The Promulgator
2012 Bench Bar Conference
DUES INCREASE LYLA INSTALLATION BANQUET
President’s Andre’ Doguet, Immediate Past President, Blake David, Incoming President and Tricia Pierre, Secretary-Treasurer. Finally, to the staff, Susan, Claire, Penny, Tammy and Katie-thank you for a job well done. I have said this many times privately—none of this would be possible without your dedication to our Association.
the oath to lead this Association. As my term of office winds down and the torch is passed to the new Association President, I am left with a single overarching observation—the sum of this Association’s members is far greater than the collection of the individual members. We are focused, dynamic and goal oriented. We contribute much to our community, on so many levels and in so many way. And I believe in the coming year under the direction of our new President we will have a break-out year. We are moving forward exponentially. We are growing in membership and interest. We are on firm financial footing thanks to the strict financial discipline of the Association’s officer who came before me, and the tireless work of the Lafayette Bar Foundation. With these things in mind, I am confident, that in the next few years, you will witness our Bar Association, become the preeminent regional bar in the nation. My sincere and heartfelt thanks to those who served on the Board this year, and especially the executive officers; namely,
Larry Curtis President Blake David President-Elect
Tricia Pierre Secretary/Treasurer André Doguet Immediate Past President
Julia Autin Nicole Breaux Candace Breaux J. Bradley Duhe Cade Evans Shytishia A. Moore Flugence Paul D. Gibson
Kyle L. Gideon Joseph C. Giglio, Jr. Steven Ramos Cynthia K. Simon Melissa L. Theriot G. Edward Williams, Jr. Cassie Willis
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Executive Directors Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 LYLA President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Dues Increase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Bench Bar Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 11 Mediation Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 LYLA Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2012-2013 LYLA Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Awards & Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 John A. Hernandez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Grapevine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Executive
Message not only important for you to remain in good standing with the LSBA, but the revenue provides almost 50% our Association’s annual operating income. Competition from other CLE providers continues to grow so please be aware that when you choose to attend a seminar sponsored by LBA it directly impacts our bottom line.
when we have a changing of the guards at your local bar association. On Thursday, November 8th, Mr. Blake David will officially take the reins of this great organization. The event will be held at Café’ Vermilionville from 6-8pm and will feature cocktails, conversation and heavy hors d’ourves. I hope you will attend to congratulate Blake and our incoming board of directors. This issue of the Promulgator features photos from the 2012 Bench Bar Conference which I am happy to report was a resounding success. I have to thank this year’s chair, Kyle Gideon, whose leadership and dedication assured attendees another enjoyable conference in the Big Easy. This issue also lists all of the sponsors who made the event possible. I would encourage everyone to take the time to peruse the list and do business with those vendors who support the LBA. I also would like to thank Ms. Claire Oliver, our tireless Marketing Director for doing an exceptional job in planning this year’s event. Claire’s attention to detail makes my life and our member’s lives that much easier. CLE, CLE and More CLE…. Our annual CLE by the Hour program will kick off at the end of November. These CLE opportunities are
While I hate to even say this, the holidays are just around the corner….. we have set the date of Thursday, December 6th for our annual Holiday Party. It’s a don’t miss event so mark your calendars now! Until next time…… Susan
The Promulgator is published six times a year by the Lafayette Bar Association. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Committee of the Lafayette Bar Association.
Published by: Lafayette Bar Association 2607 Johnston Street, Lafayette, LA 70503 P.O. Box 2194, Lafayette, LA 70502-2194 tel: (337) 237-4700 fax: (337) 237-0970 www.lafayettebar.org The mission of the Lafayette Bar Association is to serve the profession, its members and the community by promoting justice, professional excellence, respect for the rule of law and fellowship among attorneys and the Court.
