Tarrant County Bar Association Bar Bulletin (July/August 2023)

PRESIDENT'S PAGE

LU PHAM 2023-2024 TCBA President

Thank you for the privilege of serving as the 119th President of the Tarrant County Bar Association. I am grateful for the leadership of our immediate pastPresident, Karen Denney, and am honored to have worked side-by-side with Karen. I look forward to Karen’s guidance and mentoring as I navigate through my year of service to the TCBA and our members.

With 33 years of experience practicing law, the majority of which has been in Tarrant County, I consider myself fortunate to be part of a legal community that values collegiality and mutual support. The TCBA has provided me with countless opportunities to connect with fellow lawyers and judges, all of whom have been welcoming and instrumental in shaping my career in Fort Worth. Throughout my membership with TCBA, I have forged valuable friendships and received invaluable guidance from mentors, for whom I am immensely grateful.

My personal journey to becoming a lawyer has been one of overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities. As an immigrant and non-English speaker, the dream of attending college seemed distant, let alone pursuing a legal career. Growing up on the west side of Fort Worth, the legal profession appeared inaccessible to an “outsider” like me. However, everything changed when I had the chance to intern at the Tarrant County District Attorney's Office under the guidance of Ann Diamond, a devoted supporter of the TCBA. Ann became my first mentor, allowing me to shadow her at hearings and depositions. Through her and other attorneys at the DA’s office, I gained insight into the legal profession and experienced the collegiality that exists among lawyers. This experience sparked my passion for law, leading me to attend law school and ultimately return to Fort Worth to be part of a welcoming, collegial and professional Bar Association.

As President of the TCBA, my goal for this year is to encourage greater member involvement, create more networking opportunities, and establish mentorship programs for new lawyers. The TCBA is a gateway to numerous possibilities, and I want all our members to benefit from the same opportunities that have shaped my career. One program that I would like to highlight is Mentor Mondays, spearheaded by Steve Laird, who has generously dedicated his time, expertise and resources to this program. Mentor Mondays offers a platform for young lawyers to connect with experienced lawyers for professional

guidance. We are grateful to Steve for his dedication to TCBA and his willingness to take on the important task of introducing new colleagues into our profession. I invite all members to consider joining our committees and participate in the various TCBA events throughout the year. The TCBA thrives on representation from diverse areas of practice, and your involvement will help create a stronger legal community.

In the coming year, we have planned an array of events for our members to network, reconnect, and forge new relationships. Furthermore, we look forward to facilitate interactions between lawyers and our esteemed judges in Tarrant County through our Bench Bar conference, CLE programs, and networking events. The TCBA remains committed to supporting our members in their practice and fostering a vibrant legal community. This commitment has been the foundation of my longstanding association with the TCBA, and I am dedicated to ensuring our members maximize their TCBA membership benefits.

I am privileged to work alongside a great Board of Directors and a fantastic staff, all of whom are committed to our mission. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the progress we can achieve together. I encourage you to reach out to any member of our Board with any ideas or suggestions you may have to improve the TCBA. We value your input and believe that collaboration is key to our success.

I am honored to be a part of the TCBA as we continue to build a strong legal community in Tarrant County. Let us seize this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Remember, the TCBA is here to support you and ensure that the doors of opportunity remain open for all our members. Together, we can build a stronger legal community! g

Tarrant County Bar Association

1315 Calhoun Street

Fort Worth, TX 76102 817.338.4092 ▪ www.tarrantbar.org

2023-2024 Officers

President Lu Pham

President-Elect........................................Scott Lindsey

Vice President Marvina Robinson

Secretary-Treasurer John Brookman

Directors (Term Ends 2024)

Director......................................................Bryan Bruner

Director Lyndsay Newell

Director..................................................Angel Williams

Directors (Term Ends 2025)

Director Robert Blankenship

Director......................................................Joe Cleveland

Director Bill Ray

2023-2024 Appointed Directors

Appointed Director.........................Antoinette Bone

Appointed Director J. B. Strong

Tarrant

Fall 2022 President.........................Aulstin Gardiner

Fall 2023 President........................Elizabeth Haslam

State Bar of Texas Ex Officio Members

Director (Term Ends 2024).........Kimberly Naylor

Director (Term Ends 2025) Jeff Cochran

Bar Bulletin

Graphics/Production Elizabeth Banda

The Tarrant County Bar Bulletin is a bi-monthly publication of the Tarrant County Bar Association. Articles, photos, suggestions or comments should be directed to elizabeth@tarrantbar.org.

Articles published in the Bar Bulletin do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Tarrant County Bar Association, its officers or the Board of Directors. Advertisements and feature articles should not be considered an endorsement of any service, product, program, seminar or event.

County Young Lawyers Association

Members of the 2023-2024 100 Club

*List Reflected Below is as of July 25, 2023

Adams, Lynch & Loftin, P.C

Anderson & Cummings, LLP

Baker Monroe, PLLC

Barlow Garsek & Simon, LLP

Blaies & Hightower, LLP

Bonds Ellis Eppich Schafer Jones, LLP

Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, P.C.

Brackett & Ellis, P.C.

Cook Children’s Health Care System

Legal Department

Decker Jones, P.C.

Dismuke & Waters, P.C.

Forshey & Prostok, LLP

Freeman Mills P.C.

Griffith, Jay, & Michel, LLP

Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.

Harrison Steck, P.C.

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Holland Johns & Penny LLP

K & L Gates LLP

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

McDonald Sanders, P.C

Naman Howell Smith & Lee, PLLC

Noteboom Law Firm

Ross & Matthews P.C.

Second Court Of Appeals

Taylor, Olson, Adkins, Sralla & Elam, LLP

The Blum Firm, P.C.

The Colaneri Firm, P.C.

Udeshi Law Firm, PLLC

Underwood Law Firm, PLLC

Watson, Caraway, Midkiff & Luningham, LLP

Whitaker Chalk Swindle & Schwartz PLLC

Wick Phillips

Winstead PC

To be eligible for the 100 Club, any law firm, government agency, law school, or corporate legal department with four or more members must attain 100% TCBA membership compliance for the 2023-2024 bar year. This qualifies them for the “100 Club.” The firms/organizations listed above have already paid their membership dues and qualify for 100 Club membership for the new bar year.

