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
President Falcon,Sandra LewisPenaFalcon&Cook
Past-President Salazar,KellyR. LinebargerGogganBlair &Sampson,LLP
President-Elect Richardson,Regina'Regi' LawOfficeofRegina"Regi" Richardson
Secretary Tijerina, Guillermo Jr Tijerina & Denzer, & Sabo, PLLC
Treasurer Falcon,HenryIII LoncarLyonJenkins
Director Ozuna,Jose LonestarDefendersOffice
Director Ramirez,JudgeMario HidalgoCounty332ndDistrict Court
Director Torres,Hector Colvin,Saenz,Rodriguez, &KennamerLLP
Director Koeneke,Daniel Koeneke&Gutierrez,PLLC
Director Sepulveda,Lauren CityofMcAllenMunicipalCourt
Director Benavides,Alejandro“Alex“ HidalgoCountyDistrictAttorney
Director Torres,Valerie TexasRioGrandePublic Defenders
Director Guajardo, Uriel “Alex” Statesman Law Firm, PLLC
Director Martinez,Veronica“Roni” GarzaMartinez,PLLC
Director Zuniga,RickA Atlas,Hall,Rodriguez,LLP
Director DeLaGarza,PeytonKampas LawOfficeofEzequielReyna
Director Gonzalez,Savannah LawOfficeofSavannahGonzalez
AbrahamGarcia
A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST MONTH
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!
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 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!
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!
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!
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.
Pictured: Judge Mario Ramirez - 332nd District Court 44 years of Service on the Bench
Not Pictured:
Chief Justice Dori Contreras 13th Court of Appeals
22
Justice Gina Benavides 13th
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
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
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!
Pictured above: Speaker Melinda Diaz engages with Family Law CLE attendees providing clarity and enforceability in legal drafting and enforceability in legal drafting
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!
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
The Emotional Cost of Lawyering: Compassion Fatigue & What to do about it
Obtaining Juvenile Records of Client, Accuser, Co-Defendant, or Witness
Gregory Turley
Paul Jacobs
Lennard Whittaker
Anthony Matulewicz
Josesph Connors
Adverse: How to Shake your Boomer Tendencies
Judge Orlando Esquivel Fourth Amendment
Jose Ozuna Cross Examination: Impeachment Lecture & Demonstration
Simran Singh Using AI to Develop Legal Arguments
Oscar Rene Flores Record Preservation
Mikson Ehimika Human Smuggling in Detail
Patrick Kennedy & Veronica Bernal Defense Strategies: Adjudications and Renovations
Savannah Gonzalez Tips & Tricks for the Tech-
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!
ADVICEFORYOUNGLAWYERS
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!
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
HONORING THE LEGACY OF TERRY KEY
MARCH 17, 1947NOVEMBER 19, 2024 US VETERAN
SAN ANTONIO - TERRY DAVID KEY, 77, A DEVOTED FAMILY MAN, RESPECTED ATTORNEY, AND PROUD VETERAN, PASSED AWAY PEACEFULLY ON NOVEMBER 19, 2024, IN SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, SURROUNDED BY HIS LOVING FAMILY. BORN ON MARCH 17, 1947, IN FORT WORTH, TEXAS, TERRY LIVED A LIFE MARKED BY SERVICE, GENEROSITY, AND DEDICATION TO HIS FAMILY AND COMMUNITY.
A proud Texan through and through, Terry's journey began as the beloved son of Fort Worth, where he spent his formative years before answering the call of duty He bravely served in the Vietnam War as a Marine Medic from 1968 to 1971 Following his service, Terry pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor's degree from Sam Houston State University, subsequently followed by a distinguished graduation from Baylor School of Law.
In 1975, Terry's career in law began at the district attorney's office, marking the start of a remarkable legal career that spanned decades. His dedication to justice and the community was further evidenced when he co-founded Jones, Galligan, Key & Lozano, L.L.P in 1978. Terry's reputation as an Attorney at Law was built on the foundations of integrity and excellence, qualities that he carried into every aspect of his life.
Terry's professional achievements were paralleled by a life rich in personal joy and hobbies An avid outdoorsman, he relished in fishing, hunting, and playing golf His loyalty to his favorite sports teams, the Baylor Bears and the Dallas Cowboys, was unwavering, and he could often be found cheering them on and reveling in the camaraderie of fellow fans However, it was in the warmth of family gatherings that Terry's heart truly resided
Family was the cornerstone of Terry's life He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Key He was a devoted brother to John and Tom (Butch) Key Terry's brothers will fondly recall the unbreakable bond they shared The trio of siblings shared a lifetime of memories, and their connection remained a source of strength and comfort throughout Terry's life. He was a loving father to his children, Matthew and his wife Dawn, Sarah and her husband Matt, and Rachel and her husband Ryan. His role as a grandfather to his eight cherished grandchildren was one of his greatest joys, and he embraced every moment with them with boundless love and enthusiasm.
Those who knew Terry best will remember him for his generous spirit and kind heart. His warm smile and gentle demeanor were a comfort to many, and his presence will be greatly missed. As we bid farewell to Terry David Key, we celebrate a life lived to its fullest, marked by service, love, and an enduring commitment to the betterment of his family and community. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence generations to come
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!
