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THE SUMMONS NEWSLETTER

ON THE COVER

The cover of this month’s Summons Newsletter captures a memorable moment from the Hidalgo County Bar Association's annual Black Robe Reception. This stunning cover showcases the judges who joined us for this special evening, representing a wide array of courts, including county courts, district courts, master courts, the 13th Court of Appeals, and even the Federal bench. The event brought together these esteemed members of the judiciary to celebrate their contributions to the legal community and their unwavering commitment to justice. Their collective presence highlighted the strength, diversity, and unity of the Hidalgo County judiciary, reflecting the dedication and integrity they bring to serving the public. It was an evening filled with respect for tradition, pride in our legal system, and anticipation for the future of justice in our region.

Pictured on Bottom Row, Left to Right- Senior District Federal Judge: Micaela Alvarez, 332nd District Court Judge (Retired): Mario Ramirez, 389th District Court Judge: Letty Lopez, Probate Court Judge- JoAnne Garcia, 275th District Court Judge- Marla Cuellar, McAllen Municipal Court Judge: Lauren Sepulveda Pictured on Top Row, Left to Right- 332nd District Court Judge: Juan R. Alvarez, 464th District Court Judge: Joe Ramirez, County Court #4 Judge: Fred Garza, County Court #6 Judge: Albert Garcia, County Court #5 Judge: Arnoldo Cantu, Chief Justice of the 13th Court of Appeals: Jaime Tijerina, County Court #1 Judge: Rodolfo “Rudy” Gonzalez, 330th District Court Judge: Orlando Esquivel, County Court #2 Judge: Jaime Palacios, Justice of the 13th Court of Appeals: Jon West, Probate Court Associate Judge: Kristalee Mata

UPCOMING EVENTS February 5, 2025- The Estate Planning & Probate Section Present: What YOU Need to Know NOW: Estate Planning Essentials for Legal Professionals February 12. 2025- The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section Present: Love is in the Air, Until it is Not!!! The Intersection Between Family & Business in a Divorce February 14, 2025- Valentine’s Day February 17, 2025- President’s Day February 27, 2025- The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Present: Advanced Nuts & Bolts - From Main Street to Wall Street

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

BUSINESS LAW & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION SECTION

Pictured Left to Right: Jose Antonio Gomez, Mario Castillon, Deborah Cordova, Cynthia Gutierrez-Contreras, Eduardo Caso, Kristen Vela, Reynaldo Elizondo, Abel Garza, Jennifer Gonzales, Dulce Hernandez, Julian Rodriguez

The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section of the Hidalgo County Bar Association recently hosted an engaging and highly informative CLE titled, "Cross Border Corporate Issues: Working with Your International Banker." This event, held at Edwards Abstract & Title Co., featured two distinguished speakers: Cynthia Contreras Gutierrez of Contreras Gutierrez & Associates and Eduardo Caso, Senior Vice President of International Private Banking from Texas Regional Bank.

The CLE explored critical topics relevant to navigating cross-border corporate challenges and offered practical insights into working effectively with international bankers. Attendees gained valuable knowledge directly applicable to the complexities of international business law, making this a standout event in the HCBA’s CLE lineup.

The event was further enhanced by a delicious lunch, generously sponsored by Contreras Gutierrez & Associates.

Special thanks go to the Co-Chairs and Committee of the Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section for their exceptional efforts in organizing this event. Their dedication and vision were instrumental in bringing this CLE to life. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the HCBA staff for their work behind the scenes, ensuring the event ran smoothly and successfully. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to our speakers, Cynthia Contreras Gutierrez and Eduardo Caso, for sharing their time and expertise with our members.

The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section looks forward to continuing its mission of providing top-notch educational opportunities for our legal community. Stay tuned for more exciting events on the horizon!

BUSINESS LAW & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION SECTION

BLACK ROBE RECEPTION

The Hidalgo County Bar Association recently hosted its highly anticipated annual Black Robe Reception, a cherished tradition that brings together the legal community to honor and celebrate the Hidalgo County judiciary. This year’s event, themed “Past, Present, & Future,” served as a heartfelt tribute to the judges who have shaped our courts, those currently serving, and the new faces who are embarking on their judicial journey.

