December 2022 Tulsa Lawyer Magazine

Tulsa MagazineLawyer

Happy Holidays

Philip D. Hixon

A Message from the President 2022-2023

We're in the Giving Season!

The calendar is finally beginning to catch up with the overly eager retailers and satellite radio providers, which promptly began broadcasting Christmas/holiday music on November 1. In the words of that certain famous son of a fictional barber and holiday role model, “Good grief!” Notwithstanding the temptation, this barber’s son has actively resisted listening to an additional four or five weeks of Paul McCartney’s “A Wonderful Christmastime” and Elmo & Patsy’s “Grandma Got Run over by a Reindeer” in favor of enjoying an unadulterated Thanksgiving season. Call me old-fashioned.

In any event, we’re now in the giving season. In this issue of the Tulsa Lawyer, you’ll read about the Association’s lawyers serving others in the community and/or receive information on worthy service opportunities of your own. I recently attended an event where the speaker suggested that people who may be reluctant to accept a leadership opportunity—whether because of lack of experience, time, or other valid reason—may be convinced to participate if the role is, instead, cast as a service opportunity. Same exact role, same exact person, but a different perspective makes

all the difference. The observation makes some sense: we’ve all heard that it is better to give than to receive. Indeed, one could make a compelling case that many “great” leaders achieved success because they were also dedicated servants for their particular organization or cause. One example among many: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Although I have given away the sleight of hand I might have otherwise used to persuade you to accept a disguised leadership opportunity, I nonetheless encourage you to consider accepting one of the Association’s available services opportunities, whether large or small. Ronald Reagan—a contemporary of the aforementioned, now seasonally appropriate melodies—once quipped, “We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone.” I know it’s a busy time of year, but it’s also the giving season.

The Association has a myriad of leadership/ service opportunities of various commitment levels. The Juvenile Law Section and Children & the Law Committee are sponsoring the Holiday Challenge, which will provide support for families involved in the

This year the Juvenile Law Section & the Children and the Law Committee are partnering with Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. (LASO) and the Division of Parent Representation to adopt families involved in our State’s child welfare program. The identified families have been reunited with their children. Your donations will not only provide holiday cheer for these families but also provide support and stability as they move forward.

State’s child welfare program who are being reunited with their children. The Mentoring Committee has revamped it attorney mentoring program and could use some volunteer mentors. The Pro Bono Committee has an ongoing need for volunteer attorneys to assist tenants on the Tulsa County District Court’s FED docket. The Association’s Street Law program seeks to provide at-risk youth with a positive interaction with the legal system with the goal of, among other things, to introduce them to possible careers in the fields of law and law enforcement. Finally, the Association has a couple of open committee and section chairs that could benefit from some dedicated leadership service (and you might get a free lunch or two out of the gig). If any of these opportunities pique your interest, please contact me, the Bar Center, or the committee chair.

Until next year, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Philip D. Hixon

TCBA President, 2022-2023

Learning with Street Law

On October 21st the Street Law Committee held its first lesson with students from KIPP High School. Thanks to the leadership of TCBA members, Pierre Robertson and Kara Vincent, and volunteers from the University of Tulsa College of Law, the TCBA provided a lesson on Traffic stops. The remaining fall classes will include “The True Costs of Crime”, “Rights & Responsibilities During an Arrest”, and “Triggers Skills for Anger Management”. After the winter break, lessons will resume on January 13th .

The Street Law Committee would like to thank Graves McLain for its sponsorship and there are still some sponsorship opportunities available! Contact Tami Williams to sponsor a lesson for $250 or a Unit for $1,000.

OBA Family Law Section Presents: 2022 Judge of the Year Award

Commentary by Kimberly Hays and Shane Henry

Decisions matter to Judge Keele. She knows the parties and their children will be impacted by her rulings for years to follow. She thoughtfully considers each case, each party and the evidence presented. Judge Keele doesn’t make her decisions lightly.

Judicial temperament is discussed often but sets a high bar to obtain. Judge Keele embodies it. She recognizes the big picture. She makes each client and attorney feel heard while at the same time controlling her trials. She efficiently manages her docket.

Judge Keele has dedicated herself to service both on and off the bench. She has served on numerous committees with the Oklahoma Bar Association. For the Tulsa County Bar Association, she served as President, Vice President, Secretary and has Chaired Several Committees. She is currently the President of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. Her actions of service and time giving have long been established.

In addition to her skilled work as a lawyer and now Judge, she is an accomplished legal scholar. As an author, she has been published by the Oklahoma Bar Journal and Tulsa Lawyer in addition to the decisions in her cases. She spends the time that allows her to know, understand and apply the law in her cases.

Each year the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section takes nominations from across the State and carefully selects a Family Law Judge of the Year. The Tulsa County Bar Association is pleased to announce that for 2022, the Honorable Ann Keele has been selected.

Judge Keele was a trial lawyer before her February 2019 appointment as Special Judge for Tulsa and Pawnee Counties. She brings that perspective to the bench. She knows what it is like to be at the table representing a client in a hard case. She understands the difficult situations, clients and cases. She lived it for 13 years as a trial lawyer.

This is not the first time the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section has recognized Judge Keele. In 2017, she was selected as the Family Lawyer of the Year. This award recognized her as the top Family Law Trial Lawyer in Oklahoma. She continues to bring her hard work ethic and excellence in her Judicial Service.

The Oklahoma Bench is full of dedicated, talented individuals. This year as recognized by her peers, attorneys practicing before her and others across the state it is our honor to congratulate the Honorable Ann Keele as 2022 Family Law Judge of the Year.

The OBA Family Law Section also recognized Judge Donna Dirickson, Associate District Judge, Custer County.

