Tulsa MagazineLawyerMarch 2025
Focus on Well-being
By Ralph Schaefer
A Message from the President Stephanie Jackson
A Season of Growth, Wellness, and Connection
As the warmth of spring begins to replace winter’s chill, we are reminded of the season’s promise—growth, renewal, and fresh beginnings. This is the perfect time to reflect on our personal and professional well-being and consider how we can meaningfully contribute to our Tulsa County Bar Association community. I invite you to embrace this season as a moment for reinvigoration and engagement.
Prioritizing Wellness
As lawyers wear many hats, the demands of our profession can sometimes overshadow the need to care for ourselves.
As spring brings longer days and renewed energy, it’s an excellent opportunity to prioritize wellness. Whether it’s taking a walk in the fresh air, joining a fitness class, or simply carving out moments of mindfulness, small steps can yield significant benefits for both mental and physical health.
Wellness goes beyond physical fitness—it’s also about finding joy and building meaningful connections. The upcoming 2025 Annual Charity Golf Tournament perfectly captures
IT’S SPRING TIME!
this spirit, offering an opportunity to relax, network, and support a great cause. I encourage you to grab a friend and form a team because spots fill up quickly. Even if your golf skills are as questionable as mine, there are plenty of ways to get involved, from sponsorships to volunteering. You probably won’t see me swinging a club, but perhaps our esteemed committee chair, Michael Thelen, will let me cruise around in a golf cart. Trust me—you won’t want to miss the fun!
Supporting the Tulsa County Bar Foundation
The TCBF Golf Tournament is more than just a game—it's a crucial fundraiser that fuels the Foundation’s impactful work within the legal community and beyond. Your participation, sponsorship, or simply helping spread the word plays a key role in supporting our 2025 designated beneficiaries: Coffee Bunker, The City Lights Foundation, and Tulsa Lawyers for Children. Together, we can make a meaningful difference for these outstanding organizations.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, this event offers something for everyone—fun, laughter, and a chance to connect with peers outside the courtroom. Mark your calendar and join us for what promises to be an unforgettable day on Monday, April 7, 2025!
Redefining Leadership in Our Bar Community
Spring is also the time to plant seeds of leadership. Many believe bar leadership means chairing committees or holding formal roles. While these contributions are invaluable, leadership comes in many forms.
One of the simplest and most impactful ways to lead is by fostering connection. Reach out to a colleague, reconnect with an old friend, or invite someone to join you at a TCBA event. Sometimes, a simple invitation is all it takes for someone to experience the camaraderie and enjoyment of
our gatherings—whether it's a YLD event, a committee social, a member appreciation gathering, a CLE, or a committee meeting.
By bringing someone along, you’re not just enhancing their experience; you’re strengthening the fabric of our TCBA community. That’s leadership in action. That’s how we win together, grow our community, and strengthen our bonds of friendship.
Looking Ahead
As we step into this season of renewal, I encourage each of you to prioritize your wellness, get involved in meaningful events, and embrace leadership in its many forms. Together, we can continue building a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive bar community.
I challenge all of us to be intentional about prioritizing ourselves this spring. Just as I encouraged in my September article, I urge you to prioritize self-care, seek help when needed, and take advantage of the resources available through both TCBA and the Oklahoma Bar Association to manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Remember: Together, we win! And together, we can foster a supportive community that values both professional excellence and personal health.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Jackson TCBA President, 2024-2025
Golden Rule Award
2nd Quarter - Jack Brown
Jack Brown is the 2nd quarter Golden Rule Award winner, and the TCBA is pleased to recognize his unwavering commitment to the legal profession and the community. With over thirty-five years of experience in estate planning, probate, and trust law, Mr. Brown has not only excelled in his practice but has also dedicated himself to the betterment of the Tulsa community and the legal profession.
Jack's extensive involvement with the Tulsa County Bar Association, where he served as a board member for 12 years, exemplifies his commitment to advancing the legal field. His leadership as a member of the Board of Governors of the Oklahoma Bar Association and as Chair of the ABA’s Judicial Division showcases his dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation within the legal community.
As President of the Oklahoma Bar Foundation from 2014 to 2015, Mr. Brown played a pivotal role in modernizing the foundation. He focused on fundraising and outreach to ensure
that access to justice is a reality for all Oklahomans. His efforts have significantly impacted the community, ensuring that those in need have access to vital legal resources.
Moreover, Jack’s role as a two-time President of Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, serving on behalf of Tulsa County for 34 years, highlights his profound commitment to providing legal assistance to underserved populations. His tireless advocacy for justice and equality embodies the spirit of the Golden Rule, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award. His actions inspire us all to uphold the values of justice, compassion, and community service.
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.
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.
It's Not Just Luck...
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.
