Elite Attorney SA

Attorney Joe D. Gonzales A Lifelong History of Seeking Justice Joe D. Gonzales, Abogado Criminalista, Sigue Un Sue単oDe Toda La Vida De Ir Tras Justicia.

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Publisher

Dan Ramirez Director of Sales & Marketing

Adriane Gonzalez adriane@eliteattorneytx.com Executive Editor

Jennifer Pucci Starr Jennifer@eliteattorneytx.com

Director of Digital Media & Design

Gary Dominguez

Advertising Sales

Laura Weik Laura@eliteattorneytx.com Contributors DAN CORBETT, MANNY DIOTTE, KATE EDWARDS, HECTOR GOANZALEZ, RAMONA LAMPLEY, IVAN RAMIREZ, MATT SOSSI, TREY WILSON, TAMMY WINCOTT

p: 210-620-0405 | f: 210-877-6052 9703 Bandera Road, Suite 107 San Antonio, TX78250 www.eliteattorneysa.com ADVERTISERS CALL: 210-620-0405 0DWHULDO FRQWDLQHG KHUHLQ GRHV QRW QHFHVVDULO\ UHÃ HFW WKH RSLQLRQ RI WKH 3XEOLVKHU RU LWV VWDII (OLWH $WWRUQH\ 6$ DQG WKH 3XEOLVKHU UHVHUYH WKH ULJKW WR HGLW DOO PDWHULDOV DQG DVVXPH QR UHVSRQVLELOLW\ IRU DFFXUDF\ HUURUV RU RPLVVLRQV (OLWH $WWRUQH\ 6$ DQG WKH 3XEOLVKHU GR QRW NQRZLQJO\ DFFHSW IDOVH RU PLVOHDGLQJ DGYHUWLVHPHQWV IDOVH RU PLVOHDGLQJ HGLWRULDOV DQG GR QRW DVVXPH DQ\ UHVSRQVLELOLW\ VKRXOG VXFK HGLWRULDOV RU DGYHUWLVLQJ DSSHDU Copyright 2015 Elite Attorney SA, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction without the expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

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FAST FACTS: The History of Charitable Giving

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ASK ROMO: Common Cent$ Questions Answered

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Q&A: Planning Charitable Donations

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NEWS & NOTEWORTHY: The Immigration Report

GETTING PERSONAL: 24 Elite Eatery: Ruth’s Chris Steak House 26-27 ON THE SIDE: The Artistic Side of Attorney Lauren Carrington 30-31 IN THE SPOTLIGHT: State Representative Ina Minjarez COMMUNITY CONNECTION - EXPANDED: THE GIVING ISSUE 40 Finding Profit in Philanthropy 42-45 ELITE OUTINGS Elite Attorney Awards Mixer St. PJ’s Children’s Home Hosts A Royal Event St. Mary’s University’s Red Mass & Distinguished Graduate Awards 46-47 Getting and Giving: Help For The Hungry 50-51 Teaching Divorcing Parents to Put Kids First 52-53 Make A Difference With One Kind Act LAW TALK: 56-57 An Update To Your Credit Card Agreements 58-59 DWIs: Avoiding Them This Season 60-61 Shoppers Beware 62-63 How the U.S. Helps Immigrants

Joe D. Gonzales An early injustice on the playground sparked Joe D. Gonzales to seek out a fair case for those who needed it, leading him to becoming of the top criminal attorneysSan in San Antonio.

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Year in Closing W

ell, we can now say that we have a year under our belts with Elite Attorney SA, and what a year it has been! It seemed this little idea was just that only yesterday, and to see it grow into something our community has begun to talk about, relies on and looks forward to makes me proud. I am proud of the team that has come together to make this dream into a reality – the dedication, research and networking they have accomplished allows this magazine to thrive. I am proud of our attorneys, those we have come to know intimately through their stories, their words and their support and to those who we look forward to honoring in issues to come. I am proud of you, our readers, for continuing to be open minded and ready to learn and understand the laws that govern our great city and the people who are there to support it. For all these reasons and more I say thank you. Thank you to our readers for your time and for your feedback. We strive to provide the most comprehensive legal news and information available and this feedback in invaluable for continued growth.

If we reflect on the year that has passed, it was an adventurous and exciting endeavor for the team here at EASA. The first step is always the hardest, and it seemed so many hours were spent planning, researching and unveiling that first issue.

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We are fortunate in San Antonio, as we have not only wonderful firms to represent us in all our needs, but also many fantastic educational institutions where many of these attorneys first made their mark. In particular, St. Mary’s University School of Law has become quite the friend to EASA. Recently supporting the St. Mary’s Distinguished Law Graduate Awards dinner, we came together in a room filled with a family of honorable men and women, graduates, employers, supporters. The history this facility has ingrained into the legal world has potential students challenging themselves in many ways for a spot within its halls. Quite coincidentally, every one of our own esteemed cover honorees attended St. Mary’s University School of Law: Fidel Rodriguez, Jr., Alfonso Kennard, Jr., Hector Gonzalez, Bob Hilliard and our current cover, Joe Gozales. These are all leaders in their legal practice areas, and it is a testament to how the San Antonio community is filled with prestigious representatives with a lifelong connection to their city.

These committed gentlemen may have served on past issues, but you will not see the last of them as they continue to give back of their time in poignant and informative articles on the topics that are important to you. EASA is offering this group an opportunity they can not pass up, one where they can make our readers, their neighbors, acquaintances, associates and friends more aware of what has been going on throughout our courtrooms. These experts in legal topics offer assistance to our interested readers, be it for immigration or on dealing with an unfair employer or what to know when facing DWI charges, EASA has it covered. Many of our readers have mentioned they have enjoyed how connected they are to the lawyers who write for us.

We look forward to the coming year, where we will be honoring some of our strong female legal advocates on the coming covers.

It is also with pleasure that in closing out the year we finish with our giving issue. We have celebrated the great work many of these professionals have done in the philanthropic world. It is important that we continue to highlight these organizations that offer so many goods and services to those in need. In the expanded Community Connection section of this issue, whether you are in need or ready to help we have many tips and opportunities available.

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t has been a wonderful year, with much more to come. No other publication in or around the city, or state for that matter, compares in content, quality and design, as well as expanded market exposure.

Now available throughout the city in select HEB, CVS, Whole Foods locations not to mention many other strategically placed smaller retail outlets and neighborhood destinations, EASA is close by. We thank you for opening these pages and for sharing them with your friends.

If you enjoy what you are reading in these pages, make sure to check us out online at www.eliteattorneysa. com. This is an expanded version of the print publications, where you will have access to all the EASA stories, as well as unique content just for our online audience. We have also compiled a directory of information on local attorneys and how to contact them should you need their services.

So please, go and enjoy a safe, happy and healthy holiday season with your friends and family. We consider you our friends, and wish you all the best for the start of a fulfilling new year. We sincerely hope you continue to find Elite Attorney SA to be a valuable and insightful tool and we look forward to continuing to provide our readers exactly what they need. For that we continue to welcome any feedback, questions and comments at info@eliteattorneytx.com.

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By: Kate Edwards

Historic perspective on giving

San Antonio gives back

Giving is part of who we are. America’s organized process of charitable giving is a fairly recent phenomenon, though. In 2500 BC, the ancient Hebrews had a mandatory tithe that benefited the poor. In 500 BC, the word philanthropy first appeared in the drama “Prometheus Bound” by Aeschylus. In 347 B.C., Plato gifted his farm to a nephew with instructions that the proceeds be used to support students and faculty at the academy that he founded.

San Antonio has a number of names, which help describe its unique characteristics – the Alamo City, Military City USA, River City and Mission City. We should also claim Giving City or Philanthropy City USA. San Antonio consistently ranks in the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s list of 50 Generous Cities, with a median percentage of 4.6 percent of its income given to charitable organizations each year. There are many world-class nonprofit organizations making a tremendous impact in this community.

The city is also host to an extremely successful 24-hour online giving event, called The Big Give SA. San Antonians are known for their warm generosity and friendly spirit, and it is no different when it comes to giving back.

Americans gave $358 billion to charities in 2014, with 72 percent of giving coming from individuals. In May 2015, there were approximately 1.5 million charitable organizations in the United States. In Bexar County, there are approximately 4,100 registered 501(c)(3) public charities.

A powerful, local giving resource One example of organized charitable giving can be found at the San Antonio Area Foundation, which began as a tribute to Nat Goldsmith, a man who cared deeply for our community. When he died in 1963, Nat’s brother, Mannie, challenged Nat’s son, Richard, to find a permanent way to honor Nat. With a $10,000 gift, the Area Foundation was established. They awarded their first grant of $868 in 1965 and their first scholarship of $100 in 1969.

By the end of 2014, the Area Foundation’s assets had grown to nearly $280 million. In 2014, the community foundation distributed $22 million in grants and scholarships. Today, the Area Foundation continues its enduring tribute to the Goldsmith vision by helping donors achieve their charitable goals for the greater benefit of the community.

Giving back this holiday season Almost all of us are touched by a nonprofit organization each day, whether it’s a program caring for a loved one, a museum that you frequent, an after-school program or your local pet adoption center. Nonprofits build vibrant and sustainable communities; they are the glue of this great city, making our community a pleasant place to live, work and play. The holiday season is a great time to give back these organizations. Use this as an opportunity to show your family what it means to give and express your generosity in ways that matter. What are your plans for charitable giving as we approach the year-end?

Community foundations help you give with purpose Most of us have separate accounts for money we want to use for specific purposes. We have checking accounts, money market accounts, 401(k) retirement accounts and 529 college savings accounts, so it’s natural that we would have a separate charitable giving account.

The San Antonio Area Foundation, can assist in setting up a charitable giving account -- also known as a donor-advised fund -- to help organize and maximize your giving. It’s quick and easy and can be customize to meet your needs as an individual, family or corporate fund. Additionally, you can choose to name younger generations as future advisors on the account, passing along the gift of giving and creating a legacy for your philanthropy.

for more information or the assistance of the San Antonio Area Foundation, visit www.saafdn.org or call 210.225.2243.

