Tarrant County Bar Association Bar Bulletin (March/April 2025)

Remembering

Judge L. Clifford

Davis: A Champion for Justice and a

Pillar of the Legal Community

Scott Lindsey

2024-2025 TCBA President

John P. White

The Honorable L. Clifford Davis passed away on February 15, 2025. Judge Davis deserves every word of praise and honor we can think to write. Judge Davis lived in a way that touched many in our community. Indeed, Judge Davis was a great man. We use terms success, goodness, and greatness every day to describe people. Many among us are what we would refer to as successful, achieving professional victories, receiving awards or other accolades, accumulating wealth, or reaching goals for however one might choose to define success.

There are also good people all around us. Volunteers, public servants, first responders, good Samaritans, and many others. I would like to think that most of try to do what we believe to be the “right thing” and make the world better for those around us.

But think about those among us who are truly “great,” those to whom others look as exemplars for how to live life, positively impacting as many others as possible. When we stop to really think, we are surrounded by good and successful people, but there are not many among us who are truly “great.”

Judge Davis was a great man. Judge Davis’s life and career are well documented, and he is more than deserving of every award and recognition he received. Terry Gardner described Judge Davis as “a dignified man with a great sense of character.” Elsewhere in this edition, you can read about Judge Davis’s remarkable life, and I encourage you to do so to learn or remind yourself of his life and career.

Though I have long known about L Clifford Davis the judge and attorney, the civil rights icon, and a superior example of how to practice law ethically and professionally, Judge Davis did not necessarily affect my life in any direct way. But I have many friends and acquaintances who were fortunate enough to personally work with and alongside Judge Davis. So it seemed very appropriate to remember Judge Davis through the words of some in our community who were touched by Judge Davis.

I was hired by Judge L. Clifford Davis in August of 1972, right after graduating from Texas Southern U. Law School. I became the 3rd or 4th Black attorney in private practice in Fort Worth. Judge Davis was not only my teacher, he was my mentor. He instilled in me to be the best lawyer I could be while showing/treating all clients, the courts, and opposing counsels with dignity and respect. Judge Davis always said the most important folks in the courthouse were the clerks, the coordinators, the bailiffs and the court reporters. The one important advice that the Judge would say was, “Be prepared and always leave the Court and your opposing counsel knowing there was a lawyer on the other side!”.

Bobbie Edmonds

Judge Davis was an amazing mentor, person, jurist and Christian human being who shared his nuggets of wisdom and his legal expertise with me to enhance my life and legal career. Judge was a favorite uncle figure that uplifted and inspired me to take on difficult cases, to help the less fortunate, to face obstacles with grace and always have a backup plan. He said, “Be prepared and let them know there is a lawyer on the other side of the table”. He also said, “Don't Let the color of your skin define or confine you.” He is my legal giant and national hero. Judge Davis was so happy that I penned a children's book in his honor. He said with great pleasure, “I have not had that experience in my decades of life.” I am a stronger and better person since Judge Davis crossed my path. I will continue to carry on his legacy for generations to come.

Mark Daniel

I first met Judge Davis in 1980. Always a gentleman. Always respectful of everyone. Class act. A man’s man. Incredible lawyer. Even better judge. Judge Davis is legendary in the Tarrant Count legal community. He taught me the value of grace, class and respect for others. All others.

Gary L. Medlin

I was a prosecutor in his court in the mid80’s. I saw how a judge could treat all parties with respect and courtesy, while requiring all to follow the law and also treat the court with respect. He shared the wisdom of his experiences, and was genuinely interested in getting to know all those who appeared in his court. What struck me most about Judge Davis, was that he was a very nice man, and treated everyone extremely well.

Ann Diamond

I have been practicing in Tarrant County over 40 years now. But I recall the first day I saw Judge Davis, parallel parking his big, long car downtown near the courthouse in a space that, honestly, was more than a little tight for that very long car. I asked someone “who is that?” and was told “that’s Judge Davis”. I didn't actually get to meet him until a little later, but I remember that first time I saw him, probably in early 1984. Over the years, I had many occasions to talk with Judge Davis at Bar Association functions and in the courthouse. He was always approachable, unfailingly polite, professional, and respectful. To be treated as colleague by a person of his greatness, a person with such gravitas, made me, then a young lawyer, feel quite special. From time to time in later years he would call me just to say hello, which I treasured. In 2014, when I was TCBA President, I had the honor of going to see him in person to let him know he had been selected to receive the Blackstone Award. He was nearing 90 years old and was still helping people with various legal issues. I remember sitting with him then, hearing about what he had done and was still doing and thinking what an amazing treasure he was to all of us. He knew his work had been important, but he maintained a humble sense of self. He was a very special, very impactful man. We are all better for his presence in our legal community and in our society.

Albon Head

I practiced in Texas trial and appellate courts (as well as trial and appellate courts in some 20 plus other states) since being licensed in 1971. Over the span of 54 years, I never ran across any judge who exhibited better judicial composure, civility, and knowledge of the law and procedure than the Honorable Clifford Davis. He treated every litigant and lawyer with grace and equality. He was a Giant of the bench and bar, and he will be missed!

Cary Schroeder

I never had the opportunity to practice before Judge Davis or to even have a case with him. I met him at some Bar functions and he would often come by my office building to meet other people. He was always the perfect gentleman, respectful and polite.

I think the thing that struck me the most was how others addressed him and spoke of him. It was always Judge Davis, spoken with a love & respect that he had earned from so many people, lawyers and people in the community. You knew you were in the company of a great man when he was around. His presence will be missed by all. He set a high bar for the Bar to pursue.

Nikki Chriesman-Green

Judge L. Clifford Davis was more than a legal legend—he was a mentor, a servant leader, and an unwavering advocate for justice. I had the incredible honor of serving as the first president of the L. Clifford Davis Legal Association after the Tarrant County Black Bar Association was renamed in his honor. Representing his namesake was both a privilege and a responsibility, as he embodied everything that a lawyer and leader should be.

Judge Davis taught me the true meaning of charitable service and the duty to help others. He believed in lifting as we climb, often referring cases to the association to be handled at an “accommodating fee” (ahem, for free!). His dedication to ensuring fairness in the legal system and expanding access to justice was more than just words—it was the foundation of his life’s work.

One of the things he was most passionate about was ensuring that law students had the financial support to pursue their education. He was serious—very serious—about funding scholarships, often insisting that the organization provide financial assistance to students, even if it meant operating at a loss. To him, investing in future lawyers was non-negotiable.

Because of Judge Davis, I understand the power of advocacy, importance of timeliness, the necessity of fairness, and the responsibility to serve. His tireless commitment to justice will forever be a guiding light in my career and in the lives of so many others he touched.

Katrina Washington

I first met Judge Davis in my 3L year of law school. I was interning with my Trial Advocacy professor, who officed with Judge Davis. When I passed the bar, my first office was with Judge Davis and Mike Heiskell. He blessed my sons with their first dollars. Afterward, they often allowed new attorneys to office with them and get their practice started. I stayed with them from the day I got licensed until I married and merged offices with my future husband. I learned from Judge Davis daily for 2 years. He poured into me during my foundational years. Judge was always uplifting all of the attorneys in the office. Looking back, I would describe the office as a training camp for young lawyers. He had too many tidbits of advice to recall. The one that has stuck with me in my law practice is “Always let your opposing counsel know that there is a lawyer on the other side.” I have tried to live that mantra in my law practice ever since.

For me, the most impressive thing about Judge Davis was his humility. I now know the magnitude of his impact on the Tarrant County community and beyond. In 2005, I had no idea that I was chatting at the copier, case conferencing or having lunch with a living legend. I knew nothing of his yeoman’s work for justice and equality, and he did not need that. To me, he was simply “Judge.” I will be forever grateful for the time the I had with him. His legacy will forever be larger than this life.

Mike Heiskell

Judge L. Clifford Davis meant the world to me, as he was my mentor as well as my surrogate father over the years. He was the epitome of class and courage. His professionalism shone through in all that he did – including the heroic efforts in filing the desegregation lawsuits against the Mansfield ISD and Fort Worth ISD. His courage was ever-present during those turbulent years as he stood strong in the face of threats and recriminations from his adversaries. His sense of justice was ever-present during his term on the bench, as he exhibited mercy to those deserving – including the establishment of the very first diversion court in Tarrant County. He is deserving of a monument that I hope and pray will occur in the coming years.

Roland Johnson

There are only a few that we commit to follow and strive to emulate because of their character, wisdom, and resolve to fight a lifetime for justice for all. Judge Clifford Davis was such a blessed leader.

Closing Words from Scott Lindsey, TCBA President

I heard Judge Davis speak in September 2023, and one of his statements stood out to me, so I copied the words, framed them, and display them in my office as a daily reminder of our role as lawyers in society. These are Judge Davis’s words:

We have been talking about civil rights for years – and we need to continue to talk about that—but we need to talk about civil responsibility. That is, we the people of the United States have a civil responsibility, individually and collectively, to treat all inhabitants with decency, respect, and integrity without regard to their race, their culture, their educational level, their sexual orientation, their religious or nonreligious affiliation, their political association, their economic status, their education level, or any other socioeconomic factor, and to advocate and practice freedom, justice, liberty, equal opportunity, safety, health, and the general welfare of the general population for all.

What a life Judge Davis lived. Judge Davis was a great man. Thank you, Judge Davis, for your service to others and for showing us how to ethically and professionally practice law and improve our society for the benefit of all. May we all as lawyers and community leaders follow the example of the Honorable L Clifford Davis. g

A Tribute from Senator Stephanie A. Flowers

Arkansas Senator Stephanie A. Flowers, District 8, wrote in a condolences letter to The Davis Family:

"In recognition of his exemplary contributions and in celebration of his service to the legal community, the State of Arkansas, and our nation, an Arkansas Flag and a United States Flag were ceremonially flown on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 in honor of his life. It is a pleasure to serve you during this time. May the beautiful memories of his life sustain, strengthen, and bring support to you as you navigate the days ahead…"

Her father, Attorney William Flowers, a civil rights attorney, gave the young L. Clifford Davis his first job in 1949.

YLA SNAPSHOT

OLA CAMPBELL

2024–2025 TCYLA President

As spring comes around, Tarrant County Young Lawyers Association is entering its busy season. We were able to start 2025 with some successful events, and we are looking forward to offering multiple opportunities to gather, learn and give back to the community.

A Successful Chili Cook-Off: Gratitude for Supporters and Sponsors

by increasing awareness among our members, we can help save more lives. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped spread the word. The Mental Health Initiative events have become some of our most highly attended luncheons, and we are committed to continuing to offer valuable resources for mental well-being in our profession. The legal field can be demanding, and taking care of our mental health is more important than ever.

Victory Over Violence – April 12, 2025

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in our January Chili Cook-off event! Whether you were competing, attending, or supporting behind the scenes, your involvement helped make this event a tremendous success. A special thank you to our competing teams and the generous sponsors who made it possible—your contributions are deeply appreciated. We are proud to share that the funds raised during this event are directly supporting TCYLA’s Mental Health Initiative CLE series.

Mental Health Initiative

We are proud to announce that TCYLA created a team for the annual Victory Over Violence 5k run/walk benefiting the anti-violence programs of The Women’s Center of Tarrant County. The Women’s Center serves over 100,000 individuals each year by inspiring and empowering women, men, and children to overcome violence, crisis, and poverty. We would love to see our members come out and support. Please remember to sign up via a link that has been shared via e-mail.

“Path to In-House” CLE – April 17, 2025

TCYLA is grateful to TCBA’s Corporate Counsel Section for offering TCYLA’s members a half-day CLE “The Path to In-House.” It is going to be a well-planned and informative session for those interested in making the transition into an in-house legal career. Please mark your calendars and be sure to join us!

Spring Fiesta – April 24, 2025

We are also excited to announce that our annual Spring Fiesta is just around the corner! Join us on April 24 at Joe T. Garcia’s for a fun evening of networking and celebration. This event is a TCYLA tradition, and we hope to see everyone there.

In March, TCYLA had the privilege of partnering with the Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation for an incredibly impactful presentation on suicide prevention, focusing on QPR— Question, Persuade, and Refer. Lawyers, unfortunately, are part of a highrisk group when it comes to mental health challenges, and we hope that

On behalf of the TCYLA Board, thank you for your continued involvement and support. Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and information on all of the upcoming events. g

Members of the 2024-2025

100 Club

*List Reflected Below is as of March 11, 2025

Adams, Lynch & Loftin, P.C

Albert, Neely & Kuhlmann, LLP

Anderson & Cummings, LLP

Anderson & Riddle, LLP

Baker Monroe, PLLC

Barlow Garsek & Simon, LLP

Blaies & Hightower, L.L.P.

Bonds Ellis Eppich Schafer Jones, LLP

Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, P.C.

Brackett & Ellis, P.C.

Brown, Proctor & Howell, LLP

Bruner & Bruner, PC

City Attorney’s Office-City of Fort Worth

Curnutt & Hafer, L.L.P.

Decker Jones, P.C.

Dismuke & Waters, P.C.

Forshey & Prostok, L.L.P.

Freeman Mills P.C.

Friedman, Suder & Cooke, P.C.

Gardner, Smith & Vaughan, PLLC

Griffith, Jay, & Michel, LLP

Harris, Finley & Bogle, P.C.

Harrison Steck, P.C.

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Holland Johns & Penny LLP

Jackson Walker LLP

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

Killen & Dennis, PC

KoonsFuller, P.C.

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

Lively & Associates, PLLC

McDonald Sanders, P.C

Naman, Howell, Smith & Lee, PLLC

Nelson Bumgardner Conroy PC

Noteboom - The Law Firm

Padfield & Stout, LLP

Patterson Law Group

Pham Harrison, LLP

Phelps Dunbar LLP

Pope, Hardwicke, Christie, Schell, Kelly & Taplett, L.L.P.

Robbins Travis PLLC

Ross & Matthews P.C.

