Tulsa County Bar Association 1446 S. Boston Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119
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Building Our Future
May 2015
Tulsa L awyer M agazine
The Official Publication for the Tulsa County Bar Association, Inc.
D. Kenyon (“Ken”) Williams, Jr.
A Message From the President Canadian Artillery Brigade as a surgeon in the Second Battle of Ypres, Belgium, and penned this poem in May 1915 after losing a comrade and former student. Major McCrae was not pleased with what he had written and discarded the poem but a fellow officer rescued the poem and sent it to newspapers in England, where it was published. The inspiration for the visual images was wild poppies that spring up in ditches in this part of Europe in the spring.
IN FLANDERS FIELDS THE POPPIES BLOW… Between the crosses, row on row That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields. As my lovely bride would be the first to tell you, Tulsa University’s Petroleum Engineering School did not expose me to much poetry nor is it one of my passions today. However, this particular poem has always haunted me with its simple phrasing and evocation of a terrible battle. In World War I, Major John McCrae served in the May 2015
One of the challenges of living through “history” is to recognize it as it passes. As a child growing up in the 1950’s and 1960’s, I remember our local American Legion selling red silk poppies as a fund raising effort in my hometown of Skiatook. I do not recall making any connection between those red silk poppies and the deeply held appreciation that my community had for the sacrifices of our military. Nor do I recall making the intellectual connection between those sacrifices and what was then called “Decoration Day.” (It was not until much later in life that I learned that In Flanders Fields was the inspiration for the Veterans of Foreign Wars red silk poppies sales and that those items had been hand-made by veterans as a source of income for hospitalized and disabled veterans.) For me, Decoration Day was a trek to a small cemetery near Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where my mother’s family shared maintenance responsibilities for a private cemetery where many of my mother’s family were buried. We dutifully “decorated” graves with flowers and spent time as a family remembering those who were no longer with us. This event was an extended family gathering that amounted to an annual family reunion and picnic at this very modest rural cemetery. My mother’s family did not have a strong military tradition and my father’s family did not speak of their service in World War I and II, which may be why I did not make the connection in my early years. 1
As I became involved in Boy Scouts, my adult leaders, who were ex-military, did a much better job of making the connection between Decoration Day and the sacrifices of fallen United States military men and women. But even then, I did not hear much about the history of Decoration Day. The tradition of remembering and honoring military dead can be traced back into ancient times. Over 24 centuries ago, an Athenian leader, Pericles, wrote of fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War: “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not in stone but in the hearts of men.” Here in the United States, there is a robust debate about which community can lay claim to the first Decoration Day. What is undisputed is that Decoration Day grew out of the aftermath of our Civil War. On May 5, 1868, just three years after the conclusion of the Civil War, General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, proclaimed in General Order 11 that: “The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.” Decoration Day remained an acknowledgement of the Civil War’s fallen, both Blue and Grey, until after World War I, when the day became dedicated to all our American military that died fighting in any war. And it was not until 1968 that the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, an Act of Congress that amended the federal holiday provisions of the United States Code to establish the observance of certain holidays on Mondays, declared Memorial Day to be a national holiday. continued on page 2
Presidents letter continued
So, I lived through the transition of Decoration Day into Memorial Day but was not really touched by it – until the first Skiatook High School graduate came home from Viet Nam for burial with full military honors. You see, I was born after World War II and just at the end of what was then called the Korean Conflict. War had not touched me – until the first death of someone that I really did not know but who was a part of my small community. It was then that Memorial Day took on the significance and meaning that my Boy Scout leaders had tried to explain to me. Our Association has a true desire to be supportive of the military veterans of Tulsa County. Our Military and Veterans Committee is active and is always looking for ways to provide assistance, not just to Members of TCBA who are ex-military, but to any exmilitary who need our help. But all of this effort is directed, rightfully, to the living, who are also celebrated on Veterans Day. With Memorial Day coming on the cusp of the end of school and summer and vacations, it is so easy for us to forget all of the families who have been touched by the loss of loved ones
in military service. I hope that these comments will help all of us to keep foremost in our minds the true meaning of Memorial Day this year. In closing, please visualize the women of Columbia, Mississippi, who came out in the spring of 1867 to decorate the graves of the Southern soldiers who had fallen in the Civil War. Those women were moved by compassion to decorate the graves of not just the Southern soldiers but also the graves of the Northern soldiers. These acts of compassion had a healing effect on a suffering nation, still recovering from the Civil War, that far exceeded the simple acts themselves. I leave you with a few stanzas of the 1867 poem, The Blue and the Grey, which was authored by New York state judge Francis Miles Finch, who was inspired by the women of Columbia, Mississippi: By the flow of the inland river, Whence the fleets of iron have fled, Where the blades of the grave-grass quiver, Asleep are the ranks of the dead: Under the sod and the dew, Waiting the judgment-day; Under the one, the Blue, Under the other, the Gray.
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From the silence of sorrowful hours The desolate mourners go, Lovingly laden with flowers Alike for the friend and the foe: Under the sod and the dew, Waiting the judgment-day, Under the roses, the Blue, Under the lilies, the Gray. Sadly, but not with upbraiding, The generous deed was done, In the storm of the years that are fading No braver battle was won: Under the sod and the dew, Waiting the judgment-day, Under the blossoms, the Blue, Under the garlands, the Gray. No more shall the war cry sever, Or the winding rivers be red; They banish our anger forever When they laurel the graves of our dead! Under the sod and the dew, Waiting the judgment-day, Love and tears for the Blue, Tears and love for the Gray. Thank you for your service! D. Kenyon (“Ken”) Williams, Jr. TCBA President 2014 - 2015
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Candidates for the Tulsa County Bar Association present their credentials in this issue of Tulsa Lawyer. Vice President is the only contested position in this year’s election. Two Directors at Large will be elected.
President – E. Zach Smith Gorospe & Smith Law Firm – Partner Years in Practice in Tulsa: 12.5
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: TCBA President-Elect 2013-2014, TCBA Vice President 2012-2013, CLE Committee Chair 2011-2013, Mentoring Committee Chair 2009-2011. OBA Offices, Committees: OBA Law Schools Committee 2010-2014. Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: TU Law School Practicum Series Speaker 2013.