Statistics were sourced through the National Philanthropic Trust: www.nptrust.org and the National Center for Charitable Statistics: www.nccsweb.urban.org.

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Celebrating125 Years MARCH 19, 2016 LA CANTERA RESORT

HONORING HERO OF THE PRAIRIE:

NICO L A HOOD, BEXAR COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY GALA CHAIRS:

EMCEE:

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ENTERTAINMENT: BERNIE MARTINI AND THE DAVENPORT BAND

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ASK ROMO COMMON CENT$ Tis the Season to be Jolly ‌‌ Not reckless

By SYLVIA S. ROMO

As the Holiday season approaches, sweet childhood memories of Santa Claus floats through my mind.

The vision of Santa Claus bringing me delightful toys, the family enjoying their festive meal and singing together around the Christmas tree generates great joy for me. Opening presents with wrapping paper flying everything is a sight to behold! Oh, the innocence of children!

As an adult now, I still love the Holidays, however, my perception has changed and reality has settled in. The consequences of Holiday overspending can overwhelmed an otherwise festive occasion. The spending begins with Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. “Sales, sales everywhere, hurry, hurry, you’ll miss some bargains�, that is the standard mantra of shoppers.

The swooping sound of the swiping of your credit card and the cha-ching of the cash register are loud and clear at this moment.

Stop, take a deep breath, and study these tips to survive these special times and to help you control your spending.

1. Know your limit and make a realistic budget. Try to spend no more than 1.5 percent of your annual income in gifts and entertainment. The money you spend on gifts is money that will not be available for other bills or emergencies.

2. You have done your budget, now plan ahead. Make a list of your gift group and decide the spending limit for each person. Use coupons and look for special sales at the store.

3. Be watchful of online shopping. Even though it is convenient, it is also tough to resist impulsive buying.

4. Maintain a gift log and keep track of all spending and charging.

5. Buy the perfect gift: gift cards. They make good last- minute gifts, they are more practical, and the recipient can get what they want without the hassle of an exchange.

6. Gifts can come in different ways, establish a saving or investment account for your children and/or your grandchildren. With compound interest, the gift will continue to grow.

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Sylvia Romo has accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments, honors and recognitions in her professional and political careers. Her community activities complement her success in business.

6\OYLDĹ?V SURIHVVLRQDO H[SHULHQFH DV D &HUWLĆ“HG Public Accountant and business advisor spans over \HDUVbZLWK D GLYHUVLW\ RI FOLHQWHOH LQ KHU SUDFWLFH 6KH LV DOVR D OLFHQVHG Ć“QDQFLDO DGYLVRU bb,Q 0V 5RPR EHFDPH WKH Ć“UVW ZRPDQ HOHFWHG WR WKH RIĆ“FH of the Tax Assessor-Collector of Bexar County. She ZDV HOHFWHG WRbVHUYHb bIRXU b\HDU WHUPV DQGbZDV responsible for the collection and disbursement of RYHU ELOOLRQ GROODUV RIbDQQXDO UHYHQXH bDQ RSHUDWLQJ EXGJHW RI PLOOLRQ DQG D VWDII RI bHPSOR\HHV b Sylvia serves on the Board of Directors of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Public Library Foundation, the University of ,QFDUQDWH :RUG 3ODQQLQJ &RXQFLO DQG WKH 6DQ $QWRQLR 0H[LFR )ULHQGVKLS &RXQFLO 6KH LV WKH 7UHDVXUHU IRU WKH 6DQ $QWRQLR :RPHQĹ?V +DOO RI )DPH bDQGbWKH &DFWXV 3HDUb0XVLFb)HVWLYDObDQGbLV D PHPEHU RI WKH ,QWHUQDWLRQDO :RPHQĹ?V )RUXP b6\OYLDbKDV EHHQ DQ adjunct professor at the University of Texas at San Antonio, teaching courses in public budgeting and WD[DWLRQ DV ZHOO DV VHUYLQJ DV D PHPEHU RI WKH XQLYHUsity’s College of Business Advisory Council. She served 2 terms in the Texas House of Representatives ZKHUH VKH DXWKRUHG QXPHURXV EXVLQHVV UHODWHG ELOOV DQGbVHUYHG RQ WKH :D\V DQG 0HDQV &RPPLWWHH 6\OYLDZDV VHOHFWHG WR SDUWLFLSDWH LQ WKH :KLWH +RXVH :RPHQĹ?V (FRQRPLF /HDGHUVKLS 6XPPLW LQ :DVKLQJton D.C. during the Clinton Administration.

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GIVING TO CHARITY

By: Ivan Ramirez

You can give to charities like a church, a college, or another qualified charitable organization in your will or during your lifetime. Gifting takes into consideration your family’s income needs versus the tax benefits. Giving freely during your lifetime and after you pass may help reduce federal income taxes, capital gains taxes, and estate and gift taxes significantly.

Q A

:What is the benefit of a lifetime gift?

: Generally, a lifetime gift to a charity allows the donor to take an income tax deduction. Before a significant gift is made, be sure to seek tax advice and verify the deduction limits. Also, gifting highly appreciated assets such as real estate to a charity could be a good strategy; in addition to the income tax deduction, you may bypass the capital gains taxes that would be owed if you decided to sell those assets yourself.

Q A

: What options do I have for charitable giving?

: Donor-advised funds are charitable giving programs that are generally run by public charities or financial institutions. These allow you to give with certain income tax deductions and also help to meet the needs of the causes that are important to you.

A Private Foundation may also be an option if you have an interest in philanthropy. You can create your own Private Foundation and make donations up to certain income limits. Private Foundation managers maintain control over the investment of their foundation assets and decide which

charities receive grants from the foundation.

Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRT) allow you make a donation to this type of trust and then receive payments during your lifetime. This will generate a payout from the trust to yourself or another beneficiary during your lifetime, or for a specified term. The remaining assets go to the charity of your choice after your death. This may include a Private Foundation that you create as an option. If you possess substantially appreciated assets, such as real estate or stocks, current capital gains taxes on the assets could potentially be reduced by donating the assets to a CRT.

Q A

: Can I give a charitable donation using retirement accounts?

: Retirement assets may be good for donations because they can be among the highest taxed assets in any estate.

Leaving your retirement account to a charity has the benefit of the charity not having to pay income taxes on your donation when it receives money from your retirement account.

The rules for 401(k)s and other qualified retirement plans are similar to those for IRAs. If you are married and you want to designate beneficiaries other than your spouse, you may need written consent from your spouse.

This information was provided by Ivan Ramirez, a San Antonio based attorney that provides legal services in the areas of estate planning, estate administration, probate, asset protection planning, estate and gift tax planning, business entity planning, and business contracts. Ivan is also fluent in Spanish. Contact Ramirez at the Law Office of Ramirez & Parenti, PLLC, 18756 Stone Oak Pkwy, Suite 200 San Antonio, Texas 78258.

Call: 210-448-7755 email: ivan@ram-law.com or visit: www.ram-law.com.

EspaĂąol: www.abogadoivan.com

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FEDERAL JUDGE SAYS TEXAS HAS A RIGHT dren, recently awarded GEO-Group – yes, the same company TO DENY US CITIZEN CHILDREN A BIRTH – the contract for Family Case Management, an alternative to detention for families. GEO-Group, a private, for-profit prison CERTIFICATE. company is now going to oversee community-based manage-

O

n October 16, 2015, Federal District Judge Robert Pitman, in the Western District of Texas, denied a request for temporary injunction and stated Texas has a right to deny U.S. Citizen born children their birth certificate if their parents cannot produce valid identification. In other words, if you’re an illegal with no valid Visa, you are denied access to your child’s birth certificate.

Although the 14th Amendment states “No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of a citizen of the U.S.,” it appears Texas is immune. The Administrative Code for Texas Health Services lists acceptable forms of identification documents for parents seeking birth certificates. This code has been in place for a few years; however, until Texas began its Anti-Immigration campaign in earnest this year, there had been little, if any, issue with using “Matricula Consular” identification cards as one form of identity to meet requirements.

A “matricula consular” card is an identification card issued by the Mexican government through its consulate offices. It does not have any bearing on immigration status rather its purpose is to show that the holder is a Mexican national living outside of Mexico. Relying on the argument that there is no verification process, Texas claims it is an unsecure form of identification and thus refuses to accept it leaving illegal and undocumented parents little else to produce for identification and thus denial of the birth certificate.

Most Law Enforcement Agencies, County Tax Offices and certainly hospital billing departments find it an acceptable form of identification and act accordingly. It will likely be some time before a definitive ruling on this issue; perhaps in the interim someone will follow the Constitution.

GEO-GROUP AWARDED MORE CONTRACTS DESPITE HISTORY OF INHUMANE CARE GEO-Group, the same for-profit prison company that has been detaining women and children in horrific conditions is awarded more government contracts for detention and family management.

Recently, GEO-Group was awarded the government contract for the Adelante Detention facility in California. The largest and newest detention center in CA will be run by the same company documented to have kept women and children detainees in horrific conditions.

To add further insult to injury, the Government, in its effort to improve conditions for undocumented women and chilThe Giving Edition Nov/Dec 2015 | Elite Attorney San Antonio 20 |

ment of more than 1500 undocumented families. They couldn’t be trusted to do it humanely behind locked doors, how are they going to do it in a community environment with which they have no experience?

The two largest private-detention companies, CCA (Corrections Corporation of America) and GEO-Group continue their stronghold on the government as their revenue surpasses billions of dollars. This has been happening for more than 30 years. I’ll bet they adamantly oppose construction of any border barriers to keep aliens out.

EB-5 REGIONAL INVESTMENT PROGRAM TEMPORARILY EXTENDED In 1990, Congress created a program for obtaining Permanent Green Cards through international investment. The purpose of the program was to create jobs in the U.S. The program was set to end September 30, 2015; however, a temporary extension was granted until December 11, 2015. Pending legislation could make the EB-5 program permanent.

