October Newsletter

THE SUMMONS NEWSLETTER

ON THE COVER Showcased in this month’s Summons edition is our Title Sponsor, KHIT Multidisciplinary Group, for our annual Hidalgo County Bar Association Golf Tournament, along with our president, board members, and our executive director.

This year’s annual Golf Tournament was an absolute hole-in-one! Held at the stunning Tierra Santa Golf Course in Weslaco, TX, the event was a fun-filled day of camaraderie, competition, and community. A special shoutout goes to our incredible Title Sponsor, KHIT Multidisciplinary Group, whose unwavering support made the tournament possible. Their generous sponsorship helped elevate the entire event, ensuring that all participants—from seasoned golfers to first-timers—enjoyed a day to remember.

Our board members and bar association members joined forces with KHIT to celebrate a fantastic day of golf, sunshine, and shared moments. Everyone had a great time, whether it was a perfectly placed putt or a little friendly banter on the green.

The tournament was such a success that we can’t wait to do it all again next year!

Thank you, KHIT Multidisciplinary Group, for helping us make this event a true standout, and thanks to everyone who joined us for an unforgettable day on the course!

Pictured from left to right: Christina Saldivar, Peyton Kampas De la Garza, Judge Lauren Sepulveda, Alejandro “Alex” Benavides, Sandra Falcon, Mrs. Khit, Dr. Khit, Valerie Torres, Veronica “Roni” Martinez, Kelly Salazar, Abraham Garcia.

UPCOMING EVENTS HCYLA Monster Bash- November 1, 2024 Day of the Dead - November 2, 2024 Daylight Savings - November 3, 2024 Election Day - November 5, 2024 Civil Trial Law Section Presents “View from the Bench: Do’s and Don’ts of Motions for Summary Judgement and the Essentials for Friendly Suits” November 6, 2024 Veterans Day - November 11, 2024 Family Law Section Present “Family Law in Focus: The View from Counsels Table” - November 14, 2024 Immigration Law Section CLE November 20, 2024 Thanksgiving - November 28, 2024

EMAIL AT MARKETING@HIDALGOBAR.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT AT (956) -380-1691

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024-2025

President Falcon, Sandra Lewis Pena Falcon & Cook

President- Elect Richardson, Regina 'Regi' Law Office of Regina "Regi" Richardson

Secretary Tijerina, Guillermo Jr. Tijerina & Denzer, & Sabo, PLLC

Past- President Salazar, Kelly R. Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

Treasurer Falcon, Henry III Loncar Lyon Jenkins

Director Ozuna, Jose Lonestar Defenders Office

Director Ramirez, Judge Mario Hidalgo County 332nd District Court

Director Torres, Hector Colvin, Saenz, Rodriguez, & Kennamer LLP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024-2025

Director Koeneke, Daniel Koeneke & Gutierrez , PLLC

Director Sepulveda, Lauren City of McAllen Municipal Court

Director Zuniga, Rick A. Atlas, Hall, Rodriguez, LLP

Director Benavides, Alejandro “Alex“ Hidalgo County District Attorney

Director Torres, Valerie Texas RioGrande Public Defenders

Director De La Garza, Peyton Kampas Law Office of Ezequiel Reyna

Director Guajardo, Uriel “Alex” Statesman Law Firm, PLLC

Director Martinez, Veronica “Roni” Garza Martinez, PLLC

Director Gonzalez, Savannah Law Office of Savannah Gonzalez

Hidalgo County Bar Association

! f f a t s e h t t mee

Abraham Garcia

Executive Director

www.hidalgobar.org

Luis Bonilla Administrative Assistant

@hidalgocountybar

A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST MONTH

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Hidalgo County Bar Association’s Annual Golf Tournament: A Day to Remember!

⛳

This year’s Annual Golf Tournament was one for the books, filled with friendly competition, laughter, and incredible community spirit! Held at the beautiful Tierra Santa Golf Course in Weslaco, TX, the tournament brought together members of the legal community for a fun-filled day under the sun.

First and foremost, we want to thank all the players who participated in this year’s event. Your energy, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship made the day truly special. Whether you were a seasoned pro or swinging the clubs for fun, each one of you helped make the tournament a huge success.

We also want to give a heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors, whose contributions played a pivotal role in making this event possible. Your support is invaluable to the success of not just this tournament but the larger mission of the Hidalgo County Bar Association. Special recognition goes to our Title Sponsor, KHIT Multidisciplinary Group, for their unwavering support, including the much-appreciated massage chairs that provided some relaxation between rounds!

