Tulsa Lawyer Magazine June 2018

Photo by Harry Lentz, Jr.

2

A Message from

Christina Vaughn

In this Issue TULSA LAWYER

June 2018

Candidate Profiles for the Election of TCBA Officers & Delegates

2017-2018 TCBA President

Voting Information

• You will have the option to cast your vote online or via paper ballot.

• June 7, 2018 the TCBA will send out an email to all eligible voting members which will allow them to cast their vote electronically.

• Paper ballots are available upon request, contact the TCBA for details.

• All ballots must be received on or before 5:00pm, June 14, 2018 • Results will be announced June 15th.

• Candidate Profiles also available at www.tulsabar.com

2

Judicial Survey

8

The Public Advocacy Award - Becki Murphy

10 Profiles of TCBA Officer Candidates 19 Profiles of OBA Delegate Candidates 25 Liberty Bell Award - Popsey Floyd 26 100 Years Film Presentaion: A Review 27 The Will-Brunton CLE Award - Philip Feist 29 Mock Trial: The Three Bears Prevail, Again 30 Law Day Book Club Commences 32 A Book Review by Judge Theresa Dreilng Snow Falling on Cedars 34 Celebrating Law Week - In Pictures 35 Sandra Day O'Connor Award - Kathy Rutherford

2018 Golf Tourney Review 36 The Animal Law Committee

Katy Inhofe, Chair 37 Naturalization Ceremony

Whitney Webb 38 Grapevine 40 Classifieds

@tulsabar Tulsa Lawyer 1

2018 Judicial Survey – June Primary Results By: Ned Dismukes & Michael P. Taubman

EDITOR’S NOTE – To save space and page count for the Tulsa Lawyer Magazine to publish the results of the Judicial Survey and the Candidate Profiles for TCBA Officer Candidates, President Christina Vaughan graciously agreed to forego publication of her President’s Letter for the month of June. Look for her letter to return in July’s issue.

For the Judicial Survey, the respondents were contacted via e-mail, using their email address registered with the Member Director on the Oklahoma Bar Association website.

The survey was conducted online through SurveyMonkey.com from April 27 to May 16, 2018 in order to have results in time for the June publication of Tulsa Lawyer Magazine. The results published below are only the responses of candidates who will appear on the June 24, 2018 primary ballot. Responses are published in the order received for each race. For reference, the questions employed in the survey were as follows:

Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4:

Current Occupation &/or Position Held?

Law degree(s) from which institution(s)?

Years in the practice of law?

If you answered above that you are currently a Judge, for which docket(s) do you have responsibility? Otherwise if you are are not a Judge, what area(s) do you focus on in your practice?

Q5: Civic involvement and community service related activities you regularly participate with in serving others?

Q6: Briefly describe the topic areas in which you regularly teach, lecture, or publish in regard to the practice of law or another subject area.

Q7: Good management skills are important in order to be productive administrators of the court. What strengths will you rely upon to manage the court's docket and proceedings in the courtroom if elected or re-elected?

Q8: When considering the future of our judicial system, what changes would you advocate to see and why?

Q9: Please describe the key attributes you bring to the bench that you believe are important in the role of judge. Can you give an example of when you employed these attributes to successfully resolve a conflict?

Q10: Numerically describe below your work in terms of the percentage that is devoted to or total number of cases conducted, as asked to respond: 1 Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Arbitration / Mediation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

2 Tulsa Lawyer

% % % # # # #

District 14, Office 1 – Keith McArtor Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5:

Attorney - Private Practice University of Tulsa College of Law 20+ years Civil, criminal and juvenile litigation.

Tulsa Metropolitan Ministry, President; Centenary United Methodist Church, Pastor; Will Rogers Rotary Club; formerly Oklahoma Human Rights Commission; Tulsa Interfaith Alliance; Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission; Instructor, Tulsa Community College.

Q6: I preach and teach weekly in the Christian church;

and have, in the past, taught in the areas of

government and religion.

Q7: I serve presently as a municipal judge in Ramona, Oklahoma and have experience in docket management; I have managed my own business for nineteen years and I have managed non profit organizations both past and present.

Q8: Equalizing the work load among judges and divisions; considering combining docket responsibilities among judges; reducing the bond schedule for non violent offenders to enable them to make bond, freeing space in the county jail, and reducing the load on the public defender's office.

Q9: Listening to all sides, being fair and impartial, knowing the law and following it. As a municipal judge, I apply these habits regularly, trying to balance the strict enforcement of the law and the need for justice with the needs of the litigants involved.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

66% 20% 200 45 10

Any answer to a sub-part of Question 10 where a respondent entered “0” has been stricken from publication for space considerations.

1

District 14, Office 1 - Judge Caroline Wall

District 14, Office 1 – Tom Sawyer

Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4:

Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5:

Judge, Tulsa County District Court Loyola University of Chicago 20+ years I'm assigned a civil docket, and I have 4 years of experience in the civil division. I served as Chief of Civil Division 2017. Previously, I served as Chief of Criminal Division, and I have 4 years of felony district court judicial experience.

Q5: Please see www.judgewall.com for more information. I am a lifelong community volunteer, focusing on faith, families, women, children, education and veterans.

Some examples of organizations are: Girl Scouts, Juliette Low Leadership Society, Resonance Center for Women Board Member, Downtown Rotary Club of Tulsa, Federalist Society, Marine Corps League, Junior League of Tulsa, First Methodist Church of Tulsa, Catholic Charities.

Q6: Civil Discovery, Procedure and Disputes. Mentoring: actively engaged in mentoring law students; Public speaking on Constitutional Issues, Jury Trials, and the Oklahoma Judicial System.

Q7: Over eight (8) years of District Court Judicial experience in Civil and Felony Division has allowed me to develop and refine practices in maintaining the stability, consistency and efficiency of docket management, motion practice and interpersonal skills, dealing with both juries and members of the bar.

Q8: As a sitting Judge, I apply the law as enacted. Under my oath of office, I cannot advocate for specific changes that may impact cases and controversies that may come before me.

Q9: Judicial demeanor; Control of the courtroom; Promoting civility in litigation; Docket management; reading briefs; oral argument; setting motion dockets. I started setting motion dockets at the request of senior attorneys to provide new lawyers the opportunity to improve their practical skills through indirect mentoring. Participation in motion practice serves a tool for learning from more seasoned practitioners through direct observation and engagement.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

Attorney - Government or Public Service Loyola Law School, Los Angeles 10-14 years Criminal Prosecution I support a variety of charitable organizations each year. The organizations regularly support are the Tulsa Zoo and Crisis Pregnancy Outreach. I also spend time is spent being actively involved in my three children's school and sport activities. Additionally, I am an engaged member of my church.

Q6: Although I don't regularly teach, lecture, or publish articles, I avidly study the law to ensure I know it, understand and up on the latest ruling and new statutes.

Q7: I feel I am qualified due to my ability to make making fair and swift decisions. Through my professional experiences of our currently docket system I am able to acknowledge the issues and do my due diligence to improve the performance of all areas to ensure is runs smoother and more efficiently.

Q8: I’ve worked in both the private and the public sector.

I have built a reputation on honest work, integrity and knowledge in my field. I respect the law and the constitution and believe it should be upheld without emotion. I'd advocate fairness in the judicial process to ensure all participants rights are protected.

Q9: Though I show qualities of firmness, compassion and understanding, my biggest attribute is self-awareness.

My open-mindedness and humility help me to recognize when not to be swayed by my emotions and uphold the ethical responsibility it takes to a fair judge.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

100% 1 10

100% 5 100

Survey answers continued on next page...

Tulsa Lawyer 3

District 14, Office 3 – Judge James M. Caputo Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5: Q6: Q7:

Judge, Tulsa County District Court University of Tulsa 15-19 years Criminal Felony Docket Legally Pink; Special Olympics Constitutional Law I have developed a very successful docket management allowing both defendants and litigators opportunity to move cases satisfactorily through the system.

Q8: More diversion programs for male offenders.

Q9: I read all pleadings, give litigants the opportunity to be heard, be familiar with the law and make expeditious decisions.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

20% 80% 120 112 6

Q5: Q6: Q7:

Q8:

Q9:

Attorney - Government or Public Service University of Tulsa 20+ years General practice, first 20 years, Family and Estate Law next 20 years. Simultaneously, State Government legal experience 23 years Past President, Tulsa Jaycees and Hugh O'Brian Youth Foundation, active in Church ministry Taught seminars and Published articles relating to my legislative service.