Investors may invest privately; however, many turn to Regional Centers. Regional Centers are pre-approved as legitimate investment avenues foregoing much of the red tape necessary when investing in a private entity. Think of a Regional center as a type of co-op allowing for teamwork and capital to synchronize for the purpose of funding legitimate large-scale projects.

The investment required is $1 million; however, in areas of high un-employment (TEA – Targeted Employment Area) or rural areas as defined in the program, the minimum drops to $500,000. Again, the purpose is to create jobs in the U.S. and currently there are approximately 15,000 investor applications pending with USCIS at a minimum of $500,000 apiece.

Texas A&M has benefited immensely, as $49,500,000 has been invested by foreign internationals with expected indirect job creation to be around 1287 and 967 direct jobs created. Another example of foreign investment capital improvement is the Historic Texaco building in Houston, Texas. Abandoned by Texaco, the 1915 building portraying ornate architectural detail has a future as a luxury apartment complex promoting Houston’s vision of a downtown to live in not just work in. Out of the $95 million dollar project, over $31 million has come from 63 international investors and is projected to create 793 indirect and 480 direct jobs.

Legislation will likely pass; however, the minimum investment is expected to rise to perhaps $800,000. Legislation also seeks to

2017 DIVERSITY VISA LOTTERY CLOSES

T

he application for the 2017 Diversity Visa (Green Card) Lottery spanned from October 1, 2015 through November 3, 2015. More than 15 million applied for 50,000 available visas.

Applicants for the Visa Lottery program come from around the world with certain countries listed as ineligible due to the large number of immigrants to the U.S. during the previous 5 years.

Typical ineligible countries include Mexico, United Kingdom, Canada, China and several others. Applicants have educational and/or job requirements in order to qualify. Although chosen, many fail to meet the standards to continue processing.

Often,this is due to simple mistakes on applications or other

ineligibility such as criminal history or illegal presence, etc.

Spouses may apply individually thus doubling their chances.

Children under 21 may also accompany. Changes in the last few years enable same-sex spouses to apply.

Lottery winners will begin receiving notification in May of 2016 through June 2016. There will then be a small window of time to apply for adjustment of status within the year of selection, i.e.

2017. Green card holders may apply for citizenship after 5 years although many do not as the U.S. is one of the only countries that do not allow dual citizenship.

Reported by, Tammy L. Wincott, an Immigration Attorney with Wincott Law Firm, PC. Contact her at twincott@wincottlaw.com.

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Photo Credit By D.Ross Photography

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Photo Credit By D.Ross Photography

(210) 503-5065 22211 IH-10 West, Suite 1109, TThe San he GGiving ivAntonio, inng EEdition dition No Nov/Dec ovTX /De Dec 2015 278257 20 0155 | Elite Elilite t Attorney te Att ttor orne or n y Sann An ne Antonio A Anto nto oni n o 233 |

Fifty Delicious Years By: Jennifer Pucci Starr

Local attorney Hector Gonzalez, III has been a loyal patron of the Concord Plaza location for many years.

“It’s more than a steak house, it’s an experience. I always know I will get an amazing meal, but the level of attention the staff gives goes above and beyond.”

For a restaurant to survive for half a century is a feat in itself, yet the Ruth’s Chris Steak House brand has not only survived, but it thrives with a following and reputation of delivering a world class gourmet meal whether you are in San Antonio or Tokyo, Japan.

Dubbed the world’s largest premium steakhouse brand, San Antonio first welcomed the Ruth’s Chris Concord Plaza location in 1993, which is still very much a staple of that area. The second location at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on the Riverwalk opened in 2013, and this holiday season San Antonio welcomed a third Ruth’s Chris to the well-visited La Cantera area.

Ruth’s Chris’ signature U.S. Prime steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees and are served on sizzling hot 500 degree plates. The restaurant prides itself on having a menu that translates to the most mature palettes across the globe. “There are many wonderful things about Ruth’s Chris, but the best attribute is the consistency you find in every location,” says San Antonio franchise owner, Lana Duke.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Celebrates a Momentous Anniversary With The Opening of Its Third San Antonio Location The first Ruth’s Chris Steak House opened fifty years ago in New Orleans, when Ruth Fertel, a single working mother, mortgaged her home to buy a neighborhood restaurant called Chris Steak House. By 1985, this driven and smart woman with a dream had grown this little corner steakhouse into a global phenomenon with restaurants opening every year in cities around the nation and the world.

That success came with the help of Lana Duke, whose New Orleans ad agency won the Ruth’s Chris advertising account in 1975. Today there are more than 140 company and franchisee owned locations worldwide. Duke worked closely with Fertel until Fertel’s death in 2002, helping to build the company from a small operation in New Orleans into the world’s largest fine-dining brand.

Today, Lana Duke and son R. David Duke operate two Ruth’s Chris restaurants in Toronto and Mississauga, Canada, along with the franchises in San Antonio. The third location at La Cantera Terrace is also home to the luxurious Éilan Hotel & Spa. Longtime San Antonio resident, Daniel Farias, is the General Manager of the new location along with Executive Chef, Joel Trueblood. Both bring a wealth of hospitality experience to this new location. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the restaurant also features its popular daily Sizzle, Swizzle & Swirl Happy Hour at Prime Bar with ½ price specialty cocktails and prime appetizers. For more information visit www.

ruthschrissa.com

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Inside the Artistic Mind of Attorney Lauren Carrington Smyth

ARTISTE INTERNATIONAL By: Jennifer Pucci Starr

C

rafting that perfect defense for a client takes, skill, some could even say it is an art. So when attorney Lauren Carrington Smyth hangs up her brief case after a rigorous day in the courtroom, it is no wonder that what she most always turns to is her easel.

Often called the Girly Picasso, Carrington Smyth is a cubist artist that has gained quite a high profile within London’s contemporary underground art scene. Recently invited to headline at the Eiffel Tower on its 125th anniversary for Le Grande Expo Universelle, Smyth was honored amongst 80 artists as “2014 Best Artist in the World.”

But how does this international art sensation find herself creating art in the Alamo City? A native of San Antonio she spent many days on a bird ranch in Lytle, Texas, surrounded by inspiration.

Carrington Smyth recalls her earliest artistic medium. “I would spend hours making intricate designs out of cornmeal for the livestock, and then sadly watch as they were ravished by goats. Today I delight in seeing my art ravished, but at auction!” Indeed! Those auctions include the esteemed Christie’s and Sotheby’s as well as private members only clubs in London.

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Her informal training which Carrington Smyth refers to as a common term in the art world, “unbaked”, meaning someone who never officially studied art, has been a combination of guidance from art favorites, such as Dallas, Texas master of Escapism, John Ross Palmer, and merely following her own desires. Inspired by fashion design while attending the University of Texas, Austin, Carrington Smyth quickly found that fashion, although a great interest was not the artistic platform she was meant to take.

“I was terrible with a sewing machine, but people took notice when I presented my designs as life-size painting of high-heeled women walking poodles, wandering through cobbled streets and skyscrapers,” says Carrington Smyth.

“I create the things I wanted to see in my own life and played with these visions.”

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arrington Smyth’s outstanding achievements as legal counsel for many high profile international institutions allowed her to develop quite the following around the globe for her artistic works - a following that may stem from her ability to reflect all walks of life. “I love people watching - rich people, poor people, the beautiful, the ugly - all of them,” says Carrington Smyth.

“The beautiful thing about art is that it speaks in a language all its own- the language of symbols and emotions in living color. It’s wonderful to connect with collectors who can share in the same experience of the painting and I’m told about many interesting stories of the visions people have in their own lives where life begins to imitate the art. That is the real magic- the attraction of things we want in our lives through purchasing art.”

One look at Carrington Smyth’s artistic depictions of life can immediately draw the spectator in, by color and by interest, interest in who that may be, perhaps knowing or hoping to know the character. “Not all parts of me are dark, nor are they all light, but I respect them both and can find inspiration in others from all walks of life- the good as well as the so-called-bad,” says Carrington Smith. “Color is the most delicate weapon. I use wild colors to express my emotions and monochromes when a clear statement is needed.”

“The beautiful thing about art is that it speaks in a language all its own- the language of symbols and emotions in living color.“

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n her legal career Carrington Smyth has worked as in-house legal counsel and Senior Vice President at some of the best academic and commercial institutions in the United States, Mexico, Europe, United Kingdom and Japan. Trained in London with dual UK and Texas bar qualifications, she hails from Oxford University, UT Austin, EGADE “El Tec” reporting into the Executive Level as a Senior VP in Equity Derivatives, Hedge Funds, & Investment Banking in leading big City firms and Fortune 500 Companies such as Jones Day, JPMorgan Chase & Co, Bank of Tokyo and The Royal Bank of Scotland. Her San Antonio-based law firm primarily focuses on family law and criminal defense, successfully defending clients across Texas from the three Ds: Divorce, Drugs & DUI. Today Carrington Smyth continues to host art events and showcase her talents, including live art performances around the world and locally at venues such as the Plaza Club, the San Antonio Library Foundation and the Japanese Tea Garden. She continues to wow her followers while also inspiring young artists, “The tide that rises lifts all boats. My circle is inclusive and almost everyone is invited.”

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The Giving Edition Nov/Dec 2015 | Elite Attorney San Antonio 28 |

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The Giving Edition Nov/Dec 2015 | Elite Attorney San Antonio 29 |

in the spotlight:

State Representative Ina Minjarez By: Dan Corbett

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tate Representative Ina Minjarez was born and raised in El Paso, Texas. She was raised in the Lower Valley in a low-income area of town. To keep Ina busy, her mother Rosa enrolled her in ballet classes. A young Ina loved being a tomboy playing outside, roller skating, climbing trees, and playing with her best friend – her dog Daisy. Ina would often spend her time reading and writing book reports because her mother kept her on a continuous path of learning throughout her childhood. Rosa wanted a better life for Ina and her sister Debra and always stressed that the key to success in life was education.