A round of applause goes to the incredible staff at Tierra Santa Golf Course for hosting us and ensuring everything ran smoothly. From perfectly maintained greens to their warm hospitality, they made sure we had an unforgettable experience.

A huge thanks as well to our Golf Tournament Committee for planning out the event and making it a success. Our Golf Tournament Committee this year was composed of Daniel Koeneke, Peyton Kampas De la Garza, Alex Benavides, Hector Torres, Valerie Torres, & Rick Zuniga. A big thank you as well to all the volunteers and Hidalgo County Bar Association staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to organize and execute the event seamlessly. Your dedication truly made this tournament a success, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

More than just a day of golf, this event was a testament to the strength and camaraderie of our legal community. It’s these moments—whether sharing a laugh, making a new connection, or competing in friendly rivalry—that remind us how powerful it is when we come together.

We are already looking forward to next year’s tournament and the chance to do it all again. Until then, thank you all for being part of what makes our community so great. Let’s continue to support one another and build on the connections we’ve made!

See you on the green next year!

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

TITLE SPONSOR

HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR

IN-KIND SPONSORS

GOLD LEVEL SPONSORS LEWIS PENA FALCON & COOK SILVER LEVEL SPONSORS

BRONZE LEVEL SPONSORS

GUERRA LAW GROUP, PLLC LAW OFFICE OF PETE DIA, IV LAW OFFICE OF RICHARD A. CANTU, P.C KOENEKE & GUTIERREZ, PLLC TIJERINA SABO & DENZER, PLLC WALSH MCGURK CORDOVA & NIXON, PLLC STATESMAN LAW FIRM, PLLC COLVIN SAENZ RODRIGUEZ& KENNAMAR, LLP THE ORTEGA LAW FIRM THE HKC LAW FIRM JONES GALLIGAN KEY & LOZANO, LLP LAW OFFICE OF PALACIOS CRUZ & MORENO

SAGE SETTLEMENTS ESCOBEDO & CARDENAS, LLP THE OG LAW FIRM OMAR OCHOA LAW FIRM

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION’S ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

OUR WINNERS

Our lovely Mulligan Prizes!

Our Hole-In-One Prize, Sponsored by Bert Ogden Buick GMC Edinburg!

SUMMONS

OCTOBER 2024

THIS OCTOBER, THE HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION PROUDLY JOINED TOGETHER TO SHOW OUR SUPPORT FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH. WE ASKED OUR MEMBERS TO SEND PHOTOS OF THEMSELVES AND THEIR OFFICES DRESSED IN PINK, AND THE RESPONSE WAS TRULY HEARTWARMING. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED AND HELPED US TURN THIS MONTH INTO A POWERFUL DISPLAY OF UNITY AND SUPPORT. BY RAISING AWARENESS TOGETHER, WE HONOR THOSE IMPACTED BY BREAST CANCER AND REINFORCE THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION AND CONTINUED RESEARCH. THE HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION IS GRATEFUL TO STAND ALONGSIDE IN THIS IMPORTANT CAUSE.

LOVE &COURAGE

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

MARISSA SANDOVAL FROM CACHEAUX, CAVASOS, & NEWTON L.L.P. SHOWS HER SU[PPORT ALONG WITH STAFF AND WRITES “SUPPORTING THE FIGHTERS, SURVIVORS, ANGELS , AND FAMILIES AFFECTED BY BREAST CANCER”

MEMBER KRISTINA FERNANDEZ FROM THE LAW OFFICE OF DONNELL, KIESCHNICK, WOLTER, & GAMEZ P.C TELLS US ABOUT HER EXPERIENCE WITH HER OWN DIAGNOSIS OF BREAST CANCER BACK IN 2021

FAITH & HOPE

“AS PART OF THE PINK DIVA PROJECT, CREATED BY CORPUS CHRISTI ATTORNEY LIANA GONZALEZ AND HER FRIEND JOSH SALINAS, WE RAISE FUNDS FOR THE BREAST FRIENDS PROGRAM. THE BREAST FRIENDS PROGRAM IN CORPUS CHRISTI PROVIDES FREE MASTECTOMY SUPPLIES FOR LOCAL WOMEN WHO CANNOT AFFORD BRAS, SWIMSUITS OR OTHER ITEMS FOR THEIR “NEW NORMAL.” I HAD ALWAYS ADMIRED THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF LIANA AS SHE MADE THESE WONDERFUL WARRIORS “PINK DIVAS.” AFTER MY DIAGNOSIS IN 2021, WHEN I WAS ASKED TO BE A PINK DIVA, I GOT TO EXPERIENCE THIS FABULOUS MAKEOVER AND AM NOW PART OF THIS GLORIOUS SISTERHOOD!!!”

