ATLA Docket - SUMMER 2025_Final

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DOCKET A publication of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association

INSIDE

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

SUMMER 2025

WHAT’S + NEW IN THIS ISSUE

CONVENTION AWARDS

SESSION RECAP

BY CHAD GALLAGHER

YEAR IN REVIEW

BOOK REVIEW

BY ROSS KING

PAGE

10

TABLE of DOCKET CONTENTS

SUMMER 2025

A publication of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association

Publisher Stephanie Malone Editor Katie Clifford Graphic Designer Dave Lewis

Advertising Manager Jennifer Irwin Publications Committee (2024-2025) Co-chairs: Taylor Chaney Alan LeVar George Wise Chris Heil Carter Stein Sarah Jewell Geoff Hamby Corey McGaha Jim Lyons Brian Brooks Drake Mann Brett McDaniel Tim Watson Lyndsey Dilks Geoffrey Kearney Whitney Cossio Daniel Holland ATLA Docket is published quarterly by the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, PO Box 3486, Little Rock, AR 72203. Telephone (501) 376-ATLA. All rights reserved.

Statements or expressions of opinions are those of contributors and are not necessarily those of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association or the editor of ATLA Docket. The editor of ATLA Docket reserves the right to edit and condense all materials herein. All advertising copy is the sole responsibility of the advertisers.

WHAT’S NEW 2

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

Jess Virden Mallett, Esquire, ATLA President

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BOOK REVIEW: WINNING SETTLEMENTS

By Ross King

4 PRESIDENT ELECT’S COLUMN

13 CONVENTION RECAP

5 YEAR IN REVIEW

16 2025 ATLA AWARDS

Ryan Scott, Esquire, ATLA President-Elect

2024-2025

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BOARD 20 ATLA OF GOVERNORS

2025 Arkansas Legislative Session:

A FIGHT FOR ARKANSANS

By Chad Gallagher

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PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

Happy Summer, mates!

I read somewhere on social media that May is busy as December, just with humidity. Isn’t that the truth. I can’t believe it’s already been months since convention. It was a great one!

I want to take this opportunity to tell you all how honored and humbled I am to lead this great organization. ATLA has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I want you all to know how much it means to me to be sworn in as ATLA president.

For those of you who were not able to make it to convention and hear this little tidbit of history, it was thirty years between when my dad, Bart Virden, and I accepted the President’s gavel. Maybe 1995 was the year of the hot air balloon rides, maybe not. I was nine when he was elected, and I was at that convention. That was thirty years ago so I don’t remember everything, and I can honestly say that I had no idea I would be taking on the same role in the future. I’m pretty sure back then I wanted to be a veterinarian. I’m glad that didn’t pan out, because I wouldn’t be here, working with you all for the injured people of Arkansas.

When I graduated law school and about two weeks before I took the Bar Exam, Peter Miller posted a job on the listserve. He was looking for a lawyer with five jury trials and five years of experience. Dad told me to apply. When I said I wasn’t qualified, he pointed out that the worst thing that could happen is that Peter said, “no.” That is some of the best advice I have received. It was my first introduction as an adult to ATLA, its camaraderie, its support, and how the members of ATLA are truly what make it great.

Peter is fond of saying our firms compete for clients, but once we sign them, we work together, through ATLA, to get the best result possible. And this is so true. Whether it’s sharing work product, giving advice on the listserve, putting on first rate CLE, or lobbying the legislature, our members are always working to protect our clients. Our collective knowledge and passion is unmatched. So, thank you. Thank you for being members. Thank you for being my mentors. Thank you for your help. Thank you for being my colleagues. Thank you 2

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By Jess Virden Mallett, Esquire, ATLA President

for trusting me to represent ATLA. Most importantly, thank you for being my friends.

We have been successful as an organization because we support each other and stick together. We trust that each of us is looking out for our clients’ best interests and the best interests of ATLA. We may not agree on everything or every strategy, but we respect each other. We know we have big battles in the legislature coming. My goal in this off-session year is to reach out to our Senators and Representatives. Talk to them. Listen to them and constituents. If there is some meeting or event you know about that you think we should attend, please let me know. I want to continue to build and strengthen the bridges my predecessors built and leave us in an even stronger position for the 2027 session. If you need anything or have questions, please reach out to me. Thank you again for the honor as serving as your president, and I’m looking forward to a great year.

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TO APPLY!

PRESIDENT-ELECT’S COLUMN

YES… Now is the time to give to Justice PAC Does it feel like the push to raise funds to protect the right to a jury trial is never-ending? You’re not imagining it. It is.

And it is necessary. While 2027 seems far in the distance, the preparation for the political battle starts now. And, make no mistake, there will be a political battle in 2027.

ATLA must be prepared.

Just last week the Arkansas Trucking Association was on Capitol View touting the “victory” it achieved in the last session by abolishing the collateral source rule. When asked about the achievement, the trucking company said this abomination was “just to move the needle.” When asked if they will continue to push for more tort reform, the answer was ominous: “I do think this was step one… there are plenty more reforms we’d like to see.”

If you are reading this, you no doubt know the fights of 2025 – collateral source, workers’ compensation, statute of limitations on birth injuries… and multiple other toxic bills that didn’t get a vote. Chad Gallagher’s article in this issue discusses the hits we took, and ones we dodged (at least, for now).

So, what do we do? We start fighting now, not when the session is about to convene, not when ATLA’s proverbial hair is on fire, but now. How do we do it? We all know.

ATLA staff and leadership are already working to recruit potential legislators that share our values to run for office.

They are working to fundraise for those who were with us in 2025 and who may listen to us in 2027. Let’s be blunt, all of this requires PAC money.

The collateral source rule was erased by one vote in the Senate. One vote. Right is on our side. And we have friends on 4

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By Ryan Scott, Esquire, ATLA President-Elect

both sides of the isle that agree. Let us arm our friends (and make more friends) who go to the capitol with the armor of that truth. I encourage you to plan now to help Justice PAC immediately and consistently… the dividends on that investment are worth it.

n a y R

2025 Arkansas Legislative Session:

A FIGHT FOR ARKANSANS

By Chad Gallagher

SESSION RECAP

T

he 2025 Arkansas Legislative Session was a crucible, forging our resolve as we battled for the rights of Arkansans against powerful interests.