Management Highlights: Successful sole practitioner in private practice for 20+ years. Currently manage legal department in Governor's office, successfully managed Tulsa Jaycees and a Youth foundation made up of community volunteers. Successful management as Floor Leader in Oklahoma Senate.

Our judicial system needs to constantly explore ways to be more efficient in the use of the Court's time, lawyer's time , and litigant's time. Every individual who has contact with the judicial system should be treated with dignity and respect. Lawyer's must be expected to be civil in their advocacy.

I believe I have a good judicial temperament, have good management skills, have successful ability to resolve conflicts, and a strong work ethic. I have used

4 Tulsa Lawyer

Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

85% 15% 180 30

District 14, Office 3 – Tracy Priddy Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: .Q5:

112

District 14, Office 3 – James A. Williamson Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4:

these skills to successfully resolve many, many cases without trial.

Q10: Responses:

Q6: Q7:

Q8:

Attorney - Private Practice University of Tulsa College of Law 20+ years I practice in the area of civil litigation and trials including personal and catastrophic injuries, damage to property and professional liability.

I am an active member and volunteer at South Tulsa Baptist Church serving on the hospitality committee, participating in missions and volunteering at the Ministry Center in west Tulsa. I served as the chair of the acquisition committee for the annual dinner auction for the Jenks Public Schools Foundation. I was the parent representative for Jenks girls 7th grade volleyball team last fall and member of the Jenks Volleyball Booster Club participating in fundraising activities.

I have presented on topics related to civil litigation including the use of social media in civil cases and the use of medical records in personal injury cases.

I am a proponent of getting things done and moving matters along. As a trial attorney, efficient and decisive case management is required. This is accomplished by identifying the direction and strategy of the case at the beginning and setting goals for task completion through final disposition. Formulating and working within a budget is an essential function of my practice and a valuable skill for a productive administrator.

Working well with others and showing respect for those you work with and those you oppose are also important skills I will bring to the bench. Finally, I have always been willing to take the time to mentor other attorneys I work with and also Iearn new and better practices from others which leads to successful results for clients.

The judicial system is designed to serve a vital public function and I believe the public deserves to have trust and confidence that the system is going to serve the ends of a timely and just result. I would like to see the judicial system continue in its efforts to be more effective and efficient in disposing cases through the use of alternative solutions to incarceration and methods of resolving disputes, integrating current and helpful technology and training employees to better

perform their particular jobs. When alternative solutions, updated technology and efficient human capital can direct matters to early disposition, judges can focus efforts on matters that must be resolved through litigation and trial. When judges are allowed to devote the time and resources to be more engaged in the discovery and trial process of certain cases, the result is going to be just, fair and more timely for all involved.

Q9: Integrity, temperament and work ethic are three key attributes that are important to the role of judge.

Endeavoring to do the right thing in a professional and diligent manner each and every day will circumvent most conflict or result in quick resolution of conflict should it arise. On my desk is small clipping of Rule 1.1.2 of the Rules for Professional Conduct which states in part, "a lawyer's word should be his or her

bond. We will not knowingly misstate, distort or improperly exaggerate any fact, opinion or legal authority, and will not improperly permit our silence or inaction to mislead anyone." This standard should guide all dealings for lawyers and judges. Coupled with good communication skills and respect for all people will result in the successful handling of any potential conflict.

Although not a specific single example, I enjoy a reputation as a successful litigator within the legal community. I have encountered conflict at times due to the nature of litigation, but have been able to resolve most conflicts without the need for court intervention or ongoing problems with opposing counsel because I adhere to this standard of conduct, utilize appropriate temperament and work hard to prepare and resolve my cases.

Q10: Responses:

Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

75% 25% 80 65

District 14, Office 12 – Rick D. Westcott Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5: Q6:

Attorney – Private Practice University of Tulsa 20+ years *Respondent skipped this question* Sand Springs Pogue Airport Advisory Board In the past, I've written the curriculum for the Pre-Law program at ORU and taught American Constitutional Law, Criminal Procedure, American

Jurisprudence, Civil Liberties and Civil Rights, American Government and American History.

Q7: Experience as the Coordinator of the Government Department at ORU, managing other Professors and their classes, nine years experience as a solopractitioner managing an insurance defense practice.

Q8: Our judicial system works well, I don't think the system needs major changes. Individual judges must make sure they properly manage their own dockets, that they are fully briefed on all cases before calling a motion docket.

Q9: I served six years on the Tulsa City Council and managed conflicting opinions on a daily basis, listening to all sides and reaching decisions that were in the best interests of all citizens. I helped make decisions on issues from small neighborhood zoning issues to properly allocating hundreds of millions of dollars in the city budget. I've handled approximately 30 jury trials in my practice. I've written and taught university classes on American Constitutional Law and Criminal Procedure.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

100% 30 30

District 14, Office 12 – Judge Martha Rupp

Carter Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4:

Judge, Tulsa County District Court University of Oklahoma, College of Law 20+ years Since June 2017, I conduct the Protective Order docket.

I have served four other dockets during my tenure as a Special Judge, Family, Small Civil, and Preliminary Hearings.

Q5: For the last four or five years, my civic involvement and community service activities originate through the Law Day Committee of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. Over the years, I have conducted The Three Bears v. Gold E. Locks mock trial for various elementary school students. Attorneys and court staff play the roles and student "jurors" are selected to deliberate on whether or not Gold E. Locks used good manners. This year, the mock trial was performed for three third grade classes of Elliott Elementary School for about 65 students. I volunteer in civics classroom programs, most recently in Owasso High School.

Over a period of years, I have also volunteer with the Community Outreach Committee at the Community

Survey answers continued on next page...

Tulsa Lawyer 5

Q6:

Q7:

Q8:

Q9:

Food Bank and the Day Center for the Homeless in addition on various committees of the Tulsa County Bar Association.

During my service as City Attorney for the City of Tulsa and in the Legal Department, I wrote articles and lectured on a number of topics related to local government legal issues, including client confidentiality, open records, open public meetings, records retention, and attorney fees in civil rights litigation. I have made presentations to the Oklahoma Association of Municipal Attorneys, the Oklahoma Bar Association and the Tulsa County Bar Association for continuing legal education programs. The Oklahoma Bar Journal published articles that I researched and wrote on public health topics including public health powers in emergency planning. I programmed and facilitated a day-long seminar for the Oklahoma Bar Association on various public health issues, drawing upon a number of other speakers. I am one of four authors of a book published on history of attorneys in Tulsa over one hundred years for the centennial celebration of the Tulsa County Bar Association titled Building Tulsa, Lawyers at Work.

As a judge, I daily draw upon my curiosity to understand the facts presented and to understand and apply the law that applies to those facts. As my present docket is often large and my courtroom full, often with litigants who are representing themselves, I also draw upon patience and compassion to treat everyone fairly while also moving their cases efficiently so that everyone can be heard. This is a daily balance to attain. A judge must provide a fair hearing while being efficient to manage and handle the entire docket. My years of judicial service have allowed me to develop necessary skills to do this. I rely upon skills of courtesy, respect, diligence, control of myself and the courtroom, dedication and timely decision making.

I believe the Court should dedicate more resources to dockets such as Small Claims, Guardianships, and Protective Orders. Many pro se, unrepresented, persons appear on these dockets and the numbers of cases on these dockets are high and significant. For some, this may be their only court experience. Access to justice is a murky path for these individuals. Their lack of understanding of the legal process and the difficulties they encounter can create a lack of confidence in the judicial system.

I am curious and have become a good listener, observer. and thinker in considering the cases before me. In addition, I am a hard worker, putting in the hours and sometimes extra hours needed to do the work. I am dedicated to finding the correct solution. I am calm, respectful, and also firm when necessary in dealing with attorneys and parties before me. I daily use these skills on my docket, at present the Protective Order

6 Tulsa Lawyer

docket. Often the persons before me are traumatized and stressed. Some are not well suited because of that stress to present their cases. I resolve those cases as fairly as possible with careful listening and observation of both parties as well as striving to understand their situations with follow-up and guiding questions. I use these attributes every day in handling every case I hear.

Q10: Responses:

Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Arbitration / Mediation Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

50% 50% 10% 100 15 700 15

District 14, Office 12 – Judge Stephen Clark Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5:

Judge, Tulsa County District Court University of Tulsa College of Law 20+ years Domestic Relations Volunteer, Director and officer of various not for profits and volunteer at Tulsa Public Schools.