PINK POWER

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

SUMMONS NEWSLETTER OCTOBER - ISSUE

ARTICLES PRESS RELEASE MOVIES & BOOK

REVIEWS IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUBMIT A REVIEW ON ANY OF THE FOLLOWING TOPICS—WHETHER IT'S AN ARTICLE, PRESS RELEASE, MOVIE, OR BOOK—WE'D LOVE TO FEATURE YOUR INSIGHTS! PLEASE SEND YOUR SUBMISSION TO MARKETING@HIDALGOBAR.ORG, AND WE’LL REVIEW IT FOR PUBLICATION. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU AND SHARING YOUR THOUGHTS WITH OUR COMMUNITY!

PITCHFORD | DAVIS, LLP. A SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY LAW FIRM For all questions concerning issues related to Disability, please contact the office of Pitchford/Davis, LLP. Conviently located in McAllen, in the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley.

(956) 630-6400 STXDISABILITYLAW.COM

George Pitchford

Timm Davis

3016 N. McColl Rd., Suite A, McAllen 78501

TEXAS SOUND TRACK

OCTOBER 2024

HIDDEN(ISH) GEMS IN THE LONE STAR STATE’S MUSIC SCENE When people think of Texas music, country music probably springs to mind. And while Country certainly has its place, Texas’ music scene is far more eclectic. Texas has something for everyone. Here are five artists you should know about:

ST. VINCENT

St. Vincent is a rock star—an art-rock star. She is, authentically, the image pop stars probably spend fortunes cultivating. An incredible guitarist, she combines technical skill with raw emotion, often taking on dark and provocative subject matter. She’s bold, innovative, and always pushing the boundaries of modern music.

Must-Check-Out: Slow Disco Series- St. Vincent’s "Slow Disco" is a song that, in her words, "could wear many different outfits and live many different lives." She released a ballad, a piano version, and a dance track that she renamed “Fast Slow Disco.” The video for "Fast Slow Disco" was released during Pride Month and shows St. Vincent crowd-surfing in a gay bar. The video is a celebration of freedom and inclusivity.

St. Vincent’s 4AD Session (YouTube) - This is a great introduction to St. Vincent if you aren’t already familiar with her. Stripped of studio polish, her songs take on a great energy that lets her experimental sound shine.

It’s a must-watch for anyone who wants to experience St. Vincent at her most authentic and captivating.

KHRUANGBIN

You may not know the name Khruangbin, but you've likely heard their music in a film or at a trendy spot without even realizing it. This three-piece band creates a ton of feeling with just an electric guitar, bass, and drums. Their sound is globally influenced, psychedelic, and irresistibly groovy, making it perfect for setting a mood.

Must Check-OutTexas Sun (with Leon Bridges)-Be sure to check out the official video, beautifully filmed in West Texas—it perfectly captures the track’s cinematic and dreamy vibe.

People Everywhere (Still Alive)- A feel-good, instrumental groove. I’ll listen to this song hundreds of times over the course of a summer. It gives me instant nostalgia for summers past.

Live from Berlin (YouTube) The band once performed in the lobby of a Berlin hotel. The performance is a mustwatch.

SHINY RIBS

Shinyribs, the brainchild of Austin's Kevin Russell, is one of the most joyful acts you'll ever experience. Shinyribs has the kind of infectious energy that gets a crowd dancing no matter who they are or where they are. Russell’s storytelling shines through in his lyrics, often blending humor and heart in unexpected ways.

Must-Check-Out: Poor People’s Store- As someone who takes great pride in protecting the rights of the poor, I went into this song a bit defensive. But ultimately, as someone who grew up poor and in a small town, I found it to be a soulful, authentic reflection on small-town America and the quirks of life in tough economic times. Russell’s humor shines through, making the song both insightful and lighthearted.