Second Court Of Appeals

Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office

Taylor, Olson, Adkins, Sralla & Elam, LLP

The Blum Firm, P.C.

The Colaneri Firm, P.C.

Underwood Law Firm, PLLC

Varghese Summersett PLLC

Watson, Caraway, Midkiff & Luningham, LLP

Whitaker Chalk Swindle & Schwartz PLLC

Whitley Penn, LLP

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 2024–2025 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 Tiffany Myles at tiffany@tarrantbar.org. g

TARRANT COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION Established

Thank you to our esteemed fellows for their dedication and contributions to our foundation. We invite you to submit names for future consideration as we continue to recognize individuals who exemplify excellence and service in our field. Submit names to kayla@tarrantbar.org.

SUSTAINING CHARTER FELLOWS2

Neal W. Adams

Robert E. Aldrich, Jr.

Joseph D. Ambrose, III

Bruce Ashworth

*Clyde R. Ashworth

*Bill F. Bogle

Art Brender

John S. Broude

Robert L. Bush

Thomas Carr

David R. Casey

John Allen Chalk, Sr.

Lee F. Christie

James W. Collier

*Whitfield J. Collins

*Joseph Colvin

Mattie Compton

B. C. Cornish

*Harry L. Cure, Jr.

David L. Evans

R. Gordon Appleman

*James B. Barlow

Brian D. Barnard

Daniel R. Barrett

Edwin G. Bell

Philip R. Bishop

*Sloan B. Blair

Brandon L. Boehme

Robert P. Boudloche

Bill E. Bowers

Brian J. Brandstetter

Rickey J. Brantley

Kae L. Brockermeyer

*C. Harold Brown

B. Frank Cain

*David Chappell

Tim Chovanec

*Janna Ward Clarke

James R. Claunch

Michael T. Cooke

James A. Cribbs

John W. Crumley

Vincent Cruz, Jr.

*Joe Bruce Cunningham

Norman Darwin

*Lee Ann Dauphinot

*Tim Evans

*Robert A. Felsman

David Fielding

Janie L. Frank

*Anne Gardner

Elliott S. Garsek

*Theodore P. Gorski, Jr.

William D. Greenhill

*Charles B. Harris

Michael J. Henry

Donald E. Herrmann

*Leland A. Hodges

*Dixon W. Holman

John W. Hughes

*William L. Hughes

Roland K. Johnson

*Evans J. Karpenko

Jeffrey A. Kearney

*Dee J. Kelly

Dee J. Kelly, Jr.

Raymond B. Kelly, III

David E. Keltner

*Edgar H. Keltner, Jr.

Steven C. Laird

Bill Lane

*Kathryn Lanford

Terrie Livingston

Rebecca Lucas

John B. McClane

Patricia F. Meadows

Kleber C. Miller

Shayne D. Moses

Gary L. Nickelson

Charles Noteboom

David Pels

Don C. Plattsmier

Wayne A. Rohne

*Denning Schattman

*E. Michael Sheehan

Rick G. Sorenson

CHARTER FELLOWS1

Jeffrey R. Davis

*Robert W. Decker

Paul W. Enlow

Sidney C. Farrar, Jr.

Greg Fitzgerald

Charles Florsheim

*Walter S. Fortney

Walker C. Friedman

Taylor Gandy

Terry Gardner

*Jenkins Garrett

*William N. Garrison

Burton H. Gilbert

*Toby R. Goodman

Warren H. Gould

Jay K. Gray

Michael Handy

E. Earl Harcrow

Cheril S. Hardy

Wesley N. Harris

John David Hart

*Mark L. Hart, Jr.

Albon O. Head, Jr.

John Hill

Mark C. Hill

Leslie C. Johns

Ross W. Stoddard, III

Louis E. Sturns

Bonnie Sudderth

Jonathan Suder

Mack Ed Swindle

Stephen L. Tatum

John R. Thompson, Jr.

J. David Tracy

Randall E. Turner

A. Burch Waldron, III

Jeff Walker

Sue Walker

R. H. Wallace, Jr.

D. Michael Wallach

Robert F. Watson

*Albert White, Jr.

Thomas J. Williams

Sharen Wilson

Marcia E. Wise

Richard W. Wiseman

E. Glen Johnson

Gregory G. Jones

John S. Jose

Darrell L. Keith

Larisa Keltner

Jeff Kobs

*Thomas H. Law

Debra H. Lehrmann

Gregory A. Lehrmann

E. Brad Mahon

*Eldon B. Mahon

*Forrest Markward

Stephen C. Maxwell

John B. McAdams

*John H. McBryde

Bob McCoy

Daniel W. McDonald

*Scott McDonald

Wade H. McMullen

Terri Moore

Brian C. Newby

Michael B. Paddock

*Hershel R. Payne

Daniel Penner

H. Allen Pennington, Jr.

W. Kelly Puls

Ernest Reynolds III

T. Pollard Rogers

Sam Rosen

Wm. Greg Russell

H. William Schneider

Marshall M. Searcy, Jr.

David R. Seidler

Dan Settle, Jr.

J. Shelby Sharpe

Warren W. Shipman, III

Richard U. Simon, Jr.

Harold S. Sparks, III

George A. Staples, Jr.

*Sterling W. Steves

*T. Grover Swift, Jr.

*Rice M. Tilley, Jr.

Carol J. Traylor

Richard S. Tucker

*Harold L. Valderas

*Estil A. Vance, Jr.

*Arthur B. Waldron

*Frank K. Walwer

*V. Wayne Ward

Dan A. White

*Ken W. Williford

*Doyle Willis

Kendall Adair

Lexa Anne Auld

Russell R. Barton

Dabney D. Bassel

Mark E. Bishop

Robert Blankenship

Steven S. Brown

Bryan Bruner

Sean A. Bryan

Jerry Bullard

J. Kevin Carey

J. Don Carter

Janet Colaneri

Patricia Burns Cole

Hugh G. Connor, Jr.

Don Cosby

Mark G. Daniel

Michael D. Deegan

Karen C. Denney

Kenneth E. East

Laura Elkind

Lance T. Evans

Carter L. Ferguson

C. David Fielder

Ronald Adams

Lateph Adeniji

Roger D. Allen

*Vic Anderson

*Patricia Andrews

Michael G. Appleman

Sherry Armstrong

Michael L. Atchley

Marianne Auld

Brandy Austin

Theresa Austin Christo-

pher Baker

Wade Barrow

Gerald A. Bates

Bruce D. Beasley

Deeia D. Beck

William K. Berenson

Lars L. Berg

Nancy L. Berger

F. Richard Bernasek

Elizabeth Berry

M. Jill Bindler

Grant D. Blaies

Gregory P. Blaies

Charles Bleil

Marvin Blum

Robert Bodoin

SUSTAINING LIFE FELLOWS3

Curt Franklin

George Gallagher

J. Patrick Gallagher

Robert L. Ginsburg

*Robert C. Grable

Charles D. Gunter

Janet Hahn

*Chris Harris

David G. Hart

*John C. Hart

Alan D. Hegi

Richard A. Henderson

Timothy Hoch

Gregory Jackson

Lisa Jamieson

Frank Jelinek

S. G. Johndroe, III

Susanna Johnson

Michael Johnston

Jeffrey A. Kearney

Wallace Keller

Steve M. King

M. Beth Krugler

Jack Larson

Scott Lindsey

*John Lively

Jim Loveless

Stuart B. Lumpkins, Jr.

*Theodore Mack

Patrick J. Maher

Thomas F. Mastin IV

Susan Heygood McCoy

Phillip W. McCrury

Bruce W. McGee

Hunter McLean

Randyl Meigs

Sharon S. Millians

Charles Milliken

Jason C. Mills

Charla Moore

*Franklin Moore

Robert John Myers

Edward R. Nelson, III

Russell Norment

David A. Palmer

Jordan M. Parker

W. Bradley Parker

Karen S. Precella

LIFE FELLOWS4

Geno Borchardt

Richard L. Bourland

*Lorin Boswell, Jr.

Jean H. Boyd

Larry Bracken

A. William Brackett

Andrew Bradshaw

Kerry Braxton

John Brender

William R. Brown

Caroline Brownlie

Gina M. Bruner

J. Kirk Bryant

Janet Bubert

Gwinda L. Burns

Lisa Callaghan

Jack G. Cameron

S. Benton Cantey, V

Robb D. Catalano

Randy Catterton

John H. Cayce, Jr.

Marvin Champlin

George Christie

Vincent Circelli

G. Lynn Clanton

J. Kevin Clark

Joseph Cleveland

Stephanie K. Cleveland

Steve C. Cocanower

Perry Cockerell

Denise Collins

Mary Conlon

Cynthia A. Cook

Jennifer M. Covington

Clark R. Cowley

Edward Cox

Phyllis Waldrep Cranz

James A. Creel

Mark G. Creighton

*George A. Crowley

Fred Cummings

John M. Cummings

Ken Curry

Anita K. Cutrer

Gil L. Daley, II

Stephanie Daley

Lori E. Dally

Bryan T. Davis

Fred W. Davis

Jill L. Davis

John Park Davis

Richard C. DeBerry

J. Cort DeHart

Paul W. Denney

M. Kevin Queenan

Aleed Rivera

James W. Rudnicki

Elaine K. Ryan

Jennifer Rymell

Lynn Rossi Scott

Andrew Sims

Lori Spearman

Brian Stagner

Dulaney Steer

M. Scott Stooksberry

Frank Sullivan

Alex R. Tandy

Rod Tanner

Dean Tetirick

Christian Tucker

Patti Gearhart Turner

Y. Leticia Vigil

Carey F. Walker

*William P. Weir

Jim Whitton

Barbara M. Williams

Shauna Wright

*Janet Denton

Robin Dettmer

Ann Diamond

Richard Disney

Kurt D’Mello

Julia Dobbins

David J. Drez III

Mark Duffy

Preston James Dugas III

W. Kent Durham

*Sterling Elza

Arturo Errisuriz

Dirk E. Eshleman

Graigory B. Fancher

*Mike Felber

Carter L. Ferguson

Rashelle Fetty

Michael Fitzpatrick

*Terry K. Fleming

Cynthia L. Fountaine

Mike Freden

Scott Fredricks

Sharon Fulgham

Sarah J. Fullenwider

Lee Gabriel

Jesse L. Gaines

Phillip Galyen

Christa L. Garrett

*John B. Garrett

Josephine Garrett

E. Glenn Gidel

Christina S. Glenn

Matthew Goetz

Ruben Gonzalez

James Gordon

Steve Gordon

*Tamara Farris Gordon

Tolbert Greenwood

George Griffith

*Richard Griffith

Ross P. Griffith

Gaylen Groce

Meg Guerra

Jo Ann Gunn

Diane Haddock

Gerald Haddock

Constance K. Hall

Robert W. Hammer

Harold D. Hammett

Barbara Hargas

J. Brooks Harrington

George T. Harris

*Timothy J. Harvard

Blake Hedgecock

Michael Heiskell

Jennifer P. Henry

Kelley Hill

Lisa K. Hoppes

Allan Howeth

Timothy D. Howell

Michael Hrabal

G. Craig Hubble

Ed Huddleston

Charlotte Hughart

Roger L. Hurlbut

Gary Ingram

Claudine G. Jackson

Liane Janovsky

James V. Jay, IV

William R. Jenkins, Jr.

Mary Colchin Johndroe

David Johnson

Randall C. Johnson

Michael Kaitcer

Robert Keffler

R. Brent Keis

Courtney S. Keith

Jon M. Kelly

Lynn Waller Kelly

Elizabeth S. Kerr

Heather King

J. Steven King

Jeffrey King

Robin Kinsel

Abbey Kirby

David W. Kirkman

Kathleen. D. Knight

Keith D. Kohlhepp

Sarraine Krause

Jeff Lacy

Constance Langston

James Lanter

Sylvia Blake Larson

Patricia LaRue

Robert W. Leonard, Jr.

Ken Link

Curtis Linscott

Jennifer H. Litke

Stephen W. Litke

John R. Lively, Jr.

Jerry J. Loftin

G. Roland Love

Gregory S. Love

Julie Lugo

John D. Malanga

Michael Malone

*Bobby Mann

Marcus J. Massad

Daniel Barrett Mathis

James D. Matthews

Mark Matula

John W. McChristian Jr.

Avery McDaniel

Michael McGartland

*William McGee

*Alex McGlinchey

Bob McGrath

Cynthia B. McKenzie

Travis McNellie

Gary L. Medlin

William C. Meier

David M. Mellina

J. Anthony Michael, III

Thomas Michel

John M. Michener, Jr.

Lewis C. Miltenberger

Steve Milton

Charles B. Mitchell

Gary Moates

R. Bruce Moon

Darren Moore

Harold E. Moore

James D. Moore

Paula Moore

*W. Garrett Morris

Lin Morrisett

*Edward E. Moseley

Stephen S. Mosher

George Muckleroy

Marcus Mungioli

Thomas E. Myers

Deborah Nekhom

Jay Newton

Chris Nickelson

John C. Nohinek

Kimberlee D. Norris

Shane O’Dell

M. Keith Ogle

Troy Okruhlik

Patrick H. O’Neill

Alan Padfield

Nicholas S. Pappas

Priscilla Kim Park

Robert Parmelee

Elizabeth Parmer

Travis Patterson

Orsen E. Paxton, III

Michael L. Peck

Paul Peebles

Alex Pelley

*Pete Perez

Lisa A. Peterson

George J. Petrovich, Jr.

Mark Pittman

Robertt Piwetz

David Poole

Jeffrey C. Poster

Joseph Postnikoff

Craig Price

James O. Price

John W. Proctor

Jeff P. Prostok

Gerald Pruitt

Fredrick Quast

Hal R. Ray, Jr.

William H. (Bill) Ray

Don Reid

W. Pat Remington

Vernon E. Rew, Jr.