Any firm/organization that qualifies in the future will have its name published in every issue of the Bar Bulletin for this bar year. TCBA takes pride in the participation of these law firms and other groups. The new bar year began on July 1. If you have not paid your renewal invoice, please contact our Membership Director, Lauren St. Clair, at 817.338.4092 or email her at laurensc@tarrantbar.org.

A Message from the

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

KAYLA DAILEY

dynamite programming year and an unstoppable team made for an awardwinning combination last year. At the State Bar of Texas Annual Meeting this year, the Tarrant County Bar Association was recognized with many awards. The TCBA Board, Committees, Sections, and Staff work together to bring the best programming and benefits of membership to our community, and it is an honor for the State Bar to acknowledge these achievements.

Communications Director Elizabeth Banda received Best Overall Newsletter for the fourth consecutive year for the BiMonthly Bar Bulletin. Elizabeth is the only Communications Director of the five major metro Bar Associations responsible for the newsletter's layout and design; the other major Texas Bars outsource this task. Elizabeth has won Best Newsletter every year she has entered!

The TCBA was also recognized for “Best Substantive Law Series of Articles” – another spotlight on the Bulletin Thank you to the Section Chairs last year for producing awardwinning content. Tori Ford Oblon, Jack Walters, and Jermaine Watson wrote the specific articles spotlighted.

Pro Bono Programs Director Sarah Hall Hoffman and Committee Chair Julie Camacho were integral in relaunching the People’s Law School in March. The committee worked to

Abring back an event that had not occurred since pre-pandemic. The State Bar acknowledged this massive feat by awarding the program the Star of Achievement. This People’s Law School utilizes volunteer attorneys to teach classes for the public to learn basic law principles, such as probate, family law, and landlord/tenant. This year’s committee is already working hard on this March’s event!

Finally, the TCBA received the highest honor a Bar can receive – the Award of Merit. This award is an overall award for a local bar association’s programming and projects, and each Bar Association competes against Associations of similar sizes (900-5,000 members). It is the first year the TCBA has won since 2015!

I am so thankful to be a small part of the Tarrant County Bar team, and I am looking forward to another great year of bringing together lawyers, judges, and the legal community. g

Meet the Summer 2023 TCBF Pro Bono Intern: Haley Fair

Where do you go to law school?

I am a rising 2L at Texas A&M University School of Law.

What drew you to the TCBF pro bono programs?

I think it is important to give back to the community whenever you have a chance. Working with the pro bono programs allows me to participate in community outreach in Tarrant County and work with under-served members of the community.

What is something you are looking forward to in working with the pro bono programs?

I am looking forward to attending clinics. They provide a great opportunity to meet with clients face-to-face and to learn from the volunteer attorneys as they conduct consultations.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I grew up raising goats, both commercially and for stock shows. I am still a part-owner in our herd back home. g

A dvertise

in TCBA’s Bar Bulletin

The Tarrant County Bar Association’s award winning* Bar Bulletin is a multi-faceted journal that is published six times a year for the TCBA’s members. It includes substantive articles, as well as information about membership events and activities. The Bar Bulletin is distributed digitally and by hard copy to the TCBA’s membership. Each issue reaches an average of 2500 readers through email and social media. It is available online on the TCBA’s website.

BEST OVERALL NEWSLETTER

Advertising rates vary, depending on the size and frequency. Rates are available by contacting Elizabeth Banda, Communications Director at elizabeth@tarrantbar.org.

*TCBA’s Bar Bulletin received the 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023 Division III “Stars of Texas Bars Award for Best Overall Newsletter” from the State Bar of Texas.

YLA SNAPSHOT

AULSTIN GARDINER

2022-2023 TCYLA President

It’s Getting HOT, HOT, HOT!

We are in the dog days of summer as my term comes to an end as President of the Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association. This experience has been as rewarding as it has been challenging. I started this term with high ambitions, and I was able to implement new items and build upon my predecessors’ previous implemented programs to my satisfaction thanks to the amazing team of TCYLA Officers and Directors I have had surrounding me these last twelve months.

One of the items I wanted to improve was our social media. Previously, we had a Facebook page that was limitedly updated. Now, not only do we have an Instagram, but we update both platforms consistently with amazing graphics, news, and events thanks to Sara Vargas. If you have not followed our Instagram, you can find us at @TarrantYoungLawyers. As the young kids say, our social media is straight fire! (Full disclosure: I do not know if I am using that term correctly).

We Came, We Saw, We Podcasted

Another new item that I implemented was our TCYLA President’s Podcast, which can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Although I may have been a little ambitious on how often I would be able to produce new episodes, I am very happy with the quality of content that was created in this steep learning curve of scheduling, recording, editing, and producing a podcast. Our last episode was with Cody Cofer on the topic “Controlling Your Narrative,” which highlighted how to build the case that best helps your client and how to control the narrative. Even though we only were able to produce six episodes, I have received great feedback and feel proud of the content that has been published. Despite this being a “young lawyer” podcast, I hope you listen to your fellow Tarrant County colleagues, even if for the first time,

as I believe these lessons apply to all attorneys of any age or number of years in practice.

Going Out with a Bang

Thanks to the hard work of the board, the Texas Young Lawyers Association has deemed us worthy for three Awards of Achievement presented at the Texas State Bar Leader’s Conference. The TCYLA took home third place in the Comprehensive Award, third place on the Single Project – Service to the Public Award, and First Place for our Newsletter across all Young Lawyer Associations across the state. The Comprehensive Award was given for our implementation on new and expanded projects for this year—specifically, our podcast, softball team, social media, and Law Related Education initiative. Our Service to the Public was given due to our work on the Suitcase Project in partnership with CASA and made possible with the help of a grant received by the State Bar, spearheaded by our next President, Elizabeth Haslam. Our Newsletter was made possible by the work of John Kash and Spencer Mainka. Even with these highlighted individuals, there were many board members that participated in all aspects of these items; a true team effort all around.