East Texas Rust- The chorus goes, “I don't have time for you to love me like a lawyer.” As a lawyer, I’m not entirely sure what he means by that… but, somehow, I also know exactly what he means. It’s a line that’s both confusing and crystal clear.

LEON BRIDGES

I haven’t yet had the chance to explore his newer work, though I am excited to. His early work is soulful and groovy and often transports you to a different era.

Must-Check-Out: Coming Home- A throwback to '60s soul, this song put Leon Bridges on the map. It’s smooth, heartfelt, and timeless—perfect for when you are craving retro-sounds.

River- "River" is a song that can mean a million different things to different people. For me, listening to it has a way of making me reflect on the more regrettable parts of my life—yet somehow, in a way that feels healing.

Listening to this song is a spiritual experience.

HAYES CARLL Texas continues to be a fertile ground for musicians who defy expectations and push boundaries. Whether you’re in the mood for some soul from Leon Bridges, experimental rock from St. Vincent, or the cross-continental sounds of Khruangbin, there’s something here for every music lover—if you’re willing to venture off the beaten path.

Pictured above- Leon Bridges

Hayes Carll’s music melds country, Americana, and folk, often telling stories that are at once intimate and relatable.

Must-Check-Out: Help Me Remember- An incredibly beautiful yet deeply sad story about someone coping with Alzheimer’s. The song captures the pain of fading memories while also serving as a reminder to cherish those around us and live meaningfully while we still can.

KMAG YOYO- With sharp, fast-paced, cleverly-written lyrics, this song is about a soldier who finds himself doped up on drugs, caught in the chaos of war. I’ve probably listened to this song a thousand times.

Jose D. Ozuna Lonestar Defenders Office

AMERICAN HISTORY& TRADITION

UNITED STATES VS. RAHIMI U.S SUPREME COURT, DECIDED 2024

,

Contrary to what you might remember from law school, the amendment of greatest interest to the U.S. Supreme Court is not the First Amendment, or even the Fourth Amendment, but rather the Second Amendment.

Zachary Rahimi, while subject to a civil protective order regarding his girlfriend and their child, was involved in 5 separate firearms discharge/deadly conduct in 2020 and 2021 in Arlington, Texas. When police searched his home they found several firearms. Rahimi was charged with prohibited possession of a firearm while under a protective order under 18 U.S.C. 922 (g) (8). He pled guilty but appealed, claiming that the statute was unconstitutional. Based on prior Fifth Circuit precedent, the court upheld the statute.

In 2022, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, a challenge to the unique firearms licensing regime in New York first asked: does the Second Amendment apply to “the people” in question? It did based on prior precedent in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) holding that in the text of the Second Amendment, “the people” in “the right of the people” was not limited to persons in a militia, but included all members of the political community.

The Supreme Court in Bruen then looked to see if the regulation in question (New York licensing of firearm holders) was supported by American history and tradition. After an extensive historical review, the court held that “an enduring American tradition of public carry” would allow “law abiding citizens with ordinary self defense needs to exercise their right to keep and bear arms.”

By Gregory Turley

The Bruen case was decided in June 2022, after the Fifth Circuit in Rahimi upheld the statute of 18 U.S.C. 922 (g) (8). While his petition for rehearing en banc was pending,The Fifth Circuit panel #1 (three judges) withdrew its prior opinion and ordered the case be supplementally briefed and re-argued before a new three judge panel (Jones, Ho and Wilson).

After Bruen effectively overruled the prior precedent, the Fifth Circuit panel # 2 reversed course and held that 18 U.S.C. 922 (g) (8) was unconstitutional under Bruen because there was no analogous historical tradition sufficient to support the statute. The Fifth Circuit emphasized the civil nature of the protective order.

The Supreme Court in an 8-1 decision held that the Fifth Circuit erred in requiring a “historical twin” when the test is that of an historic analogue. Again the Supreme Court reviewed various laws over the course of many years (American History and Tradition) to find any historical analogue. The Court settled on two historical laws to justify the temporary disarmament of a person. Those laws were “Going Armed” whereby if a person was known to be about to cause trouble, that he could be temporarily disarmed. Also “Surety Laws” whereby if a person was determined to be a danger, that person would be required to post a surety bond to justify carrying of arms.