Why you want the position: Contributing to the progression of our profession is important to me. In order for our beloved organization and profession to progress gracefully throughout the years, it has always been necessary for able and willing attorneys to contribute of their time and resources to ensure our traditions, values, and services are preserved and delivered to the communities who depend upon them. I want to be one of those attorneys.
thorough understanding of the TCBA and how it operates, what its main function and objectives are, as well as how to operate within it. This understanding, coupled with my desire and ability, will serve the TCBA well. Other: Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your President!
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I have the desire, ability, and resources to serve the TCBA well. I have gladly served the TCBA for several years in any needed capacity, but in particular, on the board and executive committee. Having served on the board for several years now, I have a
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Vice President – Justin B. Munn Smakal, Munn & Mathis, PLLC, Partner, Attorney / Mediator
Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: Cascia Hall Alumni Association (Board Member, 2010-Present, Treasurer, 2011-Present).
Year of Admission to Practice: 1998
Why you want the position: The TCBA provides a host of benefits and services and is a valuable resource for the membership. I want to be involved at the Executive level, to contribute on a large scale to the TCBA’s growth and prosperity. I want to ensure that this valuable resource is around for Tulsa’s legal community in the future.
Years in Practice in Tulsa: 16 Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: Professional Responsibility Comm. (Sept. 2008-Sept. 2012); Fee Arbitration Comm. (Sept. 2008-Sept. 2013); Membership Services Comm. (Sept. 2010- Sept. 2013, Co-Chair Sept. 2012-Sept. 2013; Sept 2014 - Present); Board of Directors, Treasurer (Sept. 2013 – Sept 2014); and Long Range Planning Committee. OBA Offices, Committees: Alternative Dispute Resolution Comm. (Member & Co-Secretary, Oct. 2008-Dec. 2012).
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I have more than 6+ years’ experience serving on various TCBA committees, including previously serving as the TCBA Treasurer on the Executive Board and twice on the Board of Director as the Chairman of the Membership Committee. As the TCBA Treasurer, I was involved with all
financial / budgeting aspects of the TCBA, and day to day operations. As Vice President of the TCBA, I will be able to draw on this knowledge base and experience. I also serve as the Treasurer for the Cascia Hall Alumni Association. This position with Cascia Hall has provided additional experience and skills to deal with membership growth and retention and the financial aspects of a member funded association. All of this prior experience is applicable to the role of TCBA Vice President. As Chairman of the TCBA Membership Committee, I was involved in the recruiting and acquiring benefits for the membership. The exposure to current and potential TCBA members will allow me to better understand what the TCBA needs in the future to remain strong and grow. Other: The first concert I ever attended was Elvis at the Mabee Center on the bicentennial, July 4, 1976.
Vice President – Christina M. Vaughn McAfee & Taft, Shareholder Year of Admission to Practice: 2006 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 8.5 Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: TCBA Secretary (2014-2015); Community Outreach Committee Chair (2010-2012) and Vice-Chair (2009-2010); Mentoring Committee member (2010-2012); Golf Committee member 2013-2015.
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Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: Leadership Tulsa Class 44; Hudson-Hall-Wheaton American Inn of Court; Tulsa County Bar Foundation Trustee Why you want the position: My work with the TCBA is something I have enjoyed for several years. I have seen how the TCBA impacts not only the lives and careers of its members, but of the community in general. I want to be a part of continuing the excellence of our Bar. I hope to be your TCBA Vice President for the 2015-2016 term, and, who knows, maybe President in the future.
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Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I have served as TCBA Secretary and chaired and/or served on several TCBA committees over the years and have always taken those responsibilities seriously and have worked hard to make the work of the TCBA and each committee impactful. I believe it is that hard work and dedication that lead to my being recognized by the TCBA as Outstanding Young Lawyer in 2012. I will bring to the office of Vice President that same level of commitment. Other: Vote VAUGHN for Vice President!!!
President Elect – Matt Farris Rogers and Bell, P.L.L.C.; Attorney Year of Admission to Practice: 2006 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 9
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: TCBA Vice President (2014-2015); TCBA Secretary (2013-2014); TCBA Board of Directors (2012-2015); TCBF Community Outreach Committee: Chair (2012-13) & Member (2010-2013); TCBF BOD (20122013); Mentoring Committee (2009); Law Week Committee (2008). OBA Offices, Committees: OBA Leadership Conference 2007; OBA Law Office Management & Technology section (2013-2014).
Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: University of Tulsa College of Law Alumni Board of Directors; Eisenhower International School Foundation Board of Directors; Holland Hall Board of Trustees; Tulsa Title and Probate Lawyers Association; Leadership Tulsa class (45); American Bar Association; Youth soccer coach.. Why you want the position: To continue working with the TCBA Executive Committee and the full Board of Directors to advance the TCBA’s mission, services, and offerings benefitting association members and the community as a whole, as well as to continue developing relationships with Tulsa attorneys who value service to the Bar as a part of their practices.
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: Having previously served and chaired various TCBA committees and had the privilege to serve with the other TCBA officers on the Executive Committee as the association’s immediate past Secretary and current Vice President, I am informed and aware of the TCBA’s and its members’ many accomplishments and benefits provided to Tulsa legal professionals and the greater Tulsa area as well as the challenges facing our association going forward, and believe my past and current experience will greatly assist me as President Elect in continuing to advance the association’s mission and to improve the association’s services and offerings to its members. Other: University of Tulsa College of Law Outstanding Junior Alumnus (2013)
Secretary – Ann Keele Partner at Monroe & Keele P.C. Year of Admission to Practice: 2006 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 8
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: CoChair of Children and the Law Committee and member of the Board of Directors 2014-2015.
Why you want the position: To serve our Tulsa County Bar Association and continue the tradition of excellence and outreach to our community.
OBA Offices, Committees: OBA Professionalism Committee 2009 to current; OBA Law Schools Committee 2010 to current; 2010 OBA Leadership Academy.
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Treasurer – Richard D. White, Jr. Barter & Bartz, PC; Shareholder
OBA Offices, Committees: Member of the Family Law Section, 2014-2015.
Year of Admission to Practice: 1985
Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: Current Secretary of the Tulsa City County Library Commission.
Years in Practice in Tulsa: 35
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: Budget Committee Chair, 2014-2015; Bench & Bar Committee, 2014-2015; Family Law Section, 2014-2015; Fee Arbitration, 2014-2015; Membership Committee, 2014-2015; current Chair of the ADR/Mediation Section.
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: See response to previous question.
Why you want the position: As Chair of the Budget Committee, I am currently a member of the TCBA Executive Committee and a member of the TCBA Board of Directors. I am aware of issues facing our organization and believe I have current knowledge and wisdom to contribute as Treasurer.