It was a session defined by hard-fought challenges, breakthrough victories, and undeniable progress in our mission to champion people over special interests. It was clear that the populist wave that has hit American politics was present at the general assembly, allowing us to see new friends stand with us for Arkansas families over powerful special interests who expect legislators to do their bidding.

One of our fiercest struggles centered on House Bill 1204, a misguided proposal that sided with insurance companies by amending the collateral source rule, creating an unfair advantage for big insurance companies over Arkansans. From the start, we knew the Senate would be our battleground. Though we fell one vote short of defeating it, our efforts yielded significant gains. Support in the Senate swelled, with senators delivering impassioned floor speeches defending the people over powerful lobbies. Special recognition goes to Representatives Jimmy Gazaway and Ashley Hudson, and Senators Clint Penzo, Alan Clark, John Payton, Gary Stubblefield, Mark Johnson, Josh Bryant, and Clark Tucker for their bold fight against this legislation. Their advocacy underscored our growing influence, proving we ended the session stronger than ever.

Another pivotal focus was a series of bills to reform Arkansas’s workers’ compensation system, which has long favored insurers while shortchanging workers and burdening businesses. Arkansas businesses are overpaying, causing insurance companies to collect millions more than they pay out while injured workers are devastated. This session marked a turning point: the Chamber and SUMMER 2025 | ATLA DOCKET

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self-insured corporate interests admitted in testimony that the system is broken and unfair to workers. This acknowledgment is a game-changer, paving the way for meaningful reforms in future sessions. Our advocacy positioned us to lead this transformation, ensuring workers and businesses alike benefit from a fairer system.

A bright spot was our victory with House Bill 1405, spearheaded by Representative Jay Richardson.

This critical legislation put an end to the exploitative practice of chiropractic runners, a growing concern that undermined patient care and healthcare integrity. By passing HB1405, we secured a win that protects Arkansans and strengthens trust in our medical system.

Beyond these headline battles, our work behind the scenes was equally impactful. We successfully

405.650.0005 LegalImpactVideos.com

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SESSION RECAP halted numerous harmful bills that were considered. Additionally, we collaborated with lawmakers to amend flawed legislation, shaping bills into better laws for Arkansas. These quiet victories reflect our commitment to a legislative process that serves Arkansas.

The 2025 session showcased that our battles are greater than ever, but our strength and that of our populist supporters and partners is also unprecedented. In this session, we demonstrated

that our voice resonates in the Capitol. As we enter a new election cycle, your involvement and support will matter more than ever. Your work in fundraising and back home in the district with legislators is the critical component upon which we are able to build any success.

The fight is a worthy one, so let’s go win! █

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BOOK REVIEW WINNING SETTLEMENTS REVISED EDITION Review by Ross King

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BOOK REVIEW

rial lawyers are always up against it—fighting to get full value in a system that often rewards delay, lowballing, and playing it safe.

Winning Settlements answers that challenge with a playbook full of smart, practical strategies. With contributions from heavy-hitters like Charla Aldous, Joe Fried, Michael Leizerman, Courtney and Nick Rowley, and others, this book delivers tools to help you push cases to their full settlement value.

What makes Winning Settlements stand out is its format: each chapter is written by a different author, but the tone and mission stay remarkably consistent. Reading it feels like attending a high-level seminar where everyone’s on the same page—getting better outcomes for clients by being trial-ready from day one. The result is a packed volume of real-world tactics, example forms, and experienced insight, all delivered with a tone that feels more like a conversation among peers than a lecture.

While the book is centered on personal injury work, its lessons apply far more broadly. Chapters cover everything from writing demand letters with the adjuster in mind to handling mediations, setting up bad faith claims, working with opposing counsel, and improving your client’s net recovery post-settlement (think lien negotiations and medical bill reductions). And the consistent message throughout? Great settlements come from early prep and treating every case like it’s going to trial.

Each chapter is well-structured and easy to follow. That said, the book as a whole doesn’t follow a strict A-to-Z format. It’s more of a “here’s what I do that works” collection than a step-bystep manual. In that way, it’s great for dipping in and grabbing a tactic or fresh perspective without needing to read cover to cover. It’s the kind of book you can keep on your shelf and revisit when a case raises a particular issue.

One of the best things about this book is how usable it is. These aren’t just ideas—they’re actionable tools. From demand letter templates to mediation checklists to actual examples from real cases, there’s no fluff here. It’s especially refreshing to see lawyers at this level willing to share what others might guard as their competitive edge. I’ve already put one of the sample demand formats into use, and I feel that it raised the tone of the case. Whether it gets results remains to be seen, but it at least shows that this isn’t just another claim number.

This wouldn’t have happened without the book.

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The recurring themes also land well. Despite the range of voices, you keep hearing the same messages: prepare early, stay trialready, don’t settle for less without a compelling reason, and take more cases to trial if you want better offers. Sure, some of that feels repetitive, but it’s hard to argue with the collective wisdom of this crew. If a dozen respected lawyers are hammering the same points, they’re probably worth hearing more than once.

While many examples in the book come from big, high-dollar cases, the strategies aren’t just for million-dollar files. In fact, applying this kind of disciplined, trial-focused thinking to smaller cases might be where the real value lies. For lawyers handling cases where every dollar counts—and every expense gets scrutinized—the mindset modeled in this book can still make a real difference. The same fundamentals apply, even if the budgets and damages are smaller. Perhaps a well refined demand letter catered to an insurance adjusters claim evaluation software is exactly what you need to get the extra couple thousand on a small case, because clearly the “my client is a human being” approach doesn’t matter to Billion Dollar Insurance Company.

If there’s one knock, it’s that the book doesn’t have much of a roadmap. The chapters don’t follow a clear progression, so it reads more like a series of strong, stand-alone presentations than a cohesive guide. That’s not a dealbreaker, especially if you’re just looking for sharp ideas in digestible chunks, but SUMMER 2025 | ATLA DOCKET

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BOOK REVIEW readers hoping for a start-to-finish strategy may find the transitions jarring.

I think the best comparison would be to the ATLA convention. Some seminars are more your speed than others. There may be a couple that you’re particularly interested in. You may find yourself pleasantly surprised at the quality of a presentation that you otherwise weren’t very excited about. But at the end of the day, you’re getting a lot of good information from people who know what they’re talking about to make yourself a better advocate.