Honorable Ann Keele

2022 Oklahoma Access to Justice Summit A Celebration of Innovation

The 3rd statewide Oklahoma Access to Justice Summit was held virtually on October 21 this fall, hosted by the Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation in partnership with the Oklahoma Access to Justice Commission and the Oklahoma Bar Association. The free, full-day event featured over 45 speakers on a wide range of access to justice topics, and inspired the more than 200 attendees to explore new ways to ensure meaningful access for all to the civil justice system.

The day opened with remarks from Professor Carla Pratt, of the University of Oklahoma College of Law, who spoke on the critical importance of diversifying the legal profession. She highlighted challenges, like the ever-increasing cost of legal education, and opportunities, such as alternatives to the bar exam for admission to practice like apprenticeship and diploma privilege.

The Summit featured 8 breakout panels on a wide range of topics including how lawyers and judges can ensure procedural fairness for pro se litigants, how attorneys in practices of all sizes can incorporate pro bono into their lives, the current state (and future potential) of online dispute resolution, innovations and opportunities in rural legal access, the importance of interdisciplinary and holistic legal practices for vulnerable populations, how standardized forms and templates can increase court access for unrepresented litigants, lessons for Oklahoma from three recent studies on the justice gap, and how attorneys can build profitable legal practices that are also affordable to those who need services. These panels highlighted the expertise and experience of attorneys and judges across Oklahoma, as well as guest speakers from Minnesota, Colorado, Washington, DC, Texas, and Illinois.

A few interesting Tulsa-area highlights included Tulsa’s Pansy Moore-Shrier discussing how she currently uses online dispute resolution through her Two Goats Solutions platform, and how she sees it offering an equitable path to conflict resolution outside the courtroom. Gwendolyn Clegg, with the Parent Representation Defense Program at Legal Aid, discussed how lawyers can have a greater impact on the lives of their clients when they work hand-in-hand with social workers and peer coaches for parents facing the potential removal of their children. Kevinn Matthews was part of the panel discussing the importance of pro bono – a natural fit for him as he won the 2021 Solo Firm Pro Bono Challenge last year.

Speakers also heard from outgoing House Minority Leader Representative Emily Virgin and State Senator Brent Howard on the critical role lawyers play in our state legislature. Their honest conversation about the challenges of maintaining a practice while serving was appreciated, and the impact legal training plays in helping ensure laws are passed in a way that can stand up to judicial scrutiny was made clear.

The OK Access to Justice Foundation celebrated the winners of the 2022 Summer Pro Bono Challenge over the lunch hour, with several Tulsa-area winners:

• Solo – Pansy Moore-Shrier

• Small Firm – Eller & Detrich

• Mid-sized Firm – Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson

• Large Firm – Conner & Winters

Also recognized were the first winners of the new Outstanding Student Pro Bono Award, an annual recognition of a law student who has gone above and beyond in their commitment to public service and their community:

• Shawnee Arrington, 3L, University of Tulsa

• Addison Butler, 3L, University of Oklahoma

• Hailee Frazier, 3L, Oklahoma City University

All three student winners will be celebrated on their respective campus later in the year as well.

The day concluded with a candid and inspiring panel discussion on the role a diverse profession plays in ensuring access to justice. Facilitated by Professor Danne Johnson of Oklahoma City University College of Law, the panel included Judge Loretta Radford, Veronica Laizure (Deputy Director for CAIR Oklahoma), Eduardo Gonzalez (Program Office for Civil Justice at the American Academy of Arts and Sciences), and Javier Hernandez (private practitioner in Oklahoma City). They spoke of the importance of supporting law students from diverse backgrounds, as well as steps lawyers, judges, and institutions can take to make the legal profession one which welcomes the authentic experiences of all its members.

The Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation offers the ATJ Summit to highlight both the critical unmet need for legal services for low- and moderate-income families across Oklahoma, but also the many solutions that are available to us and how they’re being implemented both here and across the country. While we still have a long way to go to ensure that all Oklahomans can meaningfully participate in a fair and accessible civil justice system, the work celebrated at the Summit and engaged in daily by nonprofit, law school, law firm, judicial, and community partners helps bring that vision closer to reality.

Did you know?

The National Center for Access to Justice recommends 10 legal aid lawyers for every 10,000 eligible people. Oklahoma has less than one.

Over 800,000 Oklahomans are eligible for Legal Aid’s services – 1 in 5 people across the state.

38 states require courts to accept standardized statewide forms for common issue areas, including uncontested divorce. Oklahoma does not.

The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) found that 92% of the legal needs faced by low-income Americans received insufficient or no legal help.

LSC also found that nearly 50% of Americans, across income levels, did not believe lawyers can help them with their legal issues. And at no income level did a majority agree with the statement “People like me are treated fairly in the [legal] system.”

We can do better.

Arrington Butler Frazier

The Access to Justice Summit was generously supported by several sponsors, including Visionary of Justice level sponsors the Chickasaw Nation and Riggs Abney, Champions of Justice the Oklahoma Bar Foundation and the Estate Planning, Probate, and Trust Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association, and Friends of Justice Crowe & Dunlevy, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Whitten Burrage, the Appellate Section of the Oklahoma Bar Association, and Eric Eissenstat.

Dates are still being finalized for next year’s Summit, but we hope you will be able to join us for another year of learning and sharing. If you missed this year’s program, all the recorded panels are currently available through the OBA CLE library at no cost.

Kat ie Dilks, Executive Director Oklahoma Access to Justice Foundation

A Reason to Celebrate!

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.

If you wish to donate or join the Fellows program, please contact Tami Williams at tamiw@tulsabar.

com .

Timothy Michaels-Johnson Michael Taubman

We value your membership & Happy Birthday!