Bradley H. Rice

Shawna Rinehart

*Leonard F. Roberts

Jackie Robinson

Marvina Robinson

Brittani Rollen

Lynn Ross, Jr.

Ernest W. Rothfelder

Bart Rue

Jay Rutherford

Lynn G. Ruvang

Kelly Ryan

Santiago Salinas

John G. Sams

Charlene Sanders

Jerry K. Sawyer

James W. Schell

*Leonard E. Schilling

Randall Schmidt

Richard Schwartz

Sarah Seltzer

Joe Shannon, Jr.

Sid W. Shapiro

Brad Shaw

Morris L. Sheats, II

Marilyn Shell

Dwayne W. Smith

Ellen Smith

Jason C.N. Smith

Ethel Allen Steele

Jason Stephens

Dan Steppick

*Joyce E. Stevens

C. W. Stocker, III

Kimberly Stoner

James G. Stouffer, Jr.

Kristian Summers

*Steven H. Swander

John W. Sweeney, Jr.

Anna K. Teller

Donald E. Teller

Karen Telschow Johnson

Lori R. Thomas

Michael R. Thomas

John R. Thompson, III

Joe D. Tolbert

M.J. Trusty

Melinda Terry Vance

Benson Varghese

Lisa Vaughn

Philip Vickers

Andrew L. Vogel

Brandon R. Wade

Jearl Walker

Tennessee W. Walker

Kelli L. Walter

Roger Walton

Ron Walton

Andrew Wambsganss

*Harry N. Ward

Michael T. Watson

Ginger Webber

Fred C. Weekley

Judith Wells

S. Gary Werley

Robert G. West

Paul Westbrook

Stephen X. Westermann

Greg Westfall

Mollee Westfall

Wayne M. Whitaker

Melody Wilkinson

Melissa Wilks

Steve Williamson

John Wilson

W. Wier Wilson

Lynn Winter

Craig Woodcook

S. Patrick Woodson, IV

Jim Zadeh

Antonio Allen

Brooke Allen

Geffrey Anderson

Heidi Angel

Collin Ashworth

Joseph Austin

Craig Barbolla

Mary Barkley

Leslie Barrows

Whitney Beckworth

Prichard Bevis

Wade Birdwell

Pamela Boggess

Antoinette Bone

Elizabeth Bourland

Natalie Brackett

Kerry Braxton

Brian Brisco

John Brookman

Christopher Brown

Jamie Bryan

Nelda Cacciotti

Ola Campbell

Ryan Campbell

Katie Carr Jacobs

Allison Carroll

Russell Cawyer

Tawanna Cesare

*David R. Childress

Bradley L. Clark

Douglas W. Clayton

Cody Cofer

Heath Coffman

Daniel Collins

David W. Cook

Megan Cooley

John J. Corbin

Anthony Cuesta

Scott A. Cummings

Lindsay Daniel

FELLOWS5

Kent Davis

Timothy Davis

*Samuel Day

Shannon Dugan

John Easter

Rebecca Eaton

Bobbie G. Edmonds

Brett Epstein

Megan Fahey

Paul Farmer, Jr.

Taylor Ferguson

Victoria Ford Oblon

Lynne Frank

Austin Franklin

Toby Galloway

Martin Garcia

W. Aulstin Gardiner

Veronica Garza

James Paul George

Catherine H. Goodman

Jeffrey Grable

Joe Greenhill

James Griffis

Leann D. Guzman

Laura Hallmon

Jeremy Harmon

Caroline C. Harrison

Stephanie Harrison

Cory Hartsfield

Elizabeth Haslam

Robert Haslam

Thomas Hegi

Robert Henry

Mary Ellen Hicks

Cynthia Hill

Richard Hill

Ryan Hill

Emily P. Hollenbeck

Katherine Hopkins

Michael Hrabal

Leslie Hunt

J. Nathaniel James

Jessica Janicek

Paul Johnson

Merrill Jones

Punam Kaji

Chad Key

Sarah Kline

William Knight

Ken Kraatz

Philip Lamsens

Susan Lane

Veronica Law

Cheryl Leb

Mary-Margaret Lemons

Lauren Lockett

Trey E. Loftin

Stephen Lund

James Luster

Stephen Madsen

Nathan McCune

Glynis McGinty

Evan McGuire

William Chase Medling

Joshua Michaels

Gregory Monroe

Larry M. Moore

Elaine S. Morris

Margarita Morton

Mitchell Moses

Christopher B. Mosley

Preston Mundt

Colin Louis Murchison

Kimberly Naylor

James A. Neill

Kristin Newman

Warren Norred

Andrea Palmer

Andrea Paris

Stephen Pezanosky

Lu Pham

Christopher Ponder

Sarah Goss Powers

Jack Price

Jeremy Pruett

Will Austin Pruitt

Melinda Ramos

Leon Reed, Jr.

Joe Regan

Jerrod Rinehart

Joshua Ross

Tom Ryder

Enrique Sanchez, Jr.

Jody Sanders

Jessica Sangsvang

Ryan Scharar

Eloy Sepulveda

Robley Sicard

Brian Singleterry

Melissa Sircar

Harrison Smith

Kate Smith

Keegan Sorenson

David Staab

Aimee L. Stone

Christopher Taylor

Courtney Taylor

Timothy L. Thorne

Ryan Valdez

Tyler Wallach

Scott Wheatley

Jeff Whitfield

Angel Williams

Nathan Winkler

Brian Yost

S. Aaron Young

*Tom L. Zachry

1 Charter Fellows – The Charter Fellows category was established upon receipt of the Foundation’s Charter. These individuals paid $1,000 prior to December 31, 1998.

2 Sustaining Charter Fellows – These Charter Fellows have pledged and/or have paid an additional $1,000/$1,200.

3 Sustaining Life Fellows – These individuals have pledged or paid an additional $1,000/$1,200 or more after obtaining the designation of Life Fellow; changed to an annual gift for life of $120 per year, effective August 1, 2010. Current Sustaining Life Fellows were grandfathered at the prior amount.

4 Life Fellows – These individuals have fulfilled their original Fellowship pledge.

5 Fellows – These individuals have made a Fellowship pledge of $1,000 over a 10 year period; increased to $1,200 effective August 1, 2007.

* Deceased

Welcome

New Members of the TCBA:

ATTORNEYS

Timothy Alexander

Preston Bass

Melanie Bell

Peyton Dietz

Terrence Edwards

Stephen Hamilton

Ricardo Ochoa

Alison Porterfield

Kyle Sullivan

Stephanie Warnock

JUDGES

Sherri Wagner

LAW STUDENTS

Bharosha Ghimire

Carter Strahan

ASSOCIATES

Leonard Katite

Madison Moore

Tyler Puckett

Beginning April 1, TCBA will offer an extended membership promotion for those who are not current members.

Encourage your colleagues to join and enjoy TCBA benefits and events through June 2025!

LAWYERS ON THE MOVE &

in the News

Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, PC would like to welcome the addition of two new associates to their team, Dipal Patel and Hannah Rees.

Originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Dipal Patel graduated magna cum laude with honors from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a B.S. in Finance in 2021. She then earned her J.D. from Baylor University School of Law with a Special Distinction in Commercial Law in 2024, focusing her studies on real estate transactions, contracts, and business-related courses. While at Baylor Law School, she was a real estate research assistant and an active member of the Entrepreneurship Clinic. Her practice will focus primarily on general real estate transactions. She can be reached at 301 Commerce Street, Suite 2500, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102, or at 817.877.1088.

Planning Clinic. After graduating, Hannah worked in insurance defense litigation for a firm in Houston, Texas. Hannah’s practice at Bourland, Wall & Wenzel will focus primarily on fiduciary litigation. She can be reached at 301 Commerce Street, Suite 2500, Fort Worth, Texas 76102 or 817.877.1088.

Kelly Hart & Hallman is pleased to announce that Judge Chris Ponder, who has served with distinction on the Tarrant County Probate Bench, will join the firm as a Partner focused on contested probate matters.

Judge Ponder has over six years of judicial experience, during which he has developed a nuanced understanding of the legal challenges families face in contested probate proceedings. His dedication to justice and high ethical standards will continue as he transitions from the bench to private practice.

Originally from Graham, Texas, Hannah Rees is now an associate at Bourland, Wall & Wenzel. Prior to joining the firm, Hannah graduated magna cum laude from Texas A&M University with a B.A. in Communication and a minor in Psychology. She then earned her J.D. from Texas A&M School of Law in 2023, where she participated in the school’s Probate and Estate

Judge Ponder officially began his role with Kelly Hart on March 24, 2025. g

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

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

By Tiffany Myles, Membership Director

Engage, Connect, and Thrive with

As your Membership Director, I’m thrilled to share the exciting opportunities and benefits that come with being part of the Tarrant County Bar Association (TCBA). Our goal is to foster a strong legal community by providing valuable networking, professional development, and service opportunities to our members.

Introducing Our New Member Breakfast

We are excited to announce the launch of our New Member Breakfast, a quarterly event designed to welcome and introduce new members to all the benefits of TCBA membership. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow professionals, learn about our programs, and start your TCBA journey on the right foot. Our first breakfast was at the end of March. Stay tuned for upcoming dates!

Get Involved: Upcoming Blood Drive

Giving back to the community is an essential part of TCBA's mission. We encourage all members to look out for details on our upcoming blood drive and join us in making a difference.

Have You Completed Your Membership Survey?

Your feedback helps shape the future of TCBA. If you haven’t already, please take a few moments to complete our membership survey. As a thank you, participants will be entered into a raffle for a special prize!

Let’s Connect!

If you have any membership questions or simply want to chat, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out to me at tiffany@tarrantbar.org. Thank you for being an essential part of TCBA. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events! g

.

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR SECTIONS

TCBA Membership

By Tracy Card, Office Manager TCBA Sections Liaison

Spring Into Action: CLE and Section Events

Welcome to spring and the much-needed warmer weather! Are you in need of CLE credits? The sections remain highly active and strive to keep you informed on the latest news, speakers, and articles within your area of law, while also offering opportunities to connect with your legal peers.

I encourage you to take part in these valuable activities. Be sure to check our event calendar regularly to stay updated on the exciting events hosted by your sections and the TCBA. If you have a topic of interest you’d like to share, feel free to send it our way—we’re happy to pass along your suggestions. Don’t hesitate to contact us! g

By Seth McCloskey

BENCH BAR COMMITTEE

30th Anniversary of Tarrant County Bench Bar!

Since 1994, the Tarrant County Bench Bar Conference has been the flagship event for Tarrant County lawyers and judges to relax, catch up, ruminate, obtain CLE, and play games. From casino night to golf, from karaoke to lawyer Olympics, each year we gather to learn more about important legal issues, socialize, and have fun. For this special occasion marking 30 years of legal camaraderie and education, the TCBA Bench Bar Conference will include throwback images of previous BB conferences (and probably some throwback music to go along with it), an exceptional line-up of CLE presentations and speakers (including a new judicial compliance program for judges), and much more. To top it all off, this year’s BB attendees will be given the winning choice of participating in an escape room competition or a tour of the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters and training facility, hitting the green to golf 18 holes, or getting artsy and painting with a twist. Beyond that, everyone gets to have fun in the everpopular, new and improved, hospitality hub, where music, games, and socializing are constantly underway. Sign up while

registration is available, now through April 11, to participate in the 30th Annual Bench Bar Conference. g

BENCH BAR CONFERENCE 2025 CLE DETAILS

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025

TRACKS: CIVIL, CRIMINAL, and FAMILY

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

[Civil] Medical Findings in Civil Cases (d)(12)

Leslie Deen, Ellis County Children’s Advocacy Center

Seth McCloskey, Law Offices of Laird & McCloskey

[Criminal] Disappearing Acts: Exploring the World of Expunctions & Nondisclosures

Angel Williams, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

[Family] Takes a Village- Strengthening Your Client and Their Story

Monique Lopez-Hinkley, Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas

[Civil] What I Wish You Knew About Immigration

Margarita Morton, Morton Law, PLLC

[Criminal] Evolving Discovery Landscape in Criminal Cases

Cody Cofer, Cofer Luster Law Firm

[Family] Dynamics of Family Violence (d)(13)

Barbra Grimmer, Texas Council on Family Violence

Marvina Robinson, Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

[Civil] Recent Supreme Court Cases for PI Attorneys

Benson Varghese, Varghese Summersett, PLLC

[Criminal] Trying FV Cases When They Overlap with a Family Law Case

Camille Gildner, The Law Office of Cami Gildner

[Family] Divorcing a Pro Se

Tawana Cesare, Cantey Hanger LLP

Lyndsay Newell, Cantey Hanger LLP

1:10 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.

[Civil] Assault and Defense: Expert Witnesses Under Robinson and its Progeny

Larry Cotten, Cotten Schmidt, L.L.P.

Jerold Mitchell, Cotten Schmidt, L.L.P.

[Criminal] Trafficking of Persons (d)(11)

Sonya Brooks, Unbound Now

Chris Cage, Unbound Now

[Family] Enforcement Actions in Family Law Cases

Judge Kate Stone, Tarrant County 233rd District Court

BENCH BAR CONFERENCE 2025 CLE DETAILS

SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025

GENERAL SESSION

8:00 a.m. – 8:55 a.m.

9:00 a.m. – 9:55 a.m.

10:00 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.

11:00 a.m. – 11:55 a.m.

The Ethics of Technology [Ethics]

Carrie Phaneuf, Texas Lawyers’ Insurance Exchange

Jeff Sanford, Juris Fabrilis

Borderline – True Crime Podcast

Trish Nasworthy, Nasworthy Law

Kristina Voorhies Legan, Law Offices of Kristina Voorhies Legan

Non-Economic Damages in the Wake of Gregory v. Chohan

Quentin Brogdon, Crain Brogdon, LLP

Weaponizing Race to Attack Tribal Soverignty, Tribal Citizenship & Democracy in America

J. Eric Reed, Law Offices of J. Eric Reed

12:05 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Life in the Law and the Balance BetweenThem [Ethics] Judge Royal Furgeson, FurgesonMalouf Law PLLC

BENCH BAR CONFERENCE 2025 TIMELINE

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025

8:15 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

1:10 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.