There were multiple concurring opinions with various different reasoning. There was a dissent by Justice Thomas. The court ended with a straightforward statement: Rather, we conclude only this: An individual found by a court to pose a credible threat to the physical safety of another may be temporarily disarmed consistent with the Second Amendment.

october 2024

October 2024

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

NEW YOUTH DIVERSION FOR CLASS C MISDEMEANORS STARTS JANUARY 1ST

Written By Presiding Municipal Court Judge

Lauren Sepulveda MUNICIPAL & JUSTICE COURTS WILL BEGIN AUTOMATICALLY DIVERTING CERTAIN JUVENILE CLASS C MISDEMEANORS STARTING JANUARY 1, 2025 Starting January 1, 2025, municipal and justice courts in Texas will begin automatically diverting certain juvenile Class C misdemeanors, marking a significant shift in how these courts handle youth offenses. Under this new law, justice and municipal courts statewide are required to establish a written youth diversion plan, focusing on reducing recidivism and addressing behavioral issues without pursuing criminal charges against juveniles. Even though the child’s case will be diverted, these plans aim to emphasize accountability and responsibility of the child while promoting community safety. These new diversion plans are also intended to foster collaboration between governmental, educational, and non-profit organizations to develop effective, locally tailored diversion strategies. How exactly will this impact your juvenile clients who pick up Class C misdemeanors?

WHO IS ELIGIBLE? The youth diversion plans will apply to any child (10 years of age to younger than 17 years of age) alleged to have engaged in conduct that constitutes a Class C misdemeanor other than a traffic offense committed on or after January 1, 2025.

A child’s charge must be diverted from formal criminal prosecution unless certain conditions disqualify them. A child is ineligible for diversion if: 1) the child has entered into a diversion agreement within the last year; 2) the child has previously had an unsuccessful diversion; 3) the prosecutor objects to the diversion; or 4) the child’s parent or guardian does not consent in writing to the diversion.

What happens to the child’s criminal charge if they qualify for automatic diversion?

If a child qualifies for diversion, their case will be diverted before any formal complaint is filed. During the diversion period, the statute of limitation is tolled. The child and the court will enter into a youth diversion agreement to resolve the pending charge. No plea will be required to divert the charge. The diversion agreement will require the child to meet certain conditions for a successful diversion. Conditions can include participation in a diversion strategy such as (but not limited to) teen court, educational programs, rehabilitation programs, academic monitoring, mental health treatment, mentoring programs, payment of restitution, or performing up to 20 hours of community service. The diversion period is not to exceed 180 days. All records of diversion shall be expunged on the child’s 18th birthday.

Tex. Code of Crim. Proc. Art. 45.309

WHO SHOULD YOU CONTACT TO FIND OUT IF YOUR CHILD CLIENT QUALIFIES FOR AUTOMATIC OR JUDICIAL DIVERSION? Most courts will have a Youth Diversion Coordinator responsible for managing the youth diversion plan. Coordinators and prosecutors are the best resources for determining whether your child client’s case will be diverted or filed.

WHAT IF THE CHILDS CHARGE DOES NOT QUALIFY FOR AUTOMATIC DIVERSION & IS FILED? If the child is eligible, the judge shall divert the charge—even after a trial and a finding of guilt. So even if the charge is filed—or the child and their guardian/parent take the case to trial—the judge shall enter the child into a diversion agreement to dismiss the filed charge. Tex. Code of Crim. Proc.

Art.45.310

WHAT FEES ARE ASSSOCIATED WITH YOUTH DIVERSION? Justice or municipal courts may charge a $50 Local Youth Diversion Administrative Free to be collected from the guardian/parent. If a fee is charged, it must be included as a term of the youth diversion agreement. If the fee is not paid, the court must hold a hearing on the ability of the guardian/parent to pay. The court must waive the fee if the guardian/parent is indigent. If the fee is not paid by the guardian/parent and they do not qualify for waiver of the fee, it is enforceable by contempt.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE CHILD DOES NOT SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE THE TERMS OF THE YOUTHDIVERSION AGREEMENT? If a child does not successfully complete the terms of the youth diversion agreement, the case will be referred to the court for a non-adversarial hearing. The judge will confer with the child and the guardian/parent to determine whether the diversion should be declared unsuccessful.

The judge can then: 1. amend or set aside terms in the agreement, 2. continue the hearing 60 days for the child to comply, 3. extend the diversion to last up to one year from the initial start date, or 4. require the guardian/parent to do or not do any act.

Any person who can speak to the child’s best interest and long-term safety of the community may attend this hearing.