Also, a few chapters feel like they’re teasing deeper dives—more of a preview of that author’s longer book than a full treatment of the topic. That might bug some readers. Then again, if you’re pressed for time (and who isn’t?), it works as a solid sampler. You’ll come away with a reading list of people who clearly know what they’re doing and a better sense of where to dig deeper next.

And yes, the emphasis on trial readiness gets hammered over and over. But let’s be honest—most plaintiff lawyers don’t try enough cases. So maybe that drum needs to keep beating. If every lawyer who read this book took even one more case to trial this year, it’d probably pay off tenfold. And maybe that’s part of the book’s goal: to spark not just smarter strategies, but a mindset shift in how we value and pursue our cases.

All in all, Winning Settlements is a solid resource for lawyers at any stage.

For newer attorneys, it’s a crash course in how serious trial lawyers think and work. For mid-career folks, it’s a great way to sharpen your edge and shake off any complacency. And for experienced trial lawyers, it’s a useful gutcheck—and maybe even a nudge to revisit strategies that used to work and got left behind.

Compared to other go-to trial books, Winning Settlements leans heavily on practical tactics and light on theory. It’s not trying to reinvent litigation psychology or offer a deep dive into negotiation science—it’s about what works in real 12

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cases, from lawyers who’ve been there.

For that reason, it earns a place on the shelf next to Rules of the Road, Reptile, and Ball on Damages. Not as a replacement—but as a supplement.

Bottom line: Winning Settlements is a fast, useful read packed with ideas you can actually put to work right

away. Even if some chapters feel like a preview of something longer, or an ad for a service that you must invest in, you’ll still come away with new tools, sharper instincts, and a stronger case for full-value outcomes. If you’re serious about getting better settlements— and serving your clients better—this one’s worth giving a read. █

CONVENTION RECAP

CONVENTION RECAP

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CONVENTION RECAP

T

he 2025 ATLA Convention is officially in the books – and what a week it was!

We kicked off Convention on Wednesday, April 23rd with an afternoon of CLE. Incoming President Jessica Virden Mallett kicked off the CLE with “How to Get 12 People to Agree on Anything.” We also learned about “How to Defeat SNAP Removals” from Incoming ATLA Officer Joseph Gates and “Verdicts that Make Change” from Past President Sach Oliver. After a brief ice cream social sponsored by Forvis Mazars, we learned about “Constitutional Law for Plaintiff’s Lawyers” from Courtney Winston and “Litigating RideShare Cases” from Jen Lipinski. We wrapped up the evening with our Opening Night Reception sponsored by Forge Consulting.

ATLA Justice Partners took various groups out to dinner around time that evening – we heard that was a great time! And of course, everyone ended the day at the Hospitality Suite sponsored Denton, Zachary and Norwood.

On Thursday, April 24th, Elizabeth Larrick opened up the day of CLE with “Do-It-Yourself Jury Research: Taking Case & Trial Prep to the Next Level.” That morning we also heard “Lessons Learned from the Dark Side” from Shannon Frankel and Michael Rainey. Doing things a little different this year, we held an 14

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Awards Brunch and presented the Annual ATLA Awards. What a phenomenal group of award winners we had this year! And thank you to Milner Settlements for sponsoring the brunch! We also recognized this year’s ATLA Leadership Academy at the Brunch. That afternoon, we learned about “All Things ERISA” from Audrey Dolmovich and Kaci Garrabrant and “Tales from a UIM Trial” from ATLA’s own Karen Hughes and Meredith Moore. We wrapped up the afternoon with CLE from Domenic Sanginiti on “The Lithium-Ion Battery Explosion” and Past President BW Walas on “Checkmate: A Guide to Motions Practice.”

The ATLA Business Meeting, PAC Meeting and NLN Meeting were held Thursday afternoon. And then we all headed up to The Crescent Hotel for the Incoming President’s Party! The highlight of the party for everyone was hearing ATLA Past President Bart Virden and his band “Flashback” take the stage. Plus, we wrapped up the auction with a bang! (A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this year ’s auction a success!) And the afterparty at the DZN Hospitality Suite was a great time!

We kicked off the morning of Friday, April 25 with the ATLA Board of Governors Meeting. Then, Isaac Wright and Paul Byrd presented a PARF Debrief of the 2025 Legislative Session. We heard an AAJ Update

CONVENTION RECAP from Derrick Walker with AAJ and then “10 Strategies to Increase the Value of your Case” from Laura Brown.

We wrapped up the day learning “How to Spot a Dental Malpratice Case” with Jared Smith and “Dealing with the Collateral Source Doctrine” from Jeremiah Hodges.

We want to say a huge thank you to each of this year ’s sponsors who made the 2025 ATLA Convention a success! We had a record number of vendors in attendance, which we loved! And thank you to everyone who attended! It was a great time!

We’ll see you next year!

Note: All Convention CLE will be available as an ondemand course later this year. █

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AWARDS BY ATLA STAFF

The 2025 ATLA Awards

were presented during the ATLA Convention at the Awards Brunch on Thursday, April 24. This year ’s recipients included local Attorneys, a Judge, two Legislators, and a paralegal. Each recipient was selected and honored for their contributions in protecting the rights and liberties of all Arkansas citizens and the American justice system.

“It was an incredible honor to present these awards to some outstanding people that work hard daily to protect the rights of all Arkansans,” said ATLA Immediate Past President Rob Beard. “This year’s award winners are particularly impressive and our entire state benefits from their dedication and commitment to justice.”