Sincerely, Philip Hixon TCBA President

2023 Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club Books and Discussion Leaders

The 2023 Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club announces its book discussion leaders and selected books, in time for holiday reading and gift-giving. As is tradition, the book discussion leaders select the books, dates and locations for their discussions. Registration is limited to the first fifteen persons with pre-registration required.

The traditional book club opens in January with Judge Rebecca Nightingale leading discussion of John Grisham’s Suspect on January 19, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at the Tulsa Bar Center. February’s book, Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens, will be discussed with Wendy Drummond on February 7, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. at Drummond Law, 1500 South Utica, Suite 400. Rick Eagleton will lead the March book discussion of In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss by Amy Bloom with date and location to be determined. Larry Yadon will lead April’s discussion of Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann on April 27 at noon at a location to be determined.

Registration is to be made through Judge Martha Rupp Carter at mruppcarter@yahoo.com and is limited to fifteen persons. TCBA members may register themselves and up to one friend to accompany and participate with them. Judge Carter will confirm registration and provide necessary additional details for each session. TCBA members may register for any one or more or all sessions. As requested by previous participants of the Law Day Book Club, this year the opportunity to participate in book club discussions throughout the year, running from May to December following the traditional book club, is offered.

If you are interested, email Judge Carter at mruppcarter@ yahoo.com indicating your interest, and, recommending book title(s) you would like to discuss. The Law Day Book Club members participating in this program will select the books to be discussed and volunteer to be the discussion leaders for each selected book. A meeting will be scheduled in January to select books, determine discussion leaders and schedule dates and locations for these meetings.

Happy reading to all in 2023!

Judge Martha Rupp Carter, 2023 Law Day Co-Chair

January

Suspect, Scott Turow

February

Where the Crawdads Sing, Delia Owens

March

In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss, Amy Bloom

April

Killers of the Flower Moon, David Grann

Register by emailing

Judge Martha Rupp Carter at mruppcarter@yahoo.com

Each session is limited to fifteen persons. TCBA members may register themselves and up to one friend to accompany and participate with them.

January - Suspect

Author - Scott Turow

Discussion Leader - Judge Rebecca Brett Nightingale

Date - January 19th, 5:30pm-6:30pm Locaation - Tulsa County Bar Center

Judge Nightingale began her law school career learning everything there is to know about law school by reading One L by Scott Turow. Fast forward a few years…now Judge Nightingale will be leading a discussion about Scott Turow’s latest book, Suspect Magic City Books has ordered extra copies of the book so that you can support your local book exchange with your purchase. I look forward to talking books in January.

February - Where the Crawdads Sing

Author - Delia Owens

Discussion Leader - Wendy Drummond

Date - Tuesday, February 7 at 5:30 pm, Location - Drummond Law, 1500 S. Utica, Suite 400, Tulsa.

Wendy Drummond specializes in employment and entertainment law. Additionally, Wendy served as CEO of a wireless company for seven years and founded a Human Resources outsourcing company. Wendy is passionate about community involvement and focuses on non-profits serving women, children and the arts

Participants for February are asked to read this article: https://www.theatlantic.com/books/archive/2022/07/ where-the-crawdads-sing-delia-mark-owens-zambiamurder/670479/

March - In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss

Author - Amy Bloom

Discussion Leader - Richard Eagleton

Date/Location - TBD

Richard (“Rick”) Eagleton practices general civil litigation, with an emphasis in Family Law--divorce, separation, custody, visitation, child support, alimony, and complex business and property division, as well as mediation

services. He will lead a discussion of the memoir In Love: A Memoir of Love and Loss, by Amy Bloom in March 2023 on a date and location to be determined.

April - Killers of the Flower Moon

Author - David Grann

Discussion Leader - Larry Yadon

Date - April 27th, Noon

Location - TBD

A Crime Writer’s Perspective

Larry currently serves on the Oklahoma mediation panel of Dispute Resolution Consultants. He has authored numerous articles about the American West and co-authored or authored fourteen books of true crime and military history. Larry appeared in two episodes of the History Channel Series Natural Born Outlaws profiling Pretty Boy Floyd, Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker. A recent Golf Channel segment about the May 26, 1981 murder of Telex CEO Roger Wheeler at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa is the subject of a book being finalized and possible TV series.

Pro Bono Committee Grant Recipient

The TCBA Pro Bono Committee received a $6,000 grant from the Oklahoma Bar Foundation for its Court Assistance Program or "CAP" for 2023. This grant is awarded to entities that provided foreclosure defense services to underprivileged Oklahomans. As part of the Mortgage Foreclosure and Community Redevelopment grant, the TCBA Pro Bono committee can continue its pro bono work at the FED docket while using funds to cover the costs associated with the paralegal work required to keep the program moving. The Committee is also excited to announce that it is launching a new way to encourage more members to volunteer at the docket - by raffling off cash money every quarter to attorneys who volunteer at the docket. Raffle details coming in January! The committee would also like to thank the OBF for its continued support.

THE PARALEGAL'S ROLE IN A PRO BONO PROGRAM

When I first learned that the Court Assistance Program ("CAP") was available at the Small Claims Division Forcible Entry & Detainer ("Eviction") dockets, I was delighted at the prospect of paralegals assisting pro bono attorneys representing individuals who have the immediate need for, but cannot afford to hire, counsel.

To understand my role as the CAP Paralegal, here is a brief history: originally the program was created late in 2010 through a collaboration of the judiciary (Retired Judge Millie Otey), two private attorneys (Jim Proszek and Steve Soule, Hall Estill) and Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma (“LASO”). There was, and still is, a critical need for tenant representation: statistics prove that 80% of landlords who secure evictions are represented by attorneys while only 20% of unrepresented tenants defeat evictions and remain in their homes. Currently in Tulsa County 9,125 eviction cases have been filed; Tulsa ranks 10th in the entire nation for evictions! There are over 2.5 million homeless children in the United States; that equals one child for every city, county and state in the country.