If the child does not successfully complete the terms of the diversion, the judge can: 1) find the diversion successful on the basis of substantial compliance, 2) find the diversion unsuccessful and transfer the child to juvenile court for alleged conduct indicating a need for supervision, or 3) find the diversion unsuccessful and refer the charge to the prosecutor for filing/re-filing.

UPCOMING CLE’S AND EVENTS EVENTS AND CLE’S HCYLA PRESENT MONSTER BASHNOVEMBER 1, 2024 DAY OF THE DEAD - NOVEMBER 2, 2024 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS - NOVEMBER 3, 2024 ELECTION DAY - NOVEMBER 5, 2024 CIVIL TRIAL LAW SECTION PRESENTS “VIEW FROM THE BENCH: DO’S AND DON’TS OF MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGEMENT AND THE ESSENTIALS FOR FRIENDLY SUITS ”-NOVEMBER 6, 2024 VETERANS DAY - NOVEMBER 11, 2024 FAMILY LAW SECTION PRESENTS “FAMILY LAW IN FOCUS: THE VIEW FROM COUNSEL’S TABLE” - NOVEMBER 14, 2024 IMMIGRATION LAW SECTION CLE NOVEMBER 20, 2024 THANKSGIVING - NOVEMBER 28, 2024

SECURE YOUR SPOT FOR OUR CLE'S AT WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG BEFORE THEY DISAPPEAR FASTER THAN A WINNING VERDICT. SPACE IS AS LIMITED AS A COURTHOUSE PARKING SPOT, SO GRAB YOURS NOW!

Child Welfare Section of the Hidalgo County Bar Association

BLANKET DRIVE

Donate Brand New Blankets!

Your donations will bring warmth & comfort to the children supported by the Rainbow Room

NOV. 1 - DEC. 1 2024

www.hidalgobar.org

Drop off locations Child Protection Court of the Rio Grande Valley West 100. N. Closer Edinburg, TX 78539

Hidalgo County Bar Association Office 3111 W. Freddy Gonzalez Dr. Edinburg, TX 78539

@hidalgocountybar

WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG

CIVL TRIAL LAW SECTION PRESENTS

@HIDALGOCOUNTYBAR

92ND DISTRICT COURT

JUDGE LUIS SINGLETERRY

VIEW FROM THE BENCH: DO’S & DON’TS OF MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT AND THE ESSENTIALS FOR FRIENDLY SUITS DATE: NOVEMBER 6, 2024 TIME: 12:00 P.M - 1:00 P.M LOCATION: EDWARDS ABSTRACT & TITLE CO 3111 W. FREDDY GONZALEZ DR. EDINBURG TX, 78539

LUNCH SPONSORED BY: TO REGISTER, VISIT US AT WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG OR GIVE US A CALL AT (956)-380-1691

F A M I L Y

L A W

I N

F O C U S :

THE VIEW FROM COUNSEL’S TABLE

SAVANNAH GONZALEZ

JUDGE ELECT JUAN ALVAREZ

JUDGE ELECT NEREIDA SINGLETERRY-LOPEZ

JUDGE ELECT ORLANDO ESQUIVEL

Law Office of Savannah Gonzalez Moderator

332nd District Court Speaker

476th District Court Speaker

430th District Court Speaker

Location: Edward’s Abstract and Title Co. Time: 12:00 P.M - 1:00 P.M Date: November 14, 2024 Format: Casual Conversation + Interactive Feedback

To Register: Call (956) 380-1691 or visit online at www.hidalgobar.org

@hidalgocountybar

s g k i v n i a n h T Celebration g 28

24

NOV

24

Thankfulness, Gratitude, Appreciation In observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday, our office will be closed November 28 & 29, 2024. www.hidalgobar.org

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

33RD ANNUAL BLACK ROBE RECEPTION A CELEBRATION OF THE PAST, PRESENT, & FUTURE

PRESENTED BY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16, 2025 AT 6:00 PM RIO BANK 701 E EXPRESSWAY 83 MCALLEN TX

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JOB POSTINGS APPLY NOW!

TIJERINA, DENZER, & SABO, PLLC

WANT TO JOIN A DYNAMIC & COLLABORATIVE LEGAL TEAM? Apply now!

Our civil litigation firm is looking for an associate in our Hidalgo County office!

Candidates should at least have: two years experience command the Spanish language (extremely helpful, but not absolutely required!)