Ina attended a public elementary school and then her parents made the decision for her to attend an all-girls Catholic middle school. The financial cost was quite significant but Ina’s parents worked hard and later sacrificed in order to send her to a private academy in high school. Ina was an admitted “ugly duckling” and was very shy. But her senior year she came out of her shell and became more active on campus.

After excelling in cheerleading and on the dance team in high school, Ina attended college at the University of Notre Dame on academic scholarships and graduated in 1997.

She admittedly didn’t even know where Notre Dame was on the map since she originally wanted to attend college in California. When she first saw how big the school was she thought “What Have I Done?”

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Capital of Texas www. larrywarner.com

Ina is looking forward to championing initiatives in the future on behalf of children, public education, veterans, homeless animals, and transportation issues.

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er love of Notre Dame football was offset by the harsh winters, which often dropped below zero temperatures. Ina grew homesick for the warmth of El Paso and her family. At Notre Dame, Ina enjoyed meeting students from all across the country. Her closest friends were from the likes of New Orleans, New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and the Rio Grande Valley.

Ina then went on to attend law school at St. Mary’s here in San Antonio. She has described those years as the best of her life. While there, Ina was a member of the St. Mary’s Law Review and had some of her comments published in the spring of 1999. She excelled in law school and interned at the Bexar County Courthouse from 1998-2000.

This helped get her foot in the door to later became an Assistant Criminal District Attorney.

Then the BIG move was made this year when Ina decided to take the political plunge and run for State Representative in District 124. It was a tough race with four individuals vying for the open seat. But Ina put in the effort needed for victory by block-walking, phone-banking, and reaching voters by mail.

Her favorite television shows include Blackish, Modern Family, Scandal, and How To Get Away with Murder.

The five individuals who Ina rates as the greatest presidents were: Lincoln, Kennedy, Clinton, Reagan, and Obama.

When asked what she would like to be if she weren’t a legislator and lawyer, her answer was “A foreign correspondent like Pierre Salinger.”

Ina’s role models in life were her dad Carlos and her mom and sister. Ina’s parents both marched with Cesar Chavez in the 1960’s to protest unlawful working conditions at a manufacturing plant in El Paso. Ina’s parents taught her the meaning of speaking up for those who can’t stand up for themselves. It’s the cornerstone of what has

made her a great state legislator today in just her first year in office.

At present, Ina is currently seeking re-election in District 124 and is engaged to be married. Since the legislature is currently not in session, she is an attorney with the law firm of Moreno & Borrego. She loves living in San Antonio because of the people and its rich history. As someone who works well with individuals from both political parties, Ina is a rising star in Texas politics and someone who represents her constituents with the utmost dignity and respect. She is easily one of San Antonio’s “Best & Brightest” political stars and one to definitely keep an eye on.

Ina was the top vote-getter in the first round of the special election and then easily dispatched her opponent in the runoff.

Ina was sworn into office on April 30th and immediately hit-the-ground-running. She began voting on bills immediately after assuming office and often worked late into the night and on weekends. She was appointed to both the Transportation and State Affairs Committees and was the deciding vote on many important bills coming out of committee for a vote on the House floor.

Her constituents definitely got their money’s worth with Ina in the state legislature this session.

Ina received praise from both Democrats and Republicans alike for her bipartisan attitude and her ability to work with fellow lawmakers.

Ina is looking forward to championing initiatives in the future on behalf of children, public education, veterans, homeless animals, and transportation issues. She regularly attends neighborhood association meetings and is laser-focused on constituent services. She has brought honor to the resident of District 124.

Capital of Texas www. larrywarner.com

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hen not at work, Ina loves to cook, watch the news (she’s an admitted news-junkie), and spending time with her dogs Pinot and Pepe.

When Ina was a child, she imagined one day becoming a veterinarian because of her love for animals. She also trains for marathons and loves running long distance.

“Dan Corbett is a local educator & Republican political strategist. He was previously named the most influential educator in San Antonio by Scene in SA Magazine. Dan is also the President of the British Society of Texas and can be reached at corbett2004@yahoo.com.”

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On The Cover

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or as long as he can recall, Joe D. Gonzales has always wanted to be a lawyer. He can remember as far back as elementary school, watching television episodes of “Perry Mason” and “Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law”, as a child with his mother and telling her that he wanted to grow up and be a lawyer.

Besides that, as a young boy, he liked wearing suits, and thought that would be a great reason to dress up to work every day.

It was not until his middle school years that an isolated experience of injustice solidified his decision to become a fierce advocate. While in seventh grade, Gonzales and his best friend were horsing around during art class with a small ball that had been left behind by a student from the previous class. While they were kicking it around in the back of the classroom, they both lunged for it and fell to the floor. At about that time, the art teacher saw them struggling on the floor and concluded that they were fighting.

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On The Cover

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he sent them to the principal’s office without so much as an opportunity to be heard and provide an explanation for the perceived fight. Gonzales and his friend were summarily suspended from school for an entire week.

This was to become his first brush with a system that, at times, unfairly accuses and punishes an individual without first providing due process. However harsh it seemed at the time, it was to serve as a catalyst and taught him a valuable lesson things are not always as they seem.

After high school, Gonzales was accepted to St. Mary’s University where he majored in political science and began his path towards becoming an attorney. While attending St. Mary’s as an undergraduate, he met a young lady who would one day become his bride and the love of his life, Yvonne Gomez. Both were active members of the university’s political science club, and actively involved in local democratic campaigns. One of the highlights of their college years was being asked to serve as drivers for Ted Kennedy’s motorcade when he came to San Antonio during his 1980 bid to become the democratic candidate for president. Gonzales fondly recalls being invited up to the Senator’s reception room and getting to the shake the enormous hand of the late Senator as well as meeting Cesar Chavez and other dignitaries.

Gonzales attended St. Mary’s School of Law in 1988, that same year he passed the bar and married his college sweetheart, Yvonne. Gonzales went to work soon afterward as an assistant criminal district attorney, first in Bexar County and then in Harris County, when his wife was attending law school in Houston, Texas. During his eight-year career as a criminal prosecutor working under three different elected district attorneys, Gonzales personally prosecuted hundreds of individuals accused of various crimes and degrees of severity. Of particular interest to Gonzales was juvenile crime. It was in this area that he felt he could have the greatest impact. Rising to the level of chief prosecutor in the Harris County District Attorney’s Office’s Juvenile Division, he handled many cases involving serious crimes alleged to have been committed by juvenile offenders in the Houston area. One of the most memorable prosecutions handled by Gonzales received substantial media attention because it involved a handful of juveniles brutally stabbing a Vietnam veteran who was living his life as a homeless man in a downtown wooded area in Houston. After the trial, the jury assessed the maximum sentence allowed by law - 40 years of incarceration.

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After returning to San Antonio upon his wife’s graduation from law school, Gonzales once again returned to the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office to continue the fight against crime. It was during this time that he realized that, as in other aspects of life, crime was not always black or white. Indeed, there were shades of gray in criminal law. Because he believed that not everyone deserved to go to prison, he began his career as a criminal defense attorney.

As a defense attorney, one of the most memorable cases Gonzales and his wife tried together involved a 15 year old male who was originally charged and later stood trial for manslaughter for allegedly killing his female friend after engaging in a deadly game of Russian roulette. While the jury found their client did engage in delinquent conduct (the equivalent of guilt on the adult side), the jury was sympathetic and gave this young man a second chance and granted him probation. He went on to become an air condition repair technician and more importantly, a productive member of society.

Throughout Gonzales’s life, strong women have taught him about determination, overcoming obstacles and have served as his greatest sources of inspiration. First, it was his mother who set the example to always strive to be the best. Second, Gonzales’s wife has been a source of constant inspiration; she has been a lifelong companion and shared in his dreams and aspirations. Because both came from families of modest means, they had to depend on each other to finance those dreams. His wife worked to help support him through law school and, likewise, Gonzales left his seniority status at Bexar County District Attorney’s office to begin anew at the Harris County DA’s office in order to be with his wife while she attended law school. She continues to be a source of inspiration, as a full-time associate judge in a juvenile criminal court, while still raising their beautiful 15-year-old daughter, Marisa, a sophomore at TMI-The Episcopal School of Texas. Gonzales’s wife imparts the same wisdom, determination and drive that made her the strong woman that she is today. It is this personality that has given her the strength to assist her mother in a seven-year battle against ovarian cancer. This past January, one month after her mother’s death, Yvonne was diagnosed with breast cancer. Today, she is dealing with her own illness and is winning her own war against cancer.

Gonzales is proud to be part of a profession that emphasizes equal justice for all. For those who are pursuing this profession, he believes that the qualities of being a determined individual who is not afraid of obstacles can be a great asset as well as always having a source of inspiration to fuel your passion for life, family and work.

It is this courage and determination of these women that he is now beginning to see in his own daughter that gives Joe the inspiration, passion and drive to get up and go to work everyday.

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On The Cover

Joe D. Gonzales, Abogado Criminalista, Sigue Un SueñoDe Toda La Vida De Ir Tras Justicia.

Especial para Elite Attorney SA

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esde que élse acuerda, Joe D. Gonzales, Abogado Criminalista, Sigue Un SueñoDe Toda La Vida De Ir Tras Justicia.

Especial para Elite Attorney SADesde que élse acuerda, Joe D. Gonzales siempre hadeseado ser abogado. Él recuerdadesde su escuela primaria, como miraba en la televisión episodios de “Perry Mason” y “Owen Marshal Counselor of Law”de pequeño con su mama,dondele decía que el quería crecer y ser un abogado.

Aparte de ello, de jovenleencantaba usar trajes y pensaba que era una buena razón paravestirse bien para-

ir a trabajar todos los días.Y no fue hasta que se encontraba en susaños de la escuela intermedia que una experiencia de injusticia aislada solidifico su decisiónde ser un abogado feroz. Estando en el séptimo grado, Gonzales y su mejor amigo estaban neceando durante la clase de artecon una pequeña pelota que había dejado un estudiante de la clase anterior.