2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

6:15 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Check in, welcome hour, hot drinks and pastries

Welcome

CLE Session 1

CLE Session 2

Lunch & CLE Session 3

CLE Session 4

Lawyer Olympics

The Star Tour OR Escape Room

Dinner

Casino Night & Karaoke Contest

Hospitality Suite Open

SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 2025

8:00 a.m. – 8:55 a.m.

9:00 a.m. – 9:55 a.m.

10:00 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.

11:00 a.m. – 11:55 a.m.

12:05 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Breakfast & CLE General Session 1

Breakfast & CLE General Session 2

CLE General Session 3

CLE General Session 4

CLE General Session 5 (During Lunch)

Painting with a Twist!

Judges Cup Golf Tournament

Awards Dinner

Hospitality Suite Open

Quentin Brogdon Sonya Brooks

Chris Cage Tawanna Cesare

Cody Cofer Larry Cotten Leslie Deen

Judge Royal Furgeson (Ret.)

Cami Gildner Barbra Grimmer

Monique Lopez-Hinkley Seth McCloskey

Jerold Mitchell Margarita Morton

Patricia Nasworthy Lyndsay Newell

Carrie Phaneuf J. Eric Reed Marvina Robinson Jeff Sanford

Judge Kate Stone Benson Varghese

Kristina Voorhies Legan Angel Williams

WORLD SERIES

NBA FINALS

STANLEY CUP

2025 TCBA BENCH BAR SPONSORSHIPS

SUPER BOWL $10,000

a. Listed as the title sponsor on all marketing materials – “Bench Bar brought to you by the Tarrant County Bar Association and [Your Firm Name].”

b. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).

c. Complimentary suite upgrade for one designated attendee (first-come, first-served).

d. One full attorney registration for the event.

e. 50% off a second registration for the event.

f. Four complimentary golfer registrations for the event.

g. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials. Includes a backlink to your website.

h. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.

i. Special recognition at the event, including the opportunity to address the crowd prior to the Friday night dinner.

j. Business cards/firm swag included in the attendee goody bags.

WORLD SERIES $5,500

a. 50% off one registration for the event

b. Complimentary suite upgrade for one designated attendee (first-come, first-served).

c. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).

d. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials. Includes a backlink to your website.

e. Two complimentary golfer registrations for the event.

f. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.

g. Special recognition at the event, with a representative or committee member publicly thanking your firm and addressing the crowd prior to the special event.

NBA FINALS

$3,500

a. Exclusive sponsorship of one special event with a custom sign (see attached table for options).

b. Prominent placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials.

c. One complimentary golfer registration for the event.

d. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item during sponsored activity.

e. Special recognition at the event, with a representative or committee member addressing the crowd to thank your firm prior to the special event.

STANLEY CUP $2,500

a. Placement on t-shirts, signage, and all pre-event marketing materials.

b. 50% off one golfer registration.

c. Distribute one branded promotional/swag item.

d. Sponsorship of special event/item (see table for options).

THE MASTERS $1,000

a. Placement on general marketing materials at the event.

b. Placement on t-shirts.

US OPEN $500

a. Mentioned on signage and marketing materials at the event.

BENCH BAR EXHIBITORS

Broker/Owner David Pannell

MEET your board

Welcome to our "Get to Know Your TCBA Board" series! Each issue features board members answering five engaging questions about their practice, interests, and favorite activities. Discover more about the people who contribute to the success of our organization.

Featured Board Members

Dwayne Smith

TCBA Appointed Director

What area(s) of law do you practice? Family law

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy traveling, cheering on my kids’ little league teams, and putting crooked divots in golf courses.

What's your favorite TCBA event?

I really enjoy Law Day because our Bar gets to recognize those lawyers that have made a significant contribution to the practice of law.

Why are you a member of the TCBA?

I’m a member of the TCBA because I love lawyers. I especially enjoy the camaraderie and opportunities to improve my practice through CLEs.

Are you a fan of any teams, and if so, who is your favorite to root for?

I am a diehard Texas Longhorn fan to the point we named our eldest son Austin!

Marvina Robinson TCBA President-Elect

What area(s) of law do you practice?

I practice exclusively in the area of protective orders.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Reality TV and crafts

What's your favorite TCBA event? Bench Bar

Why are you a member of the TCBA?

I want to know what's happening with the Bar and participate in the work.

Are you a fan of any teams, and if so, who do you root for?

The Dallas Cowboys. America's team. All day. Every day. Twice on Sundays. Rain, sleet, snow or shine. Win, lose, lose again or lose again again.

TEXAS LAWYERS FOR TEXAS VETERANS

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

TARRANT COUNTY CHAPTER

THANK YOU TO OUR JANUARY AND FEBRUARY TLTV CLINIC VOLUNTEERS

Brittany Allen-Brantley

Scott Conyers

John Corbin

Wendy Hart

John Johnson

Samantha Kehl

George Muckleroy

Brenda Pfieff

Amber Tilly

2025 Pro Bono Award Spotlight

CONSIDER SPONSORING

sarah@tarrantbar.org for more

Scott Conyers has been a staff attorney with Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas for four and a half years. He began his time with LANWT as an eviction defense attorney during COVID but has since began exploring numerous other areas of law, aiming to help as many people as he can. During law school, he interned at LANWT, which ignited his desire to help the underserved, and, once licensed, he applied to every open position they had until they finally called him back. Outside of his legal career, Scott is very active in the music ministry of his church, having served as the youth group’s worship leader for over a decade and playing guitar most Sundays.

Staff Spotlight: Gracie Gutierrez

How to introduce myself when I wear many hats at the TCBA? Let’s start with my name: Graciela Gutierrez, born and raised in Fort Worth, TX, and the oldest of two siblings. I have one child, my son, who graduated in 2024, and our lovely family cat, Puchi (she’s precious). Feeding our neighborhood cats that are in need in my area is one of many ways I give back to the community. The toughest thing,

mine, is gardening in the Texas heat. It can be done, and I enjoy it! Spring 2025 gardening—I can’t wait!

I’ve worked in clerical settings for many years and decided I wanted to work for an organization that helps the community.

Administrative Assistant

I found the Tarrant County Bar Association and accepted the position of Administrative Assistant in October of 2022. You may have seen me around during events and CLEs. I work directly with Carolina Ibarra, the Lawyer Referral Service Director, to provide attorney referrals for legal situations. I also work with Sarah Hoffman, the Pro Bono Programs Director, assisting with the Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans program, offering legal consultations to veterans or spouses of deceased veterans in Tarrant County and surrounding areas.

If you’re an attorney in need of volunteer work, contact Sarah Hoffman for TLTV or Carolina Ibarra for the Lawyer Referral Service. Support the community by providing legal consultations and advice, and consider volunteering! g

Snippets

Civil and Criminal

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

by Judge Bob McCoy g County Criminal Court No. 3

ASK JUDGE BOB

What is a prima facie case?

A prima facie case refers to evidence sufficient as a matter of law to establish a given fact if it is not rebutted or contradicted. It is the minimum quantum of evidence necessary to support a rational inference that the allegation of fact is true. Terrell v Mazaheri, 676 S.W.3d 116 (Tex.App—San Antonio 2023).

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)

I find it ironic that the colors red, white, and blue stand for freedom, until they’re flashing behind you.

Abigail, Mary, and Martha Noah Elijah

THE PACK’S QUOTE OF THE MONTH

I lie on my burgundy velvet couch, smelly with dog and hair everywhere, with Ralph and Bronwyn fighting for the curved space between my legs or the soft pad of my belly, and I realize that I am happier than I have ever been.

Margaret Cho, “The New Girl”

THE Editor's NOTES FROM THE FARM

In the bunkhouse, selfless is saying you don’t like pie when there is not enough to go around.

CRIMINAL ITEMS OF INTEREST

1.Motion

for New Trial

A defendant must file a motion for new trial within 30 days after “the trial court imposes or suspends sentence in open court.” “The court must rule on a motion for new trial within 75 days after imposing or suspending sentence in open court.” “A motion not timely ruled on by written order will be deemed denied when the 75-day period expires.” “Once a

motion for new trial is overruled by operation of law, the trial court loses jurisdiction to rule upon it.”

Flores v. State, 679 S.W.3d 695 (Tex.Crim.App. 2023).

2. Motion to Suppress

At a suppression hearing, the trial court is the sole trier of fact and judge of the witnesses’ credibility, and it may choose to believe or disbelieve all or any part of the witnesses’ testimony.

Monjaras v. State, 679 S.W.3d 834 (Tex.App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2023).

3. Temporary Detention

A law enforcement officer may temporarily detain a person for investigative purposes if the officer reasonably suspects that the detained person is, has been, or soon will be engaged in criminal activity. Monjaras v. State, 679 S.W.3d 834 (Tex. App. Houston [1st Dist.] 2023).

4. Impartial Jury

The Sixth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States guarantees a criminal defendant an impartial jury selected from sources reflecting a fair cross-section of the community. In order for a defendant to establish a prima facie violation of the fair cross-section requirement, the defendant must show that: (1) the group alleged to be excluded is a “distinctive” group in the community; (2) the representation of this group in venires from which juries are selected is not fair and reasonable in relation to the number of such persons in the community; and (3) this underrepresentation is due to the systematic exclusion of the group in the jury selection process. Cordova-Lopez v. State, 680 S.W.3d 5 (Tex.App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2022).

5. Bail

Relevant factors to be considered in setting defendant’s bail include: nature of offense and possible sentence; defendant’s ties to community, including family ties; length of residency; employment history; prior criminal record; existence of other bonds against defendant and his compliance with conditions of those bonds; and aggravating factors involved in alleged offense.

Ex Parte Ramirez-Hernandez, 642 S.W.3d 907 (Tex.App.—San Antonio 2022).

6. Federal preemption

Under Supremacy Clause, state law must give way to federal law in at least two circumstances: (1) the States are precluded from

regulating conduct in a field that Congress, acting within its proper authority, has determined its exclusive governance; and (2) state laws are preempted when they conflict with federal law. State v. Flores, 679 S.W.3d 232 (Tex.App.—San Antonio 2023).

7. Commitment Question

There is a three-part test for determining whether a voir dire question is an improper commitment question: first, the trial court must determine whether a particular question is in fact a commitment question; second, if it is a commitment question, then the court must decide whether it is nevertheless a proper commitment question; and third, if the commitment question gives rise to a valid challenge for cause, then the court must determine whether the question contains only those facts necessary to test whether a prospective juror is challengeable for cause.

In re commitment of Rivera, 679 S.W.3d 291 (Tex.App.—San Antonio 2023).

CIVIL ITEMS OF INTEREST

1. Limited-Purpose Public Figures

They are those who “thrust themselves to the forefront of particular public controversies in order to influence the resolution of the issues involved… invit[ing] attention and comment,” who “inject [themselves] or [are] drawn into a particular public controversy…assum[ing] special prominence in the resolution of public questions” or “engag[ing] the public’s attention in an attempt to influence its outcome.

Terrell v Mazaheri, 676 S.W.3d 116 (Tex.App—San Antonio 2023).

2. Libel and Slander/Public

Figuren

“A lawyer does not become a public figure merely because he undertakes to represent clients in difficult, unpopular, high profile, or sensational types of cases, or advocates for a famous or controversial client.” “A lawyer representing a client in a very public controversy, but who does ‘not thrust himself into the vortex of [the] public issues, nor…engage the public’s attention in an attempt to influence its outcome’ does not, by virtue of the legal representation, make himself a public figure.”

Terrell v Mazaheri, 676 S.W.3d 116 (Tex.App—San Antonio 2023).

3. Immunity

Though often used interchangeably, sovereign immunity and governmental immunity refer to two distinct concepts. Sovereign immunity refers to a state’s immunity from suit and liability; this protection extends to the state itself and varying divisions of state government, including agencies, boards, hospitals, and universities. Governmental immunity protects political subdivisions of the state, including counties, cities, and school district.

CHC v ACS Primary Care Physicians SW , 676 S.W.3d 150 (Tex.App—Houston[14th Dist.] 2023).

4. Plea to the Jurisdiction

If the pleadings affirmatively negate the existence of jurisdiction, then a plea to the jurisdiction may be granted without allowing the plaintiff an opportunity to amend.

Rezac v Navarro College, 678 S.W.3d 533 (Tex.App—Waco 2023).

5. Res Judicata

The doctrine of res judicata requires proof of (1) a prior final judgment of the merits by a court of competent jurisdiction; (2) identity of parties or those in privity with them: and (3) a second action based on the same claims as were raised, or could have been raised, in the first action.

Rosenberger v LeMaster, 678 S.W.3d 549 (Tex.App—Houston [14th Dist.] 2023).

6. Res Judicata

People can be in privity in at least three ways: (1) they can control an action even if they are not parties to it; (2) their interests can be represented by a party to the action; or (3) they can be successors in interest, deriving their claims through a party to the prior action.

Rosenberger v LeMaster, 678 S.W.3d 549 (Tex.App—Houston [14th Dist.] 2023).

7. Plea to the Jurisdiction

A plea to the jurisdiction is a dilatory plea and a proper method by which to challenge a trial court’s subject-matter jurisdiction. A plea to the jurisdiction can take two forms: (1) a challenge to the plaintiff’s pleadings regarding the allegations of jurisdictional facts or (2) an evidentiary challenge to the existence of jurisdictional facts. Because of immunity from the suit defeats a trial court’s subject-matter jurisdiction, it is properly raised in a plea to the jurisdiction.

Pecan Valley Mental Health v Doe, 678 S.W.3d 577 (Tex.App —Eastland 2023).

LAWYER’S QUOTE OF THE MONTH

As judges we are neither Jew nor Gentile, neither Catholic nor agnostic.

