. While you alone may not be able to change the culture of your office, doing something as simple as offering a compliment or a kind word of encouragement to a co-worker can have a profound impact.
The most readily apparent example of how powerful words can be is the person reading this article. How we speak to ourselves sets the tone for how we approach life. Speaking encouragement and gratitude to ourselves improves happiness, boosts confidence, and reduces stress. Neuroscientists have shown that speaking affirmations to yourself can even alter the structure and chemistry of the brain. However, the opposite is also true. If we allow ourselves to fall into a pattern of negative self-talk, we can leave ourselves vulnerable to depression and anxiety.
In conclusion, the power of words extends far beyond the courtroom and an eloquently crafted closing argument. By being mindful of our language, we can create positive, supportive environments both professionally and personally. This not only enhances our relationships with clients and colleagues but also fosters a culture of respect and encouragement within our firms. Ultimately, the words we choose can shape our success and well-being, making it essential to wield them with care and intention.
Billy Duncan, TCBA Vice President 2024-2025
LAW DAY 2025 THEME
Law Day is an annual celebration of the rule of law that promotes a deeper understanding of the legal system. The 2025 theme is
“The Constitution's Promise: Out of Many, One.”
Join the TCBA for Rowvember!
The TCBA is excited to partner with Ready 2 Row and offer a complimentary membership to our members in November. Rowing is a low-impact exercise suitable for people of all fitness levels. This full-body workout engages multiple muscle groups, including the legs, core, back, and arms. Classes are only 45 minutes long, making it easy for busy lawyers to fit into their schedules, and R2R’s trained coaches will provide instruction on proper rowing techniques to ensure you maximize the benefits of your workout and reduce the risk of injury. Scan the QR code to view the R2R website for a list of classes, and register for a free membership using code TCBA2024
Incorporating rowing into a regular fitness routine can provide lawyers multiple physical and mental benefits, ultimately enhancing their professional and personal performance.
Regular rowing sessions improve cardiovascular health and help maintain fitness and energy levels during long work days. The rhythmic motion of rowing can have a meditative effect, helping to reduce stress and clear the mind, which is particularly beneficial for lawyers who deal with highpressure situations. Join us after class at 6:45 p.m. on Wednesday, November 13th, for a happy hour. Learn more about rowing, vibe with other members, and enjoy alcoholic and NA beverages and snacks.
Benefits of Rowing:
• Low Impact
• Full-Body Workout
• Stress Relief
• Time Efficient
• Cardiovascular Benefits
LASO SUPPORTING VETERANS
Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma (LASO) is pleased to announce the receipt of two new grants aimed at serving veterans and their families. These grants, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and Legal Services for Veterans - Health (LSV-H), will expand access to legal representation and support for those who have served our country.
The SSVF grant focuses on veterans and can be extended to their families, providing comprehensive legal assistance to address issues that impact stability and quality of life. Advocates working under this grant will help resolve matters such as housing, benefits, and employment. The SSVF program is referral-based through Oklahoma Veterans United, serving veterans throughout the community and 56 counties across the state.
The LSV-H grant serves veterans directly, with advocates embedded in VA medical facilities in Tulsa and Muskogee. This integration enhances coordination between medical and legal care, offering holistic support to veterans. The goal is to provide the fullest representation possible, addressing complex legal matters to restore stability and improve well-being.
Both grants reflect LASO’s commitment to serving veterans by providing critical legal care. These new programs will help ensure that veterans and their families receive the support they need to thrive in civilian life.
We thank Veterans for their service.
For more information, contact Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma.
Happy Native American Heritage Month!
By Marvin Lizama, Chair, Diversity Committee
November is Native American Heritage Month. After decades of attempts by Native leaders, from the Seneca of New York, to the Arapahoe and Black Foot in the midwest and southwest in the early 1900’s, the push for the nation to recognize the significant contributions Native Americans make to this country grew from region to region, and from state to state. Finally, in 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the first Congressional Joint Resolution designating November as the National Native American Heritage Month.1 Since then, similar resolutions have been issued every year.
Amazingly enough, those voices that once echoed in a vast emptiness of deafness are now voices loudly heard—like clapping thunder during an Oklahoma storm—leading the economic impact the Tribes now have on our state. We need only drive around Tulsa to see the impact the Cherokee and Muscogee Nations have on our city on a daily basis. The Tribes’ diverse portfolio of business enterprises, whether in the fields of finance, gaming, or manufacturing, can easily be appreciated by all Tulsans, simply looking at the name on some of the most prominent buildings in Tulsa County. Yes, Native Americans are contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to the local and state economies every day. According
1 https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/proclamation-6230-national-american-indian-heritage-month-1990.