Mientras la pateaban en la parte de atrásdel salón, los dos fueron tras ella y ambos cayeron al suelo. En ese instante, la profesora de arte los vio luchando en el suelo y concluyo que estabanpeleando. Los envío a la oficina del rector, sin darles laopor-

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tunidad de ser escuchados ydar una explicación sobre lapelea percibida.

Gonzales y su amigo fueron suspendidos del colegio por toda una semana.

Gonzales está or gulloso de ser parte de una profesión que enfatiza igualdad de justicia para todos.

Este evento fue su primer encuentro con un sistema que a veces, injustamente acusa y castiga a un individuo sin brindarleun debido proceso. Tan fuerte como hayaparecido en su momento, le sirvió como catalizador y le enseño una leccióninvaluable –no todo es como parece.

Luego de su bachillerato, Gonzales fue aceptado en la Universidad St.Mary’sdonde se graduó en Ciencias Políticas e inicio su camino para convertirse enabogado.

Mientras atendía St. Mary’s, conoció a una joven mujer;Yvonne Gómez,la cualmás adelante se convertiríaen su novia y amor de su vida. Ambos eran miembros activos delClub de Ciencias Políticasde la universidad y activamente involucrados en suscampañas democráticas.

Una de las cosas destacadas en susañosuniversitariosfue cuando le pidieron servir como conductorde vehículoen el desfile de Ted Kennedy cuando vino a

San Antonio en 1980 durante su campaña presidencial.

Gonzales recuerda con agrado elhabersidoinvitado a la recepción del senador y el haber estrechadola mano fuerte del difunto senador como tambiénel deconocer a Cesar Chávez y otros dignatarios.Gonzales atendió la facultad de derecho en 1988. En ese mismo año obtuvo su licencia de abogado y contrajo matrimonio con su amor universitario, Yvonne. Luego de ello Gonzales fue a trabajar de inmediato como asistentedel Fiscal;primero en el condado de Bexar y luego en el condadode Harrismientras su esposa atendía la facultad de derecho en Houston, Texas. Durante su octavo añode carrera como fiscal trabajando bajo la direcciónde tres distin-

itos fiscales elegidos, Gonzales enjuicio cientos de indif fviduos acusadosen una variedad de crímenes con diferentesgrados de severidad. Uno de particular interés és para Gonzales fue el de un crimen juvenil. Fue en esta ta áreadonde sintió que élpodría tener un fuerte impacto. o.

Elevado alnivelde fiscalpara elcondado de Harris en laa oficina delfiscal dela división juvenil,manejo muchos os casos que involucraban crímenes serios cometidos por or jóvenes en el área de Houston. Uno de los más memoorables enjuiciamientos manejado por Gonzales obtuvo o gran atención por parte de los medios de comunicación n porque involucraba una mano de jóvenes que brutallmente apuñalaron a un veterano de Vietnam que vivíaa como indigente en un bosquedel centro de la ciudad. d.

Luego del juicio, el jurado concluyo que la sentencia ia máxima debería ser de 40 años de condenadeacuerdo a lo permitido por la ley.

Luego de regresar a San Antonio después de la graduuaciónde su esposa enla Facultad de Derecho, Gonzales es volvió a la fiscalía del condado de Bexarpara continuar ar sus batallas en contra delcrimen. Durante este momento o de su vida entendió, tal como en otros momentos,queel el crimen no era siempre definido como en blanco o neegro. En verdad habíaáreas grisesy poco concisas en laa ley criminal. El creía que no todo el mundo merecía ir a prisión. Por esta razón comenzósu carrera como aboogado defensor criminal. Como abogado defensor, uno o de los casos más memorables que Gonzales y su esposaa han llevado conjuntamenteinvolucraba a un joven de 15 añosquien fue acusado y luego enjuiciado por asessinato,alhaber matado asu amiga luego de haber estado o participando en un juego fatal de ruleta rusa. Mientras as que el jurado encontróquesu cliente había participado o en una conducta delincuente(el equivalente a culpaable comoadulto), el jurado fue simpatizante y le dio a este joven una segunda oportunidad otorgándoleuna na sentencia probatoria. Éljoven seconvirtió en un técniicodeaireacondicionado y más importanteaún, en un n miembro productivo paralasociedad.Gonzales se siente te orgulloso de ser parte de una profesiónque enfatiza iggualdad de justicia para todos.

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On The Cover

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ara aquellos que van tras esta profesión, el cree en las cualidades de un individuo determinado quien no le teme a los obstáculos.Esta esuna gran cualidadyun medio de inspiración para elevar lapasión porla vida, familia y trabajo.Atravez de la vida de Gonzales, mujeres fuertesle han servido como fuente de inspiración ensenándole determinación para superar obstáculos. Primero fue su madre quien le dio elejemplo de siempre luchar por lo mejor. Aunque su madre solo obtuvo unaeducación hasta la escuela intermedia, ella nunca lo desanimo en sus sueños. Su madre a su manera, fue una pionera, ya que fuela primeramujera laquesele otorgó el derecho de trabajar el turno nocturno en la base aérea de Kelly durantelos años sesenta luego de ganar una larga pelea con la administración, únicamente para que ella pudiera cuidar de sus hijos durante el día ya que era una madre soltera.Laesposa de Gonzalestambiénha sido una gran fuente de constante inspiración; ha sido una compañeradevida la cualha compartidotodossus sueños y aspiraciones. Debido a que ambos vienen de familias de medios modestos, ellos tuvieron que depender del uno y el otro para financiar sussueños. Su esposa trabajo para poder sostenerlo durante su estudioen la facultad dey Gonzales dejo suestatusen la fiscalía del condado de Bexar para iniciar una nueva en la fiscalía del condado de Harris para poder estar con su esposa mientras ella estudiaba enla facultad de derecho. Ella continua siendo unafuente de inspiracióncomo juezde tiempo completoen una corte criminal de jóvenes mientras críaa su hermosa hija de 15 añosMarisa, una “Sophmore” en TMI –La Escuela Episcopal De Texas. La esposa de Gonzalesimparte la misma sabiduría, determinacióny empuje que la for-

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mo enlamujer fuerte que es hoy.Es esta personalidad la que le ha dado fuerza para atender a su madre durante una batalla de siete años en contra de un cáncer de ovarios. Hoy, ella está batallandocon su propia enfermedad y está ganando en su luchacontra el cáncer. Es el coraje y la determinación de estas mujeres que él está comenzando a ver en su propia hijay el cual le da a Joe la inspiración, pasión y empuje de levantarse e ir a trabajar todos losdías.

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The Art of Giving Growing Your Business Through Philanthropy By: Manny Diotte

It’s not about customer service - it’s about customer loyalty. It’s not about brand awareness - it’s about brand insistence. It’s not about closing a sale - it’s about attracting and keeping clients for life. hat if I told you that despite how great these three concepts are the ultimate competitive advantage is incorporating philanthropy into your business model? Yes, that’s right, giving!

In a day when companies seem to find creative ways to lower expenses and maximize revenue, the wisest among them actually give profits away. From the beginning, they built a business model to include charitable giving.

Think about it. When you are shopping around and deciding who gets your dollars in exchange for the products, goods or services they will deliver, wouldn’t you feel better if you knew that part of those dollars were re-invested back into what matters most, our community? You might even ask your prospective businesses which charity is close to their heart and choose to do your business with them.

For as long as I can remember, I have always told my prospective clients, “oh, by the way, another reason you might consider working with us is we support our local community by giving to charities close to your heart.” That’s right, in our business model we decided to donate a portion right off the top to support charities doing amazing work. One of my clients had a stroke and we supported The Heart Association.

He was moved to tears. We can track nine business referrals to him. Acquisition cost for those nine? ZERO! However, the hard truth is you really don’t care about breast cancer, until your mother, wife, or sister is diagnosed. Most of us don’t really pay attention to the man on the corner until we struggle and realize we could soon join him. Did you know fifty families a day are told their kid has cancer? It is doubtful you would, unless it’s your child or a child close to you suffering from the disease. Have you ever been on Relay for Life? Probably not, unless you know of someone or you have been affected by cancer.

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The point is similar to having an attorney or insurance company. You sure are glad you have one after an accident (score one for both). Until then, you don’t think much about it. So, when you’re told those three ugly words: “You have cancer,” then you are grateful for all the organizations working in our community assisting those who are hurting and suffering from this horrible disease. When you hear your wife say, “I have breast cancer,” you will be glad to know there are one hundred resources available to her FREE of charge, including doctors who perform surgery for free, because generous business partners, and givers that look just like you, GIVE!

Donate a portion right off the top to support charities doing amazing work.

Your clients WILL take notice!

Manny Diotte is a successful speaker, author and coach. He is also the founder and CEO of the Ferrari Kid – an organization that provides children struggling with Cancer and other diseases the opportunity to feel like a celebrity for a day.

Contact him at manny@theferrarikid.org or 210-887-7285.

Photo unsplash.com

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THE

VERDICT

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IS IN

St. Mary’s Law was named a 2014 Best Value Private Law School by The National Jurist magazine.

The Law School of San Antonio | http://law.stmarytx.edu/verdict

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Community Connection

Absolutely Honorable The Elite Attorney SA mixers, held once per issue is our way of bringing together our readers, our contributors and the many supporters who work together to help promote our publication.

During each event we honor the cover attorney for the hard work and commitment they put in for our community with the Elite Award. We are excited to say these awards are now being displayed proudly throughout many legal offices throughout San Antonio.

For our past issue on Bob Hilliard we gathered together again at J. Prime Steakhouse. With the birth of his son just a few days before the event, Mr. Hilliard was unable to attend, however in his place his son Alex was pleased to accept on his behalf.