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AWARDS BY ATLA STAFF

The 2025 ATLA Award Recipients

2025 Outstanding Trial Lawyer

2024-2025 Outstanding Paralegal

2025 Outstanding Trial Judge

Ryan Scott of Oliver Law Firm, Rogers

Linda Graves of Hurst Law Group, Hot Springs

The Honorable Bart Virden, Court of Appeals, Morrilton

2025 Citizen Merit Award

2024-2025 Outstanding Young Lawyer

2025 Consumer Advocate

William & Ashleigh Buckley of The Buckley Firm, Fort Smith

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Sam Mason of Oliver Law Firm, Rogers

Representative Jay Richardson, District 49, Fort Smith; and Senator John Payton, District 22, Wilburn

2025 Henry Woods Lifetime Achievement Award

2025 Ruthanne Murphy Good Works Award

Presidential Award

Presidential Award

John Coulter (Deceased) Formerly of McMath Law Firm, Little Rock

Bryce Brewer of Rainwater, Holt & Sexton

Brian Brooks of Brian G. Brooks, Attorney at Law, PLLC, Greenbrier

Justin Minton of Minton Law Firm

Presidential Award

Denise Hoggard of Rainwater, Holt & Sexton

Presidential Award Alan Lane of Odom Law Firm

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BOARD

2025

OF GOVERNORS

Alan L. Lane was raised in San Diego, California and graduated from Coronado

High School in 1987. In 1993, he received his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance from Arkansas Tech University and then attended the University of Arkansas to receive his MBA in 1996. From there, Alan worked in the transportation industry for J.B. Hunt Transport and Trism, Inc. specializing in sales and management of private fleets for customers in the hazardous materials and explosive industries. Alan earned his J.D. in 2003 from the University Of Arkansas School Of Law and is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, the U.S. District Courts in Eastern & Western Districts of Arkansas, and the U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit. Alan is a partner in the Odom Law Firm, P.A. where he focuses his practice primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, personal injury, construction site injury, and hospital negligence.

Alan LeVar was born in Orlando, Florida, but moved to Arkadelphia at a very

young age when his father took a job teaching government and Constitutional Law at Henderson State University. After graduating from high school in 1988, he spent 2 years as a missionary in Johannesburg, South Africa, then obtained his Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Brigham Young University in 1993. He graduated from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1996. Alan has worked as a deputy prosecutor, public defender, guardian ad litem and municipal judge. In 2013, Alan started his own firm. He is licensed to practice in Arkansas and Texas and his practice is focused on plaintiff personal injury cases including motor vehicle collisions, tractor-trailer collisions, premises liability and dog bite cases. He is a member of AAJ. Alan currently serves as Chair of the Clark County CASA Board and volunteers at his church. He lives in Arkadelphia with his wife, Erika. They have 4 sons.

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ATLA BOARD 2025

Andrew Norwood is an Arkansas native, who can trace his Arkansas roots

back to 1870. Before graduating law school in 2017, from the William H. Bowen School of Law, Andrew received a Major in Biology with Minors in Chemistry and Psychology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe in 2009 - where he was a member of the 2005 Sun Belt Conference Championship football team - and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences with doctoral dissertation research areas in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience and Behavioral Pharmacology from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in 2014. Andrew is married to his longtime college sweetheart, Ashley, and they have two sons Henry and Oliver. Andrew’s passion is helping individuals through some of life’s most difficult situations. For that reason personal injury cases hold a special place in Andrew’s heart, as it gives him the honor and the privilege of fighting for his injured client’s rights against large insurance companies. Andrew is a partner at Denton, Zachary & Norwood, PLLC, where he works in #PolicyLimitsDepartment.

Austin Easley has made it his life's work to stand up for injured people and vic-

tims. His practice centers around the courtroom. He has enjoyed particular success in cases tried to a jury, winning substantial verdicts and obtaining substantial settlements for clients that have been wronged by employers, insurance companies, banks, negligent motor vehicle operators, big-truck drivers, and other defendants. He has also successfully represented both individuals and small companies in contract issues and land disputes. As a part-time deputy prosecuting attorney, he has tried multiple capital murder trials, and regularly advocates to help protect victims of violent crime. Austin is the Past-President of the East-Central Arkansas Razorback Club, a Past-President of the Rotary Club of Forrest City, and has served on the board of Legal Aid of Arkansas. An avid outdoorsman, Austin spends most of his spare time in the woods or on the water. If he's not hunting or fishing, you may find him in his wood shop.

Bob Edwards grew up in south Lonoke County, in the small farming community

of Tomberlin. After graduating from England Public High School, he attended Hendrix College in Conway where he received his B.A. in Biology in 1991. After spending some time in the political arena working for Senator Dale Bumpers, among others, Bob earned his JD from the Bowen School of Law in Little Rock in 1998. Upon graduation, Bob was an integral part of the successful team that helped elect Mark Pryor to the Attorney General's Office. After the election, he went to work for General Pryor, eventually serving as the Chief of Staff in the Attorney General’s Office.

Bob was with the law firm of Wilkes & McHugh, P.A. in Little Rock from 2003 to July 1, 2013, when he started his own firm. He is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, Kentucky, Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee with his practice being focused primarily on nursing home and tractor-trailer litigation. Bob is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the American Association for Justice. He is also active in AAJ's Nursing Home Litigation Group and Interstate Trucking Litigation Group. In addition to practicing law, Bob has served as a member of the Board of Directors of the England Public School District in England, Arkansas. He currently is a member of the Board of Alumni at the Bowen School of Law having recently served as its President. Bob is married to Tiffany Fitch of Hindsville. They have one daughter, Katharine Grace, and live in Little Rock where they attend Trinity Episcopal Church.

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Bob Sexton graduated from Ouachita Baptist University with a double major in

Business Administration and Political Science, B.S. He received a J.D. with honors from University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He is licensed to practice in Arkansas state courts, the U.S. District Court Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas, the U.S. Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit and the state courts of Tennessee. He is a member of the Pulaski County, Arkansas, and American Bar Associations. He serves on the Board of Governors for the Arkansas Bar Association, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes board, the Ouachita Baptist School of Business advisory board, Bowen School of Law alumni board, and the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association board. His practice includes personal injury, wrongful death, and general litigation. Bob and his wife Jennie reside in Little Rock with their three children.

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ATLA BOARD 2025

Brandon Lacy is licensed to practice in Arkansas, the United States District Court

for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas, as well as the United States Courts of Appeal for the 6th and 8th Circuits. Brandon received a J.D. with honors from the William H. Bowen School of Law., University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2003, where he was Survey and Comments Editor on the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Law Review. Brandon received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with high honors from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He is the author of "Employment Discrimination Survey," 24 U. Ark. Law Review No. 4, 2003. Brandon is currently a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, American Association of Justice, the American Bar Association, and the Craighead County Bar Association. In 2022, Brandon became a formal business partner with his wife, attorney Megan Henry and her firm, Henry Law Firm, with over forty years of history and experience in personal injury law in the state of Arkansas, merged with Lacy Law Firm. In his free time, Brandon enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, fishing, attending his children's sporting events, and attending Razorback athletic events.