The reception saw an extraordinary turnout, with judges from every level of the judiciary in Hidalgo County in attendance. District courts, county courts, master courts, the 13th Court of Appeals, and even federal courts were represented, making it a truly comprehensive gathering of legal excellence. This unique event provided an opportunity for attorneys, judges, and members of the legal community to connect in a more relaxed and celebratory atmosphere, fostering camaraderie and strengthening the bonds that make our judiciary so effective.

The theme, “Past, Present, & Future,” was particularly fitting this year as we marked significant milestones within our local judiciary. We celebrated the contributions of retiring judges who have dedicated their careers to serving justice and shaping the legal landscape of Hidalgo County. Their legacies were honored with heartfelt tributes and tokens of appreciation. At the same time, we recognized the steadfast commitment of judges who continue to serve on the bench, ensuring fairness and integrity in our courts. And, perhaps most excitingly, we welcomed a new generation of judges who are taking the bench for the first time, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to our judicial system.

The Black Robe Reception is more than just an annual event; it’s a reflection of the shared respect and admiration the legal community holds for the judiciary. It’s a moment to pause, express gratitude, and look ahead to the future of justice in our county. The event’s success is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the Hidalgo County Bar Association, whose members work tirelessly to support and celebrate our legal professionals.

As we look back on this year’s reception, we’re reminded of the vital role the judiciary plays in our community and the importance of coming together to honor their contributions. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the HCBA staff and leadership for organizing such a memorable evening, as well as to everyone who attended and made the event so special. Here’s to another year of excellence in the Hidalgo County judiciary and the continued success of this wonderful tradition!

BLACK ROBE RECEPTION

The Hidalgo County Bar Association extends its deepest gratitude to Rio Bank, Wealth Management & Trust for serving as the Title Sponsor of this year’s Black Robe Reception and for graciously hosting this special event. Their generous support and hospitality provided an elegant setting for our legal community to come together in celebration of the judiciary. We appreciate their commitment to the legal profession and their continued dedication to fostering connections within our community. Thank you, Rio Bank, Wealth Management & Trust, for making this event a success!

BLACK ROBE RECEPTION

The Hidalgo County Bar Association extends its deepest gratitude to the generous sponsors of this year’s Black Robe Reception. This special event would not have been possible without the support of OG Marketing, Colvin, Saenz, Rodriguez & Kennamer, L.L.P., Lewis, Peña, Falcon & Cook, Attorneys at Law, and Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano, L.L.P. Their contributions helped create an evening that truly honored our judiciary and brought together the legal community in celebration. We appreciate their commitment to supporting the HCBA and our mission to recognize and uphold the excellence of the Hidalgo County judiciary.

Thank you for making this event such a memorable success!

BLACK ROBE RECEPTION

Pictured: Judge Mario Ramirez - 332nd District Court 44 years of Service on the Bench

This year, we bid farewell to several distinguished members of our judiciary who have dedicated their careers to upholding justice and serving the community. Retiring from the bench are Chief Justice Dori Contreras, Justice Gina Benavides, and Justice Nora Longoria from the 13th Court of Appeals, as well as Judge Mario Ramirez of the 332nd District Court and Judge Israel Ramon of the 430th District Court. Their tireless commitment and invaluable contributions to the legal profession have left an enduring legacy in Hidalgo County, and they will be deeply missed. The Hidalgo County Bar Association extends its heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to these esteemed judges as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

Not Pictured:

Chief Justice Dori Contreras 13th Court of Appeals

Justice Gina Benavides 13th Court of Appeals

Justice Nora Benavides 13th Court of Appeals

Judge Israel Ramon 430th District Court

22 Years of Service on the Bench

18 Years of Service on the Bench

12 Years of Service on the Bench

16 Years of Service on the Bench

BLACK ROBE RECEPTION

13th Court of Appeals Pictured: Chief Justice Tijerina Justice Jon West Not Pictured: Justice Clarissa Silva Justice Lionel Aron Pena Jr. Justice Jenny Cron Justice Ysmael Fonseca