The Future is Bright

As the sunsets on my time as a board member of the TCYLA, I am encouraged by the young attorneys continuing their time in this organization, and I am excited about the new slate of Directors nominated. The TCYLA will be joined this year by the following newly appointed Directors: Scott Prescher (Prescher Law Firm), Marylynn Smitherman (Kelly Hart & Hallman), Stefan Garcia (Blaies & Hightower), Kelsey Linendoll ( Padfield & Stout ), Erika Flores ( Law Office of Francisco Hernandez), and Paul Farmer (Bonds Ellis Eppich Schafer Jones ). I am excited to see what amazing projects, events, and new programs they implement and improve upon with the new slate of Officers and Directors in the next year. I wish them well and will be here to support them any way possible as the Immediate Past-President. g

LegalLine

2023 Pro Bono Award Spotlight Julie Camacho

LEGALLINE ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR

Julie Camacho has been regularly volunteering with LegalLine for almost 10 years. Julie enjoys volunteering with LegalLine because it allows her to provide guidance that would otherwise be unavailable on a wide variety of legal topics. She appreciates that she can help people even if she is not an expert in a particular area of law. Volunteering allows Julie to sharpen legal skills she does not use on a daily basis and to further hone in on skills she uses in her practice.

Julie has run Camacho Law Firm, PLLC, a boutique law firm, in Fort Worth since March 2013. Her primary clients before Covid were bar owners and operators, commercial property landlords, developers, and small businesses. During the pandemic’s height, she decided to pursue more real estate litigation cases. Adding more depth in real estate litigation allows her to directly help more homeowners, property buyers and sellers, and real estate license holders. By handling more real estate litigation cases, she gets to help individual

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

property owners protect their property, their investments, and their family’s generational wealth.

Julie is a 2001, magna cum laude, graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law and received her B.A. from Austin College in 1994 with a double concentration in Economics and Business Administration. If you know Julie, you know she loves a challenge, the law, her husband Robert, and their animals. She believes strongly in the mission of the TCBA, pro bono service, and helping new attorneys.

“I love the law, and I like that I have the chance to guide people who might otherwise be left in the dark.” g

Sue Allen

John Barnes

Nick Bettinger

Robert Blankenship

Julie Camacho

Ola Campbell

Thomas Campbell

Carlos Galliani

Ndidi Gbulie

Wendy Hart

Dustin G. Hoffman

Merrit Klapperich

Sarah Kline

Deborah Krane

Cynthia Maragoudakis

Angelia Megahan

Zoe Meigs

Rodney Patterson

David Pritchard

Raul Romero

Karon Rowden

Maritza Sanchez

Melissa Sircar

. . .

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR SECTIONS

The Tarrant County Bar Association comprises eighteen sections, each consisting of members sharing similar professional interests. On average, these sections organize eight meetings a year and elect its own officers. Section meetings present opportunities for interprofessional liaison and specialized

Alternative Dispute Resolution Section

Wood, Smith, Henning & Berman LLP

dparet@wshblaw.com

Appellate Law Section

Haynes and Boone, LLP

chris.knight@haynesboone.com

Bankruptcy Law Section

David Pritchard

The Pritchard Law Firm

david@dlplegal.com

Business Litigation Section

Caroline Cyrier Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.

ccyrier@hfblaw.com

Collaborative Law Section

Lori Spearman

Law Office of Lori A. Spearman, P.C.

lorispearman@aol.com

continuing legal education. By renewing your dues and including your section dues, you will receive notifications about upcoming events, providing an excellent way to earn CLE credit and network with fellow legal professionals within your area of practice, all during regular work hours.

Corporate Counsel Section

Chair: Andrea Palmer

Higginbotham Insurance Agency, Inc.

apalmer@higginbotham.net

Criminal Law Section

Chris Lankford

chris@onyoursidetexas.com

Energy Law Section

Chair: Graham Simms

gsimms@freemanmillspc.com

Environmental Law Section

Michael Reer

Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.

Fort Worth Business & Estate Section

Christina Kutej

christina.a.kutej@bofa.com

Construction Law Section

Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, bkelly@shackelford.law

Intellectual Property Law Section

Texas A&M University School of Law

jslattery@law.tamu.edu

International & Immigration Law Section

Law Office of Dana L. White, PLLC

lisa@danawhitefamilylaw.com

Labor & Employment Law Section

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

taylor.winn@kellyhart.com

Real Estate Section

Martin Garcia

MAG Law, PLLC / Magnolia Title

martin.garcia@magnoliatitleteam.com

Happy New Bar Year!

As we begin the new bar year, we are looking forward to the exciting opportunities it brings. There will be a new board of directors for your section, along with exciting new CLE courses to attend. These experiences offer wonderful learning opportunities and the chance to connect with your colleagues. Be sure to check out your section’s

Solo & Small Firm Section

Nathan Moayyad

nathan@moayyadlaw.com

Tax & Estate Planning Section

Sawyer Law Firm, PLLC

jravsten@sawyerlawfirm.com

Women Attorneys Section

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

heidi.angel@kellyhart.com

By Tracy Card, Office Manager

eCommunity page and your emails to stay up to date with the latest CLE announcements. If you have a topic of interest or would like to recommend a speaker, feel free to let us know. Your support and input are always welcome. For questions about joining a TCBA section, please contact Tracy Card at tracy@tarrantbar.org. g

Join TCBA in honoring those who help to make the legal community of Tarrant County a great place to practice law by becoming a sponsor. Your sponsorship will assist in underwriting the food, beverages, and related expenses to host the reception. If you or your firm would like to be listed as a sponsor of this event, please contact Lauren St. Clair at laurensc@tarrantbar.org.

THANK YOU TO OUR CURRENT SPONSORS

Blaies & Hightower, LLP

Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, P.C.

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

Kirkman Law Firm, PLLC

Myers Law, Attorneys at Law

Stoy Law Group, PLLC

Curnutt & Hafer LLP

Prescher Law Firm, PLLC

The Mundheim Firm, PLLC

Wick Phillips

Dawn King Law Group

Friedman, Suder & Cooke, P.C.

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Judge Don Cosby

Judge Pat Gallagher

Law Offices of Jason Smith

Martinez Hsu, P.C.

TARRANT COUNTY BAR ASSOCIATION PRESENTS

SEPTEMBER 8, 2023

Tarrant County Family Law Center

Second Floor Assembly Room 200 E. Weatherford Street, Fort Worth, TX 76196

$65 TCBA Members | $90 Non-TCBA Members | $25 TCBA Member Paralegal/Staff Lunch will be provided.

11:30 a.m. CHECK-IN

12:00 p.m. Legislative Update

Melissa Swan, Schneider Law Firm, P.C.