Kathryn Coyle
Stephanie Mitchell
Micheal Nesser
Micheal Taubman
TCBA HAPPENINGS
January 20th–TCBA at the MLK Parade
January 25th– Diversity Day at University of Tulsa
Diversity Committee Update
By Marvin Lizama, Chair. Matthew Graham, Vice Chair.
The Diversity Development Committee is committed to developing diversity within the practice of law. The Committee was proud to participate in the annual Tulsa Martin Luther King, Jr., parade on Monday January 20, 2025. It was a bit cold, but we had a great group of marchers who joined us: members of the TCBA, our President Stephanie Jackson, and the entire TCBA staff, and we had a blast celebrating this special day.
On January 31, 2025, the Diversity Development Committee held a 1.5 hour CLE at the University of Tulsa College of Law’s Diversity Day on the topic of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Diversity Committee Chair Marvin Lizama moderated the CLE and it included panelists the Honorable Sharon Holmes, District Court Judge, and attorney Daniel Gomez, partner at Conner & Winters. Law students, lawyers and legal professionals attended this presentation.
“Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”
~ Mahatma Gandhi
Litigation Section
On Thursday, January 23rd, the Litigation Section hosted presiding Judge Dawn Moody for an Ethics and Professionalism CLE. Judge Moody discussed common ethical dilemmas and professionalism issues observed in court. Topics included maintaining integrity, civility among counsel, and the impact of ethical conduct on judicial proceedings. This session aimed to reinforce the importance of ethical behavior and its influence on case outcomes. Judge Moody also discussed the advent of AI and her own lay perspective on these new tools from a judge's perspective. This CLE had over 40 attendees present!
TCBA President, Stephanie Jackson, Judge Dawn Moody & Mbilike Mwafulirwa at the TCBA Litigation CLE.
Oh Geez, What Did I Just Agree to Do?
By Alexander Price
Chances are you’ve tangled with the fine art of overcommitment. For me, my web of overcommitment took weave when I decided to end my career as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and become a Lawyer. As an LPC, I often worked with individuals and couples on improving their own work/life balance and mindfulness. Clients would learn to define problems, apply coping skills, and practice techniques for processing and overcoming resistance. Beginning my first year of law school, all of my sage advice, coping skills, and techniques seemed all for naught. I found myself involuntarily volunteering for everything from study groups to networking events, all while surviving on a dripline of caffeine, willpower, and what little youth I had left.
As a practicing attorney, what changed? Maybe the quality of coffee, but that’s it. Two weeks ago, I received an email informing me that someone had recommended me to write a “short” article about attorney mental health and wellness due to my experience as an LPC. I proudly and arrogantly accepted the task.
I brainstormed brilliant advice to bestow upon my colleagues to enhance their wellbeing. I scheduled ample time to work on this article, then, the universe had a caustic reaction to my best laid plans. Since committing
to this article, everything that could happen has happened, leaving me here… close to the deadline, thinking about what I should write about. Then, BOOM! I thought of the perfect thing: Overcommitment! So, here we are.
What is overcommitment?
Aside from my most recent personal example, see above, overcommitment is when someone commits to too many obligations at once, which can lead in the short term to feelings of anxiety, exhaustion, and being overwhelmed. If ignored, it can escalate into more long-term issues such as burnout, compassion fatigue, or depression. Symptoms of these long-term issues may include (but are not limited to) constant stress, shame, irritability, increase in the use of alcohol/other substances, health problems, social isolation, loss of joy or hope, and even thoughts of suicide. If you are experiencing these symptoms, I beg you to please reach out for help. A great starting point is Lawyers Helping Lawyers, 800-364-7886, where a Counselor can confidentially help you find your footing and link you with local services for help.
In short, overcommitment is that slow ascent to the apex of a rollercoaster that gives you plenty of time to question your judgment, yet you cannot stop the ascent. Oh, and one small difference… unlike a rollercoaster, this ride
doesn’t end after a few minutes of exhilarating twists and turns. It lasts until you fall off, then it keeps running over you. Ok, maybe I am being a little dramatic, but that’s how I experience it.
Why do we overcommit?
The term “Esquire” has been used regularly as a title for attorneys. Esquire comes from the Latin word “Scutarius”, which means “Shield-Bearer.” To me, the use of Esquire makes sense to describe a lawyer, while it also risks sounding a bit arrogant in modern vernacular. As attorneys, we are in the service industry, being employed to shield our clients’ interests from attack and to zealously assert our clients’ claims to fairness and justice. With a job description like this, I don’t think one would be surprised if more than a few of us were also accused of being “people pleasers.”