WHATYOUNEEDTOKNOWNOW:
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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
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
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
ROYSTON RAYZOR: PARALEGAL
JOB DESCRIPTION
ESTABLISHED INSURANCE DEFENSE AND COMMERCIAL LITIGATION FIRM IS SEEKING A PARALEGAL WITH THREE OR MORE YEARS OF EXPERIENCE FOR EMPLOYMENT IN THE FIRM'S BROWNSVILLE OFFICE APPLICANTS MUST HAVE EXCELLENT ATTENTION TO DETAIL, WRITING AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND THE ABILITY TO WORK IN A FAST-PACED ENVIRONMENT. THE RIGHT CANDIDATE SHOULD BE FRIENDLY, DEDICATED AND ABOVE ALL, A TEAM PLAYER.
QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL HAVE SOME EXPERIENCE WITH THE FOLLOWING:
Knowledge/experience drafting, interpreting, revising legal documents
Experience ordering and maintaining documents according to predetermined system
Experience conducting research with research services
Good listening and communication skills
Summarizing cases and preparing reports for attorneys
Filing documents with all court systems
Organizing and archiving documents related to completed and ongoing cases
SALARY COMMENSURATE WITH EXPERIENCE AND SKILL LEVEL. BENEFITS INCLUDE HEALTH INSURANCE, DISABILITY, PAID LIFE INSURANCE AND A 401K PLAN.
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule:
Benefits: - 8 hour shift
401(k) -Monday to Friday
Dental insurance
Flexible spending account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Experience:
-Paralegal: 3 years (required)
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: 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:ThisemployerparticipatesinE-VerifyandwillprovidetheSocialSecurity Administration(SSA)and,iofnecessary,theDepartmentofHomelandSecurity(DHS) withinformationfromeachemployee’sFormI-9toconfirmworkauthorization.
ApplicationProcess:Applicantsshouldsubmitasingleelectronicpdffileconsistingof thefollowingdocuments:
(1)acoverletter
(2)resume
(3)lawschooltranscript(includingproofofclassrank (4)tworeferencesorlettersofrecommendation
(5)awritingsample,and (6)acompletedStateofTexasApplicationforEmploymentform
totheClerkoftheCourt,KathyS.Mills,ThirteenthDistrictCourtofAppeals,Nueces CountyCourthouse,901Leopard,TenthFloor,CorpusChristi,Texas78401.Applications maybesubmittedbye-mail(kathy.mills@txcourts.gov),mail,orbyfacsimileat(361)8880794.Incompleteapplicationsmaynotbeconsideredormaybesupplementedbythe applicantinatimelymanneroratanytimeatthediscretionoftheCourt.Interviewswill beheldbyinvitationonly.
TheThirteenthCourtofAppealsisan“at-will”employerandnothinginthisposting createsarightthatalterstheat-willrelationship.TheCourtisanequalopportunity employeranddoesnotdiscriminateonthebasisofaperson’srace,color,religion,sex, (includingpregnancy,transgenderstatus,andsexualorientation),nationalorigin,age (40orolder),disabilityorgeneticinformation.
WE’RE HIRING!
Internationallawfirmseekingfull-time
LegalAssistant/ParalegalforourMcAllen office Idealcandidatewillpossessa pleasantandprofessionaldemeanor. CandidatemustbefluentinEnglishand Spanish.Thispositionrequiresbilingual correspondenceduetoagreatdealof communicationwithourMexicooffices andclients
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:
ProvidecomplexadministrativesupportandassistancetoTexasandMexicolicensedattorneys,clientsandotherstaff,asneeded
Preparememoranda letters presentations anddocumentsinEnglishandSpanish
Preparecopies,mail,facsimiles,andtransmittalsofelectronicdataanddocuments
Receptionistdutiesincludinggreetingclients
Assistandprovidesupporttootherlegalassistantsasneeded
Performgeneralofficedutiessuchastyping,operatingofficemachinesandansweringmultiplelinetelephonesystem
Organizeandmaintainfiling
Officeerrandstobank officesupplystore etc asneeded
Assistwithadministrativedutiesanddealwithvendorproviders
Prepareandmaillettersandlegaldocumentstoclientsandgovernmentagencies
Researchandrequestlegalrecordsonlineviagovernmentagencywebpages
File requestandrecorddocumentswithcorrespondingMexicoandUS governmentagencies
Scanandfiledocumentsinofficesystemandinclients’files
Keepaccuraterecordsofalltransactions
Assistwithbillingandaccountsreceivable asneeded
PrepareEnglishtoSpanishtranslationsandSpanishtoEnglishtranslationsofvariousdocuments
Otherdutiesasassignedbymanagementorasneeded
SKILLS:
Useofgeneralofficeequipmenttoincludebutnotlimitedto AbilitytouseComputer(desktop/laptop)
Copier Printer Scanner FaxMachine 10-keycalculator
Multiplelinetelephonesystem
Computerskills(Microsoftword excel powerpoint Outlook etc)
Stronginterpersonalskills
Verbalandwrittencommunicationskills
Excellentorganizationalandcommunicationskills
Mustbeabletomultitaskandworkunderpressure
Stronggrammar,spelling,proofreading,andformattingskills
Strongattentiontodetail timelinessandaccuracy
Teamplayerwillingtoassistotherswithitemsthatmaynotbelistedabove,ifrequestedbyattorneys,staffmembers,orclients
Mustkeepclient/attorneyinformationconfidential
Abilitytoestablishprioritiesandorganizeworkload
Dependableandprofessional
Mustbeabletoworkovertime,whenneeded
QUALIFICATIONS:
PleaseemailresumestoMarissaS
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