—Sir Arthur Stanley Eddington g

Sponsorship Information

Includes 2 reserved tables (16 seats) for the event and a 1/2 page color ad in the Bar Bulletin. Gold sponsors will be recognized at the event and publicized on TCBA’s website, in the Bar Bulletin , and on TCBA’s social media.

Includes a reserved table (8 seats) for the event. Silver sponsors will be recognized at the event and publicized on TCBA’s website, in the Bar Bulletin, and on TCBA’s social media.

Includes 2 seats for the event. Bronze sponsors will be recognized at the event and publicized on TCBA’s website, in the Bar Bulletin , and on TCBA’s social media.

Celebrating Law Day 2025 Award Recipients

Blackstone Award

Glenn Lewis

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson LLP

Silver Gavel Award

Judge George Gallagher (ret.)

Professionalism Award

Dwayne Smith

Gardner Smith & Vaughan, PLLC

Outstanding Young Lawyer Award

Sara Vargas

Dally & Webb Family Law PLLC

Outstanding Mentor Award

John Brookman

Brookman Arbitration & Mediation

Liberty Bell Award

Abigail Garcia

MHMR of Tarrant County

SILVER SPONSORS

Brookman Arbitration & Mediation

Cantey Hanger LLP

Gardner Smith & Vaughan, PLLC

Lee & Wood Attorneys at Law

Pham Harrison, LLP

The Medlin Law Firm, PLLC

Underwood Law Firm

BRONZE SPONSORS

Acrisure

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson, LLP

Texas A&M University School of Law

ValueScope

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.

For the last 17 years EVERNET Consulting has been established in the legal industry, growing nationwide to support law firms across the country. Our wide range of services include email, network, and computer support, as well as practice management solutions. Our expertise also extends to website development, marketing, social media management, online reviews, and new client outreach.

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.

Fort Worth Zoo offers discounted tickets for TCBA members.

$18.00 for adult tickets, $14 for child or senior tickets. For more information, please 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 4 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

www.tarrantbar.org/Spring-Fiesta-2025

Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

2025 Pro Bono Award Spotlight MASON SMITH

MATTORNEY VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

ason Smith is an associate at Kelly Hart, focusing on representing landowners, oil and gas operators, mineral/royalty owners, and surface developers in various oil and gas matters. His practice primarily involves transactional work, including the acquisition and sale of properties, mineral interests, and midstream assets, as well as handling oil and gas leases, surface use agreements, water

WELLNESS COMMITTEE

leases, pipeline easements, and renewable energy agreements. He also assists with energy-related disputes, particularly oil and gas royalty issues.

Mason is dedicated to pro bono work, particularly in estate planning. Before joining Kelly Hart, he served as a judicial law clerk for Justice Jeffrey S. Boyd at the Supreme Court of Texas. g

Looking for ways you can support TVAS but unable to volunteer?

Consider Sponsoring a Clinic!

Your sponsorship would play a crucial role in helping us continue to provide valuable services and support to those in need.

Contact sarah@tarrantbar.org for details.

By Kristina Voorhies Legan

Law Offices of Kristina Voorhies Legan

Prioritizing Wellness in Legal Practice

Wellness

well·ness /ˈwel-nɘs/ : the quality or state of being in good health especially as an actively sought goal

Synonyms:

• Fitness

• Soundness

• Agility

Antonyms:

• Illness

• Sickness

• Unsoundness

• Disease

• Well-being

• Toughness

• Ruggedness

• Weakness

• Infirmity

• Decrepitude

Or so sayeth the fine folks at Merriam-Webster. It can mean very different things to different people, but one thing

most of us can agree on is that we are better at lawyering when we are better—mentally, physically, and emotionally. The challenge is finding ways to take care of ourselves so that we can take care of business, and I know of no better way than by sharing information and ideas with each other.

The 2025 TCBA Wellness Committee generally holds meetings once a month via Zoom on the 3rd Wednesday of the month. We have had some great ideas for in-person activities as well, and hopefully can firm up details at the March meeting. If you would like the link to participate in the meeting, just reach out to Tiffany Myles at tiffany@tarrantbar.org or to me at kristina@eptxlaw.com.

Whether you plan to participate actively in the committee or not, we welcome your questions, ideas and input about the challenges of practicing law and solutions for dealing with those challenges. Hope to see you soon, and be well—or at least don’t be “decrepit!” g

Wellness Committee Chair

TARRANT COUNTY BAR FOUNDATION

By Joe Cleveland 2019 TCBF Chair

Originally published in the November/December 2019 Bar Bulletin, this article honors Judge L. Clifford Davis, the first of two recipients of the Tarrant County Bar Foundation’s Lifetime Community Service Award, alongside Tillie Burgin. Judge Davis was celebrated for his lifelong dedication to serving the citizens of Tarrant County.

Judge Davis is a legendary civil rights lawyer and first elected black judge in Tarrant County. He served as a judge in this county for over 20 years. In addition to his legal career, Judge Davis worked to establish the Tarrant County Junior College now known as Tarrant County College. Over the years, he has served as a trusted mentor to countless lawyers and judges throughout the State of Texas. Judge Davis strongly believes that “education is a pathway to a world of opportunity.” In 2002, the L. Clifford Davis Elementary School was named in his honor. Judge Davis has been awarded numerous awards including the Blackstone Award (the highest award bestowed by the Tarrant County Bar Association), the Silver Gavel Award, the NAACP William Robert Ming Advocacy Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Texas Lawyer, the Multicultural Alliance Award and has been inducted into the National Bar Association Hall of Fame.

Judge L. Clifford Davis was born in Wilton, Arkansas, on October 12, 1924. He grew up with six other siblings on a forty-acre family farm. Judge Davis’s parents firmly believed in a good education for their children. Since the town’s educational opportunities for black students ended at eighth grade, the Davis family rented a home in Little Rock so that their children could attend high school.

After graduating from high school, Judge Davis attended Philander Smith College where he graduated with a degree in Business Administration. In 1945, he began his legal education at Howard University Law School in Washington, D.C. In the spring of 1946, he learned about Heman Marion Sweatt, a black man who applied for admission to the University of Texas School of Law but was denied admission even though he possessed every essential qualification. This case later evolved into the landmark decision in Sweatt v. Painter, 399 U.S. 629 (1950), in which the Supreme Court decided that the educational opportunities offered to white and black law students by the state of Texas were not substantially equal, and that the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment required that Sweatt be admitted to the University of Texas Law School. In an effort to follow in Sweatt’s footsteps, Judge Davis applied to the University of Arkansas Law School as a form of protest against its segregationist policies. Due to his

race, he was also denied admission.

Judge Davis attended Atlanta University during 194647 for graduate studies in economics. He returned to Howard Law School and continued his advocacy for admission to the University of Arkansas Law School. Judge Davis later received a letter from the dean of the University of Arkansas Law School stating that he would be accepted, but only on the condition that he pay tuition in advance and not enter a room with white students in it, including classrooms, the library and the restrooms. Judge Davis wrote a letter to the dean and declined the offer, explaining that since no other student was required to pay tuition in advance, he would not do so either.

Judge Davis graduated from Howard Law School in 1949 and was admitted to the Arkansas Bar. Judge Davis knew he wanted to practice in the area of civil rights litigation. At the time, the case of Brown v. Board of Education was pending before the United States District Court in Kansas, and several other integration lawsuits were also pending in other states. He was invited by W. Harold Flowers, a noted civil rights attorney in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to join his firm. He accepted employment and began working with Flowers in 1949.

Judge Davis recalls Flowers as being “a taskmaster” who provided him with several significant opportunities. He handed Judge Davis a copy of a lawsuit filed in South Carolina to desegregate public schools. He instructed Judge Davis to draft a similar lawsuit to desegregate Arkansas public schools, which he did.

Flowers also had Judge Davis handle a death penalty case before the Arkansas Supreme Court involving a black man convicted of raping a white woman. On appeal, the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed and held that the defendant was entitled to a continuance on grounds of insufficient time to prepare a defense. Maxwell v. State , 225 S.W.2d 687 (Ark. 1950). The defendant was retried and convicted. Judge Davis also worked on the second appeal. In that appeal, the Arkansas Supreme Court reversed the conviction and ordered a new trial on the grounds that the defendant’s motion to quash the original jury panel, consisting of no black jurors, should have been granted. Maxwell v. State, 232 S.W.2d 982 (Ark. 1950).

At the end of these two successful appeals, Judge Davis’s budding legal career as a noted Arkansas criminal defense lawyer was firmly established.

Judge Davis later moved to Camden, Arkansas, and opened his own law practice. He was joined by Shepperson Wilburn, a law school classmate who practiced in Helena.

Together, they filed suits to desegregate school districts throughout Arkansas. Wilburn settled his civil rights lawsuit against the Helena School district when the district built a new school. Judge Davis waited for the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v. Board of Education, 347 U.S. 43 (1954) and successfully used that case to desegregate the public schools in Bearden, Arkansas.

In 1952, Judge Davis moved to Waco, Texas. He briefly taught business administration at Paul Quinn College while awaiting his bar exam results, and he was admitted to practice law in Texas in 1953. He moved to Fort Worth in 1954 to start a practice, but immediately received a military draft notice. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1955.

In the same year, he moved back to Fort Worth and opened his own law office at the Fraternal Bank and Trust Company. He began a general civil and criminal practice, including personal injury, probate and real estate transactions. He later married Ethel Raye Davis, and moved to the Como section of Fort Worth, where they lived until 1957, when they moved to the Carver Heights Addition in east Fort Worth.

By the late 1950s, Judge Davis had a diverse practice handling employment litigation and civil rights cases. During that time, he successfully handled lawsuits to establish single member districts in public elections and lawsuits to desegregate the Fort Worth and Mansfield school districts. He also continued to work on criminal death penalty cases. Despite Judge Davis’s stellar legal career, he was unable to join the Tarrant County Bar Association because it was still segregated. Undeterred, Judge Davis organized the Fort Worth Black Bar Association in 1977.

In 1983, Governor Mark White appointed Judge Davis as judge of Criminal District Court No. 2. Judge Davis was confirmed by the Texas Senate in 1983, and in 1984 was the first black man to be elected as a judge in Tarrant County following a contested judicial race.

After his term ended in 1988, Judge Davis continued to serve as a visiting judge from 1989 to 2004, until his retirement. He also worked part-time as a visiting judge in twelve different counties throughout Texas. He later joined the firm of Johnson, Vaughn & Heiskell. Although retired, Judge Davis—at 95 years of age—still goes to the office every day to visit with the staff and to mentor young lawyers.

Over the course of his career, Judge Davis has been very active in the Tarrant County community and has received numerous awards. In 2017, the University of Arkansas Law School awarded Judge Davis an Honorary Doctorate of Law Degree—71 years after it refused to admit him.

Judge Davis’s wife, Ethel Raye Davis, passed away in 2015. Judge Davis was married to Ethel for fifty-nine years and seven months, and has two daughters.

Over the years, Judge Davis has been a mentor and counselor to judges and lawyers throughout the State of Texas. As Fort Worth attorney Michael Heiskell of the firm Johnson,

Vaugn & Heiskell stated, “Judge Davis is one of my heroes. His trailblazing work in the legal profession is to be held in awe as he overcame so much more than any of us will ever experience. Each day I feel blessed to have him in my office as my mentor and one of my closest friends. He is a treasure to the legal community and the community as a whole.”

Similarly, Fort Worth attorney Bobbie Edmonds exclaimed, “He is man of wisdom, knowledge, courage and inspiration for us all.”

Former Texas House Representative 95th District and Presiding Municipal Judge in Forest Hill Glenn O. Lewis stated that “I was greatly influenced by Judge Davis to become a lawyer. If Judge Davis had not chosen to come to Fort Worth, Texas I would probably not be a lawyer today. He was the only lawyer I knew.”

Judge Davis is a living legal legend in our community, and the Tarrant County Bar Foundation honors him for his enduring and significant impact on Tarrant County, the State of Texas and to the United States of America. g

ELDON B.

MAHON INN OF COURT

By Kayla Dailey Executive Director

Eldon B. Mahon Inn Hosts Annual Meeting of the DFW American Inns of Court

Each year, the American Inns of Court from across the DFW metroplex come together to honor an elite class of Serjeants. The responsibility of hosting rotates among the Inns, and roughly once a decade, the Eldon B. Mahon Inn takes its turn.

This year, the Mahon Inn hosted the gathering at the Fort Worth Zoo, creating a truly unique experience complete with giraffe feedings, up-close animal encounters, and the kind of perfect February weather no one could have predicted.

Judge Brent Carr had the honor of introducing this year’s Serjeants, followed by an engaging presentation from Professor Jim Riddlesperger of TCU on “ The Mysteries of Ballot Box 13: Coke Stevenson, Lyndon Johnson, and the Texas

Annette Stewart Inn of Court

Curt B. Henderson Inn of Court

Dallas Insurance Inn of Court

Dallas Probate Inn of Court

Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court

Honorable John C. Ford Inn of Court

Honorable Barbara M.G. Lynn Inn of Court

Judge Abner V. McCall Inn of Court

Judge Paul Brown Inn of Court

Judge Sarah T. Hughes North Texas Federal Criminal Law Inn of Court

North Texas State Criminal Law Inn of Court

Patrick E. Higginbotham Inn of Court

William “Mac” Taylor, Jr. Inn of Court

Mary Ann Beaty

Shanin Turner

Marc Gravely

Lora Davis

Justice Elizabeth Kerr

Michael Sutherland

John McDowell

Judge Gary Coley

Elvin Smith

Jeff Kearney

Justice Tina Clinton

John Eichman

Nicole T. LeBoeuf

Senate Election of 1948.” The evening continued with a lively mock oral argument on the historic federal case, featuring Judge Mark Pittman alongside esteemed attorneys Marianne Auld and former Justice David Keltner. To conclude the program, Judge Pittman led a fascinating interview with Larry Temple, former White House Counsel to President Johnson.