to a 2019 study by Dr. Kyle D. Dean, PhD, Director of the Center for Native American and Urban Studies, Oklahoma City University, the overall total tribal economic impact on the state in 2019 was $15.6 billion!2 The Tribes impact goes beyond employing over 54,000 Oklahomans. It includes direct contributions of over $84 million to local school districts, municipalities, counties, and the state. According to Dr. Dean’s 2019 study, the Cherokee Nation gives 38% of their tribal car tag receipts to local schools in Oklahoma. Moreover, 88% of the Tribes’ direct gaming payments to the state are used for education and directly benefit all Oklahoma students.3
But perhaps the biggest contributions the Tribes are making to Oklahoma presently is their will to preserve, share, and pass-along their culture and traditions to the next generation of Native Americans, to all Oklahomans, and to all the people in the world. So, this November, lets honor the past, celebrate the present, and set the example for the generation of Native American leaders in our communities.
2 http://www.oknativeimpact.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/All-Tribe-Impact-Report-2022-Final.pdf.
3 http://www.oknativeimpact.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/All-Tribe-Impact-Report-2022-Final.pdf.
TCBA HAPPENINGS
Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma
The Community Outreach Committee and TCBA members volunteered at the Food Bank on Saturday, August 24. Participants featured several TU Law Students, including two of our Fellows Scholarship recipients—2L Sunshine Graham and 1L LaCrisha Crawford.
Together, we packed 9,788 pounds of food for hungry Oklahomans.
Sept. 24thBaby on YLD Board
YLD Board President, Lacy Williamson, brought her newest addition to the first meeting at the request of her fellow Committee members.
Sept. 25th–Brown Bag CLE
TU Law Students
Left: Two of the TCBF Fellows Scholarship recipients, 2L , Sunshine Graham and 1L, LaCrisha Crawford.
The Brown Bag series of CLE began again in September with Attorney Kelly Smakal & Judge Richard Hathcoat on “When The Other Side Won't Play Nice.”
CLE Hosted by the Litigation Section
& TU College of Law
“If fish could teach us about fishing, we’d all be better anglers.”
This borrowed wisdom inspired our event with Chief Judge Heil, along with his colleagues Judge Hill, Judge Robertson, Judge Jackson, and Judge Snow. The federal judges shared their insights on federal practice in Tulsa and Muskogee.
With civil jury trials resuming this November, attendees gained essential pointers to navigate the complexities of federal practice. The judges’ expertise left us all inspired and better equipped to do our jobs.
We extend our gratitude to The University of Tulsa College of Law for providing a great venue, to the judges for sharing their time and wisdom, and to all the attendees who made this event a resounding success. Thank you Stephanie Jackson, Esq., and Mark Smith for making this happen. - Mbilike Mwafulirwa
Oct. 10th–YLD Happy Hour
The Young Lawyers' Division had a great turnout at their October 10 Happy Hour at Fassler Hall–Socials like this are a great opportunity for new lawyers and law students alike to share experiences, network, and decompress from the day with other folks who understand the stress and work involved in this field.
Sept. 13th–Coffee & Coworking
Solo/Small Firm Section Members are invited to monthly Coffee & Coworking Socials at coffee shops around Tulsa. NEXT COFFEE &
November 8th 8-11a will be at Coracle Coffee!
Photos courtesy of McKenzie Harrison
Email Blasts and Printed Labels Available for a Fee
The Tulsa County Bar Association offers email blasts for a fee. In addition to emails, we can also provide printed labels if preferred. If you are interested in this service, please get in touch with us for more details. Members can opt out of receiving paid email blasts by updating their accounts under communication preferences. The TCBA does not endorse candidates or products that may be shared in paid email advertisements.
The following criteria must be met for email submissions:
- Emails cannot be used to advertise legal services.
- Content must be positive in nature.
- Emails should not reference any other TCBA member or lawyer and must not disparage any individual.
- Only one email per candidate may be sent per election. Fees:
- Judges: $250
- TCBA Members: $350
- Non-Members: $450
- Address Labels: $450
Gr apevine News
GableGotwals is proud to announce that Chase Gordon and Abigail Hilburn have joined in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, respectively.
Chase focuses on commercial litigation, general insurance defense, and healthcare law. His experience includes litigating complex, high-stakes matters such as construction defects, wrongful death, catastrophic incidents, bad faith, and medical malpractice. Prior to joining the Firm, Chase was an associate at a local law firm in Tulsa, specializing in insurance defense.
He received his J.D., with honors, from The University of Tulsa College of Law and his B.S.B.A., cum laude, from The University of Tulsa.
Abigail focuses on a variety of trial and appellate litigation matters. Prior to joining the Firm, she served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable Jodi W. Dishman of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma and the Honorable Clifford L. Athey of the Court of Appeals of Virginia. Abigail also externed for the Honorable Henry E. Hudson of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Honorable Robert E. Humphreys of the Court of Appeals of Virginia. Prior to law school, she interned at the White House.