Q6: *Respondent skipped this question* Q7: I am well organized and make effective use of the resources available to efficiently and effectively manage the large, demanding docket assigned to me.

Q8: Docket size and volume must be brought under control.

If additional Judges are not an option then the system needs to provide additional assistance to the existing judges. Workloads could be reduced by having each judge assigned a legal assistant or Research Assistant.

Q9: Integrity, Civility, Judicial Temperament, Experience and Diligence. These characteristics are necessary every day at every docket call.

Q10: Responses: If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

600 4

District 14, Associate Judge – Adam Weintraub Q1: Attorney - Private Practice Q2: JD--University of Oklahoma; Certificate in Mediation-Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University Q3: 20+ years

Q4: My practice includes personal injury; insurance disputes and bad faith; serving in the role of "general counsel" for local businesses; signal piracy; and, general civil litigation. I serve as Special Assistant Attorney General to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Additionally, I am an Adjunct Settlement Judge for the Northern District of Oklahoma.

Q5: I have served on various boards of directors, including those of Temple Israel, Heritage Academy, Schusterman Jewish Community Center, and the Brooktowne Homeowner's Association. Additionally, I have provided pro bono advice for the past 12 years as "Attorney Adam" on local media outlets including Mix 96, KRMG, Talk Radio 1170, and 2News Works for You. Q6: I have taught continuing education classes to insurance professionals based on my self-published insurance law update, "Weintraub on Oklahoma."

Q7: Managing a docket is not dissimilar to managing the resources of our firm. One must take into account the sometimes competing needs of the partners, the requirements of the cases and courts, the expectations of the clients, and the abilities of the staff, in order to evaluate how to effectively allocate resources; then, decisions need to be delivered in such a way that the team can achieve the best outcome and then move to the next project. Similarly, in managing a docket, one should take into account the competing input from the lawyers regarding the scope of the case and its requirements, balancing those points with the need to effectively move cases towards resolution, whether by trial, ADR, motion practice, or some other closure. My ability to listen to the information being presented to me and my ability to assimilate that information into a plan of action, coupled with my general good humor and disposition, will allow me to effectively manage the court's docket and proceedings.

Q8: Perhaps because of my training in mediation, I believe ADR is underutilized as a tool to resolve issues.

Additionally, I believe that the expenses of litigation are effectively moving the right of jury trial beyond the reach of most individuals and small businesses.

Perhaps cases of a certain size could be streamlined with simplified or limited discovery in order to manage the time and expense of trial.

Q9: There are several attributes that I hold which I believe are central to the role of judge. First, my ability to listen, not only with my head but also my heart, allows me to assimilate information to come to an understanding of what is being said--and not said. Second, my ability to come to a decision allows me to move from point to point without constantly having to revisit and relitigate issues. Further, my 28 years of experience as a trial lawyer and mediator, handling matters including

criminal trials, juvenile adjudications, civil litigation and trials, and general office practice has given me a depth of experience which allows me to see what each side is trying to accomplish. Finally, my training as a mediator gives me insight into how to effectively communicate with conflicting sides in order to bring their issues to a successful resolution. It is not at all unusual in my mediation practice and my work as an Adjunct Settlement Judge to bring to closure cases where the parties did not realize that they had mutual reasons to settle their differences.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Arbitration / Mediation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

88% 2% 10% 25 25

District 14, Associate Judge – Judge Cliff Smith Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5: Q6: Q7: Q8:

Judge, Tulsa County District Court University of Kansas 20+ years Domestic Violence and Felony Domestic Preliminary Hearings St. Catherine, where my family attends, hosts a monthly Community Supper at no cost to attendees. It serves the entire west side community.

I have taught several practical guides type CLE's for newer attorneys over the years.

My primary strength is having efficiently managed a docket for nearly 20 years.

More than ever, Judge's are mandated to consider a wide range of sentencing options that look beyond simple incarceration. Until these alternatives are made a priority for funding, they remain largely ideological rather than achievable goals.

Survey answers continued on next page...

Tulsa Lawyer 7

Q9: I am above all, a practical thinker. Having the patience to actively listen and understanding likely outcomes are essential attributes to conflict resolution. I have the advantage of a rather long track record which builds trust from the parties. I honestly can't count the number of times I've brought attorneys back to chambers, in the middle of a hearing, and brokered an agreed resolution.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

If you are currently a judge, number of bench trials conducted?

If you are currently a judge, number of jury trials conducted?

100% 1000% 100 100 1000 50

District 14, Associate Judge – Brian Crain Q1: Q2: Q3: Q4: Q5:

Attorney - Private Practice University of Tulsa 20+ years *Respondent skipped this question* Former State Senator Rotary Club of Tulsa Tulsa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Q6: Title, real property, trust and Probate Q7: Procedurally, a judge must recognize that the work will always continue to come before him. He has an obligation

to review the pleadings and render his decision in a timely manner so that the case may proceed. Don't allow a matter to be delayed is an important management skill for any judge.

Q8: The method by which information is passed today is moving from the written word to that provided orally via video. In response to that, I would advocate that we explore access to the courtroom via video. Obviously, that will require a list of restrictions and conditions.

However, I believe that the access to the courthouse be the average citizen would be enhanced by such an change.

Q9: During my years in the Senate, most of my time was spent reading in preparation and research on pending legislation. This allowed me to be well informed on those issues which concerned Tulsa County and the direction of our State. Unfortunately, this is a long held habit and not one which lends itself to examples. However, such effort led me to be an advocate or an opponent of measures for no other reason than I had a firm grasp of the issue.

Q10: Responses: Civil litigation?

Criminal litigation?

Arbitration / Mediation?

Number of cases tried to verdict?

Number of cases tried to juries?

90% 5% 5% 25 5

The Public Advocacy Award - Becki Murphy

On April 5th, Tulsa Adoption Attorney Becki Murphy issued an open letter to Oklahoma Legislators. She said she would be coming with 100 other female attorneys to meet with legislators and explore ways to collectively resolve the education funding crisis. She gave her personal phone number and requested legislators call her to schedule a meeting for march day. She also issued the following legendary edict: “Let me be clear about thing, we need change. And you will do it, or you have my word…one of the 100 women by my side will file for your seat…and we will do it for you.” She ended by saying, “We will be the women in black. You will see us coming.”

As a result, roughly 200 female attorneys descended upon the state capitol of Oklahoma to stand by teachers, with the purpose of finding a real solution to the education system funding crisis in Oklahoma. Later that week, a record number of people filed to run for public office, including some attorneys. Becki Murphy led this charge of “Girl Attorneys” and continues to lead the effort in finding real, sustainable solutions to this crisis.

8 Tulsa Lawyer

Becki is a graduate of the University of Tulsa School of Law and former Tulsa County assistant district attorney.

Since 2010, Becki has been advocating for foster and adoptive parents. She is a Partner at Murphy Francy PLLC, a boutique law firm specifically catering to the needs of adoptive, biological, and foster families. She is an active member of Southern Hills Baptist Church, serves on the board of directors for James Mission and previously served on the board of directors for CASA, and the University of Tulsa Law School.

The Tulsa County Bar Foundation’s Public Advocacy Award has been created by the 2018 Law Day Committee to recognize a Tulsa County attorney who acts to advocate for aid and assistance to vulnerable persons and/or to advance important social causes that benefit the public.

TCBA Elections Officers 2018-2019

Candidates for the Tulsa County Bar Association Elections present their credentials in this issue of Tulsa Lawyer.

President Elect, Vice President, Director at Large and ABA Delegate and are the only contested positions in this years election.

If a candidate did not provide an answer for a particular question, the question is not listed under their credentials.

The candidates were asked the following questions: • • • • • • • •

Firm/Employer Name & Position Year of Admission to Practice Years in Practice in Tulsa TCBA Offices, Committees (last five years) OBA Offices, Committees (last five years) Outside/Community Activities (last five years) If elected, what are your goals for this office?

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you?

President - Ann Keele Partner at Monroe & Keele, P.C. Year of Admission to Practice: 2006 Years in practice in Tulsa: 12 years in September

TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Secretary, Vice President, President-Elect, Chair of the Long-Range Planning Committee, Chair of the Children in Law Committee OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Chair of the Law Schools Committee, Member of the Professionalism Committee, Co-Chair of the Women in Law Committee, Member of the Family Law Section Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Member of the Steering Committee for Boy Scouts of America, Guest Experience Team at World Outreach Church If elected, what are your goals for this office: Continue working to enhance member benefits, and add value and relevance for our members.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: The TCBA is the best organization in Tulsa to help lawyers be their best and achieve their personal and professional goals. I endeavor to encourage, uplift, and help my colleagues, and work as a dedicated team member.