Acadiana Legal Services Corporation, Candace Breaux Bench Bar, Kyle Gideon Family Law Section, Julia Autin Lafayette Young Lawyers, Steven Ramos
Lafayette Volunteer Lawyers, Cassie Willis Louis A. Martinet Society, Sam Flugence Maritime CLE, Chuck Mouton & Doug Truxillo Promulgator, Elena Pecoraro
Susan Holliday, Executive Director Tammy Derouen, LVL Program Director Penny Rogers, Executive Assistant
Claire Oliver, Marketing Director Katie Duffy, Marketing Assistant
Lafayette Young Lawyers bar so high for the upcoming year. Moving forward, this is expected to be an incredible year with many familiar faces on the board as well as many new members. Hopefully, you will all come out to the first LYLA social on October 18th to get to know this board, take a break from work and enjoy this fabulous weather. It will be held at Jefferson Street Pub which always makes for a great time.
year for LYLA, I want to thank Jacob Hargett, Jaclyn Bridges, and Jason Matt for planning the installation of the new board at La Fondas as well as everyone who attended despite the complications presented by Hurricane Isaac. It was a blast as usual. Also, I must again thank Steve Ramos for his leadership of this organization over the last year and for setting the
LYLA will also be hosting Wills for Heroes on October 20th at the Lafayette Bar Association building. This year, attorneys will provide pro bono preparation of wills to the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office to show our appreciation for all of the hard work that they do for this community. I look forward to seeing each of you this year at the socials, golf tournament, and many other LYLA events.
The Lafayette Bar Association has reached a new milestone. This year the Association celebrates 40 years of serving the Lafayette legal profession, by promoting professional excellence and encouraging fellowship amongst its members and the court.
to inform the membership at its August meeting the Lafayette Bar Association’s board of directors approved a $25 per member dues increase for all members for the 2013 annual membership year. This would make each members annual investment $125 per year.
Over the years, the Lafayette Bar Association has grown in leaps and bounds and is considered a premier local bar association in the state of Louisiana. There is no question that the strength of this organization lies in our members and the annual investment each of you makes to support the Lafayette Bar Association.
After holding the line for close to a decade with no increase in dues revenue and with annual operating costs increasing every year the board decided the LBA has reached a critical point financially where a dues increase was an economic necessity for the future growth of the organization. Over the last several years the LBA has worked to diversify its non-dues revenue to support member’s services such as increased vendor sponsorships and additional CLE offerings. However, looking forward, the cost of doing business and maintaining a professional staff continue to rise each year which is the reality of running a professional membership organization. It is important to note that even with the upcoming dues increase the Lafayette Bar Association dues are significantly less than other bar association in the state.
The leadership of the bar association hopes that you consider your annual dues payments as the best professional investment you make and wants
From a historical perspective in its 40 year history this will be only the third time the Lafayette Bar Association has approved a dues increase. The first was in the 80’s when the then board approved an increase from $50 to $75 to help hire a professional staff for the organization. The second increase came many years later in 2006 and was a result of the after effects from Hurricane’s Katrina and Rita. In 2005 the Supreme Court waived all CLE requirements for Louisiana attorneys due to the devastating hurricanes which ravaged the state. This resulted in a tremendous loss of CLE revenue for the LBA causing the organization to use its reserves to manage operating costs and was the impetus behind the 2006 dues increase.
So what will this dues increase pay for? First and foremost it will ensure the financial stability of the Lafayette Bar Association for many years to come. It will also continue the great member benefits already afforded to LBA members, such as: Networking opportunities which deepen existing relationships and form new ones with fellow colleagues. Continuing Education classes which are low cost, informative and help to further your knowledge on a variety of legal topics. The Promulgator newsletter keeps you informed on the Lafayette legal community.
In addition to these current member benefits our incoming LBA President, Blake David would like to add a Family Fun Day to the list of offering for 2012. The Family Fun Day will be our local bar association’s first ever family oriented event. Plans are to have the event in conjunction with Law Week and have food adult beverages and fun activities for the kids. Family Fund day will have all the great social and networking component of a bar function but will add another dimension by allowing you to bring you spouse/significant other and your children along with you. The bottom line is that your membership is vital to the Lafayette Bar Association. The leadership is committed to exploring new member benefits and services and ensuring your membership meets your professional needs. It is our hope that you recognize that the bar leadership is wisely investing your dues dollars for the future growth of our organization and continually re- investing in our Association’s mantra of Motivated by Justice, Inspired by Service.