12:45 p.m. CPS Case Law Update

Scott Prescher, Prescher Law Firm, PLLC

1:15 p.m. Ethics and Standards

Susan Duesler, Law Office of Susan E. Duesler

2:00 p.m. BREAK

2:15 p.m. Family Preservation Services Cases

Regina Anderson, Regional Attorney, Department of Family and Protective Services

2:45 p.m. Navigating Systems and Supports for Children and Youth in Care

Linda Aleckner, Aleckner Law Firm, PLLC

3:15 p.m. Human Trafficking: What You Need to Know

Paola Chavez Reyes, Community Outreach Coordinator, UnBound Now North Texas

Rundee Smith, CSEY Advocacy Program Coordinator, UnBound Now North Texas

4:00 p.m. CPC Court Policies and Procedures

Judge John Eck, Associate Judge, Child Protection Court No. 2

4:15 p.m. ADJOURN

TEXAS LAWYERS FOR TEXAS VETERANS TARRANT COUNTY CHAPTER

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

August UPCOMING CLINICS at the VA

September

October

20 www.tarrantbar.org ▪ JULY/AUGUST 2023

George Muckleroy has been volunteering with TLTV since the program was established in Tarrant County in 2010. As a veteran, George finds it important to help other veterans in his community. He has found that giving the veterans his full attention and effort makes them feel valued and lets them know that TLTV is trying to help. He has seen that providing assistance also has a large emotional benefit for the veterans, regardless of the legal outcome. Additionally, George finds working with other volunteers and staff to accomplish their shared missions to be very rewarding.

George Muckleroy graduated from Texas A&M University in 1995 and Texas Tech University School of Law in 2003. He has been admitted to practice law in Texas and the Northern District of Texas since 2003. Prior to going to law school, George was Captain in the United States Marine Corps. He is the former chair of Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans, TCBA’s Business Litigation Section, and the TCBA’s Bylaws committee. He has been named one of Tarrant County’s Top Attorneys for General Litigation by Fort Worth Magazine as well as a Texas Rising Star by Thomson Reuters for Business Litigation. George is a consistent and compassionate volunteer for TLTV and his community.

Snippets

Civil and Criminal

by Judge Bob McCoy g County Criminal Court No. 3

ASK JUDGE BOB

Judge Bob, what makes a case “moot”?

A case is moot when there is no longer “a justiciable controversy between the parties or when the parties cease to have ‘a legally cognizable interest in the outcome.’” If events make it impossible for the court to grant the relief requested or otherwise affect the parties; rights or interests, the case is moot. Waterhouse v Harrison, 658 S.W.3d 737, 739 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2022).

THE PACK’S MONTHLY PARAPROSDAKIAN

(a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected; frequently humorous)

Being smart is knowing how to get out of a tough situation. Being wise is not getting into it in the first place.

THE PACK’S QUOTE OF THE MONTH

The most affectionate creature in the world is a wet dog.

—Ambrose Bierce

CRIMINAL ITEMS OF INTEREST

1.Evidence of Pain

A factfinder may infer that a victim actually suffered physical pain, and no witness – including the victim – need testify that the victim felt pain. A factfinder is “free to ‘use common sense and apply common knowledge, observation, and experience gained in the ordinary affairs of life when giving effect to the inferences that may reasonably be drawn from the evidence.’” Thus, a “fact finder may infer that a victim actually felt or suffered physical pain because people of common intelligence understand pain and some of the natural causes of it.” This includes inferring physical pain from an altercation itself even without direct evidence.

Coleman v. State, 631 S.W.3d 744 (Tex.App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2021).

2. Challenge for Cause

Generally, in order to demonstrate harm from the denial of challenges for cause, the record must show that Appellant (1) made a clear and specific challenge for cause against a venireperson, (2) used a peremptory challenge on the complained of venireperson, (3) exhausted all remaining peremptory challenges, (4) requested and was denied additional strikes, and (5) identified on the record the objectionable venireperson whom he would have removed with the additional strike but who remains on the juror list and then actually sits on the jury. Deere v. State, 631 S.W.3d 762 (Tex.App.—Eastland 2021).

3. Police Interactions

Interactions between law enforcement officers and citizens are often characterized as either consensual encounters, investigative detentions, or arrests. Arrests require either a warrant or probable cause, while investigative detentions constitute brief seizures that are less intrusive than arrests and only require reasonable suspicion. Consensual encounters do not trigger any Fourth Amendment protections, so a law enforcement officer does not need probable cause or reasonable suspicion to initiate a consensual encounter. Monjaras v. State, 631 S.W. 3d 794 (Tex.App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2021).

4. Prejudicial Evidence

All evidence tends to be prejudicial to one party or the other. Only “unfair” prejudice provides the basis for exclusion of relevant evidence. Prejudice is “unfair” if it has an “undue tendency to suggest decision on an improper basis, commonly, though not necessarily, an emotional one.”

Martinez v. State, 633 S.W.3d 698 (Tex.App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2021).

5. Delivery of Drugs

The following factors are relevant to the question of intent to deliver: “(1) the nature of the location at which the defendant was arrested; (2) the quantity of controlled substance in the defendant’s possession; (3) the manner of packaging; (4) the presence of drug paraphernalia…; (5) the defendant’s possession of large amounts of cash; and (6) the defendant’s status as a drug user.” Biggers v. State, 634 S.W.3d 244 (Tex.App.—Texarkana 2021).

6. Rule of Optional Completeness

Tex.R.Evid. 107 is an exception to the hearsay rule, and “is designed to reduce the possibility of the jury receiving a false impression from hearing only a part of some act, conversation,

Co-Editor Judge Carey Walker, County Criminal Court No. 2

Moses Noah

Bathsheba

or writing.” Additionally, the rule of optional completeness requires the omitted portions to be “on the same subject” and “necessary” to make the earlier admitted evidence fully understandable. Popp v. State, 634 S.W.3d 375 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2021).

7. Speedy Trial

The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the accused in a criminal prosecution the right to a speedy trial. The right to a speedy trial attaches once a person is either arrested or charged. Courts determine a speedy trial claim on an ad hoc basis by analyzing and weighing four factors: (1) the length of the delay, (2) the State’s reason for the delay, (3) the defendant’s assertion of his right to a speedy trial, and (4) the prejudice to the defendant because of the length of the delay. State v. Conatser, 645 S.W.3d 925 (Tex.App.—Dallas 2022).

CIVIL ITEMS OF INTEREST

1. Defense of Limitations

To achieve summary judgment on the defense of limitations, “The defendant must (1) conclusively prove when the cause of action accrued, and (2) negate the discovery rule, if it applies and has been pled or otherwise raised.”