6 Tulsa TulsaLawyer Lawyer 10

President Elect - James C. Milton Shareholder and Director, Hall, Estill, Hardwick, Gable, Golden & Nelson, P.C. Year of Admission to Practice: 1995 Years in practice in Tulsa:23 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Budget Chair (2016-2018); Director at Large (2013-2016) OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Chair of the OBA Civil Procedure & Evidence Code Committee (20062017); Chair or Co-Chair of the Legislative Committee of the OBA Estate Planning, Probate & Trust Section (2016-2018) Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Fellow, American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (2014-current); Tulsa Title and Probate Lawyers, Inc. (2013-current); Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) Attorney Association (2004-current); Chair, Fellowship Lutheran Church Endowment Committee (2010-2013) If elected, what are your goals for this office: As President Elect, I will continue my own contribution to this great association. Your Board and Executive Committee have been working hard to improve its operational efficiency and professionalism. The last couple of years have been critical

to this process. We must continue this growth going forward.

I would like to see more efficiency in the membership application and renewal process, and in registering for CLE and other events. If elected, I will emphasize committees and sections. We are currently working on methods of providing further services to committee and section leadership in order to enable more robust member involvement in these smaller groups. I would also like to see reinstatement of monthly reports to the membership regarding committee and section activities.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: Through many years of involvement in the TCBA, I have seen the great value that it offers to its members, the legal community, and the community at large. I know first hand that the TCBA provides opportunities for professional involvement for lawyers in all areas of practice and stages of their careers. As a voluntary association, the TCBA is focused on member services and member inclusion. Through the TCBA, I have developed some of my most important professional relationships, and I have watched friends and colleagues grow in the profession, as I hope I have grown. If I am elected as President Elect, I promise to devote my whole energy to ensuring that the TCBA fulfills its mission to our members, the legal community, and the community at large.

President Elect - Kimberly K. Moore Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Staff Attorney Year of Admission to Practice: 14 Years in practice in Tulsa: 13 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President, Law Day Committee Chair, Special Events Chair, Director-at-Large OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Delegate Outside / Community Activities (in last five years): Holy Family Cathedral School Advisory Committee; Holy Family Cathedral School Auction Chair

If elected, what are your goals for this office: If elected my goals include maintaining a strong relationship with the TCBA staff and Board members; continued work on building our membership numbers and leading our organization and representing the legal profession

through the implementation of a strategic plan, assuring that the Board agenda addresses appropriate priorities and that the Board performs its fiduciary, strategic and policy responsibilities. It is also my intention to work with the Executive Director and other staff as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities and to devote time to learning and preparing prior to becoming President.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: Proven leadership ability with evidence of a long term commitment to the TCBA, its objectives and bylaws.

Ability to think and act in the best interest of the TCBA as an organization, philosophy, purpose and function, based on knowledge of the history of the TCBA and its prior actions. I also have the availability and the ability to carry out the responsibilities of the office of Presidentelect.

Tulsa Lawyer 11

Vice President - Eric L. Clark Rhodes, Hieronymus, Jones, Tucker, and Gable Year of Admission to Practice: 2008 Years in practice in Tulsa: 9 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Director at Large, Co-Chair Membership Committee Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Founder of TCBA Judicial Internship Program (2010-2017), Board of Directors for Oklahoma Association of Defense Counsel (OADC) 2015-Present, Sponsorship Committee OADC, 2017-present If elected, what are your goals for this office: If elected, it is my intention to focus my year in office on developing relationships with legal technology firms and legal service providers. The practice of law is drastically changing with new technology. Establishing relationships with companies

that provide legal products and services can help TCBA member's streamline their businesses, legal processes, as well as case management. By introducing new legal technology and services to the TCBA membership, we can help increase the efficiency and in turn, profitability of our members’ practices. Through these new relationships we can potentially offer our members discounted products and services that will improve their overall practices. Furthermore, we can develop sponsorship relationships with these providers to generate additional revenue that can be utilized to assist our membership through the other programs the TCBA offers.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: The most important quality I bring to the VP position is non-legal experience. Prior to going to law school, I have opened and operated multiple offices for my family business. I have belonged to many industry organizations and held leadership positions in them as well. Over the last year I have been developing relationships with new sponsors for the OADC, and I believe I can bring that same experience to the TCBA.

Vice President - Amber Peckio Garrett Partner, Allen & Garrett

Year of Admission to Practice: 2003 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 14

TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): TCBF Golf Commit-

tee, 2010-Present; Law Day Committee;Law Day Community Fair Chair, 2012; TCBA Secretary 2017-2018.

OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): OBA Strategic Planning Committee, 2017-2019; OBA Solo/Small Firm Planning Committee, 2017-2019; OBA Young Lawyers Division, Board of Directors 2007-2013; OBA Law Day Committee, Member Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years):

Oklahoma Bar Foundation, Trustee, 2014-Present American Bar Association Law Practice Fellow, 2010-2011

12

Tulsa Lawyer

If elected, what are your goals for this office: To continue to serve the Tulsa County Bar membership and the work of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation.

Why you think you are particularly qualified for this position: I would be thrilled to have the members vote for me.

I believe that I have proven myself as a leader in both the TCBA and the OBA. I am certain that my organizational skills, commitment, and passion for service would be vital for the position of TCBA Vice President. I also recognize that I don’t know everything so I know the importance of building a great team for the TCBA It would be an honor to follow in the footsteps of our previous TCBA Leaders and my mentors.

The Bar Center will be CLOSED Wednesday, July 4th.

Secretary - Kara M. Robinson Greuel Partner, R&R Strategies, PLLC Year of Admission to Practice: 2009 Years in practice in Tulsa: 9 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Chair – Guardianship Subcommittee – Bench and Bar Committee (2013-2014); Bench and Bar Committee (2014-2015), Chair – Budget Committee (20152016); Treasurer (2016-2017) and (2017-2018) OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Chair, EPPT Section (2013); Web-Applications Coordinator, EPPT Section (2014 and 2015) Outside / CommunityActivities (Last 5 years):Volunteering with Women in Recovery Program; Past Treasurer for Tulsa Artists’ Coalition; Past Treasurer for Oaks Indian Mission If elected, what are your goals for this office: As Secretary of the TCBA, I’d like to implement an overall organization of the historical and current information of the organization.

Beyond taking accurate minutes of the Executive Committee and larger Board of Directors meetings, I believe the Secretary’s role for the organization is to ensure that current and historical information is cataloged and available should there be a need to reference past decisions and activities of the organization.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: Generally, I can type approximately 80 words per minute and am familiar with parliamentary rules and procedures for meetings.

Additionally, I have staff available to assist in processing the minutes after meetings so that they can timely be circulated for approval by the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. More importantly, I have organizational skills (the same ones that made me think I might be able to get through law school as a second career while working and having two children at home) that will assist me in being able to begin the larger process of ensuring that the records of the TCBA are organized and available.

Treasurer - Richard D. White, Jr. Shareholder, Barber & Bartz, PC

Year of Admission to Practice: 1980 Years in Practice in Tulsa: 36

TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Budget Chair, 2014-2015; Treasurer, 2015-2016; Secretary, 20162017; Fee Arbitration Committee, 2014-2017; Membership Committee, 2014-2017 OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): OBA Family

Law Section

Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years):

"I currently serve as the Vice Chair of the Tulsa City County Library Commission and have sat on this commission since 2011."

If elected, what are your goals for this office: I believe the TCBA is the best county bar association in the state of Oklahoma. The hard work and dedication of those that have preceded the current leadership have built a foundation upon

which I would like to build. I enjoy working with the current bar association leadership and believe I can offer vision and commitment in continuing the legacy of this association. It has been an honor serving on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors over the last three (3) years. It is a pleasure serving with such a fine group of dedicated and hardworking professionals. It is my hope I can continue in this capacity for the upcoming year.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: I believe I am

qualified for the office of Treasurer of the TCBA due to a number of factors, including the diverse and lengthy career I have had as a member of this association going back to the early ‘80s. I have served on the Executive Committee for the past three (3) years and am well acquainted with the issues and challenges currently facing this association. I am currently involved in the process of amending our Bylaws, selecting a new software provider for our membership database, and dramatically altering the membership benefit of free CLE. I am further involved in the Membership Committee and the development of a Membership Appreciation Month in July 2017.