The event brought together over 300 judges and lawyers from Waco to Sherman, making for an unforgettable evening of learning, camaraderie, and tradition. A special thank you to Judge Mark Pittman for spearheading the program, as well as Judge Megan Fahey and Trent Loftin for their invaluable organizational efforts. g

Free and Low-Cost Online CLE for TCBA Members CLE CORNER

Section Webinars:

Section members can access free online CLE that is available on the section’s e-community. If you are not a member of a section and want to access a particular recorded CLE, visit www.tarrantbar.org/cleondemand or contact Tracy Card at tracy@tarrantbar.org to purchase the recording.

Trial and Appellate Advocacy

Speakers: Derrick Boyd, Boyd, Powers & Williamson

Scott Lindsey, Boyd, Powers & Williamson

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for TCBA Members)

TLIE Presents - The Ethics of Tech: Your Responsibilities When Things Go Wrong

Speakers: Carrie Phaneuf, Texas Lawyers’ Insurance Exchange

Jeff Sanford, Juris Fabrilis

CLE: 1 hour Ethics (FREE for TCBA Members)

OurFamilyWizard Presents: Implications of Technology and Social Media for Domestic Violence and Family Court Cases

Speakers: Lindsay Morris, OurFamilyWizard

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for TCBA Members)

Collaborative Law Section

Topic: Mediation in the Collaborative Setting

Speakers: Lindsay DeVos, DeVos Mediations

Lisa Hoppes, Hoppes Law Firm, PLLC

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for TCBA Members)

Topic: Answers to Questions from Basic Training

Speakers: Carol Mapp LCSW, Integrated Healthworks

Richard (Dick) Price, The Price Law Firm

Kate Smith, Law Offices of Kate Smith, PLLC

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for TCBA Members)

Construction Law Section

Topic: Preventing Design Professional Malpractice

Speaker: James Pruden, Waddell Serafino Geary Rechner

Jenevin, PC

CLE: 1 hour ($20 for TCBA Members)

Criminal Law Section

Speaker: Brent R. Doré, Doré Rothberg Law, P.C.

CLE: 1 hour ($40 for TCBA Members)

Fort Worth Business & Estate Section

Topic: Planning Update for 2025

Speaker: Alan L. Stroud, Senior Vice President Wealth

Strategies Advisor, Bank of America Private Bank

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for Section Members)

$30 for Non-Section Members

Topic: Crash Course - Federal Criminal Law

Speaker: Cody Cofer, Cofer Luster Law Firm

CLE: 3.5 hours ($10 for TCBA Members)

Energy Law Section

Topic: Getting Paid in the Oilpatch: Oil & Gas Mineral Liens & Chapter 67 Production Proceeds Letters

Topic: Hot Topics in Estate Planning

Speakers: Mike Bourland, Bourland Wall & Wenzel

John Porter, Baker Botts LLLP

Lee Schwemer, Current Lecturer - UTA

Steve Akers, Bessemer Trust, Dallas

CLE: 1 hour (FREE for Section Members)

$30 for Non-Section Members

Women Attorneys Section

Topic: Spotting Potential Tax Issues for Lawyers

Speaker: Monika Hengesbach, CEO, Decision Financial Services, Inc.

CLE: 1 hour ($15 for TCBA Members)

Mentor Monday Seminar Series with Steven C. Laird

Guest Speaker: Jim Whitton, Brackett & Ellis, P.C. 1 hour Ethics (FREE for TCBA Members)

Guest Speaker: Dean Robert (Bobby) Ahdieh, TAMU Law 1 hour Ethics (FREE for TCBA Members)

Brown Bag Seminar

Topic: Ethics

CLE: 3.50 hours

($65 for TCBA Members, $25 for Paralegal/Staff)

Topic: Employment Law

CLE: 3.50 hours

($65 for TCBA Members, $25 for Paralegal/Staff)

Child Welfare Seminar

CLE: 3 hours

($65 for TCBA Members, $25 for Paralegal/Staff)

ADR Seminar

CLE: 3.5 hours, .5 hour Ethics

($20 for TCBA Members, $15 for Paralegal/Staff)

Have a CLE topic in mind or suggestions for future programs? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to us today to help shape our upcoming offerings.

What School Lawyers Do

By Jim Whitton, Of Counsel; Dr. Sarah S. Flournoy, Shareholder; Andrea W. Paris, Shareholder, Brackett & Ellis, P.C.

Whenever we tell someone we’re school lawyers, the invariable response is, “What do school lawyers do?” Brackett & Ellis represents public and private schools but for the most part, school lawyers represent public schools, and most of those schools are independent school districts (an “ISD”). An ISD is a political subdivision of the State of Texas, but it’s also a business. ISDs have substantial real estate holdings, operate fleets of vehicles, employ dozens to thousands of employees, serve hundreds to thousands of customers, and have multi-million dollar budgets. We represent them in vendor contracts, real estate contracts, construction contracts, personnel issues, student issues, and in the litigation that sometimes comes as a result. We represent our clients when they’re investigated by the Texas Workforce Commission, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Attorney General, other local and state law enforcement and licensing agencies, and the U.S. Department of Justice. Due to the particular nature of an ISD, we routinely deal with laws that non-school lawyers rarely encounter, and a few laws that non-school lawyers never knew existed (until we “school” them).

School lawyers practice Constitutional law, and the First Amendment is the “frequent flyer” of that practice. The First Amendment determines how ISDs consider: whether certain books are appropriate for the library, how student and employee speech may be regulated on and off campus, and how attendees’ behavior at school board meetings may be regulated to maintain order at the meetings and enable the conduct of business. Finally, we advise our clients as they try to avoid both establishing religion and prohibiting its free exercise.

The federal government exerts significant influence over ISDs through federal legislation. Federal discrimination laws apply to ISDs, prohibiting the exclusion of any person from an educational program or activity on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The federal government often uses the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution to encourage or discourage certain behavior by ISDs. For example, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act provides federal funds to assist state and local agencies in educating children with disabilities. ISDs must also comply with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”), which prohibits schools from releasing student records without parental consent except in limited situations. FERPA is a law that non-school lawyers are often unaware of until we tell them about it. Many personal injury, family, and criminal practitioners are shocked to learn that they may not have a copy of a student’s records without either parental consent or a court order.

Another statute that many non-school lawyers are un-

familiar with is Section 101.051 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, part of the “Tort Claims Act”. It provides that ISDs retain their governmental immunity from tort claims, excepting only claims arising from the use or operation of motor vehicles. In other words, if a person is injured due to an ISD activity, whether on or off ISD property, and the injury does not involve a motor vehicle, the ISD remains immune from the tort claim, even if the injury resulted from the ISD’s negligence. Junior college districts share this immunity, but state agencies and other local governmental entities are not so blessed. Many personal injury lawyers have said to us, “That cannot be the law!” But it is.

School lawyers must be well-versed in the Texas Education Code. Included in its provisions are requirements on the organization of local school boards and the separation of powers between school boards, superintendents, and principals. An ISD’s professional employees (administrators, teachers, counselors, nurses, librarians, etc.) must be employed under a contract. The Code governs those professional employees’ certification requirements and the terms of their employment contracts. The Code provides complex due process procedures for mid-contract termination and end-of-term contract nonrenewal. The Code also contains due process procedures for student discipline matters.

School lawyers must also understand the Texas Open Meetings Act (the “OMA”) and the Public Information Act (the “PIA”). The OMA requires school board meetings to be preceded by a publicly posted agenda, to be open to the public, and to provide the public with an opportunity to speak on a topic before it is considered by the board. Agendas must be specific enough to reasonably alert the public as to what the board is considering. The PIA gives the public access to most records maintained by an ISD. Exceptions to the OMA allow portions of a board meeting to be closed to the public, and exceptions to the PIA allow certain records to be withheld from public disclosure. School lawyers must know when those exceptions are legally available and the process required for an ISD to avail itself of the exceptions.

School lawyers must have a working knowledge of the Election Code and the Family Code. That’s because ISDs hold school board elections, bond elections, and tax rate elections, and campus employees are routinely presented with family court orders for enforcement and/or called to testify in family court hearings.

School law is a rewarding practice, perhaps a calling. We usually make less because school rates are usually lower than commercial rates. But we take pride in the fact that our clients educate the children of Texas. We also have the best stories! g

PREMIER SPONSOR

Event Sponsors

Frost

Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP

Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office

The Medlin Law Firm, PLLC

Table Sponsors

Acrisure

Cantey Hanger LLP

Consilio

Haynes and Boone, LLP

Jackson Walker LLP

Pham Harrison, LLP

Texas Christian University - AddRan College of Liberal Arts

Texas A&M University School of Law

Underwood Law Firm

Gift Sponsors

American National Bank & Trust

NFP

Structured Settlements

PANELISTS

B. C. Cornish, Law Office of B.C. Cornish

Carol Ware Bracken, General Counsel, Tarrant County College District (Retired, 2024)

Vicki Ganske, Ross & Matthews, PC

Women in the Law Committee members that made this event possible:

Chelsea Casiano, Co-Chair

Kara McHorse, Co-Chair

Ashley Ade-Jagun

Heidi Angel

Blake Bobo

Bobbie Edmonds

Victoria Ford Oblon

Amanda Lewis

Bonny M. M. Link

Ann Lopez

Maleshia B. McGinnis

Angela Miller

Jacey L. Mizer

Tiffany Myles

Sara Norman

Hannah Orand

Andrea M. Palmer

Maddie Royal

Kristina Voorhies Legan

Kenya White

THANK YOU!

Roundtable speakers for their time, expertise, and insightful contributions:

Ashley Ade-Jagun, TTI, Inc.

N. Sue Allen, Allen Law Firm

Kate Casey, JD, LPC, Autumn Ridge Counseling and Wellness

Chelsea Casiano, Forney Corporation

Shereen El Domieri, Fulton Jeang PLLC

Caroline Harrison, Pham Harrison LLP

Rebecca Heinemann, Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth

Susy Johnson, The Woodmont Company (Retired, January 2025)

Monique Lopez-Hinkley, Legal Aid of Northwest Texas

Spencer Mainka, Pham Harrison LLP

Jacey Mizer, Brown Pruitt Wambsganss Dean Forman & Moore, P.C.

Hannah Orand, Brown Pruitt Wambsganss Dean Forman & Moore, P.C.

Andrea Palmer, TTI, Inc.

Jeanette Strange, Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas

The Tarrant County Bar Association’s award-winning* Bar Bulletin is a multi-faceted journal published six times a year for TCBA members. It features substantive articles along with updates on membership events and activities. Distributed both digitally and in hard copy, the Bar Bulletin reaches an average of 2,500 readers per issue through email and social media. It is also available online on the TCBA’s website.

Advertising rates vary based on size and frequency. For more information, please contact 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.

LegalLine

2025 Pro Bono Award Spotlight

MMerrit Klapperich

LEGALLINE ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR

errit Klapperich has served as the Deputy Director for Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas (LANWT) since 2017. LANWT is a nonprofit law firm that provides civil legal services to eligible clients. With a service area that is roughly the size of Colorado, LANWT is the fifth-largest Legal Aid program in the United States. Prior to becoming the Deputy Director, Merrit served as the Managing Attorney for the Fort Worth and Weatherford offices, the Supervising Attorney for the Fort Worth Equal Justice Volunteer Program and as a Staff Attorney in the Fort Worth office. Her practice focused on divorce, child custody, and possession and access of children for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Prior to joining LANWT in 2007, Merrit was in private practice.

Merrit received her Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2004. While in law school, Merrit served as the Moot Court President, as a Senior Staff Member for the Tulsa Journal of Comparative & International Law, and as the Research & Writing Assistant for her family law professor in authoring her textbook. Merrit obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2001 from the University of Texas at Arlington, cum laude g

By Sarah Hall Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

Do you have 2 hours that you can commit on a Thursday night to assist those that need legal advice in your area of expertise?

Upcoming Volunteer Dates

Volunteer Slot: 5 PM–7 PM

Thursday April 24

Thursday, May 8

Thursday, May 22

Thursday, June 12

Sign up today to volunteer and provide legal advice at www.tarrantbar.org/LL-volunteer.

THANK YOU TO OUR RECENT LEGALLINE VOLUNTEERS

Ethics With A Legend - A Conversation With Former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht

Amy Allen

John Barnes

Nick Bettinger

Robert Blankenship

Blake Bobo

Sara Correa

Patrick Curran

Madeline D’Alise

Steve Gaylord

Merrit Klapperich

Cynthia Maragoudakis

Reba Martin

Patrick McCarthy

Angelia Megahan

Karon Rowden

Timothy Stafford

The Texas Center for Legal Ethics has generously gifted our members a special CLE opportunity in celebration of their 35th anniversary!

Duration: 60 minutes

CLE Hours:1.00

www.tarrantbar.org/legal-ethics-texas-cle

A WORD FROM OUR SECTIONS

By Chris Brown Duane Morris, LLP Construction Law Section Chair

Construction Law Section: 2024-2025 Update

The 2024-2025 term of the Tarrant County Construction Law Section is currently in full swing. My name is Chris Brown, and I am serving as the Chair of the Section this year. I am a Partner at Duane Morris, LLP and work alongside Ben Warden, also of Duane Morris LLP, who serves as Vice Chair, and Grant Jordan of Griffith Davison, P.C., who is fulfilling the roles of both Secretary and Treasurer.

Each month, the Section gathers for a lunch meeting at the Tarrant County Bar Association to hear presentations on a variety of construction law topics. This year, we’ve been able to hear from the following speakers:

• James Volberding on Collecting Final Judgments

• Delta Consulting Group on Delay Damages

• Michael Alfred on Consequential Damages

• Tracey Williams on Lien and Bond Claims

• James Pruden on Preventing Design Professional Malpractice

Each of these luncheons has been well attended and provided valuable information to those in attendance. We encourage you to join us for the remaining meetings of this term to hear from the following speakers:

• April 9, 2025 – Ben Wheatley, Duane Morris LLP

• May 14, 2025 – Akshaya Iyer, Peritia Partners

• June 11, 2025 – Timothy Matheny, Peckar & Abramson, P.C.