BW Walas is a trial lawyer with a passion for social justice and protecting the con-

stitutional rights of all people. As the founding member of Walas Law Firm, B.W. supports other trial attorneys in the pre-trial, trial, and appellate phases of litigation. He is admitted to practice law in Arkansas and Illinois, along with the United States Supreme Court, the Eighth and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Eastern and Western District Courts of Arkansas. B.W. is a 2005 graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Law and received a B.A. in American Studies from Cornell University in 2002. He is a past recipient of the ATLA Outstanding Member – Young Lawyers Division Award, ATLA President’s Award, and National LGBT Bar Best LGBTQ+ Attorneys Under 40. In addition to serving ATLA in many roles, B.W. is on the Executive Committee of the American Association of Justice’s LGBT Caucus and is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, American Association of Justice, National LGBT Bar Association, Pound Civil Justice Institute, and Public Justice Foundation.

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Brett A. McDaniel attended the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville for un-

dergraduate and law school. He joined the McDaniel Law Firm in 2011 and focuses exclusively on representing injured persons and their families. He is licensed to practice in Arkansas and Colorado, United States District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas, Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals, United States District Court for the District of Colorado, Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court. He is a member of ATLA, Colorado Trial Lawyers Association, American Association for Justice, and Million Dollar Advocates Forum.

Brett was appointed by Speaker of the House Davy Carter to Arkansas Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission and serves on the Board of Directors - Northeast Arkansas Children's Advocacy Center. He and his wife live in Jonesboro with their two children.

Chad Trammell is the founder of Trammell-Piazza Law Firm, PLLC, with of-

fices in Texarkana and Little Rock. Chad is a former partner in the law firm of Nix, Patterson, & Roach LLP. He is a 1991 graduate of the University of Arkansas School of Law and received his B.A. from the University of Arkansas, cum laude in 1988. He is licensed to practice law in Arizona, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia and is admitted to several federal courts. Chad received an honorable discharge as a Captain from the United States Air Force in 1996 after spending four years as Judge Advocate in Hawaii and Shreveport, Louisiana. His service honors include the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal. Before concentrating his practice on plaintiff’s contingency fee litigation in November 1999, Chad practiced in a number of areas including commercial litigation, nursing home defense, commercial transactions and insurance defense. Chad served as Chair of the American Association for Justice Nursing Home Litigation Group in 2008-09, and as the 2012-13 President of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association. Chad lives in Texarkana with his wife, Virginia, and their son, Charlie.

Craig Friedman graduated from Jacksonville High School and went on to earn

a BBA in finance at the University of Central Arkansas. He is a graduate of the William H. Bowen School of Law and was admitted to Arkansas Bar in 2010. In law school, Mr. Friedman had abstracts published in both the Arkansas Real Estate Review and the Arkansas Probate and Trust Law Review. Craig has experience in case work on FELA, personal injury law, criminal defense, real estate, and general civil litigation. His primary practice areas now focus primarily on personal injury, insurance litigation, and landlord/tenant disputes.

Fredrick S. "Rick" Spencer received his J.D. from the University of

Arkansas Law School in 1975 and graduated top of his class from the Hastings College of Trial Advocacy in 1982. He is a past president of the National Organization of Social Security Claimant's Representatives, past chair of ATLA's Administrative Law Division, twice the recipient of ATLA's President's Award and a recipient of the Roxanne Wilson Advocacy Award. He has served on ATLA's Board of Governors since 1989, is an ATLA Elite Member at the Champion Benefactor Level, and has been a speaker at many state and national CLE seminars. Rick and his wife, Brenda, have two daughters, Sarah and Heather Grace, and live in Mountain Home.

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ATLA BOARD 2025

Geoff Hamby is a born and bred Arkansan who grew up in Van Buren. He has been

calling the Hogs from Northwest Arkansas since he began attending the University of Arkansas in 2008. Geoff joined the catastrophic Injury team at the Oliver Law Firm in 2014. As part of the Oliver Law Firm CAT Team, Geoff primarily works on tractor-trailer cases and specializes in depositions, jury research, and trial presentation. Outside of work, Geoff loves spending time with his wife and their twin daughters as well as playing golf, traveling, and working with their church.

Heather Zachary, a native of Paragould, attended Hendrix College as a Distin-

guished Governor’s Scholar, and graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2001. Ms. Zachary then attended law school at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. She was a member of the Georgetown Journal of Law and Policy and was recognized for academic excellence in Evidence before earning her J.D. in 2004. Prior to returning to Arkansas, Ms. Zachary worked in the Washington, D.C. office of McDermott Will & Emery, a premier international law firm. Ms. Zachary then served two years working at the Arkansas Supreme Court as a law clerk for the Honorable Justice Annabelle Imber Tuck. Ms. Zachary then accepted a position at Chisenhall, Nestrud & Julian, where she focused her practice on environmental, employment law and appeals. In 2014, Ms. Zachary returned to the Arkansas Supreme Court clerking for the Honorable Justice Courtney Hudson until 2016, at which point Ms. Zachary joined Williams & Anderson where she handled appeals and class action litigation. She then joined Reddick Law, and focuses on appeals, nursing home abuse, and other complex personal injury litigation.

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SUMMER 2025 | ATLA DOCKET

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James Armstrong grew up in the Arkansas River Valley in the small town of

Paris. James moved to Fayetteville in 2012 to attend the University of Arkansas. He promptly fell in love with Northwest Arkansas and never left. James’s passion for the law grew out of personal experience. When James was 14 years old, his mother was paralyzed in a car accident.

James experienced first-hand the difference a personal injury attorney can make in a person’s life and how important it is to have an attorney on your side who genuinely cares about you and your family. James is married to his best friend, Megan, who is also a local attorney. When James is not helping Arkansans, James enjoys spending time with Megan and their three dogs, floating the Buffalo River, and watching live music.