Master, Probate, Child Protection, Magistrate Court, and other Courts Pictured: Judge Lauren Sepulveda - McAllen Municipal Court Judge JoAnne Garcia- Probate Court Judge Judge Kristalee Mata - Probate Court Associate Judge Judge Marcus Barrera - McAllen Municipal Court Not Pictured: Judge Kriselda Hinojosa - Master Court#1 Judge Ismael “Kino” Flores - Master Court #2 Judge Larry Esparza - Magistrate Court Judge Carlos Villalon - Child Protection Court

County Courts Pictured: Judge Jaime Palacios- County Court #2 Judge Arnoldo Cantu- County Court #5 Judge Albert Garcia- County Court #6 Judge Fred Garza- County Court #4 Judge Rodolfo “Rudy” Garza - County Court #1 Not Pictured: Judge Sergio Valdez - County Court #7 Judge Omar Maldonado - County Court #8 Judge Patricia O’ Cana-Olivarez - County Court #9 Judge Armando Marroquin - County Court #10

District Courts Pictured: Judge Orlando Esquivel - 330th District Court Judge Letty Lopez - 389th District Court Judge Joe Ramirez - 464th District Court Judge Juan Alvarez - 332nd District Court Judge Marla Cuellar - 275th District Court Not Pictured: Judge Luis Singleterry - 92nd District Court Judge Fernando Mancias - 93rd District Court Judge Roberto “Bobby” Flores - 139th District Court Judge Rose Guerra Reyna - 206th District Court Judge Noe Gonzalez - 370th District Court Judge Keno Vasquez - 398th District Court Judge Renee Betancourt - 449th District Court Judge Nereida Lopez-SIngleterry - 476th District Court

FAMILY LAW SECTION

Pictured above: Speaker Melinda Diaz engages with Family Law CLE attendees providing clarity and enforceability in legal drafting and enforceability in legal drafting

The Hidalgo County Bar Association’s Family Law Section started the year off strong with an outstanding CLE event, "Drafting Isn’t an Ugly Word: Tips and Tricks to Protect Clients via Enforceable Orders." Held at Barrel House Kitchen & Bar on January 29, 2025, this highly attended program brought together family law practitioners eager to sharpen their drafting skills and stay informed on key court updates.

Speakers Savannah Gonzalez, Chair of the Family Law Section, and committee member Melinda Diaz led an engaging discussion on best practices for drafting enforceable family law orders. They provided valuable insights on common pitfalls, the nuances of language that can make or break an order’s enforceability, and practical tips to ensure that their clients' interests are fully protected in legal agreements.

Adding to the wealth of knowledge shared, Judge Armando Marroquin joined the conversation to inform members about important changes within his court. His firsthand perspective gave attendees a deeper understanding of procedural updates and judicial expectations, helping attorneys better navigate their cases.

The event’s success wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated leadership of the Family Law Section and the support of the HCBA members who showed up in great numbers. A special thank you to Barrel House Kitchen & Bar for their exceptional hospitality—continuing to provide an excellent venue and service for our CLE events.

The Family Law Section is looking forward to another year of informative and impactful programs.

Stay tuned for more CLEs, networking opportunities, and discussions on key family law issues.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event such a success!

FAMILY LAW SECTION

BILL OF RIGHTS CONFERENCE

Criminal Law Section’s Bill of Rights Conference Sees Outstanding Turnout The Hidalgo County Bar Association’s Criminal Law Section hosted its much-anticipated Bill of Rights Conference, bringing together legal professionals for a full day of insightful discussions and continuing legal education. The event saw an impressive turnout, with attendees engaged throughout the day as 14 distinguished speakers covered a wide range of topics critical to criminal law practice.

Held as a cornerstone event for the legal community, the conference provided attorneys with in-depth perspectives on constitutional protections, procedural developments, and key strategies for defense and prosecution. Speakers delivered compelling presentations on subjects including search and seizure, due process, trial advocacy, and recent case law updates, ensuring that attendees left with a deeper understanding of evolving legal standards.