Paralegals are typically employed in standard law firms, assisting lawyers and associates with everyday tasks of preparing pleadings and correspondence, docketing, reviewing records, document control, etc. In a pro bono program there are often opportunities that expand the traditional roles. Because the public sector usually does not require billable hours and are generally funded through grants, there seems to be more flexibility in paralegal roles (especially my position with CAP). Routinely a pro bono program has limited staff and tasks are shared: interviewing, client contact, research, networking with the judiciary, courthouse staff and local lawyers, training, grant writing and community outreach.

In court and out, the pro bono program paralegal's role is a balance of traditional and what I like to refer to as "creative thinking" skills. The traditional ability to comprehend legal documents, to understand legal procedures, to practice complete confidentiality and ethics and to totally focus attention to detail (oral and written) are all essential.

The "creative thinking" or Soft Skills are equally necessary: observation, sensitivity and courtesy, active listening (without interruption), carefully explaining procedures or conveying complex information, developing rapport and trust.

My involvement with the Court Assistance Program ("CAP") began early in 2012. Initially, I only assisted pro bono attorneys by conducting Intakes of potential clients but my role quickly increased to obtaining court files from the Judge's Clerk and reviewing them with the CAP volunteer for proper "notices". Soon the program assigned more responsibilities to me: I conduct pre-docket reviews of OSCN, I research the Oklahoma Secretary of State corporate records to confirm that LLC's (Limited Liability Companies) are in "good standing", and I review Tulsa County property records to verify property ownership and standing to file a lawsuit. All these tasks must be performed each day before the eviction dockets whether there are 10 cases or 150.

During the pandemic and ensuing rent moratorium, my intake was more lengthy and complex due to the availability of Emergency Rental Assistance Program (“ERAP”) funding. From a very stressful

period in all our lives, I made valuable connections to people and programs that are still saving tenants every day. I learned about grants and systems that I never knew existed and that can be instrumental in the future.

The Forcible Entry & Detainer ("Eviction") dockets are still limited, but nearly as much as during the pandemic and rent moratorium. Regular Intake has resumed, and I quickly transfer the court file (obtained from the Judge's Clerk) and the tenant to the CAP pro bono attorney. I immediately advise the landlord/landlord's representative (usually an attorney) the CAP representation has begun, and I periodically update them when necessary. After the CAP volunteer has concluded his/her interview, negotiations with the landlord/landlord representative begin. During that time, I discuss referral materials with the tenant, check scheduling with courthouse personnel or confer with LASO or other attorneys. Eventually, either the parties reach an agreement, Judgment Under Advisement ("JUA") or require a "bench" (non-jury) trial.

If a JUA is executed, I review dates, signatures and components of the pleading before distributing copies to all the parties. At CAP's direction, I developed a "Court Appearance Follow-Up" packet that I discuss

with the client. The packet contains critical vacate/ return dates, Request for Repairs, and Demand for Deposit forms, in addition to helpful renters' hints and assistance contact numbers. At that time, I also provide rental and utility assistance brochures, social service, and 211 handouts that are printed in both English and Spanish. Many times, I direct tenants to the HUB Social Services Program that coordinates numerous resources.

If a bench trial is necessary, I transfer the court file to the Bailiff who requests the setting with the Judge. Then I position the tenants in the courtroom, and, if possible, remain to observe and take notes--a perfect opportunity to learn. When the bench trial concludes, I distribute copies of the Judge's Order to the CAP clients and retain a copy for CAP files and statistical purposes.

Each month, I compile CAP statistics and provide them to Mac Finlayson, Chair, and Aaron Tifft, Co-Chair, of the TCBA Pro Bono Committee, and Tami Williams, TCBA Executive Director. At the monthly TCBA Pro Bono Committee Meeting, I report the monthly and year-to-date statistics. The statistics are very helpful for CAP records, grant applications and community education.

Continued on next page...

JOIN US!

Paralegal Section Meeting

The

Mac Finlayson, Chair of the TCBA Pro Bono Committee, developed a 1 hour free CLE training video that included a brief portion of my role as the CAP Paralegal. Participating in the live and recorded training presentations has provided amazing networking opportunities with judges, private and corporate law firms, neighboring bar associations, non-profits and TU Law School.

Mac Finlayson, Chair of the TCBA Pro Bono Committee, also produced an extensive Eviction Defense Manual that is avaialble as a "bench book" by local judges. To be involved in that project, even on a very limited basis, was tremendously educational and informative.

Community Outreach is not normally associated with paralegals, but CAP affords me incredible opportunities for learning and growth. Working with Tulsa Housing Solutions, the Landlord-Tenant Resource Center, The HUB, OK Access to Justice Director Katie Dilks who continuously updates CAP and the TCBA Pro Bono Committee on legislative issues and reforms and the White House Summit on Eviction Prevention are all a direct result of my paralegal role in a pro bono program, specifically CAP.

I am humbled, honored and grateful to have been allowed to continue in this evolving "paralegal role" serving the Court Assistance Program for over a decade!

Elizabeth H. Nellis, ACP CAP Coordinator TCBA Paralegal Section , Charter Member

PARALEGAL SECTION MISSION STATEMENT

To promote the advancement of the paralegal profession; to provide ac cess to information and education for and about paralegals; and to provide a forum for paralegals, attorneys, educators, students, corporate and government professionals to become aware of and involved in, the parale gal profession.

PARALEGAL SECTION THINGS TO KNOW...

MEMBERSHIP PERKS AND BENEFITS

• Advanced and specialized CLE at membership rates

• Ability to join other TCBA practice sections for only $15.00

• Networking opportunities with attorneys and with fellow paralegals

• Roundtable discussion on trending topics with recognized paralegals and attorneys in the field

• Attendance at free seminars put on by the Tulsa County Bar Association

• TCBA members have access to free CLE courses up to around 60 hours annually

• CLE by practicing attorneys on various topics

• Pro/bono/volunteer opportunities in the local legal community

GOALS TO ACCOMPLISH OUR OBJECTIVES:

1. Establish and enhance working relationships between paralegals and attorneys within the Tulsa County Bar Association;

2. Establish and enhance working relationships between paralegals and the legal, government, and business communities;

3. Encourage attorneys to utilize qualified paralegals in all practice areas in order to lower costs and to improve the quality of service to clients;

4. Involve paralegals in the formulation of guidelines affecting the development and growth of the profession;

5. Encourage paralegals to participate in continuing legal education;

6. Provide a forum for the exchange of ideas regarding matters of professional interests;

7. Serve as a resource center for career and educational opportunities and information to paralegals, legal administrators and the public in general; and

8. Promote camaraderie among paralegals within the community.

Lawyers Helping Lawyers

Oklahoma City Meetings 6-7:30 p.m. on the dates listed below.

In-person meetings in Oklahoma City are held at the office of Tom Cummings, 701 NW 13th St., Oklahoma City. The group will also meet virtually at the same time using BlueJeans. Email debraj@okbar.org for login information. Meeting Date: Dec. 1.

Tulsa Meetings are held 5:30-6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the office of Scott Goode, 1437 S. Boulder Ave., Ste. 1200, Tulsa. scottbgoode@gmail.com Meeting Date: Dec. 8.

Judicial Forum

The TCBA held a Judicial Forum featuring Judge Tanya Wilson and Kevin Gray on Tuesday, November 1st in the downstairs conference room. The event was also live streamed on the TCBA Facebook page for the public to view. Judith Nole, Development Director with Tulsa Public Radio moderated the program.

The BeHeard Movement

On Oct 29th, TCBA members came together to support the BeHeard Movement. Volunteers assisted by cleaning the shower stalls and laundry room, organized the clothes closet and created hygiene packs for future clients. Thank you to these volunteers: Emily Duensing, Danna Malone, Lynn Moore, Danna Malone, the John and Kara Pratt Family, Morgan Smith, Alex Smithley, Jordan Jones, Jen Schooley, Gracey Holstein, and George Myring, and Elisha and Gabriela Hill. Thank you to these donors: Jones, Gotcher & Bogan, Smiling, Smiling & Burgess, Maureen Knudson, Emily Duensing, Wyn Dee Baker, Morgan Jones, Katy Inhofe, and Tami Williams.

Pictured Below are TU Law Students: Jen Schooley, Cheyenne Barnard, George Myring, Grace Holstein and Morgan Mann

TAKEN

GOLDEN RULE

Golden Rule Award 1st Quarter

Curtis J. Shacklett

Although Curtis J. Shacklett has been a fixture in the Tulsa legal community for many years, he came to the law as a second career. He graduated from the University of Tulsa, where he met and married his sweetheart Marion. After college, they served for several years with Cru (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ) as part of the campus ministry to students at Vanderbilt University and other colleges in Tennessee. For four years, following, he taught learning disabled teenagers in a private specialized residential school in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Finally, he returned to his alma mater to obtain a law degree and has been in the private practice of law for over 43 years.

Through his personal and professional experiences, Curtis became a resource not only to his clients, but to other attorneys who had questions about planning for family members with special needs and uniquely-abled adults. He is a calm presence and has spent years developing a thriving practice. He has a well-known reputation of providing guidance to clients who are often facing difficult decisions.

When asked about Curtis, Robert Bartz stated, “Because he cares so deeply for his clients and their needs, his clients are loyal and feel more like ‘family’ than just clients.” And, even though the outcomes for his cases may not always end up as he would like, he is professional, kind, truthful, fair, and he has a great deal of integrity.

Additionally, Curtis doesn’t just assist his clients. He has been a mentor to many attorneys, and, without being overbearing, he works hard to share his knowledge with anyone who needs his help. He is always willing to provide guidance and is never judgmental against anyone who is seeking to learn. Bartz went on to say, “He has demonstrated the highest degree of professionalism and integrity. The trust officers with many of the trust departments of financial institutions in this state often call upon him for his advice. He is recognized as the premier expert in the area of special needs trusts.”

His integrity and desire to mentor have also garnered the respect and loyalty of his long-time legal assistants. Terri Wallace, who has worked with Curtis Shacklett for over twenty years, explains, “Curt always encouraged me to think critically and ask questions. He offered me a safe place to ask those questions, to make suggestions, to push back, and to challenge things when I disagreed.” And Erin Williams, who has worked with Curtis for over ten years, expressed immense gratitude for Curt’s wisdom, guidance, and understanding. “He is beyond a supervisor; he is a teacher.” Both Terri and Erin agree that his guidance extends beyond the walls of the office, and they have been inspired and blessed to watch him quietly living his faith.

Curtis has retired as of September 1st and has shifted his practice over to Stephanie Mitchell. However, he is still consulted when difficult questions arise, and he is always willing to lend guidance or insight when needed. Stephanie had this to say about Curtis, “Curtis Shacklett is, and has long been considered the gold standard in estate

1: capitalized G&R : a rule of ethical conduct : do to others as you would have them do to you 2: a guiding principle

Award Criteria

The Golden Rule award is given to lawyers who make outstanding contributions to their professions, have the highest of ideals, and are willing to mentor to those with less experience. Criteria for Award:

1. Recognizes the ethical and professional obligations as an officer of the court, as well as the spirit and intent of the Rules of Professional Conduct.

2. Practices ethically and honestly and is true to his/her word.

3. Strives for the traditional goals of moral excellence.

4. Exhibits the highest standards of fairness and integrity.

and special needs planning. Because of his servant’s heart and dedication to excellence, his clients have enjoyed his vast knowledge and skill for all these years. It’s has been a remarkable privilege to train and practice under his tutelage. He has earned a rich retirement and I wish him a wonderful road ahead doing whatever he wants to do!”

Curtis truly embodies every one of the criteria for the Golden Rule Award and the Tulsa County Bar Association is proud to name him the 1st Quarter recipient of this award. Congratulations, Curtis!

5. Sets a model example for conduct with members of the Bar and the Judiciary, not only by words but more importantly deeds.

6. Is civil, courteous and respectful towards the court and his/ her opponents.

7. Is loyal to his/her client without trickery and deception and without using abusive practices or misleading the court or opposing counsel.

8. Avoids the temptation to make his/her client’s case into a personal vendetta.

9. Conducts himself/herself in a manner that improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public.

Community Outreach in Action

TCBF Community Outreach sponsored the purchase of two trees through Tulsa Park Friends for Lacy Park this summer and those were recently planted. By purchasing the trees , one red maple and one lacebark elm, through park friends. They will be maintained by the City of Tulsa’s Park and Recreation Department

In time, these trees will also provide shade around the park for generations of Tulsans to come.

Leadership Academy

The Leadership Academy held its first session which included a networking dinner hour with Tulsa County Court Presiding Judge Doug Drummond and the new Tulsa County Courthouse Administrator, Kim Hall.

After dinner, students engaged in a one-hour CLE on wellness led by attorney and registered nurse, John Lieber, Attorney Allen Barrow and Dr. Jill Warnock.

The purpose of the YLD Leadership Academy is to accelerate leadership development for the future of the Bar Association and the community.

Participants will learn leadership and non-profit board skills; develop professional networks; receive up to 3 hours of CLE credit and assist in the development of an autonomous YLD program and identify exciting goals for its future.

“Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be.”

― Ralph Waldo Emerson

The Military and Veterans Committee 28 DAY FITNESS CHALLENGE

Benefitting the Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court

They say it takes anywhere from 21 to 28 days to form a new habit. The 28-Day Fitness Challenge is a commitment to making physical health a priority. There are no rules or stipulations around how you should or can do that. The purpose of this challenge is to help give participants the opportunity to set healthy goals, maintain momentum and motivation and to provide accountability for those who dare to participate. This challenge is also an opportunity to recognize and honor the continued success and commitment the Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court has provided to so many of our veterans over the last 14 years.

ABOUT THE CHALLENGE!

The 28-day Fitness Challenge will officially kick-off on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2022. Registration for the event began mid-October, and participants may continue to register until December 9, 2022. After December 9th, registration for the event will be closed. The Fitness Challenge itself will consist of 5 different physical challenges (push-ups, sit-ups, burpees, planks, and a walk/run/combo) each with a varying level of difficulty depending on your current fitness level, and each increasing in intensity over the course of 28 days. Participants can elect to do any or all of the challenges, there are no restrictions as to what or how much you have to do. The goal is simple- make it through your 28 days.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Registration is $30 per person, and you can sign-up online at www.tulsabar.com or by contacting TCBA Staff at 918-584-5243.

Proceeds will benefit the Tulsa Veterans Treatment Court and all registrations will receive a #TCBAVETS 28 Day Fitness Challenge t-shirt while supplies last.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I SIGN UP?

Following registration, you will receive 28day calendars for all 5 of the events, each listing the daily exercise goal you should try to accomplish. Again, you can do as many of the challenges as you want. You are encouraged to post pictures and/or videos of your daily challenge experience directly to the TCBA’s social media using the tag #TCBAVETS. This will be a great way to share your daily success, encourage and support others, and help spread the Fitness Challenge online. So be sure to tag your friends!

Veterans Day Parade Participation

TCBA float made by the TCBA Military & Veterans Committee.

TCBA MINERAL LAW SECTION NEWS

“The Pros & Cons of the Energy Transition”

Energy & Mineral Law Section Meeting

Wednesday, 12-7-22

Please note: Any member of the Tulsa County Bar Association, including any student member, is welcome to attend. Each member of the Section is welcome to bring a guest, provided RSVP’s are received. (A meal charge of $30 will apply to any attendee who is not a member of the Energy & Mineral Law Section. The Section will cover half of the meal charge for any current law student who attends as a guest of a Section member. Each Section member attending will receive one hour of CLE credit. Guests will not receive CLE credit.

Seating is limited. Please RSVP online or via phone with the TCBA by 4:30p Monday, December 5, 2022.

Buford Boyd Pollett, J.D., Chair

Presented by TU School of Energy Director Tom Seng & Hosted by the TCBA Energy & Mineral Law Section

Summit Club, 31st Floor, Bank of America Building corner of 6th & Boulder. The lunch buffet will be open for uninterrupted dining between 11:25a to 12p and the presentation will begin promptly at noon with a Q&A to follow.

** The parking entrance is on Boulder and validated parking will be provided at the luncheon sign-in desk.

About Tom Seng, MBA:

Director of School of Energy Economics, Policy and Commerce

In addition to his instructional duties as Mervin Bovaird Professor of Energy Business, Mr. Seng serves as Director of the School of Energy Economics, Policy and Commerce, with primary responsibilities for coordinating undergraduate and, graduate, programs. He has more than 30 years of experience in the oil & gas industry, primarily in the midstream sector, and 14 years of experience as an adjunct instructor for various universities. His primary expertise lies in the areas of energy markets and commodities trading, but he is well versed in industry aspects of supply chain and logistics, particularly as they apply to the midstream oil and gas sector and the power sector. Prior to joining The University of Tulsa, Mr. Seng served as Manager of Product Marketing for Superior Pipeline, Senior Director for Market Development at Atlas Pipeline Mid-Continent, Senior Director for Commercial Operations at Ozark Gas Transmission Company, West Region Director and Director of Risk Services at ONEOK Energy Services, and Midcontinent Manager at PanEnergy Trading.

Education:

PhD Candidate – Robert Gordon University MBA – Robert Gordon University EdD – Maryville University

BS – The State University of New York https://faculty.utulsa.edu/faculty/tom-seng/

Grapevine News

The Tulsa law firm of Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd, Fi asco & Edmonds announces that Ryan J. Gray has joined the firm as an associate.

Ryan J. Gray graduated with honor from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2011, after earning a B.A. in English Literature from Northeastern State University. While in law school, Ryan earned a Sustainable Energy and Resources Law Certificate and received CALI Awards in Administrative Law and Taxation of Estates, Trusts, and Gifts.

Ryan is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association and currently practices in civil litigation with an emphasis in research and writing.

Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson, LLP (DSDA) is pleased to announce our selected attorneys who have been honored in the 2022 Oklahoma Super Lawyers® list. Each year, only 5 percent of the lawyers in the state are honored in the Super Lawyers® list and no more than 2.5 percent are named to the Rising Stars list. A special congratulations to Moura A.J. Robertson who was consecutively named to the Top 25: 2022 Women Oklahoma Super Lawyers® and the Top 50: 2022 Oklahoma Super Lawyers® lists.

Super Lawyers

William C. Anderson – Environmental

Christian D. Barnard – Family Law

Jon E. Brightmire – Appellate

N. Lance Bryan – Construction Litigation

Lewis N. Carter – Business Litigation

H. Wayne Cooper – Mergers and Acquisitions

Nathan S. Cross – Land Use/Zoning

George W. Dahnke – Business Litigation

S. Douglas Dodd – Media/Advertising

Tom Q. Ferguson – Business Litigation

Linda C. Martin – Environmental Litigation

J. Patrick Mensching – Business Litigation

Moura A.J. Robertson – Family Law

Top 25: 2022 Women Oklahoma Super Lawyer +

Top 50: 2022 Oklahoma Super Lawyers Lists

Moura A.J. Robertson – Family Law

Rising Stars:

James R. Bullard – Family Law

Rebecca D. Bullard – Employment and Labor

Brian M. Keester – Construction Litigation

Kaylee Davis‐Maddy – Health Care

Sara E. Potts – Employment Litigation Defense

Kensey R. Wright – Family Law

Riggs Abney Law Firm announces Abi gail E. Bauer has joined the firm as an associ ate attorney in its Tulsa office.

Bauer obtained her Juris Doctor from The University of Tulsa College of Law in 2022. She graduated with honors from The University of Tulsa, where she also served as the president of the Sports and Entertainment Law Society and received the CALI Award for the highest individual performance in the subject of Computer Crime. She received her bachelor's degree in English from the University of Oklahoma in 2019.

Riggs Abney Law Firm announces Angela Smoot has joined the firm as a Shareholder in its Tulsa office. Ms. Smoot is a highly soughtafter resource in the appellate field, guiding her clients as well as those referred by other law firms through the appellate process. Her experi ence includes brief writing and oral arguments for all types of civil litigation, including family and domestic cases with complex business issues. She has numerous published state and federal appellate opinions. Ms. Smoot obtained her Juris Doctor from The University of Tulsa College of Law in 2004, where she graduated with honors. She received her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The University of Tulsa. She is ad mitted to practice law in the state of Oklahoma, the Northern Dis trict of Oklahoma, the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Western District of Oklahoma, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. She is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association and the Tulsa County Bar Association. She is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Appellate and Family Law Sections.

Graves McLain Law Firm founding partners Dan Graves and Chad McLain are pleased to announce that Rachel E. Gusman has become an equity shareholder of the firm. Rachel began working for the firm as a law stu dent clerk in 2006.She became an attorney with the firm in 2008 after successfully receiving her Juris Doctorate with Highest Honors from the University of Tulsa. From the very beginning, Rachel has demon strated a level of skill, attention to detail, professionalism and zeal ous advocacy rarely found.Rachel handles all types of cases involv ing personal injury including medical negligence, trip and falls, dog attacks, semi-truck and trailer and auto crash cases involving serious injury and death. She has successfully represented thousands of in jured Oklahomans and recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. Dan Graves said, “We are so proud to have Rachel as an equity shareholder in our firm. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of the firm’s clients for years and has earned this position.”

Super Lawyers has named 38 Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys to the publication’s 2022 list of Oklahoma Super Lawyers and Ris ing Stars.*

Six Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys received special recognition. William H. Hoch III was named to the publication’s Top 10 Oklahoma Super Lawyers list. LeAnne Burnett, Tara A. LaClair, Judy Hamilton Morse and Karen S. Rieger were listed as Top 25 Women Oklahoma Super Lawyers. Hoch, Morse and John M. Thompson were ranked in the Top 50 Oklahoma Super Lawyers list.

Twenty-seven of the firm’s attorneys were recognized by the publication as Oklahoma Super Lawyers and 11 additional attorneys were named Rising Stars.

The following Crowe & Dunlevy lawyers were selected for inclusion in the 2022 Oklahoma Super Lawyers publication:

Zachary W. Allen - Real Estate

Elliot P. Anderson - Business Litigation

LeAnne Burnett - Environmental

Adam W. Childers - Employment Litigation: Defense

Leonard Court - Employment & Labor

Mark A. Craige - Bankruptcy: Business

Harvey D. Ellis, Jr. - Appellate

Eric S. Fisher - Business/Corporate

Jimmy K. Goodman - Alternative Dispute Resolution

Kevin D. Gordon - Health Care

John J. Griffin, Jr. - Energy & Resources

William H. Hoch - Business Litigation

Tara A. LaClair - Securities Litigation

Michael S. Laird - Real Estate

Michael McBride III - Native American Law

D. Kent Meyers - Antitrust Litigation

Judy Hamilton Morse - Business Litigation

Clyde A. Muchmore - Appellate

Michael R. Pacewicz - Business Litigation

Karen S. Rieger - Health Care

Malcolm E. Rosser IV - Real Estate

Timila S. Rother - Business Litigation

Randall J. Snapp - Employment & Labor

David M. Sullivan - Intellectual Property

John M. Thompson - Business Litigation

Mary H. Tolbert - Antitrust Litigation

L. Mark Walker - Energy & Resources

The following Crowe & Dunlevy attorneys were selected for inclusion in the Oklahoma Rising Stars 2022 publication:

Zane T. Anderson - Closely Held Business

Drew A. Cunningham – Real Estate

Tim J. Gallegly - Business Litigation

Anthony Hendricks - Administrative Law

Andrew E. Henry - Business Litigation

Kari Hoffhines - Banking

Allen L. Hutson - Employment Litigation: Defense

Paige A. Masters - General Litigation

Melanie Wilson Rughani - Appellate

Evan G.E. Vincent -Business Litigation

Evan Way – General Litigation

*Crowe & Dunlevy has no input in the rating methodologies used by Super Lawyers.

Jon Starr Mediator and Arbitrator Contact DRC for scheduling 918-382-0300

Riggs Abney Law Firm announces Tyler A. Stephens has joined the firm as an associate attorney in its Tulsa office. Stephens obtained his Juris Doctor from The University of Tulsa College of Law in 2022. He graduated in the top 15% of his class from The University of Tulsa, where he made the Faculty Honor Roll and served as business manager of the Tulsa Law Review and president of the Public Interest Board.Stephens also received the Martin H. Belsky Award in Public Interest Law and the CALI Award for the highest individual performance in the subject of Administrative Law. He received his bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona in 2019.

Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & An derson, LLP (DSDA) welcomes Abby L. Lamprecht-Jones. She will be work ing in the firm’s Tulsa office as an associ ate attorney.

Abby’s primary practice focus is family law, which includes legal separation matters, divorce disputes, the division of property and debts, alimony and child support payments, child custody cases, and guardianship matters. Excelling with honorable distinctions, Abby has been recognized by the Oklahoma Bar Association as the Family Law Student of the Year. Additionally, she has been honored with the CALI Excellence for the Future Award in Family Law.

Abby earned her Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa College of Law and was included on the Dean’s Honor Roll for being an outstanding academic student. Previously, she attended Oklahoma State University and obtained her undergraduate degree in Child and Family Services with a focus on developmental psychology.

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 Ext. 1001

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 ......................................................................Philip Hixon Past President...............................................................Kara Vincent

President-Elect............................................................Mike Esmond

Vice President......................................................Stephanie Jackson Secretary....................................................................... Lizzie Riter

Treasurer.............................................................. Michael Taubman

Budget/Internal Operations.........................................Austin Birnie Foundation President ............................................Hon. Ann Keele Director at Large (1) Large Firm.................................Natalie Sears Director at Large (2) Large Firm.......................... Austin Birnie Director at Large (1) Medium Firm..................................Kara Pratt Director at Large (2) Medium Firm.................. Jennifer Struble Director at Large (1) Small Firm.................................. Mark Smith Director at Large (2) Small Firm...........................Linda Morrissey Director at Large (2) Public Sector.........................Hon. Ann Keele ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan OBA Delegate................................................................Rick White Library Trustee

Hon. Doug Drummond

FOUNDATION

President.................................................................Hon. Ann Keele

Foundation Vice President...........................................Justin Munn

Treasurer......................................................................Philip Hixon Trustee.................................................................... Hon. Ann Keele

Trustee........................................................................ Justin Munn Trustee......................................................................... Philip Hixon Trustee...........................................................................Lizzie Riter

Trustee.......................................................................Chad McLain Trustee ......................................................................Jim Gotwals Trustee Catherine Hoopert Trustee................................................................ Michael Taubman

TCBA President......................................................Philip D. Hixon TCBA Pres. Elect.......................................................Mike Esmond

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

Access to Justice..........................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Animal Law ..........Katy Inhofe Bench & Bar Kevinn Matthews Children & the Law....................................................Lizzie Riter Children & the Law Vice Chair..........Timothy Michaels-Johnson CLE...............................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Diversity Fee Arbitration............................................................Gary Crews Law Related Education......................................Kimberly Moore Lawyer Referral .......Karen Wilkins

Membership Services....................................................Kara Pratt Mentoring ........................................................ ......Shena Burgess Military/Veterans

...Mitchell Garrett Military/Veterans Co-Chair Hon. David Guten Nominations & Awards ........Kara Vincent Pro Bono............................................................... Mac Finlayson Pro Bono Co-Chair......................................................Aaron Tift Professionalism ...........Rick White Public Relations....................................................Steve Layman Social Media.................................................... ....Collaborative Special Events

.......Natalie Sears Street Law

..............Co-chairs

Robertson , Kara Vincdent Tulsa Lawyer Michael Taubman

SECTION CHAIRPERSONS

Chief Judge, U.S. District Court

John F. Heil, III Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court..........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister TU Law School Student Representative .. Stephanie Acquario FOUNDATION