Jason Hatfield graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1991 with a B.S. in

Microbiology. In 1994, he completed a Master’s Degree and began law school at the University Of Arkansas Law School. In 2013, Jason opened his own law firm, Jason M. Hatfield, P.A. Jason continues to focus his law practice in the areas of personal injury, tractor-trailer wrecks, car accidents, wrongful death cases, workers compensation, and social security disability. Jason is a serving a fourth term as one of ATLA's Board of Governors. He currently serves on the Legislative Committee and is a member of the Golden Gavel Club. He is currently a Champion Benefactor and was a Champion of Justice for nine consecutive years. He also received the President's Award in 2008 in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association. Jason served as President of the Washington County Bar Association in 2012.

Jeff Priebe grew up in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and graduated from Mountain

Home High School in 1994. Jeff received a B.S. in Agriculture Business in 1998 and a J.D. in 2001, both from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He is an attorney with Rainwater, Holt & Sexton Law Firm in Little Rock, Arkansas and has a general personal injury litigation practice with emphasis in nursing home and assisted living litigation. He is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky and before the United States Supreme Court. He has served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law and is also a member of the American Association for Justice, the Oklahoma Association for Justice, the Arkansas Bar Association, and the Pulaski County Bar Association. He and his wife live in Little Rock and have two sons, Thomas and Phillip.

Jessica Virden Mallett grew up in Morrilton, AR. She graduated from

the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, in 2008 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. She then attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law where she graduated early with Highest Honors in December 2010. While in law school, Ms. Virden Mallett clerked for Pulaski County Circuit Judge Chris Piazza, the Arkansas Attorney General's Office, and the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney's Office. Ms. Virden Mallett is a member of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice, and the Arkansas and Pulaski County Bar Associations. She is licensed to practice before all the Arkansas State Courts and the federal district courts of the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas as well as the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. She has received awards for Top Ten Attorneys in Client Satisfaction and is recognized as a National Lawyer of Distinction. She is the managing partner of The Law Offices of Peter Miller.

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ATLA DOCKET | arktla.org

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Jim Jackson is a trial attorney with the Jackson Law Firm in North Little

Rock. He graduated from Hendrix College with a B.A. in History and attended the UALR Bowen School of Law. Jim’s peers recognized his leadership abilities early in his professional career. He was elected President of the Student Bar Association by his peers in law school. Not only has Mr. Jackson been a tireless advocate for his clients in the courtroom, but he has also fought for Arkansas consumers by ensuring the passage of consumer and safety legislation in the Arkansas Legislature. Jim and his wife, Lisa Ferrell, have three children; Adam, Luke and Olivia Nan.

John Rainwater has been practicing law in Arkansas since 2009. While he is primarily focused on his personal injury practice, he has also represented debtors in chapter 7 and 13 bankruptcy cases, handled disability cases, litigated class action cases against multi-million dollar companies and defended law enforcement officers in Section 1983 cases. He litigates cases in federal and state court and has also tried cases in front of the Arkansas Claims Commission. After completing his Juris Doctorate at the University of Arkansas School of Law in Little Rock, John was admitted as a member to the Arkansas Bar. He was also admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas in 2009 and has practiced before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas since 2011. John lives in Little Rock with his wife, daughter and two sons. He loves being a dad, and spending time with his family.

Joseph Gates takes great pride in being a trial lawyer because the civil justice sys-

tem is the one arena where the meek and powerful can play on a level playing field. The richest and most dominant must adhere to the same rules as the weakest and the poorest. Joseph is married to Edith Gates, and they have three beautiful daughters, Sofia Marie, Violet Esmeralda, and Emilia Rose. They all live in Little Rock. While growing up in El Dorado, AR, he attended West Side Christian School until he graduated in 2003 second in his class. After high school, he attended college at Louisiana Tech University. He also attended Ouachita Baptist University for a short while to play college football. After college, Joseph received his J.D. from the University of Arkansas School of Law in Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 2010. Joseph passed the Arkansas Bar in summer 2010. For the first ten years of his career, Joseph practiced law at Taylor King & Associates, PA, and Paul Byrd Law Firm, PLLC. In fall 2020, Joseph founded Gates Law Firm, PLLC, with an emphasis on Personal Injury, Car Wreck, Trucking/18 Wheeler Collisions, Products Liability, and Traumatic Brain Injury cases.

Joseph Patrick Jaynes practiced in the areas of general personal in-

jury, medical negligence and products liability for twenty (20) years prior to his focusing full-time as a neutral. Beginning his legal career with the Haskins Law Firm in 1990, he left Haskins in 1993 with Brad Hendricks to open the Law Offices of Brad Hendricks. In 2003 he joined the firm of Dabbs & Pomtree. In addition to the foregoing areas of practice, J.P. also handled criminal, employment discrimination and contract cases. He has acted as special judge in several Courts. He is a member of the Association of Attorney Mediators in addition to being a fellow of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals, both as a mediator and arbitrator.

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ATLA DOCKET | arktla.org

ATLA BOARD 2025

Joshua Gillispie has an injury practice that focuses on representing vic-

tims of sexual abuse and other crimes. Raised in North Little Rock, Arkansas, he graduated from Hendrix College in 2003. He holds a Master’s in English Literature and briefly worked as a college English teacher prior to attending law school at the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law, where he graduated with honors in 2010. He is licensed to practice in Arkansas, as well as U.S. Federal Courts. In 2017, he was named the Outstanding Young Trial Lawyer by the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association. Josh lives in Little Rock with his wife, Liz, and their two little boys, Grant & Oliver.

Justin Zachary has been a trial lawyer since the first day he got his license. He

grew up in Memphis, Tennessee and graduated from the University of Memphis, before attending law school at the UALR Bowen School of Law. In law school, Justin met the love of his life, Heather, who is also a lawyer. They have three children, Grace, Shepard and Cecelia. Justin is a partner at Denton, Zachary & Norwood specializing in Personal Injury, 18-Wheeler wrecks and Illegal Exactions. He is a member of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, American Association of Justice and the Arkansas Bar Association. He is licensed to practice in Arkansas and Tennessee. Justin was named the 2020 ATLA Outstanding Trial Lawyer.