She received her J.D. at Regent University School of Law and her B.S. in Western Legal Traditions, with the highest honors, from Liberty University.
Sherwood & Robert Welcome
Kurston P. McMurray to the Firm!
After nearly a decade of successfully serving NGL Energy Partners LP (NGL), Kurston P. McMurray officially joined Sherwood & Robert earlier last month. The firm is excited to bring Mr. McMurray on board, as his depth of experience in both the public and private sectors will further strengthen the offerings to clients.
Mr. McMurray joined NGL in February 2015 and served as the company’s Executive VicePresident, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary since October 2016. Mr. McMurray built the in-house legal functions essentially from scratch to include legal support and direct oversight for all business and commercial transactions for each of NGL’s business units; and Mr. McMurray managed the entirety of NGL’s legal functions as they relate to litigation and dispute resolution, real estate, all facets of regulatory compliance and applicability, corporate
and board of directors governance, capital market transactions, contract management, public disclosures and employment.
“My time at NGL as in-house counsel was the most challenging and professionally stimulating 10 years of my career, by far,” Mr. McMurray said. “That experience made me a much better lawyer and advocate; and I am forever grateful for that opportunity and for the relationships I now have with some of the brightest minds in the energy space.”
Prior to joining NGL, Mr. McMurray practiced law in the Tulsa area for 17 years (since 1998) and was a partner in several firms and a founding shareholder of Wilkin/McMurray PLLC. Mr. McMurray’s private practice specialized in business transactions, real estate, healthcare, banking, corporate governance, corporate management, and commercial litigation. His professional plan has always been to return to his roots in private practice, at the right time and for the right opportunity.
Mr. McMurray explains, “Joining Sherwood & Robert presented itself at that perfect time for me and the perfect time for the firm as well given their recent growth and expansion of services for clients. The foremost reason I left the in-house position and joined the firm was the unique chance to help build upon what Ted Sherwood and Hugh Robert (together with the deep bench of talented lawyers and staff on the team) have already achieved. Sherwood & Robert’s client-focused mission and team-oriented culture perfectly align with my vision of a firm that can provide fulfilling work for our employees and significant value to our clients. I also have a deep desire to help improve Alternative Dispute Resolution in this community having been involved in that process both as an advocate and a client; and look forward to helping Accord Mediation continue providing such an important service to the Tulsa legal community.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.smrlaw.com/
GableGotwals is pleased to announce that Richard M. Cella has joined the Firm as a Shareholder, bringing extensive experience in complex litigation and high-stakes government and corporate investigations. Rick’s legal career spans leadership roles in regulatory enforcement and federal prosecution, where he consistently delivered successful outcomes in major cases.
Rick previously served as Senior Litigation Counsel at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), the largest independent regulatory authority overseeing U.S. securities firms. At FINRA, he represented the Department of Enforcement in intricate proceedings involving violations of federal securities laws and FINRA and NASD Rules. Rick’s expertise in government investigations is further
Gearing Up for Another Successful Thanksgiving!
Lawyers Fighting Hunger will be holding our fall event in November. As a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we strive to combat hunger and enhance food security for those in need across Oklahoma. We are seeking volunteers and donations to help us make this event a success. Your support is crucial in our mission to feed the hungry and provide grants to other organizations that share our goal.
If you're interested in volunteering or making a pledge, please contact Hugh Robert at hugh@smr-law.com. For more information, visit our website at www.lawyersfightinghunger. org.
Thank you for your support in the fight against hunger!
Distribution Event will take place Saturday, November 23rd
underscored by his time as a federal prosecutor in the Northern District of Oklahoma. During his five-year tenure, he focused on white-collar crime, including healthcare fraud, corporate misconduct, and tax offenses. As first-chair trial counsel, he led numerous successful federal criminal jury trials and argued appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.He also spent six years at an international law firm in Dallas, where he litigated complex commercial disputes in both federal and state courts, as well as arbitration proceedings.
“Rick Cella is a respected litigator whose extensive trial and appellate experience is highly relevant to our clients at GableGotwals,” said Trent Shores, Shareholder and Vice President of Talent and Development for the Firm’s Board of Directors. “I previously worked with Rick at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, where he excelled in leading white collar and healthcare fraud investigations. Since that time, Rick gained experience as an enforcement attorney at FINRA. His unique background in both securities regulatory enforcement and white collar federal prosecution makes him the perfect fit for our litigation team. I am proud to call Rick my law partner and to welcome him to GableGotwals.”
Rick received his J.D., with honors, at the University of Texas School of Law and his B.A., magna cum laude at Georgetown University.