Library Trustee – Trisha L. Archer Archer Law, PLLC; Owner Year of Admission to Practice: 2005 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 10
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: Library Trustee, Secretary, Delegate, Committee Chair for various Committees for both TCBA and TCBF.
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OBA Offices, Committees: OBA Indian Law Section Chair: 2014-2015; Women and the Law Committee: 2015-2017; Chair of Section Leaders Council Fees Committee: 2015-2016. Why you want the position: I utilize the Law Library on a weekly basis in my practice and believe I can offer my time and attention to the position of Library Trustee.
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Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I have served as a Library Trustee in the past and understand what is expected of me.
TCBA Director at Large – Valery Giebel Attorney, PrayWalker, PC Year of Admission to Practice: 2013 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 2
Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: Diversity Committee, Mentorship Program Participant. OBA Offices, Committees: Budget Officer for the Indian Law Section and Membership Director for the Energy and Natural Resources Law Section, Diversity Committee and Legislative Monitoring Committee. Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: As a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, I am involved in community and social activities within the Nation. I also
like to volunteer my time on occasion at the Eastern Oklahoma Food Bank or making home repairs in low income communities with my husband. Why you want the position: I think it is important for the directors of the TCBA to be as diverse as the membership of the TCBA. I want to work to represent the interest of young attorneys, women attorneys and Native American attorneys within the TCBA. Tulsa County Bar Association serves not only Tulsa County but also serves the three tribal nations who share the jurisdictional area and I would like to work on bringing more support in that area. Also, I feel young lawyers like myself do not always feel adequately represented in positions of leadership in the legal communities so I want to serve them as well.
that can assist the TCBA. I have consistently held positions of leadership in my legal career, beginning with my work as the Vice President of the Rogers Inn Chapter of Phi Delta Phi and Vice President of the Women’s Law Caucus at the University of Tulsa, College of Law. Since graduation from law school, I have worked with both the TCBA and the OBA on events and materials for promoting diversity, community outreach, and support for both the Energy law and Indian law sections of the OBA. Other: I am someone who strives to maintain a solid work-life balance. When I am not involved in legal issues, I enjoy spending time with my husband seeing live music, traveling, going to the dog park with our bernese mountain dog, and most of all soaking in all of the adorable things my son does.
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I have strong organizational and leadership abilities
TCBA Director at Large – Kimberly K. Moore Waite Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. Housing Advocacy Coordinator
OBA Offices, Committees: YLD Board of Directors 2008-2010; OBA Alternate Delegate 2010-2012; OBA Delegate 20132015.
Year of Admission to Practice: 2004
Other Law-Related and/or Community Activities: Inns of Court; Court Assistance Program C.A.P; OBA Leadership Academy; Advisory Council for Holy Family Cathedral School; Board member for Resonance.
Years in Practice in Tulsa: 11 Previous TCBA Offices, Committees: Chair Law Day Committee (2012-2013); Law Day Committee (2010-2013); Pro Bono Committee (2013 to present); TCBA Executive Board Secretary, 20112013; TCBA Executive Board Treasurer, 2014-2015.
Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: Although this position does not have a specific area of responsibility we do have the overall responsibility of supporting the Board President, conforming with our mission, monitoring committee programs and enhancing the public image. I feel that my experience of 3 years as an officer, being an active committee member and having been a committee chair gives me the experience required of this position.
Why you wanted the position: I wholeheartedly support the Tulsa County Bar Association and wish to support their continued success.
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2015-1016
Each of the nominees for OBA Delegate was asked to provide the following information:
TCBA Elections C A N D I D AT AT E S P R E S E N T CREDENTIALS
OBA A DELEGA DELEGATES D ATES T TES Ruth Addison • University of Oklahoma College of Law, 2007 • Crowe & Dunlevy • White Collar Criminal Defense; Labor & Employment; Commercial Litigation • I offer fresh and diverse viewpoints, and my philosophy on life stems from a desire to help people as well as improve Oklahoma’s legal system.
Trisha L Archer • TU, 2004 • Archer Law • Family Law, Indian Law • I believe it is important to support and serve your local bar association and would be honored to represent the Tulsa County Bar Association as an OBA delegate.
Michael Scott Ashworth • University of Oklahoma College of Law, JD 1983 • Cheek Law, LLC • Member of a national insurance defense and business litigation firm with offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Oklahoma. I specialize in trial work.
yerr, primary employer, Legal Education, employer practice areas, areas, and a one or twosentence statement stating why you wish Heree are to be a delegate. Her are brief profiles profiles of the 30 nominees. Fifteen delegates and 15 alternates will be chosen.
• As the past chairs of the TCBA Continuing Legal Education and the Bench & Bar Committee I have established my enthusiasm, creativity and dedication to the bar and profession we have all chosen and love. I wish to insure Tulsa County’s presence and involvement with the OBA to shape our profession further and to deter efforts to diminish Constitutional principles and separation of powers currently evident. I also coach the national Trial Team at the University of Tulsa College of Law and I am very active in community service.
Steven K. Balman • University of Texas School of Law, 1981 • Franden, Farris, Quillan, Goodnight & Roberts • Business litigation, probate litigation and civil appeals • I have served in the House of Delegates in the past. It would be an honor and privilege to serve again.
Martha Rupp Carter • University of Oklahoma, 1980 • State of OklahomaAdministrative Office of the Courts • Tulsa County District Court – Special Judge, Preliminary Hearings docket 10
• Serving the TCBA at the House of Delegates would be an honor and a pleasure.
Tamera A. Childers • University of Tulsa College of Law, 2003 • Doerner Saunders Daniel & Anderson, LLP • Family Law • I would like to be a Delegate because I will actually read the material provided and become familiar with the issues and/or candidates, attend the Annual Meeting, and cast my vote(s) based on what or who I feel is best suited to serve our Bar.
James L. Colvin, III • University of Tulsa, 2004 • Secrest, Hill, Butler & Secrest • Commercial Litigation I want to be an OBA delegate to further the legal profession in a positive direction.
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Chris Davis • University of Oklahoma College of Law, 1995 • Johnson & Jones, P.C. • Business Litigation, Insurance Defense • Serving as chairman of the TCBA Litigation Section and also on the Executive Committee as Budget Chairman has given me a front row seat to see how effectively and competently our county bar association operates, and I would gladly be devoted to representing our interests at the annual OBA meeting.