A highlight of the event was a special appearance by Hidalgo County District Attorney Terry Palacios, who addressed attendees and emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional rights while balancing justice and public safety. His remarks underscored the significance of events like this, where practitioners from various backgrounds come together to learn, discuss, and collaborate on best practices in criminal law.

With a full house and a packed agenda, the Bill of Rights Conference was a resounding success. Attendees not only gained valuable CLE credits but also had the opportunity to network with peers, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and sharpen their legal acumen.

The Criminal Law Section extends its heartfelt appreciation to Rio Bank for graciously hosting the event and providing a welcoming venue for this important gathering. A special thank you also goes out to our generous sponsors, whose support helped make this conference possible. Their contributions ensure that legal professionals in Hidalgo County continue to have access to high-quality CLE opportunities.

Stay tuned for more Criminal Law Section events, and be sure to join us for future opportunities to learn, connect, and grow!

BILL OF RIGHTS CONFERENCE

Gregory Turley The Rahimi Decision & Its Impact on the 2nd Decision

Lucia Regalado MTS Denied? You Need to Calm Down: Shake it off with Article 38.23

Anthony Matulewicz Federal Export Laws for Criminal Lawyers

Paul Jacobs The Emotional Cost of Lawyering: Compassion Fatigue & What to do about it

Lennard Whittaker Obtaining Juvenile Records of Client, Accuser, Co-Defendant, or Witness

Josesph Connors State and Federal Civil Forfeitures/SOAH ALR Hearings & County Court Appeals

BILL OF RIGHTS CONFERENCE

Judge Orlando Esquivel Fourth Amendment

Simran Singh Using AI to Develop Legal Arguments

Mikson Ehimika Human Smuggling in Detail

Jose Ozuna Cross Examination: Impeachment Lecture & Demonstration

Oscar Rene Flores Record Preservation

Patrick Kennedy & Veronica Bernal Defense Strategies: Adjudications and Renovations

Savannah Gonzalez Tips & Tricks for the TechAdverse: How to Shake your Boomer Tendencies

BILL OF RIGHTS CONFERENCE

BILL OF RIGHTS CONFERENCE

HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

SUMMONS NEWSLETTER NOVEMBER - 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!

2025

SUMMONS

ADVICE FOR YOUNG LAWYERS

BY JUDGE ARMANDO MARROQUIN I had just passed the bar and was eager to go to court for the first time. I was working at my first job after law school and was called to go and appear in court the week after I was sworn in. I was nervous but excited. I showed up an hour early to work that day to review my files and drank a lot of coffee. On the way to the courthouse, I stopped and bought some gum because of my coffee breathe. I arrived to court an hour before I was supposed to so that I could meet with my clients. My case was called and twenty seconds into my argument, the Judge stopped me and gave me a good talking to. You see, in my nervousness, I forgot that I was still chewing gum. That was my first experience in Court, It was not the only time a Judge got after me but it was a great first lesson in courtroom etiquette.

As a young lawyer you should have been briefed on what is and isn’t appropriate courtroom etiquette. Some Courts are more stringent with the rules than others. It is always best to check with each individual Court. Additionally, if you know someone who has appeared in the Court you are going to appear in, check with them for any advice. While lawyers are supposed to know, sometimes we forget and sometimes, life happens. Car problems, problems with kids, problems with significant others, deadlines, other cases, or client problems can sometimes distract us. We are all human and it happens so don’t worry, If I had a dollar for every time a Judge got after me, I would be a much wealthier man.

Just a quick rundown on some suggestions for Court Obviously no chewing gum while in Court Dress appropriately. Please no jeans… I promise we can tell Check with each Court in reference to Laptop use Keep use of cellphone to a minimum…each Court is different Identify yourself for the Record and who you represent While arguing, address the Court, never opposing Counsel Wait your turn, don’t speak over opposing Counsel Each Court differs as far as conversations happening while the Court is in Session…check with each Court

JUDGE ARMANDO MARROQUIN COUNTY COURT #10

I AM SURE MOST DIDN’T NEED TO READ THIS, HOWEVER MAYBE IT WAS A GOOD REFRESHER FOR SOME. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTION OR WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS, PASS BY COURT 10. HAPPY NEW YEAR AND FYI I SWITCHED TO MINTS! WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG

@HIDALGOCOUNTYBAR

hcba word tangle!