T
he annual Bench Bar Conference was held in New Orleans again this year at the Hyatt French Quarter from September 20-22. Although the conference is always the premier event for Lafayette’s legal community, this year was the best it’s ever been.
way to wind down after check in with drinks and a balcony overlooking Bourbon Street. This was followed by the welcoming reception at Galatoire’s, which featured passed hors d’ourves and samplings of other New Orleans food favorites.
The conference kicked off Thursday night with a special Hospitality Suite hosted by our conference chair, Mr. Kyle Gideon and his firm, Davidson, Meaux, Sonnier, McElligott, Fontenot, Gideon & Edwards. The hospitality suite offered a
Friday started bright and early with a breakfast and a special CLE entitled “ Speed dating with the Judges”. Attendees were able to move from table to table and interact with over 20 local members of the judiciary. After breakfast, a full day of continuing legal education followed including a much needed lunch break at Acme Oyster House. Friday night was a night of relaxation at Galvez Restaurant hosted by the Louisiana State Bar Association. Galvez has an amazing terrace which overlooks the River which was a perfect setting for cocktails and a great way to end an amazing Bench Bar Conference. Overall, this year’s conference was a complete success and will be hard to top in the years to come. If you were not able to attend this years event be sure to be on the look out for information on the 2013 event. The Bench Bar Conference is a signature event and one that you do not want to miss! Written by: Katie Duffy, LBA Marketing Intern
Allen & Gooch
Andre’ Doguet
Juneau David, APLC
Anderson, Dozier & Blanda
Domengeaux, Wright, Roy & Edwards
Laborde & Neuner
Babineaux, Poche’, Anthony, & Slavich
Christopher Lee
Bart W. Bernard
Durio, McGoffin, Stagg & Ackermann
Bertuccini Law Firm
Galloway & Jefcoat
Broussard & David
William N. Gee, III
Larry Curtis, APLC
Gibson Gruenert
Daigle Rayburn, LLC
Thomas R. Hightower, Jr., APLC
Ottinger Hebert, LLC
James P. Lambert
Preis & Roy
Jeansonne & Remondet
Voorhies & Labbe
Jones Walker
Charles Ziegler
Davidson, Meaux, Sonnier, McElligott, Fontenot, Gideon & Edwards Kenneth W. Dejean
Liskow & Lewis Mahtook & Lafleur Matt & Allen Oliver & Way Onebane Law Firm
DAVIDSON, MEAUX, SONNIER, MCELLIGOTT, FONTENOT, GIDEON & EDWARDS
The Lafayette Bar Association invites you to take advantage of our premier meeting facilities that are ideal for mediations, depositions, presentations, receptions or any other event imaginable. The Lafayette Bar Center boasts two conference rooms that may be used separately or together for one larger meeting space. These conference rooms feature all the latest in modern technologies. In addition, the Lafayette Bar Center has three smaller breakout and conference rooms that may be used for client meetings, depositions or mediations.
Pricing: Mediations:$250 Three rooms for a full day with the option to secure additional rooms for $50 per room
We are pleased to be able to offer a premier, neutral venue for members to utilize when conducting a mediation, deposition or any other type of meeting where privacy and neutrality are important. The goal of a mediation is to provide people with the opportunity to settle their disputes in an informal, confidential setting rather than having to litigate in court. The Lafayette Bar Association welcomes you into our building and we will do our best to optimize your experience.