For registration information, please contact Tracy Card at tracy@tarrantbar.org, who will provide you with the necessary links.

The Construction Law Section of the Tarrant County Bar Association was established in June 2012 with the following objectives:

• To improve communication and the practice of law in Tarrant County in related areas of Construction law;

• To develop a forum for discussion of Construction law issues among lawyers;

• To inform non-Section members of the Tarrant County Bar Association about Construction topics of interest through the sponsoring of seminars and the use of other methods; and

• To develop a forum at which Construction law specialists may speak in Tarrant County.

As we move forward, we plan to continue building on the Section’s success. Key priorities for the future include:

• Maintaining the Section’s growth and increasing participation;

• Expanding networking opportunities through additional after-hours events;

• Extending outreach to other sections of the TCBA and construction law sections across the state; and

• Continuing to provide relevant and timely educational programming for construction law professionals.

The involvement of our members is critical to achieving these goals, and we appreciate the ongoing support of all those who have participated in the Section’s events and activities. I would also like to extend our appreciation to TONER Home Performance, whose sponsorship has supported the Section this term.

As my term as Chair concludes on July 1, 2025, Ben Warden will take over as Chair, and Grant Jordan will become Vice Chair. If you are interested in serving as Secretary or Treasurer for the 2025-2026 term, please contact me at cabrown@duanemorris.com.

We encourage all attorneys in Tarrant County and beyond to join us for the remaining meetings of this term and consider becoming more involved in the Section. Your participation will contribute to the ongoing success and growth of the Section. g

MEET your board

Welcome to our "Get to Know Your TCBA Board" series! Each issue features board members answering five engaging questions about their practice, interests, and favorite activities. Discover more about the people who contribute to the success of our organization.

Featured Board Members

Lu Pham

Immediate Past President

What area(s) of law do you practice?

Employment and Business litigation

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Traveling with my family

What's your favorite TCBA event? Bench Bar

Why are you a member of the TCBA? Professional development and to connect with others in the profession

Are you a fan of any teams, and if so, who do you root for?

Unfortunately, I don’t follow sports

Mollee Westfall

TCBA Elected Director

What area(s) of law do you practice?

I handle general civil litigation, some criminal defense and licensure defense for medical professionals. I have also worked as a county government consultant and have been retained as an expert witness in a 1983 action regarding criminal justice issues. I just got a call from an elected official regarding a civil matter brought by another elected official. My practice is wide ranging.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I garden, cook, and practice yoga. I also go to the gym every weekday morning and I read quite a bit.

What's your favorite TCBA event?

The Women in the Law events are always fun.

Why are you a member of the TCBA?

I enjoy the camaraderie. I find other lawyers to be generally fun and interesting people.

Are you a fan of any teams, and if so, who do you root for?

The last time I watched sporting events was when my son played Little League, so no, not much of a sports fan.

By Sarah Hoffman, Pro Bono Programs Director

People’s Law School 2025: Legal Education for the Community

On March 8, 2025, the Tarrant County Bar Association and Tarrant County Bar Foundation hosted the 18th annual People’s Law School at the Texas A&M University School of Law. This event offers the

THANK YOU TO OUR PEOPLE'S LAW SCHOOL SPEAKERS

Jeremy Gordon Farwah Raza

Bradley Scalise

Karen Schroeder

Louis Stefanos

Lori Varnell

public a free opportunity to learn about various areas of law through short seminars. Over 60 attendees were able to choose between six sessions taught by local attorneys. 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:

LRIS averages more than more than 29 330 647

Time Frame: April 2024 – March 2025 & referrals a month

specialized practice areas from which to choose.

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. practice areas

The LRIS is pleased to announce that Daniel J. Smith has earned the title of Top Referral Attorney for TCBA's Lawyer Referral & Information Service for the period from July 1, 2024, to February 28, 2025. Smith earned $16,018.33 through his dedicated participation in our program!

Why Join LRIS?

• Maximize Your Earnings: Like Daniel, you can earn substantial rewards by offering quality referrals.

• Grow Your Practice: Connect with clients in need of your expertise and grow your client base.

• Build Your Reputation: Build valuable relationships and be recognized for your exceptional service. Lawyer Referral & Information Service News

For more details about joining LRIS, please visit www.tarrantbar.org/JoinLRIS or reach out to us at lris@tarrantbar.org.

For Attorneys, Investigators, Legal Assistants and Your Families

16 hours with CLE 3 hours of Ethics

The objective of the trip is to have an immersive, cultural experience while improving Spanish legal skills. No prior Spanish experience required. CLE will be provided in Spanish and English.

CLE will focus on linguistic and cultural differences in representation of Spanish speaking clients, as well as topics on how incorporating a variety of wellness practices into your life can enhance your professional abilities.

Attorneys will have the opportunity to visit the local Tribunales de Justicia and witness the legal process in action. Opportunity to interact with Costa Rican lawyers and will have the opportunity to visit the, Judicial College of Heredia and the San Jose Bar College.

Register at www.tarrantbar.org/Costa-Rica-2025

PASSPORT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL TRAVELERS!

Arrival date: July 6, 2025

Final hotel booking date: June 1, 2025

Early bird registration: February 1 - May 1, 2025

Final registration: June 10, 2025

For more information contact: Kara Carreras kara@fortworthdefense.com.

Hotel Information

Hotel has a 10-acre botanical garden: https://www.hb.co.cr/ Room Rates are locked for the following dates:

1. Lockdown dates July 5-18, 2025.

2. Hotel will be a 30% group discounted rate of $118.30 + taxes, per night for 1–2-person room. Breakfast is included with hotel.

3. Discount on lodging rate, single occupancy, in the type of room that the client chooses.

4. Blocking status date: May 15, 2025, must book by Room release date: June 1, 2025 for the discount.

5. Each person reserves and pays hotel directly.

6. To reserve please send email to: info@hb.co.cr and indicate that you are coming to the event scheduled by Mrs. Kara Carreras.

The Hotel Bougainvillea is an oasis of peace and tranquility.

One of the few independent hotels left in the Central Valley in Costa Rica, this well-located place overflows with personality. Ten acres of botanical gardens, art, rocks and minerals, a restaurant very much liked by locals as well as visitors, swimming pool, tennis courts, and most importantly, the people who work with us, all conspire to make the hotel a destination rather than just a stop-over.

Flight & Transportation Information

American Airlines has daily flights to the San Jose Airport, a half hour drive from Heredia, La Ciudad de las Flores. This is known as the safest city in Costa Rica. The San Jose Airport is about a half hour drive from Heredia. The airport code is SJO. Rental cars are discouraged during the CLE dates. Uber and taxis are available, and most group events have bus or van transportation. There is no place to park in town. If you want to travel to the countryside, that option will be available before or after the dates of the classes.

Group Events

Afternoon and evening group events are still being worked out. Possible things: Coffee Plantation tour, Toucan Rescue Ranch, Jazz at Riverside, Braulio Carrillo Canopy Tour. Side trips and nightlife should be fun. These are not included in any of the pricing seen on this flyer.

Why I'm Going to Costa Rica

By Kristina Voorhies Legan, Law Offices of Kristina Voorhies Legan

Growing up in the Mid Cities in the 70s and 80s, it never occurred to me that I might need to speak a language other than English. I took Spanish in high school mainly because the teacher’s husband worked with my father and the high school Spanish Club reportedly took trips to Mexico, which I thought sounded terribly exotic and adventurous. I was the first person in my family to set foot outside of the U.S. (except for my distant greatuncle Earl, but he was also the family member who ran away from home to join the circus, made his money in liquor sales, and never had children—ALL of which was frowned upon by my mother). I didn’t see how. Of course, I wasn’t planning on being a lawyer, either…

But ten years later, I found myself living on the Mexican border and starting my career practicing criminal defense. I had married a fellow UT law grad who had already accepted a job at El Paso’s biggest firm, but assured me we would only stay there for two or three years before moving back to Austin.

That was 1990.

Over the course of the thirty-odd years I lived there, the need to use Spanish in practicing law waxed and waned depending upon the practice area and clientele, but the desire to communicate effectively has only increased.

So here are my Top Ten Reasons I’m going to Costa Rica this summer (and you should, too):

10. More quetzals, fewer grackles.

9. Small group learning—no dozing off during tedious lectures here!

8. 16 hours of CLE + intensive, topic-specific Spanish vocabulary.

7. The location makes for a great (and relatively inexpensive) family vacation—wouldn’t you rather take your kids to a REAL rainforest?

6. Nonstop flights on American are about four hours. Flights on AA, United, and Southwest through IAH are still only 5-6 hours and typically about $500-$600 round-trip.

5. Hotel Bougainvillea has ten acres of breathtakingly lovely botanical gardens, visible from the dining room AND meeting rooms—for less than $120/night, including breakfast.

4. More sloths, fewer roadkill skunks.

3. Connect with colleagues from different practice areas and explore the intersection of criminal, immigration, and family law while also learning Spanish.

2. More real jungle, less concrete jungle.

1. Average daily high temperature in Heredia, Costa Rica in July? 80°F. Average daily high temperature in Fort Worth, Texas, in July? 97°F.

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IN MEMORIAM

Charles Michael Wade (Mike)

1950–2024

Wade, 73, died unexpectedly December 1, 2024 in his home in Memphis, Tennessee. He graduated from Texas A & M in 1973 before receiving his law degree from St. Mary’s Law School and admission to the Texas Bar in 1975. He practiced in Odessa for Childs Bishop and White and in Monahans before he became the District Attorney for a three county area that included Ward, Reeves, and Loving Counties. Wade later practiced law in Conroe, Fort Worth and Brownwood. He loved playing his guitar and was an avid student of history and travel. He read widely and constantly, and was passionate about his own writing, having several published short stories. He is survived by his sons Justin, Nick (Barbara) and Max, grandchildren Hunter and Audrey, siblings Catherine Rice, Melissa Wade Hunter, Stephanie Picquet and John Wade, niece Lacee Hoelting and Mike’s long-time friend Janet Sever. g Published by Legacy Remembers from Dec. 20 to Dec. 28, 2024.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mr. Eugene G. de Bullet, Jr. on January 21, 2025. Gene was one of a kind. A loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and friend - known for his kindness, quick wit and unwavering love for his family.

Gene is a Fort Worth native, growing up in the Crestwood area, graduate of Paschal High School, Texas Christian University, and St. Mary’ University School of Law. Gene loved his Fort Worth roots and he built his first home in Lake Country on Eagle Mountain Lake in 1974 after marrying Sharon Ann where he raised his family. In 1998, he finished his adored home, “The Castle,” on Eagle Mountain Lake where he happily lived for 27 years. The family memories made here with Carole, his children and grandchildren brought Gene immense joy. He skillfully and respectfully practiced law for 55 years in Fort Worth. Gene started his career in 1970 at the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office under District Attorney

Frank Coffey. Thereafter, Gene joined the Criminal Defense Firm of Brown and Beech. Two years later, Gene and Bill Wardlaw Brown formed a partnership which lasted until the late 1990's. Gene then held a solo law career for the next 25 years that he was always so proud of.

Gene had innumerable awards and distinguished achievements throughout his career. Gene was Charter President of the Tarrant County Criminal Defense Lawyers Association. He was recognized and distinguished as a Top Attorney in North America 2024-2025. He is also a member of Texas Trial Lawyers and Tarrant County Family Bar Association. He served on the Board of Directors for Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association for six years and was president of Tarrant County Criminal Bar for two years. He chaired the Tarrant County Bar Association, Criminal Law Section while at the District Attorney's Office. Gene is licensed in all Texas Courts, in Federal District (Northern and Western Districts of Texas) and in Federal Bankruptcy Court and Federal Court (Eastern District of Arkansas).

He was proud of his achievements outside of his law practice as well. He was past president of Rotary Club, Fort Worth Jaycee’s, Fort Worth Junior Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Air Power Council, Fort Worth Airpower Foundation, and Lake Country Property Owners Association. Gene was an active Rotarian and is a member of the Masonic Lodge, Julian Fields Lodge, Quiet Birdmen, Circle the Wagons, 32degree Royal Order of the Jesters, Sottish Rite Mason, and Moslah Shrine Patrol. Gene enjoyed every Ball, Dance and Fundraiser for each of these organizations over his many years of membership and service. So many of his lifelong friends were fostered from endearing moments at the incredible events created by these organizations.

Gene had fun doing just about anything and everything! He was an avid hunter of most anything that moved, but never missed a season of deer hunting for about 35 years. He and his son, Gene, hunted throughout Texas, Montana, Colorado, Alaska and Africa and proudly displayed his kills throughout his home and office, especially the large, mounted Mountain Lion staring back at you or the bear rug that seemed so lifelike.

He also thoroughly loved his Cris Craft Cruisers that we fondly referred to as his “Big Boats”, but he had several “jet boats” in the 80’s that just were loud and fast then to the Fountains of the 90's that were blow your shirt off fast. He loved taking his family and friends out on Eagle Mountain Lake to Fort Worth Boat Club and Harbor One. One of his favorite holidays was the 4th of July where he could entertain family and friends alike at his lake home and then on the boat while admiring the fireworks.

Gene also had a lavish love for fast cars. No doubt his visit

Eugene G. De Bullet, Jr. 1943–2025

to the Ferrari dealership in Italy was a highlight of his lifegrins from ear to ear. So many fun and exhilarating memories of the Corvettes, Aston Martins, Lamborghinis, and Ferrari’s, especially piling Courtney and her friends into the Ferrari after a softball game.