Test your knowledge of legal terms with the hidalgo county bar association’s legal jumble Answer key at the very bottom of this page! no cheating!

20 25

1. TNRATYEO 2. LBAILE 3. SITWUAL 4. VIEECEND 5. ITFPLAINF 6. NITREVIONTE 7. DFNEETDAN 8. CITNOJBOE 9. LIFBIAI 10. DGEJU

JANUARY

CREATED BY KELLY SALAZAR

summons ‘25 ANSWER KEY: 1. ATTORNEY, 2. LIABLE, 3. LAWSUIT, 4.EVIDENCE, 5. PLAINTIFF, 6. INTERVENTION, 7.DEFENDANT, 8. OBJECTION, 9.BALIFF, 10. JUDGE

UPCOMING CLE’S AND EVENTS EVENTS AND CLE’S The Estate Planning & Probate Section Present, “ What YOU Need to Know NOW: Estate Planning Essentials for Legal Professionals”- February 5, 2025 The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section Present, “ Love is in the Air, Until it is Not!!! The Intersection Between Family & Business in a Divorce”- February 12, 2025 Valentines Day- February 14, 2025 Presidents Day- February 17, 2025 The Business Law & Commercial Litigation Presents, “Advanced Nuts & Bolts Conference- From Main Street to Wall Street”February 27, 2025

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!

THE ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE SECTION PRESENT

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW:

ESTATE PLANNING ESSENTIALS FOR LEGAL PROFESSIONALS

AURELIO GARZA

LAW OFFICE OF AURELIO GARZA P.L.L.C

DATE: FEBRUARY 5, 2025 TIME: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM LOCATION: RIO BANK TOWER701 E. EXPRESSWAY 83 MCALLEN, TX 78501

LUNCH SPONSORSORED BY:

WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG

THE BUSINESS LAW & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION SECTION PRESENTS

Love is in the Air, until it’s Not! THE INTERSECTION BETWEEN FAMILY & BUSINESS IN A DIVORCE

Savannah Gonzalez The Law Office of Savannah Gonzalez, PLLC

12 FEB 2025

Deborah Cordova Walsh McGurk Cordova Nixon, PLLC

Lucia Thompson Palacios Garza & Thompson, PC

5:30 PM

LOCATION:

THE VINEYARD WINE & CO 125. E PECAN BLVD SUITE B. MCALLEN, TX 78501 to register: visit us at www.hidalgobar.org or give us a call at (956)-380-1691

SAVE THE DATE

THE BUSINESS LAW & COMMERCIAL LITIGATION SECTION PRESENT

2025 ADVANCED NUTS & BOLTS

From Main Street to Wall Street

RIO BANK TOWER 701E. EXPRESSWAY 83, MCALLEN, TX 78501

FEBRUARY 27, 2025

MORE DETAILS TO COME, KEEP A LOOK OUT ON OUR SOCIAL MEDIA FOR UPDATES INSTAGRAM- @HIDALGOCOUNTYBAR FACEBOOK- HIDALGO COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION

WWW.HIDALGOBAR.ORG

SAVE THE DATE

APRIL 10, 2025

DAVID HOCKEMA CIVIL TRIAL CONFERENCE RIO BANK TOWER 701 E. EXPRESSWAY 83 MCALLEN, TX 78501

@hidalgocountybar www.hidalgobar.org

Summons

ADVERTISING Pricing

Full Page- 9 month $100 a month for a 9 month contract, with the ability to change information at any time

Full Page- 1 month $150 for a one month contract

Email at abraham@hidalgobar.org For more information, contact at (956)-380-1691

Summons

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Increased Exposure: Your logo and brand message will be prominently featured in our newsletter, reaching hundreds of potential customers. This exposure can lead to increased brand recognition and recall, as your business will be associated with valuable content and information.

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In a fast-paced business landscape, it's crucial to seize opportunities that can set you apart from the competition. By becoming a sponsor of our newsletter, you'll position your business for success and growth in the market.