BOCHMCABAĂ‘AS CHIROPRACTIC
Includes beverage service throughout the day Meal service available at an additional cost
Depositions: $50 One room for 4 hours $25 surcharge for depositions exceeding 4 hours
Dr. Bochm is a native of Mexico Languages fluent: Spanish & English
Other Events: Please call the Lafayette Bar Association to customize your other event needs and pricing
AMENITIES: Wireless Internet
Soundproof Rooms
Dedicated Fax
Neutral Site
Full Kitchen
Staff to assist with all needs
TV, DVD and VCR access
Beverage service
A/V Equipment available
Members receive preferential booking
Private, relaxed atmosphere
Option to purchase lunch and have it brought to you
Flexible scheduling Same day appointments Motor Vehicle Accidents Workers compensation Personal Injury 105 Independence Blvd. Suite 2 Lafayette, LA | 70506 Phone 337-991-0600 Fax 337-984-5851
LYLA Installation– Pics
the Lafayette Young Lawyers Association installed their 2012-2013 Board of Directors and new president, Lindsay Meador with Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr and Smith on September 6th, 2012 at LaFonda’s. All who attended enjoyed drinks and appetizers with their fellow attorneys, guests and friends. Steven Ramos officiated the event, not only as the outgoing president, but as Lindsay’s close friend and mentor. Thanks to Galloway, Johnson, Tompkins, Burr and Smith and Iberiabank for sponsoring another great LYLA Board Installation.
2012-2013 Lafayette Young Lawyers Board President Lindsay Meador President-Elect Cliff LaCour Secretary/Treasurer Trey Hightower Immediate Past President Steven Ramos Annual Meeting Committee Chair, Jacob Hargett Member, Jessie Haggerty Member, Holli Yandle Community Service Chair, Rachel Godley Member, Dwazendra Smith Member, Laura Pryor
Fundraising Committee Chair, Keith Saltzman Member, Will Montz, Jr. Member, Jeremy Morrow Member, J. Ryan Pierret Member, Mason Johnson Member, Todd Farrar Grants Committee Chair, Sara Rodrigue Member, Lucas Colligan Member, Rob Felder Law Week Committee Chair, Jaclyn Bridges Member, L’Kenya Jackson Member, Sarah Tannehill Membership Committee Chair, Brian Derouen
Member, Andrew Mims Member, Stuart Breaux Mock Trial Committee Chair, Suzanne deMahy Member, Travis Broussard Member, Jack Stanley Member, Dustin Talbot CLE Committee Chair, Jeff Coreil Member, Kevin Blanchard Member, Lauren Camel Member, Jonathan Villien Social Committee Chair, Jerome Moroux Member, Hallie Coreil Member, Jason Matt Member, G.W. Rudick
In September, Armentor was seated as 2012-13 president of the L o u i s i a n a Association for Justice (LAJ) seeing yet another of his long-terms goals become reality. Since 1992, Armentor has been an active member of LAJ, serving on numerous leadership committees and helping with many of the association's special events and programs. Above photo: U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier (left) shakes the hand of 2012-2013 LAJ Pre side nt Glenn Armentor after administering the oath of office to Armentor in September 2012.
The National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (NADN) has launched a Louisiana chapter and recognized three Lafayette bar members for excellence in the field of dispute resolution. David Cook, Bernie McLaughlin and Mimi Methvin have been inducted as Charter members of the newly formed Louisiana Chapter.
Sadly, John Hernandez III, lovingly called "T Jean" by all, died peacefully on September 3rd at 9 PM. Since it's founding in 1999, he served as President of the Francophone Section of the La. Bar Association. For many years, he and his Dad John Hernandez Jr. organized many successful seminars and trips to various Francophone countries. It is with great sorrow that we bid farewell to our friend who was such a proud and dedicated defender of our French culture and heritage. On June 28th, he is shown in the above photo doing what he loved to do- promoting the Cajun heritage by helping to host to Lafayette the French Ambassador to the United States. The photo was taken at the CODOFIL fundraiser held at the UL Alumni House: (L to R) Warren Perrin, Kim Doucet, John "T Jean" Hernandez III, Ambassador Francois Delattre, and Gail Broussard. The family asked me to request that you please keep "T Jean" in your thoughts and prayers. Written By: Warren A. Perrin
The Digital EdgeLawyers + Technology What: Unique CLE class focused on different aspects of technology that can simplify your day-today work tasks. Approved for CLE credit for Attorney’s and Paralegals. When: November 8 Lunch | 11:30 AM-12:00 PM Presentation | 12:00 PM-1:00 PM Who:
LBA Members, Paralegals, and Legal Support Staff
Where: LBA Headquarters 2607 Johnston Street Cost:
$20 per class * Fees include course materials, seminar attendance and lunch.