Tulsa Lawyer 13

Library Trustee - Julie A. Evans Julie A. Evans, P.C. / Solo Practice Year of Admission to Practice: 1989 Years in practice in Tulsa: 29 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Tulsa County Law Library Trustee 2016-2018 OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Chair, Law Schools Committee 2016-2017; Vice Chair, Law Schools Committee 2013-2015; Author of article published in 02/13/2016 issue of the Oklahoma Bar Journal Article entitled “Conservatorships: So Useful, But So Rare”, OBA Probate, Estate Planning & Trust Section Member Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Tulsa Title and Probate Lawyers Association, Tulsa Estate Planning Forum

If elected, what are your goals for this office: My two year term as Law Library Trustee expires this year. I am running again because of ongoing issues surrounding the preservation of the physical footprint of the Tulsa County Law Library in the Tulsa County Courthouse. I feel as if continuity of service on the Law Library Board is necessary because of these pending issues.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: My experience and knowledge as a current Law Library Trustee as well as past service as a Law Library Trustee in 1998-1999. I believe my experience brings value to the table in assisting with the preservation of our Law Library not only for the Judges and Attorneys, but for the citizens of Tulsa County because the Law Library provides much needed access to justice for many of our citizens.

Law Week Student Art & Writing Contest

Congratulations to all of the area students who participated in the contest incorporating the theme "Seperation of Power: Framework for Freedom."

Awards were presented May 9th during a student and parent reception at the Bar Center.

Special thanks to

Rodney L. Buck, Chairman.

14 Tulsa Lawyer

Director-at-Large 1 yr, Large Firm: Philip Hixon Shareholder, GableGotwals

Year of Admission to Practice: 2001 Years in practice in Tulsa: 17 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): Health Law Section, Co-Chair (2015-2017) OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Health Law Section (2015-Present) Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Tulsa County Bar Foundation, Treasurer (2017-Present); Will Rogers Memorial Commission, past member and Vice Chair (2012-2016); Oklahoma Health Lawyers, Vice President (2016-2017), President (2017-Present); Faith Lutheran Church of Owasso, Board of Education and Board of Elders (2015-Present); Federalist Society, Tulsa Lawyer Chapter, Membership Chair (2014-Present)

If elected, what are your goals for this office: I would be honored to serve as Director at Large, Large Firm. As Director at Large, I would encourage TCBA membership, and especially Large Firm members, to give back to Tulsa through volunteerism and community service.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: Participation in the TCBA was formative in development of my leadership skills as a young lawyer. After serving on the TCBA board for three non-consecutive years as chair of the Young Lawyers, Santa Brings a Lawsuit, and Tulsa Lawyer committees, I was well-equipped to contribute to the mission of numerous other civic and religious organizations and have for well over a decade, including (in addition to those listed above) Tulsa Habitat for Humanity, Rebuilding Together Tulsa, Tulsa Lawyers for Children, and Big Brothers and Sisters of Green Country. Now, it is time to return home and contribute to the TCBA.

Director-at-Large 2 yr, Medium Firm: Kara Pratt Barber & Bartz, Partner Year of Admission to Practice: 7 Years in practice in Tulsa: 7 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): TCBF Law Week Committee Chair- 2016, TCBA Member at Large serving as the Membership Committee Chair for the past two years, and substantially assisting with obtaining silent auction donations for the past two Judicial Dinners.

OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): OBA Co-Chair Law Day Committee-Current Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): I am a Trustee at our church Rivergate Church, I have assisted with coaching my daughters soccer teams, I am a member of the Air Assurance cycling team and my firm Barber & Bartz is a corporate sponsor for the team.

16 Tulsa Lawyer

If elected, what are your goals for this office: If elected, my goals for this office would be to continue serving as the membership committee chair and organizing the slate of events for membership appreciation month as well as working to create new membership benefits for the TCBA members.

I would additionally continue my participation on the TCBA law week committee and work to assist the chairperson in developing existing and new activities to enhance our Law Week events.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: I am outgoing, dependable, and organized. I enjoy planning activities and creating relationships with outside vendors that can be useful to the TCBA in the future. I enjoy attending the monthly board of director meetings and providing helpful input regarding TCBA business and activities.

Director-at-Large 2 yr, Solo/Small Firm: Kristine D. Bridges Boeheim Freeman, PLLP, Director of Family & Juvenile Law Year of Admission to Practice: 2004, Texas; 2011 Oklahoma Years in practice in Tulsa: 9 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): TU Law Dean’s Appointee to TCBA Board of Directors (2009 – 2015) OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): Legal Internship Committee, law school member Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Carnegie Elementary PTA & Foundation, The Parent Child Center of Tulsa patron, Catholic Charities volunteer

If elected, what are your goals for this office: Since attorneys are self-regulating professionals, solo and small firm attorneys often find themselves in need of fellow attorneys to assist in difficult or new client situations.

My main goal would be to encourage solo and small firm practitioners to not only participate in our local bar, but to view the TCBA as a great resource for education and resource support.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: I have wide ranging professional experience in both law and administrative leadership and have a strong desire to help strengthen and support the TCBA mission and vision. I am also a lot of fun to work with!

Director-at-Large 2 yr, Solo/Small Firm: Mark O. Thurston Sole Practice, Mark O. Thurston, attorney Year of Admission to Practice: 1976 Years in practice in Tulsa: 41 TCBA Offices / Committee Chairs (Last 5 years): None in the last five years.

OBA Offices, Committees (Last 5 years): None in the last 5 years.

If elected, what are your goals for this office: Continue providing and improving the outstanding programs of this organization with emphasis on those that help small firm and solo lawyers.

Which qualities that you bring to this office do you want members to consider when voting for you: With 41 years experience, I understand the issues facing private practice lawyers in Tulsa. I have the background and experience to effectively represent small firm and solo practitioners as a director of the TCBA.

Outside / Community Activities (Last 5 years): Various offices including Past President Tulsa Title and Probate Lawyers Assoc.

Tulsa Lawyer 17

ABA Delegate Nominees

One Delegate will be elected from the candidates.

Each of the nominees for ABA Delegate was asked to provide the following information: • Employer & position • Year admitted to practice

Molly Aspan

• Hall Estill, Shareholder • 2003 • 15 years • If elected, what are your goals for this office: I have been involved with the ABA for the past fifteen years and am familiar with the issues, the process, and the people who are leading change on issues of the utmost importance to the legal community. I have also actively participated in developing and debating proposals before the ABA YLD Assembly (which debates some of the resolutions prior to the ABA House of Delegates). Not only have I been involved with the ABA, but I have also been involved with the TCBA and am familiar with and knowledgeable about the issues that affect lawyers and the legal profession in Tulsa.

It would be my honor and privilege to serve and represent members of the Tulsa legal community as Tulsa Delegate to the ABA House of Delegates.

Matt Farris • Commerce Trust Company

[Market Executive] • 2006 • 12 • If elected, what are your goals for this office: To continue serving as a leader in the bar association by apprising the TCBA membership of the many important issues addressed by the ABA at a national level [both debated and voted upon] and to convey to the membership how those issues impact their practices.

18 Tulsa Lawyer

• Years practicing in Tulsa • Their goals are for the office of ABA Delegate

Robert P. Redemann • Perrine, Redemann, Berry, Taylor & Sloan, PLLC • 1978 • 40 • If elected, what are your goals for this office: 1. To represent the interests of all attorneys in Tulsa within the ABA. 2. To report on all activities of the ABA House of Delegates and to highlight those that are likely to affect Tulsa lawyers. 3. To see what the ABA can do for us.

The OBA/YLD is hosting a social in Tulsa at the Flying Tee. Thursday, June 21st 5pm-8pm (this coincides with the OBA solo/small firm conference at the Riverspirit)

Food is included, and we have a limited number of drink tickets and a cash bar.

Quesstions? Contact Brad Brown bbrown@jonesgotcher.com

TCBA Election s OBA DELEGATES

Each of the nominees for OBA Delegate was asked to provide the following information: • • • •

Employer & position Year admitted to practice Years practicing in Tulsa Their goals are for the office of OBA Delegate.

2018-2019

Here are brief profiles of the 31 nominees. Fifteen delegates and fifteen alternates will be chosen.

Ephraim Alajaji • No information provided.

Trisha L. Archer • Archer Law, PLLC, owner: • 2005 • 13 years • To represent Tulsa area attorneys at our State Bar.