Julie A. Evans • University of Tulsa, 1989 • Julie A. Evans, P.C. • Probate
• I would be honored to receive your vote.
Amber Peckio Garrett • University of Tulsa College of Law, 2003 • Garrett Law Center, PLLC • Litigation, Insurance Law, Civil Rights, Family and Criminal Law • I have been an Alternate Delegate for Tulsa County Bar Association and I have been honored to represent the this amazing association at the Annual House of Delegates Meetings for the past four years. My election to a Delegate allows me to continue to serve to the legal community that I hold so dear. Thank you for your consideration.
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Valery O. Giebel • University of Tulsa College of Law 2013 • Pray Walker, P.C. • Energy and Indian • I think it is important for the OBA delegates to be from a diverse background and I would want to represent the interests of young lawyers, women lawyers and Native American lawyers. I have experience in leadership and organization that would be relevant to a position in the House of Delegates.
James R. Gotwals • University of Oklahoma, 1975 • James R. Gotwals & Associates, Inc. • Domestic, civil litigation, and mediation. • I believe that the Tulsa County Bar is entitled to a strong voice at the Oklahoma Bar Association Convention to assist the state bar in improving the image of attorneys, judges and the judicial branch in the state of Oklahoma. I will be familiar with the issues presented for a delegate vote and express the sentiment of the Tulsa County Bar Association. I would be honored to be selected.
private practice I was elected to the District Court bench for the 14th Judicial District and assigned to a criminal felony docket and served as Presiding Judge from October 2011 through 2014. After leaving the bench in January I’m now practicing law “of counsel” with Doerner, Saunders, Daniel and Anderson.
Sabah Khalaf • University of Tulsa, 2010 • The Khalaf Law Firm/Tulsa Drug Lawyer • Criminal defense and DUI defense • I was an active member and on the board of the SBA in law school and have been involved with the TCBA since becoming a lawyer. I am vested in my community and would like to continue serving the TCBA as an OBA delegate.
Grant T. Lloyd • University of Tulsa College of Law, 2007 • Richards & Connor, PLLP • Family Law and Civil Litigation • I would like the continued opportunity to share the positions and futher the interests of the Tulsa County Bar.
William C. Kellough • Doerner, Saunders, Daniel and Anderson, “of counsel” • I have been practicing law and have been a member of the TCBA for 40 years. I have served as Treasurer and have been a member of the Board of Directors for many terms throughout my career. I was selected Outstanding Junior Lawyer in 1982 and in 2014 awarded the James C. Lang Mentoring Award. After 30 years in
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Ron Main • University of Tulsa, 1964 • Ronald Main, PC • General Practice
• I have been an officer of the OBA, and the TCBA. I know the problems of general practice.
Kimberly K. Moore-Waite • University of Tulsa, College of Law, May, 2001 • Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. • Housing/Property • As a delegate I feel it is important to be well informed in order to represent the opinion of our Association in all matters pertaining to the legal profession. I have enjoyed serving as your OBA Delegate for the past couple of years and would be honored to continue to serve you.
Scott V. Morgan • University of Tulsa, College of Law, 2010 • Moyers Martin • Oil and Gas Litigation, business litigation • I want to serve my professional colleagues and help to improve our state Bar Association and profession.
Justin B. Munn • Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, graduated 1998. • Smakal, Munn & Mathis, PLLC • Civil Litigation, emphasis in domestic and probate matters. • The TCBA provides many benefits/ services to its membership. As such, the TCBA must be well represented/ recognized statewide. As a delegate, it is important to (1) guarantee that the TCBA membership has a voice at the state level, (2) educate the Oklahoma legal community about the TCBA as a resource for their practices, (3) help ensure that the TCBA remains current and relevant.
D. Faith Orlowski • University of Texas at Austin, 1978 • Sneed Lang PC (since 1978) • Oil & Gas, Estate Planning and Probate; Commercial Real Estate • I actually enjoy the Bar Convention – but then I also enjoy Title Examination Standards Committee meetings on Saturdays. It is important to have the views of the TCBA heard at state events and I would be honored to serve in this capacity.
E. Zach Smith • Oklahoma City University School of Law, 2002 • Gorospe & Smith Law Firm • DUI/Criminal Defense/Personal Injury • Our professional organization needs attorneys who are capable and willing to give of themselves each year. It is only with the help of these individual attorneys working together to benefit our profession that we are able to enjoy the services and products the OBA provides each and every year. I want to help continue that tradition of giving.
Millie Otey • University of Tulsa, College of Law, 1979 • State of Oklahoma
• Small Claims and Post Judgment Civil dockets • The House of Delegates serves an important function for all lawyers. By serving my fellow members of the OBA as a delegate, I want to continue be be their voice on important decisions that may affect the daily practice of law.
Robert B. Sartin • University of Oklahoma, 1988 • Barrow & Grimm, P.C. • Business/Healthcare • As a former TCBA President and former member of the OBA Board of Governors, I believe I am qualified to represent the interests of the TCBA in the OBA House of Delegates.
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Shannon D. Taylor • University of Tulsa, 2003 • Kivell, Rayment and Francis • Real Property • The only way to effect change is to be involved. Being elected as an OBA Delegate is a great way to serve and give back.
David M. (Mike) Thornton, Jr. • Georgetown University Law Center; 1974 • Thornton & Thornton, a Professional Corporation • Commercial transactions and litigation; estate planning, wills and trusts; domestic relations • As a delegate I would solicit and advocate the views of Tulsa County Bar members, particularly regarding significant legislative initiatives before the Oklahoma legislature and U.S. Congress.
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Georgenia A. Van Tuyl • University of Tulsa, College of Law, 1985 • Self-Employed • Estate Planning, Oil and Gas, Criminal • I want to be an OBA Delegate to continue representing the Tulsa County Bar members at the state level. I have been a delegate or voting alternate delegate for the past 6 years and desire to continue with my commitment.
Cara Collinson Wells • University of Tulsa, College of Law, 2005 • Sprouse Shrader Smith, PLLC • Probate, Estate Planning, Estate Administration, Guardianship, Family Law • I am interested in assisting with the OBA activities and representing the Tulsa County Bar at the OBA level. I think there is so much that that the Tulsa County Bar Association can contribute to the OBA efforts.
Jeremy Ward • University of Tulsa, College of Law, 2006 • Franden, Farris, Quillin, Goodnight & Roberts • Product liability and professional negligence • The Oklahoma Bar Association has been an integral part of Oklahoma’s legal system for many years. I would like to help ensure the OBA has the continuing ability to serve lawyers and the public through community service programs and others for years to come.