Tech Tips for iPhone and iPad | New Advances in Voice Recognition New digital pocket recorders, flash card and Internet file transfers, and free transcription software can streamline dictation workflow between you and your staff. You may even choose to use your iPhone for recording and uploading your dictation. iPads and iPhones are being used in every area of law today, including trials. Come find out how to be more productive with such gadgets. TO REGISTER CALL THE LBA OFFICE AT 337.237.4700 OR EMAIL KATIE DUFFY AT katie@lafayettebar.org
Becker & Hebert Law Firm is pleased to announce that Stuart Breaux has joined their firm. Gordon Arata McCollam Duplantis & Eagan, LLC is pleased to announce the Firm members selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® 2013. Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law: Gerald H. Schiff; Energy Law : Bob J. Duplantis and Samuel E. Masur; Oil & Gas Law :Bob J. Duplantis and Samuel E. Masur Liskow & Lewis is pleased to announce new attorney listings in the 2013 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. Admiralty & Maritime Law :George H. Robinson, Jr.; Corporate Law Billy J. Domingue and Joseph C. Giglio, Jr.; Energy Law :Matt Jones, James N. Mansfield III, Richard W. Revels, Jr., and George H. Robinson, Jr.; Mining Law :James N. Mansfield III and Richard W. Revels, Jr.; Natural Resources Law :James N. Mansfield III, Richard W. Revels, Jr., and Lawrence P. Simon, Jr.; Oil & Gas Law :George Arceneaux III, James N. Mansfield III , Richard W. Revels, Jr., Jamie D. Rhymes, and Lawrence P. Simon, Jr.; Real Estate Law: Joseph C. Giglio, Jr. Family Court/Hearing Officer address has changed to 415 South Main Street, Suite 208, St. Martinville, LA 70582 Daigle Rayburn LLC is pleased to announce that Kristen A. Hernandez just joined the firm. Congratulations to Amy Brining with GibsonGruenert on being installed as the PresidentElect of Kiwanis of Acadiana.
If you feel you have something that is worthy of being included in the Grapevine section of the Promulgator, please send it to Marketing Director, Claire Oliver, via email at claire@lafayettebar.org
State Farm Insurance Company is seeking applications from attorneys interested in joining its Lafayette House Counsel office. We would prefer an attorney with relevant experience who has good people and technology skills. Our attorneys work in a collaborative environment while handling their own caseloads. They do not record billable hours. Interested persons should send a resumé to P.O. Box 88040, Lafayette, LA 70598-8040, or call the Managing Attorney at 337-988-7240 for further information. All inquiries will remain confidential. State Farm is an equal opportunity employer.
The Law Firm of Babineaux, Poché, Anthony & Slavich, L.L.C. is offering a part-time employment opportunity to qualified applicants for an Attorney or Of Counsel litigation practice position. A minimum of 7 years of litigation experience is required. Employment defense litigation or commercial litigation experience is preferable, but not required, and insurance defense litigation work experience is beneficial. A flexible work schedule, competitive compensation and benefits are offered. The Firm is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Please submit a confidential resume' to Joel P. Babineaux at 1201 Camellia Blvd. Third Floor, Lafayette, LA 70508 or by e-mail to jbabineaux@bpasfirm.com with the reference "Confidential Attorney Resume".
Return Service Requested
Lafayette Bar Association P.O. Box 2194 Lafayette, LA 70502-2194 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID LAFAYETTE, LA PERMIT NO. 622