One of Gene’s grandest loves were his airplanes. Gene attained his pilot's license at a young age and wanted to be up in the sky as often as he could. He happily flew his Cessnas, Mitsubishi M2, Aerostar or King Air with his trusty co-pilots, Courtney, Gene or Sharon, across the skies of Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Colorado, Florida and Mexico to go snow skiing, hunting or just out to dinner. Additionally, some highlights of Gene’s flying adventures were with his dear cousins, Zac and Rusty Russom. Mexico and Central America never knew a dull moment with these Three Amigos!

Gene loved being an alum of TCU and was so proud his daughter, Courtney, also became a TCU alum. He was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity at TCU. Gene attended many TCU alumni events over the years and loved cheering the Frogs on at football games - “Riff, Ram, Bah Zoo....Give ’em Hell, TCU!”

Another great love of Gene’s was tennis which he had played since junior high - Gene loved playing at a competitive level. He so loved watching his son, Gene, play tennis for so many years, from a young boy to college in Oklahoma. Gene is thrilled his grandson, Grant, is an avid tennis player - this brought such great joy to Gene's heart.

Gene was an ultimate animal lover too. From Captain, the German Shepard, Toby, the Irish Setter, Atila, the Samoyed, or his energetic, Bandit, the Husky, to Korlea, the first family cat, and then his many adored blue point Siamese. But the standout feline, his most beloved blue point Siamese, Pretties, was more like a dear service animal and friend to him these past couple years. Pretties spent most of each day in Gene's lap keeping him smiling and comforted.

He adored genealogy, and it led him to learn so many interesting details regarding the Russom, Smith, Pope, Price, Buchanon and de Bullet families. Family history was a legacy for Gene and he was proud to have French, Scottish, German and British heritage. He has so many treasured family heirlooms that would make him smile just thinking about it. However, his most cherished heirlooms are his grandchildren. He had such a special connection with each. He loved that Grace could beat him in Gin Rummy and spar intellectually; Grant was his tennis protégé and tv buddy; Shae was the vibrant little one that would smile and get Papa to do just about anything including the last vacation to the Bahamas; and Jackson and Carson, his precious twin grandsons, that he enjoyed so many jokes, sports games, movies and ultimately trips to Braum’s with for ice cream. These grandkids are going to miss him!

Gene was preceded in death by his angel, Sharon Ann de

Bullet; and his parents, Bessie Russom de Bullet and Eugene de Bullet, Sr.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole; his darling daughter, Courtney Smith and her husband, Christopher Smith and three grandchildren, Grace, Grant, and Shae; his dear son, Eugene de Bullet III and two grandchildren, Jackson and Carson; stepdaughters, Ladonna Bruce, Candice Aubuchon and her husband, Kevin, and Courtney Hailey Smith and her husband, Blair, with grandson, Conley.

Gene’s enduring spirit and commitment to those he loved serve as a testament to the extraordinary man he was. His spirit loved deeply and cared deeply. His humor ran deep and he lovingly teased others. He touched countless lives with his vibrant nature and unwavering support, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. He will be deeply missed, yet lovingly remembered by all whose lives he graced. End of an era most surely.

Published by Legacy on Feb. 4, 2025.

Judge R. Brent Keis 1952–2025

Brent was raised in Weatherford, TX on a farm with his parents and older brother, Tom. After graduating from Weatherford High School in 1970 Brent went on to attend the University of Texas Law School receiving a J.D. with honors. In 1976 he joined the United States Navy and was active duty 1976-1979 serving in the Judge Advocate General's Corp (J.A.G.), honorably discharged in1990 as Lieutenant Commander, US Naval Reserve.

Brent enjoyed a career as an Attorney in Fort Worth, TX and in 1989 was appointed to the bench, County Court at Law No 1 by then Governor, Bill Clements, and served until his retirement in 2010. As well as his law career, Brent was active in local theater including co-writing “Heroes Left Behind” which was produced and ran at Stage West the 1986-1987 season. In 2004 after attending night and weekend classes Brent received his MA in Lay Ministries from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.

IN MEMORIAM

In 1980, Judge Brent Keis was raised as a Master Mason in Handley Lodge, No. 1140 A.F.&A.M. He later affiliated with Sunrise Daylight Lodge No. 1433 A.F. & A.M. where he served as Marshal for four years. In 2009, Judge Keis received his Scottish Rite Degrees becoming a 32° Master Mason. In the Fort Worth Scottish Rite Bodies, Judge Keis was an endowed member and had taken part on the 15th and 17th Degree Teams.

In addition to being referred to by many as the smartest man in the room he was also the funniest. Brent had a story, followed by his distinctive laugh, for every occasion. Every story was told in a way to connect to a crowd or ease a friend or family member in a time of stress or just because he was sitting around the table on a Saturday night.

All the above being true, his greatest accomplishments were being Dad, G-dad, friend, and always the man you could and did trust with your life. He was brutally honest but always followed with endless generosity to everyone he knew. To say that he will be missed is an understatement, for many, his seat next to them will forever be empty.

Brent is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Marjorie Keis and his grandson Michael Brent Hunter. He is survived by his brother Tom Keis, daughter Cindy Hunter and husband Charlie, Granddaughter Morgan Palmer and husband David, Granddaughter Ashley Hunter, Grandson Atticus Ama, great grandchildren Madalynn and Elijah Palmer and his forever friend Linda Trice. g

Published on Legacy.com by Danekas Funeral Chapel & Crematory - Colville on Feb. 7, 2025.

Elizabeth “Betty” Hurdle Marshall passed away peacefully at home in

Dripping Springs, Texas with her partner and family at her side, on February 14, 2025, at the age of 78, from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A talented lawyer and writer, loving mother, doting grandmother, and witty and supportive friend, Betty was steadfastly committed to doing what was right and touched countless lives through kindness, generosity, and a legal career devoted to fairness and justice.

Betty was the daughter of Junius Philip Hurdle and Barbara Helen Tew Hurdle. She was born on October 7, 1946 in Rochester, New York and raised in the nearby village of Fairport. After receiving a high school diploma with honors from Fairport High School in 1964, she earned a B.A. in English from William Smith College in Geneva, New York in

1968. In college, she was the editor of the school newspaper, and after college worked in the public relations offices of Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Hamilton College, and Brown University.

After having two children and moving to Texas, Betty attended SMU Law School, where she received her J.D. in 1984. Following law school, she worked as a briefing attorney for Judge John Hill at the Fort Worth Court of Appeals and then served as an appellate attorney and chief of the appellate section for the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office and, later in Austin, as Assistant State Attorney for the Office of the Prosecuting Attorney. She was board certified in criminal law, a member of the State Bar College, and was a frequent speaker on criminal law and evidence for the State Bar of Texas and the Texas District & County Attorney Association. She proudly worked on cutting edge legal issues, like using DNA evidence in criminal cases.

Betty was active in the Tarrant County Democratic Party for many years, including volunteer work with United States Representative Martin Frost, and she campaigned statewide as the Democratic candidate for a seat on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals in 1994. The campaign was a family affair with her college- and high school-aged children David and Sarah attending events with her, drafting letters to organizations, and mailing bumper stickers to supporters.

Betty loved watching baseball, reading about archeology, researching family history, and reading murder mysteries. She was a Texas Rangers season ticket holder and fan of Longhorn football and baseball. For years, she meticulously documented the family lineage and often on road trips would have the whole family visit a local cemetery to find a family gravesite. Her murder mystery collection, carefully arranged in alphabetical order, is likely unrivaled, filling many, many bookcases, along with countless history and archeology books.

She was the widow of C. Chris Marshall, a fellow Assistant Criminal District Attorney who was shot and killed on July 1, 1992 as a bystander attending oral arguments at the Fort Worth Court of Appeals in the Tarrant County Courthouse. She was also preceded in death by two of her brothers, Philip Hurdle and William Hurdle.

Betty is survived by her devoted partner Dan Roark, who selflessly cared for Betty as COPD took its toll. She is also survived by her children, David Philip Stanton and Sarah Renee Holland; five grandchildren Isabel Stanton, Philip Stanton, Edith Holland, Doris Holland, and Simon Holland; and her brother Robert Hurdle. g

Published on Austin American Statesman website on Feb. 19, 2025.

Elizabeth Hurdle

L. Clifford Davis

1924–2025

LClifford Davis, esteemed Judge, acclaimed and historical attorney in civil rights and desegregation litigation, Family and Civil Law practitioner, enduring advocate for public service, community and civic engagement, dedicated family man, faithful parishioner, church leader and Mentor of many, passed beyond the Vale of Tears on February 15, 2025, at the age of 100, leaving a legacy of service and dedication.

Davis was born in 1924 to the parentage of Augustus and Dora Davis, in Wilton (Little River County), a farm community in southwest Arkansas. His parents owned a small farm and rented additional land to cultivate. The children were taught Christian values, to work, manage their time, income and assets, and to love, and support each other. With parents as role models, Davis and his siblings learned about an entrepreneurial mindset and self-sufficiency. Their parents were advocates for education; due to restrictions on secondary education for African Americans in the County, they ultimately rented a home in Little Rock, Arkansas, so that the children could go there, live together and attend high school, with the supervision of their fraternal aunt, Mary Kelley. Six of the seven children finished Dunbar High School in Little Rock and with Davis being the youngest of the seven, he also moved there in his teens to complete his high school years at Dunbar. All his beloved siblings have preceded him in death.

Davis graduated from Dunbar in January 1942, and Philander Smith College in May 1945 with his bachelor's degree. He entered the illustrious Howard University Law School the year 1945-46 then attended Atlanta University to study economics 1946-47 while he sought admission to the University of Arkansas Law School. During this period, when the law school considered his conditional admission based on discriminatory financial requisites and separate instruction practices, Davis declined the offer yet set in motion opportunity to crack open the door for admission of blacks to the university’s various professional schools without court litigation. He returned to Howard in the fall of 1947, graduated in June 1949, and was admitted to the Arkansas Bar in July 1949, to start his legal practice the next month. Under the tutelage of Attorney Harold Flowers in Pine Bluff, Davis began to focus his early career on civil rights and desegregation litigation.

In 1952, Davis moved to Texas and taught business courses at Paul Quinn College in Waco while establishing residency in Texas to take the Texas Bar. He was admitted to

the Texas Bar in 1953, came to Fort Worth to practice in 1954. He opened the first solo practice for a black lawyer, in the historic downtown 9th Street business district, as a branch office partnered with Dallas legal trailblazers C.B. Bunkley and Louis A. Bedford.

Davis was married to his striking, dear wife, Ethel R. Weaver Davis, for 59 years, who preceded him in death in 2015; to this union, two daughters, Avis and Karen, were born.

Judge Davis’ preeminent marker on the North Texas community was in the pursuit of equality, where he played a pivotal role in desegregating the public schools of Mansfield and Fort Worth Independent School Districts.

He had been an active advocate for civil rights, in Arkansas and Texas, working for integration in the public schools, opening wider job opportunities, elections participation and holding public office among minorities, as well as for open housing and “civil responsibility” for the greater good and welfare of our communities’ total population. Elected as the first black judge of a (state) district court in Tarrant County in 1984, he served two decades as a District Judge, including service as a Senior Visiting Judge before retirement.

Judge Davis has garnered several dozens legal, civic, and community service awards. His 100th centenary year in 2024 was marked with dozens more “Lifetime Achievement” and “Legal Legend” awards. Culminating on his birthday, October 12, 2024, the greater DFW community applauded wildly his commitment, contributions, and community spirit.

Published by Star-Telegram from Feb. 21 to Feb. 26, 2025.

Peggy Martindale 1954–2025

Peggy L. Martindale, 70, born on September 26, 1954, took her last breath of Texas air, and her first breath of Heaven’s air on March 19, 2025, while surrounded by loved ones. Though our hearts ache at all that we will miss, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace and in perfect health in the presence of the Lord and the loved ones who welcomed her home.

If you had the pleasure of knowing Peggy, you know she was loving, gracious, generous, and full of laughter. She was so smart, kind-hearted, and never spoke an unkind word about anyone. Her love for life was undeniable, but her love for family and friends was even greater. She expressed this

IN MEMORIAM

love in every hug, every song, every brownie she baked, and every cherished moment spent with those she loved.

Peggy grew up on the Northside of Fort Worth and graduated from Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School in 1973. She married the love of her life, Paul, in 1982, and enjoyed 34 beautiful years together. She put herself through college, earning a Master’s Degree in Library Science from Texas Women’s University. She dedicated many years to the Tarrant County Law Library, where she was not only a valuable resource to many but also a dear friend to those she worked with and served.

No matter who you were—lifelong friend, grocery store clerk, or closest family—if you asked how she was doing she’d always smile and say, “I’m persevering,” and upon parting ways, she’d encourage you to do the same.

Peggy lived a beautiful, full life, always seeking ways to serve and uplift others. Her laughter was infectious—a deep, joyous belly laugh that we will miss terribly.

Peggy is preceded in death by her husband, Paul L Martindale, her parents, John and Fay Luttrell, her brother James Luttrell and sister-in-law, Karen Luttrell, brothers-inlaw, Doyle Tubbs, Joe Martindale, John Martindale and Bobby Martindale, and her great-grandson Ezra Naquin.

Survivors: daughter, Mendy Knight and husband, Darrell; grandchildren, Jacob Freeman Knight and wife, Maddison; Joshua Knight and wife, Sierra, Isaac Knight and wife, Shelby; Mykah Knight Naquin and husband, Graham; great-grandchildren; Shepherd Naquin, Doc Knight, Joplin Cole, Merrit Knight; stepson, Eric Martindale; brother-in-law, Jimmy Martindale and wife, Katherine; co-parent, Kimbra Middleton; best friends; Marie Tenant, Neva Martindale Brink and Barbara Martindale; sister, Joy Tubbs; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins; wonderful caretaker, Maria Garcia and a host of lifelong friends, too many to name.

While we grieve her absence, we take comfort in knowing that she is now singing with the angels in Heaven’s choir. In her last act of giving, Peggy chose to donate her body to science, always looking for a way to give back. g

Published by Star-Telegram from Mar. 26 to Mar. 27, 2025.