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Richard D. White, Jr. • University of Tulsa, 1980 • Barber & Bartz, PC
• Domestic Relations and Civil Litigation • I am interested in presenting the Tulsa County Bar Association at the Annual Convention and being involved in the selection of the next OBA president.
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Ken Williams • University of Tulsa, 1977 • Hall Estill Law Firm
• Administrative/Energy/Environmental Municipal • As I have indicated in my President’s Letters for the TULSA LAWYER, it is obvious that our Tulsa County Bar Association needs to be an active participant in the Oklahoma Bar Association on both state and national issues. I am and will continue to be an advocate for our Associations and will be pleased to act as an OBA delegate for that purpose. TL
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Diversity – Art of Networking Lorena Rivas – TCBA Diversity Chair On the evening of Thursday March 27, 2015, the members of the Tulsa County Bar Association, as well as other diversity attorneys from Tulsa, met with students from the University of Tulsa College of Law. The gathering took place in the Pit of the law school building. The evening began with a presentation by the law school’s Professional Development Office on the topic of how to discuss one’s diversity when applying for legal jobs The presentation was followed with the reception sponsored by the Tulsa County Bar Association’s Diversity Committee, the University of Tulsa College of Law, the Hispanic National Bar Association, Connor & Winters, and Pray Walker.
The purpose of the reception was to allow law students an opportunity to work on their networking skills with diverse attorneys who have similar backgrounds, experiences, and hesitations when networking. To begin such networking, members of the TCBA Diversity Committee rendered a few tips and advice on how to master the “art of networking.” The event was well attended with about 20 students and 25 attorneys. The TCBA Diversity Committee hopes to continue these receptions every semester of the law school calendar due to its success and positive feedback from the law students who attended.
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Knowing where this was going and realizing that sometimes my bride could turn from the rational girl I married into an shrew afraid of black cats and Fridays on the wrong number. I could run and get her some pills or just ignore it. Best to ignore it the last time I gave her pills she brought home two stray cats. The dogs almost ate them. It was the first time I heard stray cats say, “No thanks, I prefer starving in the streets.” The rest of the first week of February passed seemingly uneventful, of course, the wife stormed about the house mumbling and checking dark corners for the bogeyman. Not a woman easily convinced. The end of that week our first shock hit, my sister had died. This was not news I could conceal from the wife, who was sure to take it as a bad omen. No way around it, I would have to tell her. She might notice when Anne did not answer the phone. It wasn't Anne's death that shook her as much as the day the family decided to lay her out, you got it Friday the 13th. “No one in their right minds have services on Friday the 13th, no one. Anne didn't deserve that." I would have pointed out to her that Anne was dead and Friday the 13th would not much matter to her, but since I have this strange instinct for survival, there was nothing to do but agree. That Monday, the talk of the neighborhood was that the contentious woman across the street had been found dead in her bed. A second dead woman on the block in less than a week, the rumblings shook the block like an earthquake. The wife was standing in the driveway with half the other women of the street chirping away. I could just hear the conversation, who's next? Their taking out women left and right, none of us will survive the month. Two bottles of wine and a pill later, I was able to get the old gal to bed. My only thought was this February is going to be long. The rest of the week crept by as if the grim reaper were lurking in and about every house on the block. The good news was that the ladies of the street were not out visiting and chewing on the remains. Thursday night darkened our doorstep with the promise of disaster at any moment; this was going to be a sleepless night. In an attempt to cheer up the old gal and get her mind off her medieval beliefs, I began playing with the dogs. Two one hundred pound dogs and a fat old man bouncing about the
Some years are earmarked by events that burn their way into our memories, like the year we had our first child or graduated from law school, 2015 is scarred as the year I survived two back to back Friday the 13th's. I am not superstitious, of course, there are the obvious situations that no one pushes like walking under a ladder, and that kind of thing, but I am Catholic. Friday the 13th is our day, and being Catholic over the years we shared it with the rest of you. The old lady, now that's another story. We can be driving down the street and a black cat crosses, she'll spin our car around to avoid its path. There have been times she threatened my life over such stray cats, it’s a miracle I am alive today to tell you this story. As it happened the first of February fell on a Sunday, which happens to be the day all the ladies of our street seem to connect. The wife came in from the usual suspects pecking and announced that Mary Beth was dead. My only retort was, who the hell is Mary Beth. “Our neighbor, Mary Beth, she lived right there in the gray house,” the wife actually pointed out the window. “I thought she died years ago.” "No." “Are you sure?” “Yes, I'm sure. She died last night. You never liked her.” “I don't know, why you say that. I'll miss her wrinkled face pressed up against the glass as she peered through our window, shouting at us to find the keys to her house.” She stormed through the room, rumpled some papers and brought me the calendar slapped it on my desk, “Do you see that?” “Yeah, it's a calendar.” “Look.” Her boney finger poked the square marked 13. “You're a little old for this aren't you?” “The wisdom to know what to watch out for is the reason I'm old.” “So, what do you want me to do about it?” "Shut your office down!" "Yup, like I am going to call my clients and say, gotta go, I'll be back in March." “NO.” “What do you mean, no?” “We'll be back in April. Look, there's another one in March, we gotta hide for both months.”