Email at abraham@hidalgobar.org For more information, contact at (956)-380-1691

BENENFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

Sections Offered Appellate Law Section Criminal Law Section Estate Planning and Probate Law Section Family Law Section Civil Trial Section Immigration Law Section Real Estate Law Section Business Law & Commercial Litigation Section Women’s Bar Section

Benefits Offered

Networking Opportunities Sections offer a platform to connect with fellow professionals who share your legal interests. This can lead to valuable connections, referrals, and collaborations within your field

Access to Experts You gain direct access to leading experts and thought leaders in your practice area, allowing you to seek advice, guidance, and mentorship from those with extensive experience

Publications and Journals Some sections publish newsletters and journals you have complete access to.

Unlock your Opportunities What are you waiting for?

Register now at www.hidalgobar.org or give us a call at (956)-380-1691

CLE Opportunities All sections offer Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs, which help you fulfill your mandatory requirements while staying informed about the latest legal development.

Career Advancements Being an active member of a law section can enhance your credibility and visibility within your practice area, potentially leading to increased career opportunities and recognition,

Leadership Opportunities Joining a law section may provide opportunities for leadership roles, such as serving as on committees, participating in panel discussions, or even holding elected positions within the section.

JOB POSTINGS APPLY NOW!

THIRTEENTH COURT OF APPEALS JOB VACANCY NOTICE Internal Job Title: Staff Attorney State Classification: Attorney IV (B28) Deadline: Until filled Estimated Start Date: January 2025 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 assigned to Justice West’s chambers at either the Corpus Christi or Edinburg office of the Court.

Essential Job Functions: Staff attorneys assist their assigned 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, iof necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each employee’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) 8880794. 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 ThirteenthCourt 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’RE HIRING! International law firm seeking full-time Legal Assistant/Paralegal for our McAllen office. Ideal candidate will possess a pleasant and professional demeanor.

Candidate must be fluent in English and Spanish. This position requires bilingual correspondence due to a great deal of communication with our Mexico offices and clients.

Start Date: Immediate Job Type: Full-time Position Work hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Pay Range: Commensurate with Experience Benefits: Personal time off (sick/vacation time), health, dental & vision plan, 401k plan.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO: Provide complex administrative support and assistance to Texas and Mexico licensed attorneys, clients and other staff, as needed.

Prepare memoranda, letters, presentations, and documents in English and Spanish.

Prepare copies, mail, facsimiles, and transmittals of electronic data and documents.

Receptionist duties including greeting clients.

Assist and provide support to other legal assistants as needed.

Perform general office duties such as typing, operating office machines and answering multiple line telephone system.

Organize and maintain filing.

Office errands to bank, office supply store, etc, as needed.

Assist with administrative duties and deal with vendor providers.

Prepare and mail letters and legal documents to clients and government agencies.

Research and request legal records online via government agency web pages.

File, request and record documents with corresponding Mexico and U.S. government agencies.

Scan and file documents in office system and in clients’ files.

Keep accurate records of all transactions.

Assist with billing and accounts receivable, as needed.

Prepare English to Spanish translations and Spanish to English translations of various documents.

Other duties as assigned by management or as needed.

SKILLS: Use of general office equipment to include but not limited to: Ability to use Computer (desktop/laptop) Copier, Printer, Scanner, Fax Machine 10-key calculator Multiple line telephone system Computer skills (Microsoft word, excel, power point, Outlook, etc.)

Strong interpersonal skills.

Verbal and written communication skills.

Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Must be able to multitask and work under pressure.

Strong grammar, spelling, proofreading, and formatting skills.

Strong attention to detail, timeliness and accuracy.

Team player willing to assist others with items that may not be listed above, if requested by attorneys, staff members, or clients.

Must keep client/attorney information confidential.

Ability to establish priorities and organize workload.

Dependable and professional.

Must be able to work overtime, when needed.

QUALIFICATIONS: Fluency in English and Spanish, both written and oral.

High School diploma or equivalent.

Paralegal Certificate (preferred).

EXPERIENCE: 2+ years of office environment experience (preferred)

Please email resumes to Marissa S. Rodriguez at msandoval@ccn-law.com. Please, no phone calls. Thank You!

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