You can find our firm at TDlawtx.com Please email your resume to: accounting@tdlawtx.com

OUR TEAM.

YOUR DEFENSE.

ASSOCIATE ATTORNEY Job Description: Position: Associate Attorney Experience: 2 years experience preferred Salary: DOE, benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement benefits Apply at office@daleklein.com Duties/Responsibilities include meeting with clients, drafting discovery, keeping billable time records, managing file deadlines, participating in Docket Control Conferences, preparing files for hearings, coordinating depositions, assist in mediations and court hearings.

Job Type: Full-Time Benefits: Dental Insurance Health Insurance Life Insurance Vision Insurance Schedule: Monday to Friday Weekends as needed Work Location: In Person

THIRTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS JOB VACANCY NOTICE Internal Job Title: Staff Attorney State Classification: Attorney IV (B28) Deadline: Until filled Estimated Start Date: October 2024 Locations: Corpus Christi or Edinburg, Texas Salary: $110,000-$131,460/ per year (depending on qualifications) The Thirteenth District Court of Appeals seeks applicants for the position of Staff Attorney for Justice Clarissa Silva’s chambers at the Corpus Christi or Edinburg office of the Court.

Essential Job Functions: Staff attorneys assist their Justice with legal research, analysis, and writing. Staff Attorneys perform highly complex legal research, analysis, and writing. Staff attorneys may supervise the work of others and work under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Duties include researching and writing memoranda on appeals and/or original proceedings and participating in case conferences. Duties also may include related work such as making recommendations on motions and performing routine administrative duties, as required.

Performs related work as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Staff Attorneys must possess knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings, and skill in legal research, writing, and analysis. They must be proficient in computer and word-processing skills and must be able to communicate clearly and effectively. Staff Attorneys must have graduated from an accredited law school with a J.D. degree, must be licensed to practice law in the State of Texas, and must be an active member of the State Bar of Texas in good standing.

Preferred Qualifications: Strong preference is given to candidates with outstanding academic records, demonstrated writing ability, law review or journal experience, moot court or mock trial experience, and prior work for an appellate court or other appellate experience.

Note: The following Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) codes are generally application to this position: 27, 27A, 27B, 250X, LGL10, 04, 44, 4402, 4405, 4406, 4407, 4408, 4409, 4410, 51JX, 92JD, 51, 5JOX1, 5J.

E-Verify: This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employees’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Application Process: Applicants should submit a single electronic pdf file consisting of the following documents: (1) a cover letter (2) resume (3) law school transcript (including proof of class rank) (4) two references or letters of recommendation (5) a writing sample, and (6) a completed State of Texas Application for Employment form to the Clerk of the Court, Kathy S. Mills, Thirteenth District Court of Appeals, Nueces County Courthouse, 901 Leopard, Tenth Floor, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401. Applications may be submitted by e-mail(kathy.mills@txcourts.gov), mail, or by facsimile at (361) 888-0794. Incomplete applications may not be considered or may be supplemented by the applicant in a timely manner or at any time at the discretion of the Court. Interviews will be held by invitation only.

The Thirteenth Court of Appeals is an “at-will” employer and nothing in this posting creates a right that alters the at-will relationship. The Court is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of a person's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, transgender status, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

We are Hiring!

Job Title:

Litigation Associate

Location:

McAllen

Applications Accepted by Email: scontreras@atlashall.com for inquiries contact 956-607-3005

Atlas, Hall & Rodriguez LLP is a full-service law firm in the Rio Grande Valley, ready to offer comprehensive legal counsel in corporate, litigation, and business law. The strength of our law firm is from the diverse fields of law we practice, which allows us to be the bridge that connects South Texas to regional, state, national and international entities. We have worked 70 years building a foundation from hard work, tenacity, and trust.

The firm is seeking to fill a litigation associate position that is open to attorneys with a minimum of 3 years of experience to work in its McAllen office.

Candidates should have experience in litigation work, for example, catastrophic injury, commercial litigation, construction law, construction litigation, financial institution litigation, personal injury litigation, premise liability, and insurance defense.

Among other duties, the candidate must investigate, analyze, strategize, and effectively manage matters and provide outstanding customer service to our clients, and teammates throughout the organization.

The candidate should have strong ties to the Rio Grande Valley.

The firm offers:  Competitive compensation based on experience  Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plan  Access to 401K plan  Community engagement opportunities