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house has to be cute, unfortunately, it was too cute. The three of us hit the bed with what was intended to be a bounce, but was more of a crash as the bed collapsed. Now I'm pretty sure you can guess the wife's reaction. Sunrise was not as spectacular as I might have hoped. The old gal was in the kitchen knocking about pots and pans, never a good sign. I poked my head into the doorway, ready for a hasty retreat. “You take the first shower.” She ordered. The anticipated exit was initiated with little ado. Safely in the warm water, with the door locked, I began to relax, that was a mistake. Gurgle … gurgle… brown water began to rise from the drain. Then like Old Faithful I was standing in a gusher. The pounding on the locked door was followed by high pitched screeches, “YOU SON OF …” The water might have been brown, but at least it was warm. I wasn't about to unlock that door. I broke the bed. I broke the plumbing and now I had to go to my sister's funeral. The worst part would be going home, because the wife was there waiting for the plumber and the handyman for the bed. It might have been wiser to curl up in Anne's box and stay with her. There were no drunk drivers to put me out of my misery on the afternoon of Friday the 13th, so I made it home. I approached the door awaiting the reassuring sound of my pooches, only silence. God, I prayed the dogs were alive. Very
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carefully I cracked open the door just enough to let me pass through. The living room was empty, and then I heard a strange sound. It took a moment to identify… laughter. Ominous thoughts entered my mind, was she pleased with her plan to eliminate me? I pulled myself together and bravely stuck out my chest, almost as far as my belly and boldly made my way to the kitchen. Carl and She were having coffee and chuckling, just like a woman to involve the handyman in her plans. Who was that woman sitting at the table? Bright eyed and smiling, looking younger than I had seen her in months. “Hi Honey.” Okay, I'm in the wrong house. “You will never believe what a day it's been.” Okay. “Carl says you and the guys didn't break the bed, the wood warped, it just happened to slide apart when you jumped on it.” Okay, one down, one to go. “What about the plumbing?” “Great news, our sewer line broke.” “That is encouraging.” “No, remember that sewer line insurance you bought?” “You mean the insurance you made fun of me for getting?” “Yeah, that one. They'll be here in the morning and they say they can have it fixed by noon. There's not even a deductible or any paper work at all.” Two down, I'm on the plus side. Now all I needed to do was survive March.
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Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. presents
A SPRING SEMINAR FOR OUR VOLUNTEER ATTORNEYS Tuesday, May 5, 2015 Conference Center, OSU Tulsa, 700 North Greenwood, Room 150 MCLE Credit of 6 Hours FREE for Members of Our Pro Bono Panel To register, go to: www.probono.net/ok/cle AGENDA 8:30 a.m.
Registration
9:00 - 9:50
“The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Landlord – Tenant Law” Moore Waite, Legal Aid Services
9:50-10:05
BREAK
Kimberly
10:05-10:55 “Immigration Law – Your Client’s Rights and Recent Executive Actions” Jonina Mawby, Law Offices of Mawby & Litz 10:55-11:10 BREAK 11:10-12:00 “As If It Never Happened – Expunging Your Client’s Criminal Records” Eric Hallett, Legal Aid Services, and Jimmy Bunn, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation 12.00-1:00
LUNCH (on your own)
1:00-1:50
“The Ins and Outs of Guardianship Cases” Sara Cherry, Legal Aid Services, and Special Judge Terry Bitting,
1:50-2:00
BREAK
2:00-2:50
“The Basics of Divorce and Paternity Law – Plus More for the Experienced Attorney” Julie Goree and Sara Cherry, Legal Aid Services
2:50-3:00
BREAK
3:00-4:00
“More Family Law Basics – And Recent Developments” Julie Goree and Sara Cherry, Legal Aid Services
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What is your full name? What do you like to be called? Julie Ann, but most of my friends call me Jules
What were you doing before you came to work for the TCBA? Prior to joining the TCBA I worked for SMG, the venue management company that manages the BOK Center and the Cox Business Center. I wrote all the contracts for the Convention Center side. And no, I did not get free tickets to all the shows.
How long have you worked for the Tulsa County Bar Association? May 20th will be my 1 year anniversary!
Where did you grow up? I was born and raised in Tulsa; lived and traveled all over during my 20s, and then returned to Tulsa to raise my son.
What position(s) have you held with the Association? I oversee the Lawyer Referral Service and also serve as Section & Committee Liaison.
What do you like best about living in Tulsa Metro Area? I love that Tulsa is a big city with a small town feel. I especially love midtown Tulsa and consider any travel past 41st street to be a “day trip.”
Are you married? I have been blissfully single for over a decade now! Do you have children? I have one son who is about to go off to grad school. He is a pretty amazing young man and I am a very proud mama!
Without naming names, what is the most difficult task you have dealt with in working with/for the TCBA? Speaking of names – the most overwhelming aspect of the job at first was learning everybody’s names! I am great at remembering faces, but horrible at remembering names – and there are A LOT of attorneys names to remember!
Do you have pets? Yes, I currently share my home with three rescue cats which puts me dangerously close to “crazy cat lady” territory.
What is the most difficult part of your job? Dealing with Lawyer Referral Service Clients can be challenging at times, but it is also rewarding. Clients come in stressed out and overwhelmed by their legal troubles, but then when you arrange for them to meet with an attorney seeing the relief on their faces makes it all worthwhile. I am so appreciative of all the attorneys who have volunteered to be on the Referral panel! What is the easiest part of your job? Working with such a great team of coworkers! What’s your favorite restaurant? I love to eat out, but I don’t like chain restaurants. I prefer the smaller locally owned places – especially little “hole-in-wall” diners. What month is your birthday? October What’s your favorite soft drink? I prefer my caffeine cold and bubbly and am absolutely addicted to Pepsi. Favorite Hero: Batman, of course! Favorite Places to travel: It’s not very exotic, but DC is my favorite place in the entire world. There is nothing more awe inspiring than to stand in the middle of the National Mall surrounded by so much history and some of the greatest treasures of the world.
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NALA – A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A COURT DOG A Visit to the TCBA – Paralegal Section By Debra Cox While TCBA is no stranger to dogs at the Bar Center, a very special type of dog was the guest for the TCBA – Paralegal Section’s monthly luncheon meeting on April 9th. Nala, a 4-year-old German Shepherd and a court therapy dog with the Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, and her owner, Debra Cox, were guest speakers for the luncheon, and those in attendance thoroughly enjoyed learning about the important role that the therapy dog team plays in the process of helping children in Tulsa County courtrooms – as well as experiencing themselves the stress relief that therapy dogs give to those whom they serve (Carl Morrison even joined Nala on the floor for some therapy benefits himself!). Debra shared with the paralegals Nala’s journey from her adoption from the Tulsa German Shepherd Rescue facility at the age of 8 months as an emaciated scared puppy to the confident, loving registered therapy dog that she is today. “She wasn’t what I thought I wanted – the big, beautiful proud German Shepherd that I had in mind,” said Debra, “but when she crawled on her belly across the yard to me and looked up with those sad eyes, that was it. How could I not take her?” While Nala began obedience training and the intensive registration process with Therapy Dogs, Inc., a national organization which provides liability insurance coverage for therapy dogs, Debra started exploring the many options available for community service work with dogs and children. “Nala absolutely loves kids and so do I, and I knew I wanted to do work with Nala that would directly involve children,” said Debra. So when she learned of the District Attorney’s court dog program, she knew this was exactly what she and Nala had been looking for – “a way to help children while also giving back to the legal community that has been so supportive of my company.” After an interview with the Tulsa County DA’s court dog coordinator, Nala and Debra were invited to join the team of six court therapy dog teams. Therapy dogs have been used in courtrooms across the country for several years, but it has only been in the last year that an Oklahoma bill, proposed and written by Steve Kunzweiler, Tulsa County District Attorney, was signed into law by Governor Mary Fallin, allowing “certified therapeutic dogs” in the courtrooms for child witnesses under the age of thirteen [House Bill No. 2591]. Mr. Kunzweiler and his staff were instrumental in starting the Tulsa County court dog program, and he is passionate about helping children who are often victims of sexual or other types of abuse or who are victims or witnesses of other crimes. “By bringing Nala into the process, the children as well as their entire families benefit from the stress relief offered by a big German Shepherd who gives unconditional love and compassion. We see kids who are so scared that they just can’t get the words out to tell their story – then they look down into Nala’s gentle eyes that seem to say to them ‘I know you can do this!’ She gives them the confidence to be able to talk, and they seem to feel like she’s their protector,” said Debra. Debra is Owner/President of Summit Recruiting, Inc., a legal recruitment firm, and Nala accompanies her to the office daily. In addition to the court work that they do, she and Nala are members of Karing K9s, a local therapy dog organization and as well as the Tulsa City-County Library’s PAWS for reading program.