Molly Aspan • Hall Estill • 2003 • I have attended the OBA Annual Meeting for many years and have had the privilege and opportunity to serve as a Delegate from Tulsa County to the OBA House of Delegates for the past nine years.

As Tulsa Delegate, I appreciate the opportunity to address issues related to our profession and legal system, and I would do my best to ensure that the voice of Tulsa lawyers is heard throughout the state.

I would consider it an honor and privilege to continue serving as Tulsa County Delegate.

C. Austin Birnie • Conner & Winters, LLP (Associate) • 2014 • 4 years

• The continued strength of the Oklahoma Bar Association is vital to the advancement of justice in our state. As your OBA delegate, I will be honored to diligently represent the Tulsa County Bar Association so that our local interests and concerns are faithfully voiced at the state level.

Jack L. Brown • Jones, Gotcher & Bogan, Partner • 1984 • 34 Years in practice in Tulsa • It would be my honor to continue to represent Tulsa County lawyers in the OBA House of Delegates. I would appreciate your vote.

See voting information on page 1.

Tulsa Lawyer 19

Kenneth L. Brune • Brune Law Firm, Partner • 1974 • 44 years • The TCBA has a history of superior performance. A part of that success is its ability to work with the OBA. I would like to participate in that work.

Taylor A. Burke • Barber & Bartz, PC/ Shareholder • 2006 • 12 • To represent the interests of our bar association and community to best of my ability. I have a unique practice, covering many different areas of litigation in trial and appellate courts, and I believe I can offer a special perspective.

20 Tulsa Lawyer

Casscia Carr

• No information provided.

Eric L. Clark • Rhodes, Hieronymus, Jones, Tucker and Gable • 2008 • 9 years • To promote and foster the legal profession of the Tulsa legal community.

Did you know?

World War I officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919.

Michael Esmond • Moyers Martin, LLP • 2004 • I want to ensure that the vital role of the OBA is preserved and that its mission continues to be advanced in a manner that is consistent with the best interests of the members of the TCBA and residents of Tulsa County.

Julie A. Evans • Julie A. Evans, P.C. • 1989 • 29 years • Since I have been admitted to practice law, I have almost perfect attendance at the OBA Annual Meeting, General Assembly and House of Delegates meetings even during the years when I was not serving as an official OBA Delegate. I will represent Tulsa County attorneys to the best of my ability if elected as an OBA Delegate this year.

Kara M. Robinson Greuel • R&R Strategies, PLLC • 2009 • 8.5 years • There continues to be significant discord between the legislative and judicial branches of government in Oklahoma. I have great concern that attacks on the judicial branch, should they prove successful, will erode the checks and balances that are meant to exist. As a delegate, I would work through the OBA to ensure that the judiciary in our courts continues to be non-partisan so that individuals entering the court system will receive justice which is not influenced by the viewpoints of a particular political party.

James Hicks • Barrow & Grimm, PC • 1985 • 32 years • Continue to represent the interests of TCBA members at the state bar level.

Gerald L. Hilsher • McAfee & Taft Shareholder • 1979 • 36 years • Promote and protect judicial independence.

Philip D. Hixon • Shareholder, GableGotwal • 2001 • 17 years • I would be honored to serve as an OBA Delegate. Over the past few years, the OBA has been used to advance positions which are not appropriate for a mandatory professional membership organization and which further discredit the public perception of attorneys. I would endeavor to return the OBA to a nonpartisan professional membership organization, while preserving individual member’s rights of selfexpression.

June 14th is Flag Day, commemorating the official adoption of the US flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

Tulsa Lawyer 21

Bruce McKenna

• No information provided.

James C. Milton • Shareholder & Director, Hall, Estill, Hardwick, Gable, Golden & Nelson, P.C. • 1995 • 23 • I have been honored to serve as a Delegate to the OBA House of Delegates for a number of years.

I enjoy attending this meeting and representing the interests of Tulsa County attorneys. I would be honored to serve again in this capacity.

Scott V. Morgan • Moyers Martin, LLP, Partner • 2010 • 8 years • My goals would be to uphold the highest standard of service to the Oklahoma Bar and my colleagues.

Amber Peckio Garrett

Kara Pratt • Barber & Bartz; Partner • 2011 • 7 years • If elected, my goals for this office include attendance at the OBA annual meeting in November and participation with the OBA leadership to ensure the Tulsa County Bar Association is effectively represented statewide. During my tenure as OBA delegate from 2016-2018, I was asked by current President, Kim Hays to co-chair the OBA Law Day Committee and have enjoyed participating and co-leading that committee.

Jim Proszek •

No information provided.

Deborah A. Reed • Partner at Reed Legal, PLLC • 2011 • 4+ years • If elected I will strive to accurately represent the lawyers of Tulsa County in the OBA House of Delegates.

Kim Schutz

• Allen & Garrett • No information provided.

• 2003 • 14 years • To continue to serve the Tulsa County Bar membership and the work of the Tulsa County Bar • Cordell & Cordell, Associate Foundation.

Attorney • 2015 • 3 years • For Tulsa County to continue to have strong voices, and ensure TCBA Fact: Approx. 1780 copies of the local Bar’s interest at the State Tulsa Lawyer Magazine are printed each month. level.

Natalie S. Sears

22 Tulsa Lawyer

Stefanie S. Sinclair

Linda J. Van Arkel-Greubel

• Sinclair Law Firm PLLC • MidFirst Bank, Vice President/ • 2014 Trust Officer • 4 years • 1997 No Photo • I enjoy everything the TCBA • 22 years; 18 years practiced Provided has been providing for lawyers in law at Riggs Abney Law Tulsa and would love to have the Firm; 4 years employed pleasure of representing the Tulsa as Trust Officer at MidFirst lawyer community at the OBA an Bank nual meeting. I thoroughly enjoy • Participate in a manner which networking and building better communication channels will serve the TCBA members and improve our profesfor lawyers across the state. I would truly be honored to sion by promoting professionalism, competence, and be elected to this position and work with the OBA. ethical conduct.

Clint T. Swanson

No Photo Provided

• Swanson Law Firm, PLLC, Managing Shareholder • 14 • My goal is to represent interests of the members of the TCBA.

Richard White • Shareholder, Barber & Bartz, PC • 1980 • 36 years

Melissa Taylor

D. Kenyon ("Ken") Williams, Jr.

David A. Tracy

• Hall, Estill, Hardwick, Gable, Golden & Nelson, PC • 1977 • Now that I am serving on the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Board of Governors, I see even more clearly how important it is for the Tulsa County Bar Association to be an active participant in the Oklahoma Bar Association on both state and national issues. I am and will continue to be an advocate for both Associations and will be honored to act as an OBA Delegate for that purpose.

• No information provided.

• Manager, Tulsa Family Law Center, PLLC • 1983 • 35 years • I hope to reflect the diversity of the bar in setting policy and advocacy goals that promote the administration of justice for Oklahoma attorneys and judges.

Follow the Tulsa County Bar Association on Facebook to keep up with events!

Tulsa Lawyer 23

20 Tulsa Lawyer

2017-2018 LIBERTY BELL AWARD Amley “Popsey” Floyd

& The Community Resource Program of the Tulsa Police Department The Liberty Bell Award was established more than 50 years ago to acknowledge outstanding community service. The Liberty Bell is presented to a non-lawyer who has promoted better understanding of the rule of law, encouraged greater respect for law and the courts, stimulated a sense of civic responsibility, or contributed to good government in the community. The Liberty Bell Award is one of the most prestigious awards the Tulsa County Bar Foundation can bestow on an individual or group of individuals and this year the Foundation recognizes Amley “Popsey” Floyd & The Community Resource Program of the Tulsa Police Department.

The program and Officer Floyd personify the spirit of the Liberty Bell Award by contributing to a greater understanding of the American legal system and helping strengthen our system of justice. This is accomplished through direct contact with the most marginalized community in Tulsa where a positive view of the legal system will build lifelong benefits for both the citizens and the community. Officer Floyd is on the front line of how a citizen sees the law. He performs

grassroots work to identify areas of need for juveniles and determines what can be done to help them get on track, which includes seeking help from in zone businesses and civic and legal organizations of Tulsa. Additionally, he builds trust in the community so that he can educate these marginalized citizens on how the legal system works in their favor. The program, which Officer Floyd has been an integral part, is "to foster a better relationship between members of the public and the Tulsa Police Department through crime prevention education, direct one-on-one interaction between members of the community and the police, and to identify ways in which the police and community can work together to improve the quality of life."

Floyd was raised in Tulsa never growing up with a positive view of the legal system believed he has been given the opportunity to pass on hope to the members of his community. Through this hope, he believed he could reach the youth of Tulsa and provide a better opportunity for trust of the law and the legal system.For the many contributions to the community, we nominate Amley “Popsey” Floyd and the Community Resource Program of the Tulsa Police Department, the Tulsa County Bar Foundation’s Liberty Bell Award.

Tulsa Lawyer 25

Review of 100 Years: One Woman’s Fight for Justice

By Martha Rupp Carter

The one-time showing of “100 Years: One Woman’s Fight for Justice” at the Circle Cinema on April 19, 2018, was attended by almost 100 people. The reception was catered

by Cooking for Health, a program of the Healthy Community Store Initiative, a nonprofit. Welcome and introductory comments were provided by Jim Hicks, Tulsa County Bar Foundation President.

This intense film documentary should have come with a warning: watching this film will inspire you and may make you mad! As the production company for the film is appropriately named Fire in the Belly, such a warning would have been fitting. If you missed the event, there is good news.

The film made its Netflix debut in March and is available there. It really is not to be missed.

Filmmaker, producer, director and writer, Melinda Janko, attended the showing and provided opening comments to the audience. She also served on the Q and A panel following the film with moderator Linda Sacks, and co-panelists attorney Mike McBride, J. D. Colbert, and Judge Martha Rupp Carter. Ms. Janko spoke of her early acquaintance with Elouise Cobell and of her growing friendship with Ms. Cobell during the many years of filming. She discussed the difficulty of cutting over 180 hours of film footage to distill the story to about seventy-five minutes. Ms. Janko performed a magnificent balancing act in capturing the necessary history and information of the story along with heartrending interviews of people so dreadfully impacted by the federal government’s mismanagement of their land assets and funds.

26 Tulsa Lawyer

This film is visually powerful, treating viewers to the beautiful land, Earth Mother, in stark contrast with the scarred and polluted land and waters resulting from unchecked oil and gas production. The abject poverty of Indians who live on their lands with active oil and gas production while lacking essentials such as running water or electricity is truly shocking. A comparison of how they live with how similarly situated whites live brings the lesson home, hard.

Elouise Cobell began her thirty-year battle as a treasurer for her Blackfeet tribe in Montana. When she and financial officers of other tribes realized they had the same questions and concerns with accounting of funds held and managed by the Indian Trust Fund, they banded together and kept asking.

They eventually got hearings from Congress and ultimately a meeting arranged by then Attorney General Janet Reno.

After Ms. Cobell told a roomful of attorneys that people were dying and living on monies insufficient for basic needs; that formerly drinkable water, now poisoned and contaminated, was killing livestock; that people could no longer farm and grass was dying; that an eighty-three year old woman living on an allotted property with four operating wells had no running water; that the BIA was not enforcing policies to clean up contamination or restore vegetation; that oil companies were not measuring oil or gas taken from lands; that monies owed to Indians was missing without any accounting; she was told, “don’t come here with false expectations.”

Her fight for justice endured through three presidential administrations. Elouise Cobell eventually was forced to file the largest class action lawsuit ever filed against the United

The BRUNTON - WILL CLE Award presented to

Philip Feist States government for 300,000 Native Americans to obtain justice. Her lawsuit was filed in 1996 and after fourteen years of litigation was settled for $3.4 billion in 2010.

This film documentary will drive you through the full gamut of emotions, ranging from despair at the plight of Native Americans so ill-treated and abused; anger and shock at the utter carelessness and disregard of the federal government for its trust responsibilities; fear of the overwhelming odds facing Elouise Cobell in undertaking this task; inspiration and joy of what she was able to accomplish; and, hope that these huge steps taken by Elouise Cobell will create the path for necessary future work.

The Tulsa County Bar Foundation presents this award to the members who have provided an outstanding contribution or dedicated years of service to: • • •

Educating attorneys on the theories and practical considerations of the law.

Developing meaningful and thought-provoking educational programs that benefit fellow attorneys or the public at large.

Teaching fellow attorneys the highest professional and ethical standards as exemplified by his or her own conduct in the practice of law.

Philip Feist works with clients on estate planning, family business planning, and asset protection planning issues. He has provided technical legal and drafting advice to the Oklahoma State Legislature on its 2014 revisions to the Oklahoma Family Wealth Preservation Trust Act, has contributed to a nationally published treatise on asset protection, and is a frequent presenter at continuing legal education seminars sponsored by the Oklahoma Bar Association and by the Tulsa County Bar Association, in the areas of estate planning, tax-sensitive estate planning, family business succession planning, family entity planning and asset protection planning.

Philip clerked for the Hon. Peter W. Bowie at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of California, and moved to Tulsa in December 1991.

He has been certified by the State Bar of California as an Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law specialist since 1999. Philip was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy with the rank of Lieutenant.

Tulsa Lawyer 27

The Three Bears Prevail, Again (Gold E. Locks Goes Down for Bad Manners!)

Sixty-six Elliot Elementary third graders and their teachers and chaperones enjoyed high drama in Courtroom 111 of the Tulsa County District Court on April 27, 2018. The Three Bears and Gold E. Locks faced off in their perennial legal battle for a judgment on etiquette. In determining whether Gold E. used good manners, the student jurors and their classmates were keen observers of courtroom conduct, testimony, and evidence at the trial. Their astute questions and acute observations about the witnesses and the evidence illustrated the third graders’ ample capabilities and promising futures as investigators, lawyers, judges, and whatever careers they choose. The students were engaged, interested, curious, and articulate, impressing the Mock Trial Players and other observers.

Not even the brief, surprise appearance of Alice N. Wonderland, who had become lost in the wrong fairy tale, created any confusion for these clever students.

The unfolding trial drama portrayed by the Mock Trial Players was nothing short of mesmerizing. The Bears’ attorney carefully led the way through the story, eliciting testimony of a surly, displeased Pop A. Bear and the fearful Mom A. Bear, both deeply concerned about the violation of their home by the porridge-guzzling, chair-breaking Gold E.

Mom A. Bear’s cooking talent with porridge was cleverly used by Gold E.’s attorney as an invitation to enter the cottage. Babe E. Bear could not have been cuter, or sadder, about his broken, favorite chair. Gold E.’s attorney’s probing cross-examination of Babe E. created question of exactly when that chair might have broken, and was effective in establishing the Bears’ cottage door was left invitingly open when the B e a r s w e n t walking before breakfast.

Mrs.Locks’ testimony established loving pride in her daughter’s courtesy and

good manners. Gold E. was by turns indignant, defiant, conciliatory, and contradictory as she stroked her long, golden locks, patted her baby doll and she smiled (or smirked) at the jury.

The student jurors, after retiring to and deliberating in the jury room, returned their verdict for the Three Bears, deciding that Gold E. had indeed used bad manners.

And so it is until the issues are revisited next year.

Mock Trial Players: Judge- Judge Martha Rupp Carter Bailiff – Jorge Roman RomeroBears’ attorney – Larry Edwards Pop A. Bear – Kyle Killiam Mom A. Bear – Maren Lively Babe E. Bear – Alex Norris Locks’ attorney – Shane Henry Gold E. Locks – Sheila Naifeh Mrs. Locks – Linda Redemann Alice N. Wonderland – Kim Wiley

Participants with Judge Dreiling included Sherri Anderson, Jim Brandon, Leslie Brier, Judge Martha Rupp Carter, Lisa Deller, Haley Drusen, Emily Duensing, Tammy Ewing, Lucy Kroblin, Karen Langdon, Megan Martin, Mark Mitchell, Hannah Scandy, Anne Sublett, Tiffany White, and Brenna Wiebe.

By Judge Martha Rupp Carter

Tulsa Lawyer 29

2018 Law Day Book Club Commences

The inaugural 2018 Law Day Book Club, Session I, assembled on April 26, 2018, with seventeen readers at Magic City Book’s Algonquin Room. Judge Theresa Dreiling led the discussion of Snow Falling on Cedars by David Guterson, a book described by the readers as rich, intriguing, thought-provoking, emotive, evocative, enduring, descriptive, conflicted, passionate, beautiful, heartbreaking, vivid, suspenseful, complex, derailed, and powerful.