Lynn Miller Book Club
Last Call!
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.
DECEMBER 23rd - 27th
CELEBRATE & FUND THE FOUNDATION
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.
2024-2025 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 .............................................................Stephanie Jackson
Past President.............................................................Mike Esmond
President-Elect.....................................................Michael Taubman
Vice President..............................................................Billy Duncan
Secretary....................................................................Shena Burgess
Treasurer..........................................................Mbilike Mwafulirwa
Budget/Internal Operations........................................John Gotwals
Foundation President ..................................................Justin Munn
Director at Large (1) Large Firm.................................Natalie Sears
Director at Large (2) Large Firm................................ Alex Telarik
Director at Large (1) Medium Firm.................................Kara Pratt
Director at Large (2) Medium Firm........................Jennifer Struble
Director at Large (1) Small Firm..............................Mary Clement
Director at Large (2) Small Firm...........................Linda Morrissey
Director at Large (1) Public Sector................. Judge April Seibert
ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan
OBA Delegate..............................................................Philip Hixon
Library Trustee (1).........................................................Julie Evans
Library Trustee (2).................................................... Kim Vojvoda
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............................................................Lacy Williamson
YLD Past-Chair.................................................Colton Richardson
YLD Chair Elect.............................................................Kyle Trice
YLD Vice President...................................................Isaiah Brydie
YLD Treasurer..........................................................Morgan Smith
YLD Secretary..........................................................Kaia Kennedy
FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS
Law Day Chair ....................................................Tana Van Cleave
Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb
Community Outreach Co-Chair...................... Madison Cataudella
Golf Chair................................................................Michael Thelen
Scholarship Chair........................................................Randy Lewin
FOUNDATION
President.....................................................................Justin Munn
Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert
Trustee........................................................................Jim Gotwals
Trustee...........................................................................Ann Keele
Trustee..........................................................................Rick White
Trustee.........................................................................Lizzie Riter
Trustee ..................................................................Chad McLain
Trustee ...................................................................Kara Vincent
Trustee .....................................................................Mike Esmond
TCBA President................................................Stephanie Jackson
TCBA Pres. Elect..............................................Michael Taubman
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Access to Justice... .............Katie Dilks
Animal Law .................................................... ............Katy Inhofe
Animal Law Co-Chair..................................... .........Erica Grayson
Bench & Bar........................................................Kevinn Matthews
Bench & Bar Co-Chair ...........Diana Cupps
Children & the Law.......................................................Lexie Allen
Childfre & the Law Co-Chair .......Michael Nesser
CLE..................................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier
Diversity Development...........................................Marvin Lizama
Diversity Development Vice-Chair ...........Matt Ingham
Fee Arbitration.............................................................Scott Savage
Law Related Education / Street Law.........................Pierre Robertson
Law Related Education/Street Law Co-Chair............ Kara Vincent
Lawyer Referral ............Alan Barker
Mentoring ........Shena Burgess
Mentoring Co-Chair................................................... Natalie Frost
Military/Veterans ......Mitchell Garrett
Nominations & Awards ..........Mike Esmond
Pro Bono................................................................. Shandi Stoner
Pro Bono Co-Chair ......................................... ...............Eric Yoder
Professionalism ............................................... .............Rick White
Membership & Special Events ..........Natalie Sears
Membership & Special Events Co-Chair ...............Kara Pratt
Publications......................................................Rhiannon Thoreson
Publications Co-Chair Madison Cataudella
SECTION CHAIRPERSONS
ADR/Mediation.................................................Open
Bankruptcy ..Hon. Paul Thomas
Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman
Criminal Law .................................................. ............Daniel Levy
Energy & Mineral Law.............................................Buford Pollett
Employment Law ..........Chris Vaught
Family Law Co-Chairs..........................Anastasia Krich-Mahoney ..............................................................................Jordan Dalgleish
Health Law................................................................Shelby Fields
Immigration ................................................................Elissa Stiles
Immigration Vice-Chair ..............................................Karri Payne
Juvenile Law. .................................................. .......Michael Nesser
Juvenile Law Co-Chair..................................................Lexie Allen
Litigation................................Mbilike Mwafulirwa & Mark Smith
Municipal Law..................................................Rhiannon Thoreson
Paralegals/Legal Assistant.......................................Danna Malone
Paralegal /Legal Assistants Vice Chair.....................Sabrina Nitz
Paralegals / Legal Assistant - Secretary.......................Sheri Ward
Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs.........Kelly Jones/ Phillip Jennings
Solo/Small Firm .......................................................Mary Clement
Tax Co-Chairs..............................John Gotwals / Lauren Peterson
Technology ...............................................................Trevor Riddle
Workers Comp...........................................................Valerie Evans
Workers Comp Co-Chair ..........Micah Felton
* Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled