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Katherine R. Morelli has joined the firm of Rhodes, Hieronymus, Jones, Tucker and Gable as an associate attorney. Her areas of emphasis include civil litigation and appellate practice. Prior to joining Rhodes Hieronymus, Ms. Morelli practiced domestic, probate, and trust law along with civil litigation and appeals. Morelli graduated with honors from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2010. She received the Order of the Coif, joined Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity, and attained Dean’s Honor Roll every semester. She served as an Articles Editor of the Oklahoma Law Review, and her work was selected for publication. She also received an American Jurisprudence award in disability law and Pro Bono Services Awards. Before attending law school, Morelli attended Oklahoma State University where she acquired a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics in 2007. She graduated summa cum laude and earned the Outstanding Economics Senior Award. Morelli actively volunteers in the Tulsa community and is an incoming member of the Board of the Junior League of Tulsa, Inc. She is admitted to practice in the State of Oklahoma and the United States District Court for the Northern District.
Grapevine Moura A. J. Robertson of Robertson Cornell has been elected President of the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). Ms. Robertson has an AV-Preeminent rating by Martindale Hubbell and has been a Certified Fellow of the Academy since 2004. She has been named one of the Top 25 Women Attorneys in Oklahoma as published in Oklahoma Magazine and has also been named in Best Lawyers in America in the areas of Divorce and Divorce mediation. Her practice is limited to divorce litigation, mediation and collaborative divorce. _________
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Ted Sherwood of Sherwood, McCormick & Robert in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was recently inducted into the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL) at their Annual Meeting held March 18-21, 2015. The International Academy of Trial Lawyers limits membership to 500 Fellows from the United States. Chartered in 1954, the Academy’s general purposes are to cultivate the science of jurisprudence, promote reforms in the law, facilitate the Administration of Justice, and elevate the standards of integrity, honor and courtesy in the legal profession. _________
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Hall Estill announced today the addition of Roger Gassett and Alan Barker as associates to the firm’s Tulsa office. “Roger and Alan are each very talented attorneys,” said Mike Cooke, managing partner for Hall Estill. “They both have strong local ties and we expect them to be great additions to our team.” Roger Gassett will serve as part of Hall Estill’s litigation practice, assisting in a wide range of areas, including commercial litigation and construction law disputes as well as bankruptcy, labor and employment and real estate litigation. Prior to joining Hall Estill, Gassett practiced in Tulsa for six years. Gassett holds his J.D. from the University of Tulsa College of Law and a bachelor’s of business administration degree in management from the University of Oklahoma. Gassett is admitted to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma and is a member of both the Tulsa County and Oklahoma Bar Associations.
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Cordell & Cordell, the nation’s largest domestic litigation firm focusing on representing men in family law cases, recently hired Associate Attorney Ron Gore in its Tulsa office (320 South Boston Building, 320 South Boston Ave., Suite 725, Tulsa, OK 74103). Cordell & Cordell has more than 170 attorneys working in more than 100 offices across the United States. Cordell & Cordell exclusively practices domestic litigation and is the largest family law firm of its nature in the United States catering to male clients. Cordell & Cordell’s innovative approach to family law has garnered national coverage from outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Time magazine, CNN, FOX News, and The Huffington Post. For more information about Cordell & Cordell, please visit CordellCordell.com or call 866-323-7529. 32
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Jones, Gotcher & Bogan, P.C. is pleased to announce the kick-off of 2015 with the addition of Maren Minnaert Lively as an Of Counsel attorney and the addition of Bryan M. Harrington as an Associate of the Firm. Maren Minnaert Lively has extensive experience in the areas of family law, probate and estate planning, guardianships, general litigation, and appellate work. Originally from South Dakota, Ms. Lively earned her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, DC. While in law school, Ms. Lively clerked for the United States Department of Justice and served as the Senior Articles and Notes Editor for The Georgetown Journal of Gender and the Law. Prior to law school, Ms. Lively obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in economics and political science from Oklahoma State University, where she graduated with highest honors and was named a 2001 Top Ten University Graduate, Top Female Graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences, and a Truman Scholar National Finalist. Ms. Lively has been actively involved in the Oklahoma Bar Association and has served two terms on the Board of Directors for the Tulsa County Bar Association. She has been published in the Oklahoma Bar Journal and currently serves as an adjunct professor at University of Tulsa College of Law, where she teaches family law. Ms. Lively has been licensed to practice law by the Oklahoma Supreme Court since 2014. She is also admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. District Courts for the Northern and Eastern Districts of Oklahoma. Ms. Lively represents clients in Tulsa County and in all surrounding areas, including Creek, Osage, Rogers, and Wagoner Counties.