Furthermore, our industry is competitive. Attorneys usually work in excess of 40 hours per week. Whether you work for a firm or have “hung out your shingle,” your success, value, worth, and sometimes survival is often defined by the billable hour. We are rewarded for billing more, bringing in more business, making the firm look good, and taking on more responsibilities. The token rewards we receive operate as beacons to maintain our course. Unfortunately, abstaining from additional work is not rewarded with the same tokens. If we don’t get these tokens we fear veering off course. This fear creates our resistance to turning down those additional commitments, such as that trainwreck of a case we see coming, the requests for unnecessary meetings/ phone calls, or that CLE a friend asked you to facilitate. We have conditioned ourselves to hoard these tokens and “deal” with the consequences later.
When does commitment become problematic?
As a lawyer, you can likely argue persuasively, draft ironclad contracts, and have the ability to function adequately in court with less sleep than a college student at Coachella. So how much is too much? Instead of looking at the total amount of your commitments, look at changes in your effectiveness. The early effects of overcommitment are palpable signs that the ship is going off course. These signs may include procrastination, lack of motivation, a poorly written brief, rushed and incomplete research, a missed deadline, a failure of your organization system, or perhaps that accidental “Reply All” that sparked a firmwide rumpus.
Additionally, you may experience changes that manifest at home. For instance, you may feel distant from your spouse, dread going home, isolate, lose interest in hobbies,
or perhaps start to view once joyful family activities as just additional obligations you must fit in when, or if, you can. When these changes are present away from work, it signals that your home life and work life are out of balance.
What can I do?
Just say “No.” When I was under supervision for licensure as an LPC, my supervisor often quipped the mental health equivalent of a “dad joke.” I would describe disturbing symptoms I was having difficulty treating, and he would immediately ask “Have you asked him to just stop?” I realize that advising you to just say “no” to additional commitments is simplistic and much easier to say than do. However, saying no can often be framed in a manner that makes it more palatable or understandable to the requestor. For instance:
I appreciate your confidence in me, but I’m committed to other priorities right now and I wouldn’t want to risk not doing my best. ( a polite “It’s not you, it’s me…”)
Or
I can’t take this on personally right now, but let’s brainstorm and figure out who else would be a great fit. (This is a polite way to help the requester, but also an opportunity to think “which colleague deserves this headache.”)
Define, Prioritize, Communicate, and Delegate. The first step to digging yourself out of a commitment hole is to define the commitments you currently hold. List each commitment, including its deadline, an estimate for the time needed to complete, who it is for, and what the consequences are for failing to fulfill this commitment. Once we have this data in a single place, it should be a little easier to prioritize. I typically use the Eisenhower Matrix as technique to prioritize. This method divides the commitments among four (4) quadrants:
1) Urgent & Important Tasks- immediate;
2) Important But Not Urgent- schedule time for completion;
3) Urgent But Not Important- things to delegate to coworkers, support staff, A.I., or technology; and
4) Neither Urgent Nor Important – see if these commitments can be dropped.
After sorting, I communicate with the holders of the commitments I have in Quadrant 4 to gauge if any of
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these commitments can be eliminated. It is shocking how often we put more importance on a commitment than the person the commitment benefits. A quick phone call can often terminate the commitment with no hard feelings, get a “rain check” issued, or perhaps delay the deadline. Next, I reach out to my support system to see what can be delegated from Quadrant 3. After this, my list of commitments often becomes manageable and less daunting. I am then free to finish Quadrant 1 and 2 tasks.
PROTECT YOUR TIME. You work hard, learn to “call it a day” without feeling guilt or dread. Set times to shut down your computer and enjoy other facets of your life. We are social creatures (pack animals), so spend time with friends, family, or if you’re more of a “dog person”, with your dogs. If you have no other facets, invest in yourself by taking classes, learn something new, try something new, or go somewhere new. Time is a resource you cannot make more of, so be particular, strategic and purposeful in deciding how you spend it. To borrow a formula from the Facebook posts of Cecil Drummond, a highly respected colleague who recently passed: “THOUGHT: If all clients have the right to vigorous and zealous advocacy, why shouldn’t their attorney? THINK ABOUT IT.”
Alex Price became a lawyer after more than a decade of practice as a mental health counselor. He served children, adults, families, and couples while working as a private practice clinician. During this time Alex gained expertise in communication issues and mental health disorders. He also helped clients work through child visitation, therapeutic visitation, and issues of adoption as a clinician. Mr. Price also provided family therapy while managing other counselors as the Director of Development for Daybreak Family Services.
This experience informs his current role as an attorney at law. Additionally, it is what opened his eyes to the need for an attorney with mental health expertise. His practice is governed by this principle, with mental health advocacy taking a front seat. You can always expect personal and understanding care when you turn to The Price Law Firm. Attorney Price was a licensed professional counselor and is a registered attorney in OK. Additionally, he serves on the board of Counseling and Recovery Services of Oklahoma.
Liberty Bell Award Nominations
Deadline for nominations is Friday ~ March 28, 2025
The Liberty Bell Award was established more than 50 years ago to acknowledge outstanding community service. The Liberty Bell is presented to a non-lawyer who has promoted better understanding of the rule of law, encouraged greater respect for law and the courts, stimulated a sense of civic responsibility, or contributed to good government in the community. The Liberty Bell Award is one of the most prestigious awards the Tulsa County Bar Foundation can bestow on an individual or group of individuals.
Nominees may be an individual or a group that has:
• Promoted better understanding of the rule of law
• Encouraged a greater respect for law and the courts
• Stimulated a sense of civic responsibility
• Contributed to good government in the community
Please forward all nominations to Tami Williams, TCBA Executive Director tamiw@tulsabar.com
Previous Recipients
1984 Lois McIlroy
1988 Mary Jo Speaker
1989 Nancy McDonald 1990 Lynn Jones
1991 George Singer
1992 Jill Tarbel
1993 Ha Thi Crick
1994 Steven Dow
1995 Michael Reggio
1996 Marty Mundell
1997 Winona Tanaka
2020 Not Awarded
2022 Michael Willis
2023 Matt Lay
2024 Gwen Freeman
Tulsa Mayor, Monroe Nichols~ 2025 Law Day Speaker
Mayor Monroe Nichols was sworn in as the 41st Mayor of Tulsa on Dec. 2, 2024, serving as Tulsa's first African American mayor. Nichols first called Tulsa home when he began attending the University of Tulsa, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Economics. Shortly after, he received a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Oklahoma. Throughout his career in government, private business, higher education, and the nonprofit sector, Nichols has focused on creating better outcomes for residents. Before serving as mayor, Nichols represented House District 72 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives and served as Chair of the Oklahoma Legislative Black Caucus.
Mayor Nichols is focused on several key areas that he plans to prioritize over the next four years, including ending homelessness, improving student outcomes, expanding economic opportunity, making Tulsa the safest big city in America, increasing affordable housing and improving relations and co-governance with tribal governments.
Associate Attorney for an AV rated, medium sized law firm with a focus on civil litigation. Associates at our firm assist in complex litigation and will meet with clients, witnesses, and experts while attending depositions, hearings and all aspects of trial preparation. Drafting of pleadings, discovery, and motions with attention to detail are primary responsibilities of associates in our firm. We have offices in Fayetteville, Oklahoma City with our main office in Tulsa.
Send resume, cover letter and writing samples to kanderson@tulsalawyer.com.
The Bar Center will be CLOSED Good Friday, April 18
This session covers Judge Jason Robertson’s perspective on pretrial motions, discovery disputes, and case management The judge
attorneys can effectively navigate pretrial procedures
litigation process. Emphasis will be
Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association Ken Brune
By Ralph Schaefer
Ken Brune’s legal career includes a mixture of what some might call federal cops and robbers cases, murder and civil work.
To clarify, Ken worked with a federal judge, district attorney and other legal giants, in addition to serving as a special judge since he graduated from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 1974.
Now, Ken nears his 50th anniversary as a lawyer in both Oklahoma and his native Iowa — that will be celebrated in 2025. He sees no sign of retiring.
And, he has served on various Tulsa County Bar Association committees as well as its president in 2000-2001.
As either a seventh or eighth grade student at St. James Catholic School in St. Paul, Iowa, Ken realized that he understood and revered the ideas of the legal community and a law career was one of the noble professions.
“I was not particularly drawn to medicine nor to a clerical career, so of the three professions, law seemed to be the one that worked for me,” he said.
College followed high school graduation, first to now St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa, then the University of Iowa and graduate school in English literature.
Drafted into the U.S. Army in 1968, Ken’s military career started with basic training at Ft. Polk, La., advanced infantry training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Mo., then to Officer Candidate School at Ft. Benning, (now Ft. Moore) Ga.
Additional training was at Ft. Gordon, Ga., Ft. Sill, Ok., then Ft. Knox, Ky., prior to an assignment to the Panama Canal for jungle training. Then came a year in Vietnam.
Ken’s military training and discipline helped prepare him for law school where he was influenced by “very good” professors including John Hicks, John Hager, Renard Strickland and Law School Dean Joe Morris. Others teachers were Ralph Thomas and Jim Thomas. They were not brothers.
Graduating from the TU law school in December 1974, Ken was hired as a law clerk by Federal Judge H. Dale Cook.
“I became Judge Cook’s first law clerk,” he said. “Chris Ward was the bailiff, but we basically both were law clerks.”
Two years later Ken joined the Tulsa County District Attorney’s office that was headed by S.M. “Buddy” Fallis. Next was the role as a Tulsa County Special Judge, then private practice.
Reflecting on those early experiences, Ken said working with Judge Cook and District Attorney Fallis taught him to be “prepared, prepared and prepared.”
Being involved in the Tulsa County Bar Association helped bring a new perspective about the legal community.
Ken served on a variety of committees and saw the commitment that members took responsibilities seriously.
It was during his TCBA presidency that he saw that true dedication.
"My experience as president allowed me to see the scope, the broad scope of professionalism among the bar in Tulsa County,” he said. “I learned about the enormous generosity, true dedication to professionalism, by the vast majority of members. I learned that while dedicated advocates as
opponents, outside their legal practice they had very warm, big hearts, and were generous with contributions whether with money or time to the community."
Ken has a book of various Tulsa charitable organizations that is over an inch thick and is surprised to see how they are supported, in particular The United Way.
In 1994 he and Jon Neff joined to form the Brune & Neff Law Firm, a partnership that continues after 30 years.
Reflecting on his career, Ken said he was fortunate to get the job with Judge Cook who had just been appointed by President Richard M. Nixon.
At that time (1974), Oklahoma had three federal court districts and Judge Cook, who had jurisdiction over the Northern, Eastern and Western Districts, would go to Oklahoma City to preside, usually the last three months of the year and otherwise to Muskogee. There were civil and criminal cases.
He smiled as recalled a particular bank robbery case that occurred in Helena, in Alfalfa County, about 123 miles northwest of Oklahoma City.
The Helena bank was robbed, but the gang leader was a respected citizen in a Wyoming community.
The first trial ended with a hung jury, Ken said. A second trial was requested and Judge Cook asked the prosecutor, O.B. Johnson, assistant U.S. attorney for the Western District, if he had additional evidence before a jury was empaneled. Assured of new evidence, Judge Cook agreed to the trial.
The initial problem involved questionable identification, he said. The defense said that a barber with an office in his shop was awake when the 3 a.m. robbery occurred, but could not make a positive identification. He saw the robbers break into the bank and were loading money into the get-away
Voices of TCBA
This innovative project, by the TCBA Law Week Committee, aims to preserve and share the rich stories of our members and the history of the Association. Members interviewed are encouraged to contribute their unique experiences and insights, reflecting on their journeys within the legal profession and their connection to the TCBA. Through this initiative, we strive to highlight the diverse voices and histories that shape our community.
car when the sheriff arrived. The sheriff grabbed one of the robbers and threw him into the patrol car. The robber got loose, pushed the sheriff out and fled in the car. The sheriff’s leg was caught in the door and was dragged alongside before escaping.
The sheriff survived the incident. To cast doubt about identification, the driver returned to Helena and had his picture taken with the sheriff who did not recognize him.
“Now came the Perry Mason moment in the trial,” Ken said. “The prosecution called a witness, one of the gang members who had been prosecuted and convicted. He was asked if the defendant was part of the group attempting to and successfully robbing the Helena bank. The witness pointed to the guy at the defense table as the leader of the gang.”
Despite the direct testimony, it took the jury 10 hours of deliberation to convict the defendant.
After two years with Judge Cook, Ken became a prosecutor for the Tulsa County District Attorney.
Fallis was a true, excellent dedicated public servant and ran a very organized office, he said. Fallis tried cases himself. He was part of the prosecution team of Gene Leroy Hart, the accused perpetrator of the Girl Scout group in Locust Grove.
Fallis spent a lot of time in Locust Grove helping put together the case and evidence against Hart. He was decisive as when to prosecute a case and when he did, he was in 100 percent.
About two years later Ken had the opportunity to become a Tulsa County Special Judge.
“I remember that Judge Bill Means gave me a call suggesting that I apply,” he said. “Judge Means said there was an opening and that I would get the job. In the meantime, he also suggested that I call District Judge Margaret Lamm because she was influential.”
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Leading the project and interviewing members is Ralph Schaefer, retired senior editor of the Tulsa Business and Legal News. He has interviewed U.S. Supreme Court Justices and did a series on the Oklahoma Supreme Court Justices. The Tulsa County Bar Foundation and Oklahoma Bar Association honored him with the Liberty Bell Award, the highest recognition for a non-lawyer. Your voice matters, and we look forward to celebrating the legacy of the Tulsa County Bar Association. Let’s bring our stories to life!
The special judgeship work continued for two years, but even as Ken started, he received a call from Fred Dorwart offering him a position with Holliman, Langholz, Runnels & Dorwart.
Ken declined, saying he had just started his new role as a judge. Two years later he accepted the position and entered private practice.
Six years later, he left Dorwart and his firm to begin his own, Brune, Pezold, Richie and Lewis. Officed in the Sinclair Building, they focused on civil work and litigation from 1985 to 1994.
Ken paused and took a deep breath when asked about disappointments he experienced.
“Well,” he said, “if I were to be truthful, I would say that I started my career at the top level of capability and judicial dedication, and over the years I have run into some of the judicial personnel not having that same kind of dedication.”
Looking back over his nearly half century of legal service, Ken said it is energizing to remember he was part of a
bankruptcy group of a New York law firm. He was in federal courts in Delaware, Indiana, Minnesota, Texas, Colorado and Oklahoma.
“I think it (the law career) is a momentum that is pretty hard to break,” he said. “It has the inertia that pushes one into different challenges, the practice of law and legal issues. I haven’t really spent any time thinking about whether the train has slowed down or stopped.”
Ken ran for a Tulsa City Council position and while he didn’t win, he had a good experience and learned the general public is living their lives who are interested in public officials.
“The public is different than the propaganda seen in media ads and campaigns,” he said.
While Ken doesn’t play golf, he has done a lot of running and bicycling.
“That is part of what keeps me fit to continue practice,” he said.
A Season of Renewal VP's Corner Billy Duncan
Spring is here—well, almost! March is the perfect time to embrace the season of renewal and growth. As the days get longer and the weather warms, we are reminded that even in our busy, fast-paced world, there’s always room to refresh and recharge. This month, I want to invite all of you to take full advantage of the opportunities ahead to connect, nurture our wellness, and make an impact, both within the legal profession and in the community we serve.
March brings a sense of anticipation—whether it’s the promise of spring blooms, the energy of new projects, or the opportunity to reflect on how we can improve the way we engage with one another. It’s the ideal time to take stock of our professional and personal well-being, and the choices we make now can set the tone for the months ahead.
In this spirit of renewal, I want to highlight one of the best opportunities for both wellness and community engagement this spring: the Tulsa County Bar Foundation Golf Tournament. This annual event is not just about golf; it’s about connecting with colleagues and supporting causes that are making a real difference in our city. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply looking for a way to enjoy a beautiful spring day with friends and fellow attorneys, this tournament is a fantastic way to recharge, both mentally and physically.
What makes the tournament truly special is that it’s not just a fun day on the green—it’s also an opportunity to contribute to a cause that helps lift up our community. The funds raised go directly to charitable initiatives that support local organizations and individuals in need, and that sense
of giving back is part of what makes this event so rewarding. So, if you haven’t already, I encourage you to sign up, join a team, and enjoy a day that blends service, relaxation, and connection.
Additionally, let’s take this time to reflect on how we are caring for ourselves. Legal work can be demanding, but there’s so much value in investing in our own well-being. From taking walks in the spring sunshine to setting aside time for hobbies and relaxation, wellness should be a priority for all of us. When we are well, we bring our best selves to our work and to the communities we serve.
I am excited to see what this season of renewal brings for each of us, both personally and professionally. The TCBA is a powerful force because of the collective energy, wisdom, and care that each member contributes, and this March, I encourage you to embrace the season of growth in both your practice and your personal life. Whether it’s through participating in the golf tournament, reaching out to a colleague, or simply taking time for yourself, we have the opportunity to make this month one of positive change.
If you have ideas for events, initiatives, or ways to get involved, please reach out. Let’s continue to work together to make TCBA an even stronger, more connected community as we head into the months ahead.
Here’s to a season of renewal and well-being!
Billy Duncan TCBA Vice President 2024-2025
Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association
Jon Paul (J.P.) Ray
A “no” and the game of golf would shape Jon Paul (J.P.) Ray’s life and career choices.
The “no” response was from Bill Ray, his dad, when his 10-year-old son asked for a cell phone.
Golf taught J.P. discipline and life lessons.
That combination proved to be an asset for J.P. while in school when he competed in golf tournaments, earned a college education, and graduated from The University of Tulsa College of Law.
Today, J.P. is an associate attorney at the Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd et. al. Law Firm, a civil litigation firm that handles insurance defense and personal injury cases.
He recently won his first case in the small claims court and settled many others before trial.
While J.P. enjoys his practice with Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd and feels it is a great experience, he also knows that in the distant future, he would like to get involved in some type of elected official capacity, such as judgeship or politics.
By Ralph Schaefer
Originally, J.P. planned to earn a law degree, in addition to his business degree, to go into the corporate world.
Law school changed his mind when he realized how much he could help people. That decision was firmed up during his internship at Atkinson, Brittingham.
He was hired when he completed his studies at TU and passed the Oklahoma State Bar exam in 2022. “I enjoyed the environment and the reputation of the firm,” he said. “I was grateful they decided to bring me on after I graduated.”
J.P. applies the discipline he learned on the golf course to his law practice.
The idea is to leave something better and not get caught in the game of day-to-day work, he said. "That means being fully prepared. The idea is fixing the divot (problem) in someone’s life and leaving it better than you found it."
According to J.P., “Golf also teaches professionalism, attitude, and etiquette as well as the importance of being well prepared and not just showing up.”
There are no attorneys in the Ray family, but J.P.’s grandparents and parents believe in the empowerment of education.
Not knowing attorneys makes it difficult when a person doesn’t know the steps and application process to get into law school, he said. Once a person passes the bar, they find they are in a whole new world. That makes it difficult.
“There is a small percentage of African Americans in the legal profession, but I relate that back to my golf career,” J.P. said. There is a limited number of African Americans in the golf profession.
Realizing he was in a new profession, J.P. didn’t feel that he couldn’t “do it.”
He took the opposite approach that he had been given the opportunity to be where he was and would use it to do the best he could.
Even as he gains experience in law practice, J.P. also takes advantage of Tulsa County Bar Association (TCBA) mentor and leadership programs.
He was introduced to the organization while in law school.
The TCBA had different events, and law students were invited to attend. “It made a difference to meet other attorneys before seeing them on the other side of a case,” he said. “I was able to network and make good connections. I was able to get mentors and get advice through law school.”
J.P., through the TCBA, also got involved in the national Street Law program, which introduces the legal profession to high school students. Students learn about legal and civic knowledge and are exposed to professions and careers that they may have never envisioned possible.
Throughout the past school year, the students learned about trials, from opening statements to cross-examinations to closing arguments. At the end of the year, their mock trial was heard before Tulsa County District Judge Sharon Holmes.
Equally important for students, especially juniors and seniors, is that they learn applicable daily life skills, J.P. said. Skills included understanding a lease, managing finances and credit, what to look for professionally, and the appropriate mindset to achieve goals.
The first time J.P. attended a Street Law School session, he wanted to be a “fly on the wall,” to observe and stay in the background. It didn’t work.
The following week, students greeted him with “Mr. J.P., we are glad you are here.”
He said they saw someone who cared and made a difference to them.
Students would tell J.P. that being an attorney was something they would like to do, and “my parents would say that I am really, really good at arguing and debating so maybe they should consider this kind of thing (legal profession).”
“There is a planting and watering of the seed,” J.P. said. “The kids we see are our portion of planting the seeds.”
J.P.’s personal growth began when he joined The First Tee Program, a national program that taught life skills through the game of golf.
“I got involved in the program when I was about eight-yearsold when my family lived in Tulsa,” he said. Participants received free clubs and could go on the range where they were involved with different mentors and lesson plans. They learned not only how to swing the clubs, but the importance of doing homework and taking care of chores.
When J.P. moved to the Broken Arrow school district, he decided to play competitive golf for the school.
Those efforts paid off with a golf scholarship and a business degree from Central Christian College in McPherson, Kansas.
Education was stressed in the Ray family and J.P. had good examples.
His grandfather, William, joined the U.S. Army, became a paratrooper, and served in Korea. After his Army service, he earned a high school diploma and a college degree and worked his way up the ranks at AT&T.
Dad, Bill Ray, started at FedEx as a driver, then worked his way through the corporate world to become senior manager of this region’s offices.
Mom got her master’s degree when J.P. was young. Everyone stressed the importance of education.
Maybe that knowledge about education and the need for preparation goes back to the “no” a 10-year-old boy received.
Bill Ray loves to tell how he knew his son would become a lawyer.
The elder Ray said “absolutely no” to J.P. when asked for a cell phone.
His father said, “You don’t need a cell phone. No other kid has a cell phone.”
J.P. said, “Okay, Dad,” and was walking away when his father said, “Come back here. People are going to tell you no, and sometimes you have to keep fighting to get what you are looking for.”
“You’re not always gonna get that. But sometimes you have to ask differently.”
A short time later, J.P. returned to his father with another request and received the same answer: " No.”
Undaunted, J.P. took a notepad and listed various reasons for a cell phone. They included letting his dad know that since he was in several sports, he might be at a different place when he came to pick him up. There were all those possible locations where he wouldn’t know where his son was.
J.P. got that cell phone for his 11th birthday.
2025 Preview: Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club
by Martha Rupp Carter
The Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club will be mixing it up, venturing to different times and places in our world as well as one of more fantastical flavor. The Bar is honored to have at least two author events to be conducted in collaboration with Magic City Books.
Attorney and author Richard Hix will discuss his recently published mystery, Nobody Knows When the Truth Goes By, and take us on a spin to enigmatic India. A romp with pirates is next in store in the 2023 Eric Hoffer Book Award Category Finalist written and discussed by Martin Frey, Professor Emeritus of University of Tulsa in his thoroughly researched historical fiction, Captain Hornigold and the Pirate Republic James by Percival Everett, a reimagined vision of Huckleberry Finn, allows new exploration on the Mississippi River.