Gill v. Hill, 658 S.W.3d 618, 623 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2022).

2. Immunity from Suit

A governmental employee responding to an emergency situation retains immunity from suit except for actions taken with conscious indifference or reckless disregard for the safety of others. “Thus, the claimant must show that the operator of the emergency vehicle committed acts or omissions that the driver knew or should have known posed a high degree of risk of serious injury or knew the relevant facts but did not care about the result.” City of Houston v. Rodriguez, 658 S.W. 3d 633, 643 (Tex.App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2022).

3. Damages

“Consequential damages are those that result naturally, but not necessarily, from the defendant’s breach, and are not the usual result of the wrong.” “In contrast, direct damages are those that the breaching party is conclusively presumed to have foreseen as a result of its breach because they are the necessary and usual result of, and flow naturally and necessarily from, that wrongful act.”

Totalenergies v. Kinder Morgan Petcoke, 658 S.W.3d 647, 679 (Tex.App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2022).

4. Healthcare Liability Claims

“The purpose of the expert report requirement in healthcare liability claims is to deter frivolous claims, not to dispose of claims regardless of their merits.”

Golucke v. Lopez, 658 S.W.3d 686, 701 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2022).

5. Jurisdiction

In general, when a probate court reaches out and transfers a

matter pending in a district or county court to its court in accordance with the Estates Code, the original court loses jurisdiction to take any further action in the matter. The original court is only deprived of jurisdiction if the probate court acted properly in entering its transfer order in the first instance. Thus, if the order was void for any reason, the original court may retain jurisdiction to hear the parties’ claims.

Aguilar v. Morales, 658 S.W.3d 702, 710 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2022).

6. Jurisdiction

That a consumer abuses a defendant’s product by using it in an application it was not designed for or in a manner the defendant did not intend, thereby causing injury, is not jurisdictionally relevant.

Hause v. LG Chem, LTD., 658 S.W.3d 714, 731 (Tex.App.—El Paso 2022).

7.

Statutes of Limitations

Statutes of limitations exist “to compel the exercise of a right of action within a reasonable time so that the opposing party has a fair opportunity to defend while witnesses are available and the evidence is fresh in their minds.” A party asserting a limitations defense must allege it in its answer to the plaintiff’s pleadings. TEX. R. Civ. P. 94. In addition, to avoid a limitations defense, the plaintiff must exercise diligence in serving the defendant with process prior to the expiration of the limitations period. Cavazos v. Stryker Sales Corp., 658 S.W.3d 749, 752 (Tex.App—Corpus Christi 2022).

LEGAL QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Peace is more important than all justice; and peace was not made for the sake of justice, but justice for the sake of peace —Martin Luther

OLD NEWS AND A QUOTE

On September 21, 454 A. D., Roman General Flavius Aetius presented a financial report to the Emperor of the Western Roman Empire, Valentinian III. Aetius had successfully kept barbarian enemies at bay for over 20 years, including defeating Attila in 451 in Gaul, and was held universally in high esteem as the hero of the empire, or as he would later be called, “The Last True Roman”. When Aetius finished his presentation, Valentinian, jealous of the kudos heaped upon Aetius, leaped from his throne and stabbed Aetius in the temple. He then extolled to those present that he had done well by killing his general. Present was Sidonius Appolinaris, who observed “Well or not, I do not know, but I do know that YOUR LEFT HAND HAS CUT OFF YOUR RIGHT.” g

Welcome

New Members of the TCBA:

ATTORNEYS

Daniel Basham

Jonathan Boggus

William Brown

Kassi Burns

Christopher Cava

Darryl Cleveland

Christiana Doherty

Madison Easterlin

Lara Fernandes

Jackson Field

Mike Forni

Calvin Freas

Aaron Genthe

Alexa-Rae Gist

Taylor Harrington

Elizabeth Harris

Phillip Hecker

Patrick Lercara

Desiree Malone

John Minahan

Brennon Mitchell

Donald Nix

Carson Ogle

Traci Phipps

Dean Roggia

Arianna Smith

Mac Smith

Jeffrey Tucker

Elizabeth Yelverton

Catherine Zellers

Walter Zellers

JUDICIARY

Judge Kara Carreras

Judge Erin Jackson

Judge Randall Fluke

PARALEGAL

Sarah Brant

STUDENTS

Ashley Easaw

Clarissa Ratzlaff

Jack Roenne

LAWYERS ON THE MOVE &

in the News

Please submit information by email to Elizabeth Banda, Communications Director, at elizabeth@tarrantbar.org.

Goranson Bain Ausley proudly announces that Gary Nickelson and Chris Nickelson have been named to the esteemed 2023 Top Attorneys list by Fort Worth 360West.

Chris Nickelson is a highly regarded trial and appellate attorney with extensive experience in Texas. He is double board certified in Family Law and Civil Appellate Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. He is sought after for handling high-profile cases and has served as Chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar of Texas. Nickelson has made significant contributions to reforming and establishing consistent custody and possession rules across the state. With notable expertise in appellate matters, he possesses a profound understanding of marital property laws. His proficiency lies in effectively dividing business ownership to ensure the non-owning spouse receives fair value and financial security.

Gary L. Nickelson is a highly accomplished attorney. He holds a Board Certification in Family Law from the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and has

held prestigious leadership positions, including Chair of the Family Law Section of the State Bar and President of both the Texas Chapter and national organization of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Additionally, Nickelson has served as President of the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists and as a former director of the State Bar of Texas.

Goranson Bain Ausley family law partner Cindy Tisdale was elected president of the State Bar of Texas, a 112,000-member legal community, one of the largest state bars in the United States. With a distinguished career that spans more than 25 years, Tisdale is a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates, a fellow of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. Board Certified in Family Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, she specializes in complex property cases and contentious custody disputes. Tisdale earned a Juris Doctor from Baylor University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Baylor University. g

Chris Nickelson Cindy Tisdale Gary L. Nickelson

If you are a TCBA member and would like to place an announcement in the Bar Bulletin, we’d like to hear from you!