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photo credt by, unsplash.com

Alex’s words of respect for his father’s work as well as relaying his father’s message of gratitude were strong and inspiring for our group. We look forward to continuing to celebrate these gifted professionals with many events to come. Thank you to those who attend and we look forward to meeting new attendees in months to come.

St. PJ’s Royal Celebration St. PJ’s recently hosted My Princess and Me, a charity event where young girls get to have a Cinderella experience by having their hair and makeup professionally done and then attending a one-of-a kind ball where they danced and met their favorite movie princesses.

Over 500 princesses and their moms attended the event at the Tobin Center that featured a performance by JRyan, dancing with the Churchhill Fairies, and much more.

Sherrie and Jessica Cromer were crowned Queen and Princess. This mother-daughter team raised $10,000 to help provide much needed funds to children living at St. PJ’s. Other mother-daughter teams participating were: Delaney and Talley Alford, Joanie and Maya McCann, Janet Peavey and her three daughters- Mary Jean, Maggie and Charley, and Candice and Laney Villanueva.

The event is dedicated to raising awareness and funds for victims of child abuse and neglect.

Everyday St. PJ’s strives to stop child abuse in Bexar County by providing a safe, nurturing community to heal body, mind and spirit, shape successful adults, and break the cycle of abuse and neglect.

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photo credit by, Studion Benton

photo credt by, unsplash.com

You can answer a child’s Christmas wish for a safe place to call home by joining the Society of St. PJ’s. Your minimum monthly contribution of as little as $10 you can add up to a lot over a year. Learn more at stpjhome.org.

The 63rd Annual

Red Mass

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he San Antonio legal community came together once again at San Fernando Cathedral, to take part in a centuries-old tradition celebrating the beginning of the judicial season, which is known as Red Mass.

The event began with judges and legal organizations in a solemn procession carrying red banners through Main Plaza to the Cathedral. The procession was led by U.S. Army Capt.

Jeffrey Kyle carrying the United States flag and by Sen. Judith Zaffirini carrying the Texas flag. The Most Rev. Gustavo García-Siller, M.Sp.S., Archbishop of San Antonio, was the principal celebrant and homilist. The Hon. Xavier Rodriguez, United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, presented the welcome remarks.

The tradition of Red Mass dates back to 1245 in Europe when both the bench and bar attended the Mass together at the beginning of each judicial session.

The name is derived from the scarlet robes worn by judges and red vestments worn by priests in honor of the Holy Spirit. Red Mass is celebrated throughout the country for the purpose of requesting God’s blessings and guidance on the administration of justice.

The St. Mary’s University School of Law and the Catholic Lawyers’ Guild of San Antonio revived the tradition 63 years ago and organize the annual event with representatives from San Antonio legal organizations, the judiciary and the State Legislature.

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Distinguished Law Graduate Awards

he St. Mary’s University Law Alumni Association honored three graduates – Ty Hunter Sheehan (J.D. ’06), the Hon. Bert Richardson (J.D. ’87) and Richard Loza (J.D. ’87) – at its annual Distinguished Law Graduate Dinner at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on Oct. 23, 2015.

More than 500 alumni and friends of the law school attended the Association’s annual event and raised more than $28,000 to fund scholarships and student services.

St. Mary’s University, founded in 1852, is the first institution of higher learning in San Antonio and the oldest Catholic university in the Southwest. It offers 75 programs, including doctoral and law programs, and has a diverse student population of about 3,800 of all faiths and backgrounds. Its vision, as a Catholic and Marianist liberal arts institution, is to become one of the finest private universities in the region, a gateway for graduates to professional lives as ethical leaders in Texas, the nation and the world.

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Help For Th Whether looking to give assistance or get assistance the San Antonio Food Bank can make it happen.

Special to Elite Attorney SA

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or more than 30 years, the Food Bank has taken an aggressive pace to meet the need of the ever changing face of food insecurity and has been a beacon of hope for area families in Southwest Texas. Now serving 58,000 people each week in 16 counties in Southwest Texas, the Food Bank has grown its approach as the need for help has evolved in our community.

HOW TO GET HELP The earliest stages of the Food Bank were based on an idea originally promoted by John van Hengle—recognized as the Father of Food Banking. He proposed that food, mainly canned goods, could be “banked” or “deposited” in one, central location (by restaurants, grocery stores, and other donators) and then could be withdrawn by those who needed it. The San Antonio Food Bank serves as the bank of food to more than 535 partner agencies who then distribute these food and grocery products to the community.

When an individual is in need of food assistance, the Food Bank connects them with a pantry closest to them to prevent any further obstacles to reaching food. Community members who find themselves in need may call the Food Bank at 210-431-8326 and a Client Services Representative (CSR) will help connect them to food as well as other resources. While on the line, the CSR will inquire as to the caller’s situation: Are you employed?

Underemployed? What has happened in your life that has placed you in this situation? The CSR will then ensure the caller is connected to resources that can help bring them back to a place of security. The Food Bank provides application assistance for SNAP, as well as assistance to apply for other federal programs such as SSI or TANF.

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To help maneuver that road to self-sufficiency, the Food Bank also provides programs to help further empower community members, such as: • •

• • •

Culinary Training Program – free, 18-week culinary training program Texas Second Chance Program – training program for incarcerated population (Culinary and Warehouse) Workforce Development – career counseling and placement assistance Health and Wellness Education – disease prevention and health education Community Service Hours – with prior approval, offender may donate cash/food/time for their offense

The San Antonio Food Bank offers more than just food assistance. They offer programs for: • Children • Seniors • Nutrition Education • Distribution • Farmers’ Markets • Community gardening • And more

he Hungry HOW YOU CAN HELP With a job to set the table for 58,000 people weekly, the San Antonio Food Bank needs a lot of help! Here are some ways you, your family or your business can lend a helping hand.

Food: Anyone can conduct a food drive. Donate to one or host your own. The Food Bank has an easy Twelve Most Wanted items list to reference when making your donations. Additionally, non-food items such as cleaning products, hygiene products or pet food are always accepted.

case management, and food stamps. Once the philosophy might have been to simply “feed the line,” but now the Food Bank seeks to “shorten the line” as well.

In 2009, the Food Bank served 25,000 people; this number has since grown to 58,000, and continues to rise. Its goal for this year is to distribute 75 million meals to the community—this is over 58 million pounds of food, plus thousands of SNAP applications.

The San Antonio Food Bank will continue to work to nourish people, fight food insecurity, and encourage wellness.

Time: The San Antonio Food Bank always needs volunteers. It takes many hands to process all those food donations. It’s a great experience for yourself or it can be a rewarding experience for your children. There is a variety of fun things you can help out with from gardening, to working in the kitchen, and more.

Money: The contribution with the highest impact is monetary. Did you know the San Antonio Food Bank can turn $1 into 7 meals in the community? And as a top charity, with a proven record of fiscal responsibility, you can be assured they will use for funds for the largest impact in feeding Southwest Texas.

“Far too many children go to bed hungry in this City. Carabin Shaw is proud to be a major sponsor of the San Antonio Food Bank. We are fully committed to helping the Food Bank fulfill its mission of fighting hunger and feeding hope.”

Jamie Shaw Carabin Shaw Attorneys & Counselors In the beginning, the Food Bank limited its impact to food distribution. It now it offers a growing number of programs, especially those targeting children and seniors. With the knowledge that hunger is a symptom of poverty, the Food Bank works with clients on their nutritional needs as well as with services like job training,

To get connected to the San Antonio Food Bank visit, www.safoodbank.org or call, 210-337-3663 for the main line and 210-431-8326 for the official Help Line.

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KIDS FIRST PARENTS SECOND What drove one local divorce attorney to ensure that children of divorce were given the opportunity for peace and clarity.

By: Matt Sossi

One summer day in 2012 I found myself wondering how the legal system could work better to protect kids caught in the middle of their parents divorce. Perhaps it was because I was involved in too many high conflict cases. Whatever the reason my wife Becky and I decided that it was time to get away from the law office and take a trip to Portland Maine. My life took a turn when I noticed that the city of Portland had a child centered divorce program by the name of Kids First.

The more I read about Kids First the more questions I had about the program. The Kids First program had in fact been in existence for well over twenty years. Kids First’s program offered classes to both kids and parents.

Kids First held annual seminars to draw in lawyers and mental health professionals from across the country.

When we came home from our vacation we started researching children centered programs across the country. Becky picked up the phone and contacted Kids Turn in San Francisco, one of the leading child centered programs in the country. We requested the curriculum that the kids were provided. We immediately saw that there was a tremendous need to create more resources to help kids of divorce.

After I began to share my ideas with my family we decided the best move was to create our own child centered program. The program has taken over three years for us to develop. During this time we have written two parent books, two children books, and three manuals.

We have developed a huge spinning wheel, coupons as well as a free app on iTunes (by the name of KFPS).

We have also had the pleasure of speaking with many fascinating people along the away from Hong Kong to San Francisco to New Orleans to London, England.

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In December of 2014 we decided to open up shop and have children attend our divorce workshop. The first surprise that I had was how angry the children were when they arrived at our office. The second surprise was the reaction of the parents. Normally, adults that walked into my office came in as clients getting ready for their case, and wanted answers as to how I would help them meet their individual needs. The adults who walked into the kids program walked in like they were…well, parents who wanted to make sure that their children were going to be okay.

“The parents looked to us for solutions on how they could resolve their conflict. The program created the perfect atmosphere to direct the parents to peacefully resolving their disputes outside the courtroom.”

When the children graduate from our program they receive a “Kids First Certificate.” One parent at a time is invited to go up and take pictures with their child.

The parents are asked to hang the certificate up in their house for all to see. The children are happy to see that their parents agree to our simple request. The parents looked to us for solutions on how they could resolve their conflict. The program created the perfect atmosphere to direct the parents to peacefully resolving their disputes outside the courtroom.

In September of 2015 Kids First Parents Second held its first seminar called “A Different Path.” Our speakers were noted psychologists, mental health professionals, judges and well respected family law attorneys. Each speaker was an expert in his or her respective field.

Attendees were a mix of mental health professionals and attorneys.

We all found ourselves listening attentively about ways in which we could direct cases away from high conflict. We did our best to include as many topics as possible given the fact that it was just a one-day seminar.

Kids First Parents Second is now awaiting approval from the IRS to become a 501c(3) nonprofit. It is my hope that the status will allow us to move forward with our nonprofit’s mission. Becky has moved forward to create her own “SEEDS of Success” Program, teaching children to develop their emotional intelligence. As for me, I am working on modifying our program to help kids whose parents are victims of family violence. All in all I’m amazed how much has changed since we visited Portland Maine.

Matt Sossi is a San Antonio Divorce Attorney and acting Executive Director for Kids First Parents Second. Find out more at www.sossilaw. com or www.kidsfirstparentssecond.org.

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Community Connection

A PRICELESS ACT

GIVE THE GIFT OF YOURSELF TO SOMEONE WHO CAN NEVER REPAY YOU By: Trey Wilson

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y whatever name you prefer to call it, the season of joy, reflection and giving is rapidly approaching. And, while use of the greeting “Merry Christmas” is increasingly verboten in these politically correct times, the undeniably Judeo-Christian concept of celebrating the season by presenting gifts is more prevalent than ever.

It seems that retailers can hardly wait for Labor Day before bombarding us with advertisements, “holiday” music and promises about how great this year’s deals will be. Even our e-mail in-boxes are not safe from the onslaught, as almost daily reminders herald how we can partake in Black Friday’s madness from the comfort of a keyboard and mouse.

selfish desire. Admittedly, the silliness of spending too much time and money in the quest for the perfectly hideous Christmas sweater has become a tradition for our family.

There is nothing wrong with giving or receiving gifts, attending parties, or even anticipating fat year-end bonuses. Yet, to truly honor the season and our fellow man, it is imperative that we take just a moment to indulge a simple inquiry: “What is the point of all of this, and when did we lose perspective?”

For many, the reasoning is that hard work and success all year justify vast rewards and extravagant gifts during this season.

Others may feel compelled by competition or the desire to show affection through materiAdmittedly, this unabashed al offerings. Perhaps for some, commercialism works all too Madison Avenue’s psychologiwell, as the temptation to start cal geniuses have succeeded in making gift (or in some cases creating consumer automatism. “wish”) lists in October cannot Whatever the justification, it be resisted. Once the invitadoes not require much honest tions, cards and fruitcakes start self-reflection to admit that to arrive, we all seem to slip into things have gotten out of hand, the usual routines of spending, and that Americans’ consumerstressing over the perfect gift, ism has become the real theme and even engaging in a little of the season.

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But it does not have to be so – at least not this year.

Why not make this year just a little different – a little more special – by making a conscious decision to push rampant consumerism back ever so slightly by doing JUST ONE THING for somebody who is not expecting it, and who has no means to repay you, or to reciprocate? You are hereby challenged to do just that, and by doing so, you will make a difference in the life of another, and in your own.

Most of us may live life distracted by routine, responsibilities and problems, but deep down we all know compassion, and comprehend our unique ability to make a difference in the lives of others. What is a little less known – or at least recognized – is how little effort it takes to exhibit charity and generosity.

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ach person reading this article is generally aware of the good deeds being done in our community. Many of us even know a person or two who gives generously of their time, talents or money. We’d all like to be a little more like them, but there never seems to be a good time to get involved. Plus, how would we even know where to begin?

To answer that question, I started as many of us do when searching for answers – Google. Shockingly, the query “volunteer opportunities San Antonio” returned 1,200,000 hits. That’s a lot of need, and a world of opportunity in our City.

Organizations dedicated to helping the indigent, the sick, the hungry, veterans, babies, animals, wounded warriors, flood victims, prisoners and a world of other areas are all right there, waiting on volunteers. There is a tremendous need for all types of interests and skill levels waiting – literally – at your fingertips.

-two-shoes mentioned above.

If time is a commodity you do not have to spare, money works too. Instead of buying the latest overpriced gizmo for your child – or yourself – consider making a financial gift or donation to a worthy cause. A sad reality is that many are suffering tremendous deprivation right here in San Antonio. If you look around, they – and the organizations catering to them – are not difficult to find. Make a contribution, get a receipt and take the tax deduction. Heck, if nothing else, put a few bucks in the Salvation Army Santa’s bucket.

Chances are, if you are reading this publication, you have an abundance of talent, skill, knowledge and resources. It’s your turn to do something. Consider making this season particularly special by giving generously of those blessings, and you will be Merry, indeed.

Trey Wilson is a San Antonio attorney with the R.L. Wilson

Some of these organizations are faith-based, some are governmental (the City of San Antonio accepts volunteers to help cover graffiti) and others purely charitable. Their politics are obviously varied, but they all have one thing in common: they need volunteers and have taken to the Internet to seek them.

Law Firm, www.sa-law.com.

At least one of these organizations is a perfect fit for you and your loved ones. Why not make this year extra special by volunteering together?

Maybe you can finally even show-up the goody

“Most of us may live life distracted by routine, responsibilities and problems, but deep down we all know compassion, and comprehend our unique ability to make a difference in the lives of others.”

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Law Talk

The Fine Print

An update to credit and loan contracts.

By: Ramona Lampley

The new name of the game is arbitration, which is private dispute resolution by a neutral third party. And it is popular.

A recent study by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the federal agency tasked with “empowering consumers to take control over their economic lives,” found that more than 50 percent of the market for consumer credit cards had arbitration agreements, and almost 100 percent of storefront payday lending contracts in the market require binding predispute arbitration. For consumer checking accounts, more than 40 percent of the market contractually requires its customers to take their disputes to binding arbitration.

But the same study found that most consumers don’t know their credit cards have a binding arbitration agreement and that it is not a primary concern for consumers in deciding which credit cards to obtain.

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Though it has not mattered much to consumers, it does matter to lawyers. Almost all arbitration agreements in consumer products also have what is known as a class-action waiver clause, meaning the consumer agrees to proceed to arbitration individually and gives up any right to represent or be a member of a class action — in arbitration or in court. This means that consumers simply will not bring some low-value claims — in arbitration or in court — because they are not economically rational to pursue. Imagine a claim for $50 in excessive fees against a credit card company.

What rational attorney would take that case unless hundreds of claims could be filed?

“For consumer checking accounts, more than 40 percent of the market contractually requires its customers to take their disputes to binding arbitration.”

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he holidays are now upon us, and with the rush of consumer spending, mailboxes will soon be filled with offers for credit, low-interest holiday loans and new banking arrangements to help free up cash or credit for the holidays. But what’s in the fine print of many of those agreements continues to surprise many consumers and even some of the lawyers who would represent them.

T

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his is not to say that consumer arbitration is fundamentally flawed.

It is not. Some “consumer- friendly” arbitration agreements provide free arbitration procedures to the consumer. They say they offer faster resolution without expensive discovery or court costs.

That may be true and, if so, could be a viable method of consumer dispute resolution in this age of mounting court costs, expert fees and e-discovery costs. But the problem is there is no uniformity, even within the consumer financial products industry, requiring the business to front the costs of arbitration, or offer attorney’s fees for meritorious claims. A little regulation in this area could have fostered a new field of dispute resolution that was both advantageous to the consumer and avoided the class action that the financial industry sought to avoid through these clauses.

A little regulation in this area could have fostered a new field of dispute resolution that was both advantageous to the consumer and avoided the class action that the financial industry sought to avoid through these clauses.

But the CFPB has introduced a game-changer, although it is one that will not have

an effect on the consumer this holiday season.

The CFPB recently announced that it will propose a rule banning the class-action waiver in all consumer financial products arbitration agreements. This means a company can contractually require arbitration, but it cannot force the consumer to waive the right to participate in a class. The result will almost surely be that financial companies will stop offering arbitration as an alternative to litigation.

The proposal will be a drastic measure and one not entirely in accord with Congressional intent or U.S. Supreme Court rulings. Congress enacted the Federal Arbitration Act in 1925, placing arbitration agreements on equal footing as other contracts. Legislation has repeatedly been introduced seeking to exclude all consumer claims from the protection of the FAA, but it has not passed. Then in 2011, the Supreme Court in AT&T Mobility LLC v. Concepcion gave the thumbs up to binding consumer arbitration agreements with class waivers when it held that the FAA pre-empted California state law, which judicially held many such agreements unconscionable, or so unfair as to be unenforceable.

The Court’s decision was based on the principle that class arbitration is inconsistent with the goals of arbitration. In that case, Justice Antonin Scalia remarked that under the business-funded arbitration agreement, the district court had found that the consumers were actually better off under the arbitration agreement than as participants in a class.

The CFPB’s proposed rule will be welcome news to many consumer-rights attorneys, who have found attempts to adjudicate small value claims on behalf of a class thwarted by the arbitration agreement with class waiver.

But nothing will change anytime soon.

So what we may see instead this holiday season and into the new year is a rush for the consumer financial industry, whether credit card or payday lender, to implement the arbitration agreement and class waiver in their consumer agreements before this sea change in the law can take effect.

Ramona Lampley is an Associate Professor of Law at the St. Mary’s University School of Law. She is an expert in the areas of commercial and consumer law and the use of arbitration agreements in these areas.

The CFPB’s proposal must go through the rule-making process, which includes a review by the Small Business Review Panel. And the Consumer Financial Protection Act requires that any limits on arbitration apply to customer agreements entered into at least 180 days from the effective date of the final rule. This means any rule, if it survives the rule-making process, is unlikely to have effect before 2017. And any arbitration agreement imposed on consumers before that date will be effective.

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I

t’s late at night. You’re driving home. You just had a great time with your friends over dinner, where together you shared a few bottles of wine. It was a great night with lots of laughs...until…

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ut of nowhere you notice a set of headlights beaming in your rear view mirror. The car is a little too close for comfort. Then it happens, the red and blue flashers light up the night sky. Panic shoots up your spine. Thoughts start racing through your head. Did you drink too much? Were you speeding? Why is this cop pulling you over? The questions flood your brain along with the rush of adrenaline out of sheer panic. What do you do now?