Matthew L. Lindsay was born in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and was raised

in Crossett, Arkansas, graduating from Crossett High School in 1995. In 2000, he received his bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas while also serving as student body vice president. He earned his J.D. from the University of Arkansas in 2003. Upon graduation from law school, Matt joined the Odom Law Firm where he is now a partner. He focuses his practice primarily on personal injury, medical negligence, and toxic torts. He is a member of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association of Justice, the Arkansas Bar Association, and the Washington County Bar Association. He and his wife Courtney have one daughter, Elliot, and reside in Fayetteville.

Paige Edgin is an Arkansas native. She received her B.S. in Biology from the

University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 2009 and her J.D. in 2012 from the William H. Bowen School of Law. Before joining The Law Offices of Peter Miller as an associate attorney in 2013, Paige clerked for Judge Rita Gruber at the Arkansas Appellate Court, clerked with law firm Provost Umphrey, and worked as an attorney for John Holleman and Associates. She is licensed to practice in the state and federal courts of Arkansas. In addition to her involvement with ATLA, Paige is an active member of the American Association for Justice; Arkansas Bar Association, serving on the House of Delegates; and Pulaski County Bar Association. Paige practices personal injury law and medical negligence, including those involving jail medical negligence. Paige is married to her husband Greg and can often be found at local running or biking events.

SUMMER 2025 | ATLA DOCKET

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Paul Byrd has been representing deserving injured victims for 25 years. After graduating

from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1985, he clerked for the Honorable Tom F. Digby, and then went into private practice in 1988. Paul’s practice has focused on civil litigation with an emphasis on representing consumers in product liability actions. He has tried tire failures and vehicle safety litigation in many states including Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. In November 2000, he was featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal due to his work in the case of Brownlee/Whitaker vs. Cooper Tire and Rubber Company. He appeared in a Dateline NBC documentary regarding the same case in January 2001. His work has been mentioned in USA Today, Chicago Sun-Times, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, and the Arkansas Times. Paul has represented rice farmers in agricultural litigation regarding genetically modified crop contamination that had global as well as state and local implications. Paul is a past President of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association. His message to his fellow members was “You went to law school to make a difference!” He is currently a Board of Governor member of the American Association for Justice. In 2010, Paul was the recipient of the Roxanne Wilson Award. In 2012, Paul was a co-recipient of the Outstanding Trial Lawyer of the Year Award from the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association. In 2015, he received the Henry Woods Lifetime Achievement Award from ATLA. He is the managing member of the Little Rock office of Paul Byrd Law Firm, PLLC. Paul has served as a Special Justice to the Arkansas Supreme Court by request of the Governor of Arkansas.

He has served as Special Judge in many Circuit Court Trials.

Rob Beard is a trial lawyer with the Rainwater, Holt & Sexton firm in Little Rock.

He was born in Jonesboro and earned his B.A. from Henderson State University in 1999. In 2002, Rob graduated with honors from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Law School where he was the Assistant Managing Editor of the UALR Law Review. Rob's areas of practice include Personal Injury and Employment and Labor.

Ryan Scott grew up in Northeast Arkansas in the small town of Pocahontas. He was

the quarterback of the football team and president of his senior class. He graduated from the University of Arkansas, cum laude, with a double major in political science and communication.

He was awarded the Athens Award in Communication, given to the top 5 graduating seniors in the department. Ryan also holds a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from the Sam Walton College of Business, where he was a finalist in the graduate division of the Arkansas Business Plan Competition. While in law school, Ryan represented the University of Arkansas, School of Law as a traveling negotiations team member, and was named to Dean’s List in the spring of 2007. Ryan currently serves on the Arkansas Bar Association Board of Delegates. Ryan is an avid sports fan (Go Hogs!) and loves competition. He brings this passion to his work every day. As the chief litigation officer for Oliver Law Firm, Ryan specializes in legal research and writing, pleadings, motions, and discovery. He is diligently involved in the development, initial evaluation and litigating of catastrophic cases on the Oliver trial team.

Sarah Jewell graduated from University of Arkansas with a B.A. in English in

2008, and she earned her Master’s Degree in English from TCU in 2010. Sarah taught college writing courses and high school AP English before beginning law school. In 2015, Sarah graduated from University of Arkansas School of Law. In 2019, Sarah joined McMath Woods P.A. and opened the firm’s Fayetteville office. In 2023, Sarah became a Partner at McMath Woods P.A. Sarah serves on ATLA’s Board of Governors and the Publications Committee. Sarah was named the 2019 ATLA Outstanding Young Lawyer, and she is former Chair of the ATLA New Lawyers Network. She also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Arkansas Bar Association.

Outside the practice of law, Sarah and her husband Ryan enjoy Razorback sports and exploring hiking trails across the Natural State.

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ATLA DOCKET | arktla.org

ATLA BOARD 2025

Sean T. Keith has represented people injured because of the negligence of others

for more than thirty years. His practice began with car wrecks and has grown to include tractor trailer crashes, nursing home abuse and products liability cases against car manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies. Sean began his career as a prosecuting attorney in Logan County, Arkansas, where he was involved in jury trials concerning several different types of criminal cases, including murder. Since 1995, he has exclusively practiced civil law. Sean is an active member of the legal profession and his community. He currently serves as a member of the Arkansas Supreme Court Model Civil Jury Instructions Committee and was appointed in 2015 by Governor Asa Hutchinson to sit as a Special Justice on the Arkansas Supreme Court.

Steve Harrelson is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, Texas, and Louisiana,

and his practice areas include personal injury, wrongful death, and litigation involving oil and gas issues. Steve practices throughout the three-state region in state and federal courts. In addition to litigating complex issues inside the courtroom, Steve is also experienced in private negotiations, mediations, and seeking remedies at the administrative level. While Steve enjoys many areas of the legal arena, his passion is preparing for and engaging in the trial by jury. Steve believes in the constitutional right to trial by jury and is willing to protect and preserve this concept on which the American tort system is founded. In addition to his law practice, Steve served a stint in the state legislature in Arkansas from 2005 through 2012. He served as House Majority Leader and chaired the House Judiciary Committee before serving in the Arkansas Senate. Steve is very familiar with the inner workings of state government and earned a certificate from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government in 2008 for Executives in State and Local Government.