THIRTY YEARS OF MENTORSHIP AND PROFESSIONALISM:

Celebrating the Legacy of the Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court in Tarrant County

By Thomas J. Williams, Haynes and Boone, LLP 2023-2024 Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court President

In 1993, United States District Judge Eldon B. Mahon, retired 48th District Court Judge William L. Hughes, Jr., and Fort Worth attorneys Win Hooper, Mike McConnell, and Steve Tatum, applied to the American Inns of Court Foundation for a charter to organize a participating American Inn in Tarrant County. The charter was issued, and American Inn of Court CLXXXIV (that is 184 for those not current on their Roman numerals) was created. This year, that Inn, now known not by Roman numerals but by the name Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court, celebrates its thirtieth anniversary. It remains the only Inn in Tarrant County and in September a new class of approximately 100 local attorneys and judges will begin the new Inn year.

The American Inns of Court are patterned after the English Inns of Court, an institution that dates to the 13th century. Founded in 1980 by a group of judges and lawyers led by thenChief Justice Warren E. Burger, American Inns of Court are designed to improve the skills, professionalism, and ethics of the bench and bar, primarily through continuing legal education and mentoring.

Because mentoring is a key objective of all American Inns, members are classified into groups based on years of experience, and membership terms are limited in duration in order to allow as many attorneys as possible an opportunity to participate in the Inn during one’s career. In addition, most Inns in the United States have a “pupil” category of membership consisting of students from a local law school, and the Mahon Inn is no exception: the Mahon Inn’s relationship with Texas A&M Law School is one of its great strengths, and last year twelve A&M students participated in the Mahon Inn as pupils.

The Mahon Inn’s current membership classifications are Associates, consisting of attorneys with one to four years of experience; Barristers, attorneys and judges with four to fifteen years of experience; and Masters, attorneys and judges with at least fifteen years of experience. Membership terms are two years for Associates, three years for Barristers, and five years for Masters. Those who have completed a five-year term as a Master may continue as an Emeritus member. Because the Mahon Inn is the only Inn in Tarrant County and is not a “specialized” Inn (as many Inns in Dallas are), its members reflect the full spectrum of practices—the Inn’s membership includes criminal court judges, civil court judges, prosecutors, criminal defense attorneys, family law practitioners, civil litigators and corporate transaction lawyers.

It is fitting that an organization dedicated to profess-

ionalism and ethics was founded by, and today is named for, Judge Eldon B. Mahon, a giant in the history of the Tarrant County legal community. For Judge Mahon, ethics, civility, and professionalism were second nature: he was proud to have been appointed to high federal office by Presidents of both major political parties, and he was one of the eleven active judges in the Northern District of Texas who signed the Dondi opinion in 1988, which set forth the proper standards of practice that still govern today. Judge Mahon was also truly a mentor, not only to his law clerks, many of whom today are judges and prominent attorneys themselves, but to the lawyers who practiced in his court. If, like me, you appeared before Judge Mahon to be admitted to practice in the Northern District of Texas, you undoubtedly remember his admonition as he signed your paperwork to “tell your client what the law is, even if it isn’t what they want to hear”—good advice no matter what your field of practice may be. g

•

•

…BUT NOT WHEN IT’S A MALPRACTICE CLAIM.

LAWYER REFERRAL & INFORMATION SERVICE (LRIS) NEWS

By Carolina Ibarra, LRIS Director

Expand Your Clientele: Consider Joining LRIS Today!

Attorneys in Tarrant County reported over $1,000,000 in collected fees from cases they received from LRIS in July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023! Thank you to the following LRIS panel attorneys who have settled cases referred to them by the LRIS for this past year and have sent referral fees:

Christopher Albert, Jason Amon, John Barber, James Baudhuin, William Brotherton, Neal Callaway, Ola Campbell, Andrea Casanova, Bradley Clark, Breanne Clark, Allen Cox, Margaret Crosby, Anthony Cuesta, Anita Cutrer, Jane Fowler, Jonathan Fox, Stephen Geis, Douglas Hafer, Earl Hargrave, Kayla Harrington, Roger Hurlbut, Greg Jackson, Christian Jenkins, James Jinks, Bryce King, Stephen Kotara, Andrew Leibowitz, John Lively, Bruce Mansfield, Mark Mansfield, Michael Martinez, Zena McNulty, Edwardo Meza, George Muckleroy, Dustin Payne, Scott Prescher, Will Pruitt, Michael Remme, David Robinson, Karen Schroeder, Andrew Seibert, Sarah Seltzer, Jeffrey Shearer, Melissa Sircar, Carey Thompson, Whitney Vaughan, Laurie Weir, Jonathan Wharton, Bill White, Joel Whitney, and David Chris Wright

If you need clients and/or referrals, consider joining the TCBA Lawyer Referral & Information Service. We are State and ABA Certified and make an average of over 600 referrals per month. While some may not create big cases, they are

MEMBERSHIP REPORT

Have you renewed your 2023–2024 TCBA membership yet? The new bar year started on July 1, and we're looking forward to a fresh start and seeing you at one of our upcoming events! If you have not received your renewal offer email or invoice, please reach out to laurensc@tarrantbar.org.

Now is the perfect time to get involved with the TCBA by joining one of our substantive law sections or committees as these groups are gearing up for the new TCBA bar year. As a section or committee member, you will be able to take advantage of the website’s eCommunity feature, which will allow you to view

clients with needs, and we have had happy clients return to our attorney members with other cases (no referral fee for those returns).

The Lawyer Referral & Information Service is a part of the TCBA and helps support the Bar financially, as well as giving another community service arm for the TCBA. We provide a trusted source for people with legal problems to be referred to an attorney in good standing with the State Bar.

If you are interested in getting more information on the LRIS, please contact Carolina Ibarra at 817.338.4092 or carolina@tarrantbar.org. g

By Lauren St. Clair, Membership Director

upcoming meetings, CLE opportunities, and group announcements. To join a section, simply log in to your MyTCBA portal and update your subscription. If you are interested in joining a committee, you can update your subscriptions via your MyTCBA portal or fill out the committee volunteer form on our website at www. tarrantbar.org/CommitteeVolunteerForm.

If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding your TCBA membership renewal, please don’t hesitate to contact me at laurensc@tarrantbar.org, and I would be happy to help. Thank you for your continued support of the Tarrant County Bar Association! g

Requests for labels should be directed to Lauren St. Clair by e-mail at laurensc@tarrantbar.org, by fax at 817.335.9238, or by visiting the TCBA office.

Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

2023 Pro Bono Award Spotlight

Kelly Cobb

PARALEGAL

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Kelly Cobb has become increasingly more involved in TVAS in the last two years. As a military veteran, Kelly has a big heart for service. Kelly believes there will always be people who need assistance, and volunteering with TVAS allows her to provide assistance to those who need it. Kelly finds it gratifying to see the relief and satisfaction in the TVAS recipient’s eyes when they get the help they have been searching for.

employed with Brown, Proctor and Howell, LLP handling transportation litigation cases for Union Pacific Railroad Company. Her paralegal certification was received from the University of San Diego and holds a bachelor’s degree in Management. Kelly’s membership with the Fort Worth Paralegal Association commenced in 2004 where she was the Community Service Chair for 6 years and President in 2012.

the U.S. Navy Reserve as an Aviation Administrationman Senior Chief Petty Officer with 30 years of service. During her downtime, Kelly is a part-time fitness instructor for Fit Body Boot Camp and Children’s Supervisor overseeing a thriving Student Program with Bible Study Fellowship (BSF).

“Life can be hard, but if I can bring joy to one person at a time, then volunteering with TVAS makes my heart full and cup run over.” g

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE GATEHOUSE

WILLS CLINIC VOLUNTEERS

KELLY HART ATTORNEYS

Heidi Angel, Joseph Austin, Whitney Beckworth, Lanie Bennett, Teddy Boschini, Jacob deKeratry, Jenna Lusk, John Phair, Mason Smith, Gabi Snow, Jeffrey Tillman, and Taylor Winn

KELLY HART SUMMER ASSOCIATES

Eliza Batty, Lauren Brownlee, Katie McConnell, Matthew Francis, Stephen Hirschbuehler, Thomas Swafford, and Chanel Thomas

Thank

CLIENT TRAINING VIDEO

Robert Blankenship

Tarrant County Bar Association

1315 Calhoun Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102

The Tarrant County Bar Association, established in 1904, is a professional organization comprised of over 2,400 lawyers, judges, law students, and other legal professionals in and around Tarrant County. It offers the best way to connect with the legal community.

For questions about TCBA membership or programs, please contact Lauren St. Clair at laurensc@tarrantbar.org.

Theodore P. Gorski Jr. 1945-2023

Theodore P. Gorski, Jr., passed away June 17 at 77 - and somewhere he’s telling an interesting story about it.

Ted was born in Fort Worth. He found his first job here as a paperboy at age 8 and found a lifelong career at the City Attorney’s office, where he led the civil practice division until retiring. Between paper route and retirement, Ted became a Southwest Conference champion at The University of Texas at Austin, graduated from UT law school, married Martine (Tina) Harrison three days after proposing at The Original, and helped raise two children. He was known above all for kindness, warmth, hard work, persistence, and quickness with a joke.

Ted was endlessly curious - constantly reading, constantly observing - and he shared his knowledge and humor generously (sometimes more generously than his children or unwitting cocktail party guest would like). He pulled over to peruse roadside historic landmarks, ducked into any museum he passed, and never held back a joke - even if no one got it. Exquisitely disciplined, he outwitted and outworked his opponents in the courtroom just as he did on the tennis court - with a gracious, light-hearted smile that concealed a relentless will. As an autodidact, Ted was used to being underestimated; he used it to his advantage, without ever surrendering his grace.

Born in Fort Worth to Theodore Sr. and Maetella (Reese), Ted taught himself tennis largely by hitting against backboards on public courts. He was the first in his family to graduate high school (Arlington Heights) and arrived at the University of Texas as low man on the tennis ladder. He found a mentor in coach Wilmer Alison, also a Fort Worther. By junior year, Ted had won the Southwest Conference single’s championship, dismantling favored opponents on the way. And, in 1967, he and the Horns won the SWC team championship. By graduation, Ted saw the full tower lit twice for tennis championships. He worked with Alison as an assistant coach during his time at UT Law School and remained a fan and supporter of the team all his life. Polite and respectful as he was, Ted did not back down when he saw what he wanted. Standing ahead of future NFL defensive end Diron Talbert in a college cafeteria line, Ted saw a meaty hand reaching for the last slab of chicken fried steak. Ted forked Talbert. AllAmerican James Street stepped in to avert a conflict thatdespite his quickness - would likely have ended badly for the beanpole Gorski. It was a story Ted loved to tell.

Ted met Tina on a matched date in 1973. They had two children, Susanna and James, and spent their lives contributing

to the city. Soon after graduating from law school, Ted took a job with City Attorney S.G. Johndroe, Jr. Over the years, he became an expert in eminent domain, eventually pleading cases before the State Supreme Court, and shaping legal precedents that still influence the court today. He was known as a mentor and a supportive colleague. His career at the City Attorney’s office spanned five decades.

Ted is survived by his wife of 49 years, Martine “Tina” Gorski; daughter Susanna Gorski Bartolomei and husband Harper; James Harrison Gorski and wife Tamara; grandchildren Theodore “Teddy” Bartolomei, Harper Bennett Bartolomei, and Petra Grace Gorski; in-laws James Martin Harrison, Jr., Anna Melissa and Peter Philpott, and Marsha and John Kleinheinz; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother, Steve. g

Published by Star-Telegram from June 18 to June 21, 2023.

1956-2023

Jerry James Jarzombek, 66, of North Richland Hills, passed away on July 12, 2023 in the loving embrace of his family.

He was born in Nixon, Texas on December, 19, 1956. Jerry graduated from the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, and later graduated from St. Mary’s University and received his J.D. degree. He was married to Tricia Ann Tucker on September 19, 1981.

Jerry had many jobs throughout his career. He was a man of many talents. He first was a pharmacist where he met his wife, Tricia. Later, he decided to become an attorney and owned his own law firm. He was a member of the National Association of Consumer Advocates and a former Secretary, Treasurer, Chair-Elect, and Chair of the Consumer & Commercial Law Council of the State Bar of Texas.

Jerry had a passion for helping others and spending his free time with his family. He was survived by his wife, Tricia Jarzombek, children, Allison Ayala, Matt Jarzombek, and Will Jarzombek, and his grandchildren David and Claire Ayala. g

Published on Dignity Memorial website.

Jerry James Jarzombek

Samuel Ray Terry 1972-2023

Sam was born in the village of Paw Paw, Michigan, on Sept. 2, 1972. He was raised in Flint, Michigan, and graduated from Carman-Ainsworth High School. After high school, he served in the United States Air Force and later graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Political Science. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. During his last semester of law school, he completed an externship at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office under the Honorable Tim Curry, where, upon completion of the program, he was offered a position as an Assistant District Attorney.