The remainder of 2025 includes a visit to the U.S. Supreme Court in The Supermajority by Michael Waldman; Norse inspired fantasy in A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen; tradition and family ties through generations in Calling for a Blanket Dance by Oscar Hokeah; humor and humanity in Anxious People by Fredrik Backman; and the alluring Jackson Brodie in When Will There Be Good News by Kate Atkinson.
Book Club Kick Off
Although Book Club usually does not meet in August, a bonus book will be discussed at a surprise destination. The book is Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland’s Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World. What is it I think about those Icelandic women?
2025 Law Day Book Club will conclude in November with participant’s choice of reading one of H.W. Brands’ American history books. Brands is the 2024 Peggy V. Helmerich Distinguished Author Award recipient who is scheduled to be in Tulsa for a book signing on December 5. His Pulitzer Prize Finalist is about Benjamin Franklin’s life and times. Learning why Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a traitor to his class would be fascinating reading as well.
Keep alert for more specifics about Book Club and a detailed schedule of discussions. See you in the library!
Note: Law Day Book Club generally meets at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesdays at the Bar Center, except August and December.
The 2025 Lynne Miller Law Day Book Club kicked off with a lively discussion of "Sisters In Law: How Sandra Day O'Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World" by Linda Hirshman. Hirshman's homage to women legal pioneers O'Connor and Ginsburg detailed their respective backgrounds and pathways to power; discussed their differences and commonalities; and, illustrated their positive working relationship and mutual respect.
Book Club Calendar
March 25 - AUTHOR EVENT
Captain Hornigold and the Pirate Republic, Martin A. Frey
April 22 - James, Percival Everett
May 27 - The Supermajority, Michael Waldman
June 24 - A Fate Inked in Blood, Danielle L. Jensen
July 22 - Calling for a Blanket Dance, Oscar Hokeah
August - No meeting (Bonus meeting for anyone interested, to discuss Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland's Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World, Eliza Reid. Date TBD)
September 23 - Anxious People, Fredrik Backman
October 28 - When Will There Be Good News, Kate Atkinson
November 25 - Book by H.W. Brands, American historian
December - No meeting.
Gr apevine News
Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson, LLP (DSDA) is pleased to announce the selection of Michael S. Linscott as its new managing partner effective January 1, 2025. In this leadership role, Linscott will oversee the firm’s strategic development, operations and continued commitment to excellence in client service.
“We are excited to have Mike Linscott step into this important role,” stated DSDA’s former managing partner Tom Q. Ferguson. “He demonstrates exceptional leadership, legal knowledge from previous law firms, and dedication to our clients. We are confident that his vision will guide the firm to continued success in the future.”
Linscott brings 33 years of legal experience with litigation emphasis across several practice areas including environmental defense, insurance defense, healthcare, construction and real estate matters. Since joining DSDA in 2013, Linscott has played a pivotal role in recruitment, growth and mentoring attorneys to improve the firm’s success.
Linscott received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma and obtained his juris doctorate from the University of Tulsa College of Law. He has shared his skills with the local community by serving on the board of directors for NatureWorks, Inc., the board of the Tulsa Press Club and as the president of the Will Rogers Rotary Club.
In addition to a new managing partner, N. Lance Bryan and Sara E. Potts were elected to serve on the firm’s executive committee, which provides advice on various operations of the firm. Kensey R. Wright was also elected to become the firm’s newest partner.
In Memory of...
John DeBarres
John B. DesBarres, 63, of Sand Springs, OK, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2025.
John began his law career in 1986, and during his nearly forty years of practice, he completed client matters ranging from contracts to complex injury cases for the plaintiff and the defense sides. Starting in 2012, John became a solo practitioner and enrolled as a panelist in the Tulsa County Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Services, where he served as one its most reliable panelists.
John was also active in the Tulsa community. He was a member of the Tulsa County Bar Association, American Inns of Court, Rotary Club of Tulsa, Sigma Chi Fraternity, Delta Omega chapter, the W. Lee Johnson/James Sontag Chapter, Knights of Columbus, and the American Diabetes Association.
ATKINSON, BRITTINGHAM, GLADD, FIASCO & EDMONDS is seeking an associate attorney with zero to five years of experience who is proficient in research and writing. Atkinson, Brittingham, Gladd & Fiasco is primarily a defense litigation firm focusing on general civil trial and appellate practice, insurance defense, medical and legal malpractice, and Native American law. Compensation and benefits package will be commensurate with the applicant’s experience. Applicants should submit a resume, writing sample and transcript to Carol J. Allen at callen@ abg-oklaw.com.
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 Editors - Rhiannon Thoreson Madison Cataudella
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
Children & the Law Co-Chair .......Michael Nesser
CLE............................................................ ...................Open
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 .................................................. .......................Open
Energy & Mineral Law.............................................Buford Pollett
Employment Law ..........Chris Vaught
Family Law ..........................................Anastasia Krich-Mahoney
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