Alan Barker graduated, with highest honors, from the University of Tulsa College of Law where he served as the 2014 Notes & Comment Editor of the Energy Law Journal and the 2013 Executive Editor of the ABA-SEER Year in Review. Barker will serve Hall Estill’s clients in the firm’s litigation practice. Barker is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association, as well as the American Inns of Court and Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honor Society. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in American Studies, magna cum laude, from Oklahoma State University. Barker is admitted to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma and is a member of both the Tulsa County and Oklahoma Bar Associations. _________
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Riggs Abney is proud to announce two new shareholders in its Tulsa office, Kiemonn Jones and Ashley R. Webb. Both are Riggs Abney veterans who have demonstrated ongoing success in their areas of practice, in addition to being upstanding and active members of the Tulsa community. Kiemonn Jones has been with Riggs Abney Law Firm for more than 13 years and practices primarily in criminal law, employment & labor law, and transportation law. She also serves as an Associate Judge for the City of Tulsa. The firm is excited for the perspective and leadership Kiemonn will continue to bring to our team.
Bryan Harrington has been practicing law for 8 years, including three years as a clerk for the Honorable Dana L. Rasure at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma. He has his Bachelors and Masters of Arts degrees in Economics from the University of Oklahoma. He graduated from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2006, earning his J.D. with Highest Honors. Bryan was admitted to the Oklahoma Supreme Court in 2006 and is currently admitted to the U.S. District and Bankruptcy Courts for the Eastern, Northern, and Western Districts of Oklahoma. He is also admitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit and the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the 10th Circuit. He has also practiced before Bankruptcy Courts in Texas and Indiana.
Ashley Webb joined Riggs Abney Law Firm in 2009, following almost five years of service in the Office of the Tulsa County Public Defender. He is an incredibly involved participant within the Tulsa community, bringing an everexpanding mix of talent and connections to the firm. His primary practice areas include criminal defense, restaurant liabilities, immigration, construction litigation, non-profit and artist representation. Please join Riggs Abney in congratulating both Kiemonn and Ashley.
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Moyers Martin is proud to announce that Scott V. Morgan is now a partner with the firm. Scott is a trial attorney that focuses his practice on representing the firm’s oil and gas clients in civil litigation and administrative proceedings. In addition to his oil and gas practice, Scott also represents corporate and individual clients in litigation and business transactions. Scott has conducted both jury and non-jury trials as a first and second chair attorney. Scott is a graduate of the University of Tulsa College of Law where he received certification in the Resources, Energy, and Environmental Law program.
Mr. Harrington’s primary practice areas are in the areas of commercial litigation and creditor’s rights in bankruptcy. He has been involved in complex commercial litigation in the areas of real property (condemnation, zoning, easements, flooding and other damage to real property), construction (fraud, breach of contract, tortious interference) and employment and banking regulation. He is an Adjunct Professor and Coach for the University of Tulsa College of Law Health Law Appellate Advocacy Competition Team, teaching appellate writing and argument. He has taught a number of continuing legal education courses on bankruptcy related issues. Other members of the firm are: Jack L. Brown, John W. Cannon, C. Michael Copeland, William B. Jones, William G. LaSorsa, Thomas L. Vogt, James E. Weger, Bradley J. Brown and Patrick G. Colvin. _________
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Rachel M. Lee has been named a Partner with Rhodes, Hieronymus, Jones, Tucker and Gable. Rachel had been an associate lawyer with the firm since 2009. Her areas of emphasis include civil litigation and insurance defense. Rachel is originally from Rockford, Illinois and moved to Tulsa in 2000. Rachel earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting, summa cum laude, from Oral Roberts University. In 2009, Rachel obtained her Juris Doctorate, with honors, from the University of Tulsa College of Law. Rachel served as an editor of the Tulsa Law Review and was the recipient of the Editor of the Year award. Rachel also participated in the Social Enterprises and Economic Development Law Project through the Boesche Legal Clinic. She is a member of the Phi Delta Phi legal fraternity and Oklahoma Association of Defense Counsel. Rachel is also a member of the Tulsa County, Oklahoma and American Bar Associations.
Riggs Abney is proud to announce the addition of Damario Solomon-Simmons as Of Counsel in our Tulsa office. SolomonSimmons brings over 11 years of experience to the firm in his areas of practice. He is also a nationally sought-after speaker and social commentator on civil rights, the business of sports, and public policy. Solomon-Simmons is a University of Oklahoma football letterman and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Law. He has been in solo practice since graduation. In addition to practicing law, he is a licensed contract lobbyist, and a legislative liaison for the Oklahoma Policy Institute. After the retirement of his long-time law partner, Susan R. Sharrock, he joined Riggs Abney on March 9, 2015. Solomon-Simmons’ areas of practice include sports & entertainment, government, community relations, politics, business & commercial, diversity & inclusion, employment, civil rights, and personal injury. Solomon-Simmons on joining Riggs Abney, “I am honored to be joining Oklahoma's premier full service law firm, and a firm that fully embraces my core values of excellence, justice, and service. Further, I am excited to work with this group of legal professionals, across our three offices, to better serve my clients and community.”
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Tulsa Attorney James R. Hicks Joins State Bar Association Leadership [Oklahoma City – March 24, 2015] Tulsa attorney James R. Hicks has been appointed to the Oklahoma Bar Association Board of Governors, filling the member-at-large seat formerly held by Deirdre O. Dexter, who resigned to accept an administrative law judge position. As one of three at-large representatives, Hicks will represent all Oklahoma counties on the 17-member board. His term begins immediately and will expire Dec. 31, 2016. Hicks is of counsel with the Barrow & Grimm law firm in Tulsa. He concentrates his practice in the areas of civil litigation, family law, probate and estate planning. He recently served as Tulsa County Bar Association president. “Jim Hicks is a welcome addition to our governing board,” said OBA President David Poarch of Norman. “His distinguished track record of service to both the county and state bar associations, in addition to many community organizations, makes him a proven leader.” He currently serves as senior warden at St. John’s Episcopal Church and has served as president of Legal Services of Eastern Oklahoma and the Tulsa Auxiliary of the Gladney Center. He chaired the OBA Young Lawyers Division and TCBA Young Lawyers Committee. He is the recipient of the American Bar Association’s First Place Award of Achievement for Service to the Public. He is a 1985 graduate of the University of Tulsa College of Law. He earned his bachelor’s in business administration from OU in 1982. OBA leadership roles are voluntary positions in which lawyers serve while continuing to practice law. The board meets monthly. The 17,600-member Oklahoma Bar Association, headquartered in Oklahoma City, was created by the Oklahoma Supreme Court to advance the administration of justice and to foster and maintain learning, integrity, competence, public service and high standards of conduct among Oklahoma’s legal community.
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Building Our Future
May 2015
Tulsa L awyer M agazine
The Official Publication for the Tulsa County Bar Association, Inc.