He chose to remain in Michigan to be near his family. He became an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Flint and opened The Law Office of Samuel R. Terry in 2006, achieving rapid success. In 2012, he began his transition to practice in Fort Worth, and, yet again, achieved rapid success to become known as SRT Law. He loved the practice of law and believed that “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” He was a member of the State Bar of Michigan, State Bar of Texas, Texas Bar College, and the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He was also admitted to practice law in the Northern and Eastern Federal District Courts, as well as the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. For several years, he earned the Top Lawyers and Super Lawyers honors.

He enjoyed life by attending concerts of various genres from Harry Connick, Jr. to George Strait to Pearl Jam and much in between, movies, and spending time with close friends. Most importantly, he loved his children and was a proud father. He leaves a hole in the legal community and will be painfully missed by all who loved him.

He leaves behind his four children: Joshua, AnaMaria, Isabel, and Samuel, II; siblings, Tami Irish (Tom) of Burton, Michigan, Daniel Terry (Theresa) of Grand Blanc, Michigan, and Mikelyn Terry (Mark) of Grand Blanc, Michigan; nephews: Shane, Daniel, Jacob, Matthew, and Seth; he also leaves behind many faithful and loyal friends.

The children express heartfelt appreciation to Kristie Coomer, his secretary, and Phil and Veronica Hall for their loyal care of their father during and after his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ronnie Ray Terry; his mother, Sharon Kay Mishall Terry. g

Published by Greenwood Funeral Home and Memorial Park on July 22, 2023.

Kimberly Marie Knapp 1977-2023

Kimberly Marie Franks Knapp died tragically and unexpectedly at her home in Saginaw, Texas on July 24th, 2023.

Kim is survived by her mother, Beverly Franks; brother, Kristopher Franks; and husband, John Knapp.

Preceded in death by her father, Dois Delman Franks; and brothers, Del Allen Franks and Brent Belding; as well as her grandparents, Frank and Marie Gray.

Born in Hobart, OK, on February 9th, 1977, Kim attended Hobart public schools until her father moved the family to Saginaw, Texas, in 1987. Kim was a star gymnast from the ages of 10 to 18 training with world-renowned coaches including Bela Karolyi and winning honors in all categories. Kim graduated from Boswell High School in 1995, and went on to complete her undergraduate studies at Texas Wesleyan University. She later attended Baylor Law School on a full, merit-based scholarship and graduated with honors. Kim was a well-known and talented attorney in Fort Worth serving in the field of criminal law. She was well loved by all including judges, court staff, and both defense and prosecuting attorneys. Fort Worth Magazine and 360West named Kim a top attorney from 2016 to 2023. Kim was also an adjunct professor of criminal justice at Texas Wesleyan University.

In 2019, Kim founded her own law firm – Knapp Begley Law and worked tirelessly with her law partner, Lanny Begley, to ensure justice was possible for all seeking her services. A dynamic trial attorney, Kim was well known for her delivery in the court room.

Kim will be remembered for her quick wit. Family, friends, colleagues, and clients enjoyed her dry sense of humor, coupled with a brilliant legal mind. Her vivacious spirit was contagious and the perfect antidote for a bad day. She adored her two German shepherds, Memphis and Mishka. Kim loved spending time with family, cooking gourmet dishes, and was always keen for a great live concert.

Kim’s sudden departure from this world, leaves all who knew her broken-hearted.

Thank you for your light, may it shine on forever. Follow Kim’s lead, and live life with zest and flair. We love you always, Kim. g

Tarrant County Bar Association

LAWYER REFERRAL & INFORMATION SERVICE

The Lawyer Referral & Information Service (LRIS) is a service of the Tarrant County Bar Association that benefits both TCBA member attorneys and the public.

TCBA’s Lawyer Referral & Information Service is completely customizable for participating attorneys with:

29 330

600

& calls each month

more than

practice areas specialized practice areas from which to choose LRIS averages more than

Approved by the American Bar Association, LRIS allows member attorneys to receive client referrals and build their business, while helping callers quickly find an attorney in the area of law they need.

The program is intended to help individuals who are able to pay normal attorney fees but have difficulty finding legal representation due to lack of experience with the legal system, lack of information about needed services, or fear of costs. Membership costs range $150 - $200 annually.

For more information about LRIS membership, please visit www.tarrantbar.org/JoinLRIS or contact lris@tarrantbar.org.

*Time Frame: January 2022-March 2023

Member Benefits Vendor List

TCBA members may take advantage of discounts provided by the following vendors:

AMO Office Supply guarantees the lowest prices on office supplies for TCBA members, with next-day delivery and free shipping. Call 800.420.6421.

Falcon Document Solutions provides quick, efficient, and reliable process services, document scanning, printing, copying, electronic discovery, litigation displays, and trial boards. They are available 24/7 at 817.870.0330 or visit their website at www.falcondocs.com. TCBA members can enjoy discounts on their services.

Fort Worth JSB Co., Inc. offers a 10% discount for TCBA members on printed materials — business cards, letterhead, envelopes, business forms, brochures, flyers, and more. To receive a quote, call 817.577.0572.

The Fort Worth Zoo offers discounted tickets to TCBA members. $16.00 for adult tickets, $12 for child or senior tickets. For more information, contact Tracy Card at tracy@tarrantbar.org or call 817.338.4092.

Thomson Reuters Exclusive TCBA offer of 15% off new Westlaw subscriptions or upgrades to current subscriptions*, including our latest AI enhanced platform, Westlaw Edge. Please contact your local Account Executive, Ben Galloway, for more information: Ben.Galloway@TR.com. *Restrictions apply, please contact your AE for details.

For IT Help:

Juris Fabrilis provides members with discounted rates on web-based tools to assist in managing their law practices. For more information, call 817.481.1573 ext. 101.

For Shredding and Document Disposal:

Magic Shred is a secure shredding business that offers TCBA members a 10% discount to TCBA members. They provide on-site document shredding services. TCBA also organizes 2 free shredding events per year exclusively for its members. Members can bring up to five boxes for shredding free of charge. Call 940.783.6580 for details. g

Bar Bulletin ▪ July/August 2023

Tarrant County Bar Association

1315 Calhoun Street

Fort Worth, TX 76102-6504

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

If any of your contact information is incorrect, please submit the corrected information to the TCBA office at 817.338.4092, or email tcba@tarrantbar.org