A large majority of DWI cases are for women between 30-45 years of age. Yes, women. Most people mistakenly believe that people who get DWI’s are men. Nothing is farther from the truth. So many of the DWI cases are educated women who are mothers. They are well-dressed, well-groomed, well-spoken ladies who have good careers. Most of them were stopped on their way home from some sort of business mixer or company party. Most of them are professionals; doctors, nurses, dentists, engineers, teachers, business owners. The point is that it can happen to you! No one is exempt from the possibility of a DWI. If you drink and you are social, it can happen.

So you get stopped. What do you do now?

First and foremost, pull over in a safe, well-lit place, preferably a parking lot of a store or gas station. If you are on the highway, turn on your turn signal to let the office know that you are going to pull over. Start slowing down. Preferably get off the highway. If that is not an option, pull as far off the highway as possible. Don’t stop on the shoulder and force the officer to have to stand in the line of traffic. Turn off your ignition once you have stopped. Place your hands on the steering wheel at the ten and two position like a clock.

Don’t start digging through your purse or your car for your license and insurance until the officer asks you to. This could make the office nervous since he can’t see what you are doing and may raise tensions.

Once asked to show your license and insurance, then do so. Be sure you are actually handing him your license and insurance card, you may be nervous and not thinking clearly. Don’t mistakenly hand him your sears card or your gas card. Everything you are doing and saying is probably being recorded on camera. The video can be used later in court, so be aware of that.

DO be polite.

DO be cooperative.

DO identify yourself; failure to do so is a criminal offense. If asked to exit your car, then do so. But remember you are being recorded.

So, carefully get out of the car.

DO NOT be rude or argumentative, (a good prosecutor will later argue that your uncooperative attitude is a sign of intoxication and some judges will agree).

DO NOT agree to do any field sobriety tests. If the officer suspects that you are intoxicated, you are going to be arrested whether you do the tests or not. So don’t give them any evidence.

DO NOT answer any questions about how many drinks you’ve had or where you have been. You may politely refuse.

At this point, if the officer is questioning you, you should always request that you be allowed to speak to an attorney first. You have a constitutional right to an attorney before answering any questions.

You also have a constitutional right to remain silent. Use it! Don’t think that by being honest and telling the officer every detail of where you’ve been and how much you’ve drank he is going to let you go. He’s not. His job is simply to get you off the road. So don’t incriminate yourself. If he or she is grilling you with questions, simply state in a polite tone that you will be glad to answer any questions AFTER you’ve spoken to an attorney. And then, simply stay quiet.

This is not a guide to driving drunk.

Don’t do it. Our law in Texas states that driving while intoxicated is a criminal offense. There is a legal definition and a legal standard of what intoxication is and is not. However, the law of the land is the same as it has been since the beginning. A person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Having a glass of wine and then driving doesn’t make you guilty of anything unless it can be proven that you are in fact intoxicated. There have been many cases where drivers have been prosecuted despite the fact that their blood alcohol levels were either below a .08 or 0.00. Yes, there are cases for DWI where there is no alcohol in someone’s system.

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If you have had a few drinks and suspect that you shouldn’t drive, then don’t. Call a friend or a cab. They are both cheaper than a DWI. But, if you are ever pulled over for DWI, follow the guidelines I’ve listed in this article. It can be the difference between a permanent conviction for DWI or a dismissal.

Hector Gonzalez, III is a criminal defense lawyer with 21 years of representing men and women across Texas for DWI, criminal defense, personal injury and family law. “I will aggressively fight for your rights!” Contact the Law Office of Hector Gonzalez, III, PC by calling 210-495-9999 or visit, www.HG3LAW.com.

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ere is the most important part of what to do and not do if you are stopped.

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Law Talk

Shopper

Beware Y

ou and your wallet will be spending a lot of time together this holiday season, and that could put you at risk. Every time you take your wallet out of your pocket or purse, you run the risk that it will get lost, or that someone will steal it.

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If that does happen, the items in your lost or stolen wallet could put your finances and even your identity at risk. Before you head out to the mall, you might want to remove these five things from your wallet.

5

Things to Take Out of Your Wallet This Holiday Season

#1. Your Social Security Card Your Social Security card belongs in your safe at home, not in your wallet. If you lose your wallet or it gets stolen, the Social Security card provides the thief with the keys to the kingdom - and the key to stealing your identity. Memorize your Social Security number, then put the card in a safe place at home.

The same precaution applies to password reminders.

Keeping that information in your wallet places you at severe risk and could compromise your identity. Keep that password cheat sheet in a safe place at home - not in your wallet.

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#5. Spare Keys Your wallet might be a handy place to store a spare car or house key, but keeping them there could be risky. #2. Old Receipts Retailers no longer print the entire credit card num- If your wallet is stolen, the thief can already get your ber on the receipt when you make a purchase, but that home address from your driver’s license. If they find a does not mean you can breathe easy. Even the limited spare key as well, they may take that as an open inviinformation on the receipt could give an enterprising tation to burglarize your home. If you do keep spare keys in your wallet, you will want to change the locks identity thief the information they need. immediately if the wallet is ever lost or stolen.

Pull the receipts out of your wallet every time you return home. Set aside an envelope or storage packet just Keeping only what you need in your wallet is the best for receipts; it will make your life easier. Better yet, opt way to protect yourself from financial loss and possifor electronic receipts if the merchants provide that ble identity theft. You can further protect yourself by recording the account numbers and customer service service. phone numbers for all the cards you leave in your wallet. #3. Extra Credit Cards Having a spare credit card in your wallet will make it easier to overspend, especially if your primary card is nearing its credit limit. Even worse, carrying extra cards could make things much harder if your wallet is lost or stolen. You may not have the information you need to cancel those compromised cards, and that could leave you liable for unauthorized charges. If you must carry more than one credit card, write down the account numbers and customer service contacts and keep the paperwork in a safe place at home. #4. Your PIN Information You already know that writing your PIN on the back of your debit card is a bad idea, but keeping it in your wallet could be just as dangerous. Memorize the number, then keep the PIN reminder at home.

“Having a spare credit card in your wallet will make it easier to overspend, especially if your primary card is nearing its credit limit.”

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Law Talk

How the U.S. Helps Immigrants By: Robert Rogers

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Even though immigration is a charged word in politics these days, treatment of immigrants inside the country has improved somewhat in recent years as a result of programs and policies designed to help this critical population.

The U.S. strives to help the immigrant population with a broad range of needs using the following measures.

Educational Offerings While schools in the U.S. have already welcomed many immigrant children, many people are not aware of the full range of opportunities available in these circumstances.

This includes: English Language Acquisition Programs: Tutoring, intensified instruction, and community participation programs are a few ways money from each state is used to help schools with a larger immigrant population.

Services for Educationally Disadvantaged Children: Under Title I, these funds could be used in conjunction with efforts to help other children in the same situation. Migrant education programs are also an opportunity to assist with those individuals who are children of migratory agricultural workers.

Other programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals help to support a broad range of the immigrant populations in the U.S. The website, www.thedream.us lists college scholarship funds available to help immigrants looking for higher education support.

English and citizenship classes are offered at many locations and can also be found at www.thedream.us.

Legal Help There are numerous qualified non-profit agencies where you can get legal advice about a case. In order to locate an agency near you, visit www.immigrationlawhelp.org. Before contacting a location, make sure they handle cases of your legal nature. Trying to figure this out on your own is quite confusing, given that the U.S. legal system is complicated at best.

Making sure you get documents and interviews right the first time can reduce the opportunity for delays in your case and ensure that you’re on track to legal status or dealing with other pertinent questions of a legal nature quickly and accurately.

Celebrating Diversity or Other Employment Benefits Although this is dependent on the company and community, many businesses and municipalities recognize the value of diversity and work hard to implement programs that promote cultural awareness and acceptance.

This is increasingly popular in the workplace, as more managers and employees are receiving training about working together and celebrating diversity.

Check with your employer to determine whether there are any special programs or assistance. Some companies offer special training opportunities for minorities or education assistance outside of the office, both of which can be extremely valuable for the immigrant population.

Food Assistance Along with potential access to other government programs, immigrants might also be eligible for food and nutrition assistance.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was created to assist families with low incomes get access to food stamps. This typically comes in the form of a debit card that can be used to purchase food items.

The amount awarded to help is dependent on the number of people in your family and other factors like income, but you can set up a meeting with a social worker in your county today to learn more about these benefits.

Going to a meeting with the local social services offices is also a great opportunity to learn about other programs in place to help you and other community offerings. When you visit, check out the bulletin board posted in common areas to learn about other help for you.

Because policies and barriers don’t always cross lines with actual immigration laws, the United States is able to assist immigrants with a good source of health, education, legal and human services.

Robert Rogers is an attorney specializing in Immigration Law. Visit, www.corallaw.com.

Local Organizations That Provide Free and Low-Cost Support and Legal Guidance for Immigrants:

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Catholic Charities of San Antonio 1801 W. Caesar E. Chavez Blvd San Antonio, TX 78207 210-433-3256 www.ccaosa.org

American Gateways 5835 Callaghan Rd, Suite 601 San Antonio, TX 78228 512-478-0546 www.americangateways.org

St. Mary’s Immigration & Human Rights Clinic Center for Legal and Social Justice 2507 N.W. 36th Street San Antonio, TX 78228 210-431-2596 or 1-800-267-4848

Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services (RAICES) 1305 N. Flores San Antonio, TX 78212 210-226-7722 www.raicestexas.org

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The T he Giving Giviingg Edition Edition No Nov/Dec N ov/ v/D /De Dec 2015 Dec 2015 20 1 |E Elite lilite te A Attorney ttor tt torne neyy San San An A Ant Antonio nto toni nio io 64 64 |

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