Taylor Chaney graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2005 with a B.A.

in psychology. He graduated from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2009. He joined his father, brother, and sister-in-law in practicing law in Arkadelphia, Arkansas in January 2010.

Taylor has been a member of ATLA since birth, and a member of AAJ since 2011. He has served in the Arkansas Bar Association’s House of Delegates since June 2014, and on its Board of Governors since June of 2015. Taylor is also active in his community, serving as a board member of the Clark County Community Foundation from 2011-2017, currently serving as a board member of Downtown Arkadelphia and serving as a City Director of Ward 1 in Arkadelphia. Taylor represents injured people through the challenges of being hurt through no fault of their own against large insurance companies with unlimited resources. Taylor's experience in trying cases, handling appeals, and service to his community as well as the legal profession provides him with a unique perspective benefiting all his clients.

Taylor King earned undergraduate degrees in Political Science and History from

Ouachita Baptist University in 1983. He went on to graduate from the University of Arkansas School of Law with a Juris Doctorate in 1986. Taylor founded Taylor King Law, P.A., in 1994 and has since grown the firm to include 7 offices throughout Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas. He is licensed to practice law in Arkansas, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas.

Taylor is a member of the Arkansas Trial Lawyers Association, Arkansas Bar Association, American Association for Justice, and the Pound Civil Justice Institute. He also serves on the Board of Governors for ATLA. In addition to his professional memberships, King is active in Second Baptist Church of Arkadelphia, his community, and his alma mater, Ouachita Baptist University, where he currently serves as chair of the Board of Trustees. Taylor’s firm represents victims of personal injury, auto accidents, wrongful death, and mass torts. He remains committed to advocating for the rights of ordinary citizens, a commitment that is reflected in his promise to be “on your side—by your side.” Taylor and his wife, Terri, have made their home in Arkadelphia for more than 30 years. They have two adult children and are the proud grandparents of two.

SUMMER 2025 | ATLA DOCKET

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Tim Watson, Jr. is a trial attorney, licensed in both Arkansas and California,

practicing primarily in Northwest Arkansas. His law firm has offices in Fayetteville and Newport, and in Memphis, Tennessee. Tim is passionate about representing those who have been injured through the negligence of others, including those who are suffering because of medical malpractice. In addition to cases involving injury, Tim has developed a specialization in construction litigation. Tim serves ATLA on the Board of Governors and the Publications Committee. Tim has also been honored to have served on the Arkansas Legal Aid Board for six years. Away from the practice of law, Tim enjoys spending time with his family, Britney, Zoey and Finley, and loves being outdoors.

William "Zac" White is a sixth-generation Arkansan. He was raised in

Forrest City until the sixth grade when his family moved to Marion where he graduated high school. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in International Trade from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, a Master’s degree in International Economics and Finance, and obtained his law degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law.

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ATLA DOCKET | arktla.org

ELITE MEMBERS

ELITE

MEMBERS

ATLA’s Elite Members are the members who have gone the extra mile to help preserve the jury system, promote individuals’ rights, and educate the public by supporting ATLA, Justice PAC, and AAJPAC, the political action arm of the American Association for Justice. Thanks to them, ATLA makes a difference!

PLATINUM FOUNDER — $50,000+ Rainwater Holt & Sexton

GOLD LEADER — $25,000+ Taylor King AAJ

BRONZE BARRISTER — $6,000+ Paul Byrd AAJ Jason Hatfield AAJ George Niblock

Carter Stein AAJ BW Walas AAJ

CHAMPION BENEFACTOR — $3,000+ Rob Beard AAJ Thomas Buchanan Taylor Chaney AAJ Joe Denton Austin Easley AAJ Paige Edgin AAJ Bob Edwards AAJ Craig Friedman AAJ Joseph Gates AAJ Josh Gillispie AAJ

Geoff Hamby AAJ Steve Harrelson AAJ Q. Byrum Hurst AAJ Jim Jackson Joseph P. Jaynes Sarah Jewell AAJ Sean Keith AAJ Brandon Lacy AAJ Alan Lane AAJ Alan Le Var AAJ

CHAMPION PATRON — $1,200+ Hank Bates AAJ Will Bond AAJ Neil Chamberlin AAJ Don Chaney AAJ Louis Cook Shawn Daniels AAJ Steven Davis Terry Dugger AAJ

Don Elliott Danny Ellis Bob Estes Bruce Flint Greg Giles Keith Grayson AAJ Melanie Grayson Todd Griffin

Matthew Lindsay AAJ Bobby McDaniel AAJ Brett McDaniel AAJ Timothy J. Myers AAJ Andrew Norwood AAJ Jeff Priebe AAJ John Rainwater Ryan Scott AAJ Rick Spencer AAJ Chad Trammell AAJ

Jess Virden Mallett AAJ Tim Watson AAJ Les Weisbrod AAJ Phillip Wells AAJ George Wise AAJ Justin Zachary AAJ Heather Zachary

Denise Hoggard AAJ Bill Horton Kenneth Kieklak Laura McKinnon AAJ Conrad Odom AAJ Cary Patterson Mark Rees AAJ Marc Stewart AAJ

Tom Thrash Stevan Vowell Lorie Whitby Russell Winburn AAJ

GUARDIAN OF JUSTICE — BASED ON YEARS OF PRACTICE James Bargar AAJ Robert Cortinez Wesley Cottrell Hani Hashem AAJ

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ATLA DOCKET | arktla.org

Thomas Jones AAJ Darren O’Quinn AAJ Michael Ray Clay Sexton

J.T. Skinner Tim Smith AAJ Bill Stanley AAJ

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NEW

MEMBERS Christopher Baker Nicholas Coward Jonathan Davis

Published quarterly, The Docket is distributed to more than 1,000 attorneys and law professionals throughout Arkansas.

These attorneys and professionals, in turn, contribute articles to the publication in the spirit of advancing legal knowledge and strengthening the bonds of the legal community. Members of the ATLA Communications/Publications Committee approve editorial content for The Docket. Each quarterly issue typically includes thematic articles, ATLA news, lifestyle feature, practice management information, and more.

Subscriptions to The Docket are free of charge to association members. Additional subscriptions are available for purchase by calling (501) 376-2852. For more information, or to purchase ad space, contact Jennifer Irwin at jirwin@arktla.org or by calling the number above.

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