Judge Dreiling provided historical perspective on certain aspects of the

book. She then asked a series of thoughtprovoking questions, paving the way for an engaged and lively discussion. Aspects of the rule of law identified and discussed by readers related to the course of the investigation of a death, the courtroom setting and conduct of the ensuing murder trial, how or whether or not justice was achieved or served along the way, how personal beliefs did not lead to the truth, the flaws within the legal system and need for its continued evolution, and, that the opportunity for justice in the courtroom is not guaranteed.

Next Session..............................................June 12, 2018, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

William C. Kellough Billy Budd, Foretopman, by Herman Melville Tulsa County Bar Association Bar Center, 1446 South Boston Avenue ****Register by emailing martha.carter@oscn.net

Special Acknowledgment

The Children and the Law Committee would like to thank John A. Gaberino, Jr. of Gable & Gotwals and Georgenia Van Tuyl for their contributions to the 2017 Holiday Challenge.

We apologize for the delay in this acknowledgment.

Your support is sincerely appreciated!

You helped make the 2017 Holiday Challenge a wonderful success!

30 Tulsa Lawyer

A Book Review By Judge Theresa Dreiling Snow Falling on Cedars A Novel By David Guterson

the United States -- and almost exactly a decade after the Japanese Americans were allowed to return to their homes.

David Guterson begins his novel, Snow Falling on Cedars, with a courtroom scene: “The accused man, Kabuo Miyamoto, sat proudly upright with a rigid grace, his palms placed softly on the defendant’s table -- the posture of a man who has detached himself insofar as this is possible at his own trial.” We learn several pages later that Kabuo is on trial for the murder of his friend Carl Heine. The beginning sentence sets the stage for a compelling, atmospheric, and complicated story of love, friendship, discrimination, postwar trauma, community, reconciliation, fear, and humanity.

While Kabuo’s trial sets the stage for the story, Guterson uses it in a way that is not typical of the usual legal novel, thriller, or murder mystery. Using the trial and its participants (the victim, the defendant, the judge and his staff, law enforcement, the prosecutor, the defense attorney, the witnesses) to form the narrative, he tells a story that began long before in the community of San Piedro Island, north of Puget Sound, Washington. Guterson’s narrative includes vivid descriptions of San Piedro Island; the people who inhabit San Piedro; the fishing and farming industries that play a critical role in the story; and the climate of the island, including an historic snowstorm that inundates the community during the trial.

Honored with the invitation to be a discussion leader for the first session of the Tulsa County Bar Association’s Law Day Book Club, I wanted to select a book that would fit the Law Day 2018 theme of “Separation of Powers: Framework for Freedom.” During my research for books with a legal theme, one book that consistently appeared was Snow Falling on Cedars, by David Guterson. The Separation of Powers theme is well represented in Snow Falling on Cedars, a story that involves the relocation of Japanese Americans through Executive Order 9066, the trial of a Japanese American man for the murder of his caucasian friend, and a land dispute governed by state laws prohibiting immigrants from owning land.

It is December 1954 -- a little more than a decade after the Japanese attack at Pearl Harbor, the United States’ entry into World War II, and the internment by Presidential fiat of 120,000 Japanese Americans in camps throughout

32 Tulsa Lawyer

While the central characters -- Kabuo, Kabuo’s wife Hatsue, Carl, and Ishmael Chambers (editor and reporter of the local newspaper) -- grew up together, their racial and cultural differences complicated their relationships with each other. During childhood, Ishmael and Hatsue were close friends; their friendship developed into a romance that they each kept secret from their family and friends. Although the doomed romance ended when Hatsue and her family were sent to Manzanar internment camp, it also ended because of cultural differences and discrimination. Hatsue is able to emotionally move forward, but Ishmael’s love for her never diminishes and impacts decisions he makes regarding Kabuo in a potentially damaging way. Carl and Kabuo had been close friends in high school, but their relationship was tarnished by a land dispute between their families, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and Kabuo and Carl’s ensuing military service.

The land dispute between the Miyamoto and Heine families plays a particularly significant role in the prosecution’s attempts to prove Kabuo’s motive for murdering Carl; it also underpins the differences in cultures, the discrimination

against the Japanese people, and the desire of immigrant families to live the American dream. The story’s themes suspensefully converge in the final scenes and provide a surprise ending.

Guterson describes his work as originating “from inner disturbances, from seeing injustice and accidents and how they affect people’s lives in a tragic way.” He focuses on “themes that endure from generation to generation,” and sees fiction as “socially meaningful” and a means to preserve the “central myths” that sustain a culture. (David Guterson: A wonderful irony, BookPage interview by Ellen Kanner.)

His philosophy is evident in Snow Falling on Cedars.

The inaugural meeting of the TCBA Law Day Book Club occurred at Magic City Books, a Brady Arts District gem. Our group of 15 had a lively discussion of the book that lasted for more than an hour. The group, as a whole, enjoyed reading Snow Falling on Cedars for its thoughtprovoking and still timely themes, such as discrimination, prejudice, cultural differences, overcoming defeat, and redemption. Members commented that the same social and political dilemmas are playing out today locally, nationally, and globally. One participant commented, “the dilemmas portrayed are universal; we humans don’t seem to be able to get out of our own way;” another commented, “We -- human beings -- seem never to outgrow our fear and prejudice.”

In discussing the characters, the group noted the many internal conflicts that most of the characters had, the external conflicts that certain characters had with each other, and the overarching conflict between the Japanese and Caucasian communities.

The group considered the question of whether the book supported their view of the rule of law. One participant commented, “In contrast with the violence of WWII -- here we have a class of cultures and emotions borne out in a courtroom -- and resolved peacefully -- and justly -- which is what the Rule of Law, ideally is about.” Others noted that justice in a courtroom is not a guarantee and that our legal system is still evolving; that prejudice exists and influences the outcome of trials and sentences, “but the rules we apply provide a framework for circumventing it;” and that “every aspect of our legal system can affect the social construct of a society. ”Participating in the Law Day Book Club was a fun experience and I look forward to discussing the next two books: Orange is the New Black, by Piper Kerman, with Martha Cordell as the discussion leader; and Billy Budd, by Herman Melville, with William Kellough as the discussion leader.

THANK YOU TO OUR GOLF SPONSORS! Eagle Sponsors

Birdie Sponsors

Lexis Nexis McAfee & Taft Moyers, Martin, Santee, Imel Works & Lentz Barrow & Grimm

Doerner Saunders Richards & Connor Par Sponsors Funderburk & Associates Blue Sky Bank Brad Williams MacLain Jackie Cooper Imports Graves James R Gotwals & Associates Mazzio’s Hole Sponsors Naylor & Williams Litgistix

The Annual Tulsa County Bar Golf Tourney could not be a huge success without your support!

Oklahoma Attorney’s Mutual William C. Kellough Professional Reporters Helmerich & Payne Ken Ray Underwood

Special Thanks To

Larry Leonard Conner & Winters Head, Johnson & Kachigian Monroe & Keele Tulsa Lawyers for Children Advanced Orthopedics Jerry Truster Garrett Law Trust Company of Oklahoma

Scott Sinclair Jason Moreau, A&B Distributors Trish Archer and Kimberly Moore Lauren Rostykus Wendy Brooks Gavin Manes and the Avansic team Gayla Reeder and the LexisNexis team Disabled American Veterans

Law Day May 1st

CELEBRATING LAW DAY LUNCH

34 Tulsa Lawyer

Sandra Day O’Connor Award

Kathy Rutherford, 8th Grade Teacher of Advanced American History The Sandra Day O’Connor Award is given in honor of the retired Justice of the US Supreme Court, and first female Justice in history, who in retirement has made her mission highlighting the importance of legal civics education. Justice O’Connor has been instrumental in establishing the awardwinning website icivics.com which has been invaluable to educators teaching this critical subject matter. The award will go to the person or persons who have significantly advanced the teaching of legal civics in Oklahoma schools.

This year the Foundation has chosen to honor Kathy Rutherford, 8th Grade Teacher of Advanced American History.

In addition to her years teaching students about American History, the Constitution, and the Supreme Court, Kathy has spent seven years as the teacher coach for the Owasso Mock Trial team. In this role, Kathy has helped pique students’ interest in participating in mock trial by talking

about the program in class, has encouraged the students who participate in the program and has traveled all over the state as teacher coach, to cheer on teams as they compete in the Oklahoma Mock Trial competition. She was the teacher coach for the 2018 State Champion Owasso Mock Trial team and took teams to prestigious tournaments in both Denver and New York City, and the teams placed at both. Not only does Kathy teach her students and support the mock trial program, but she also organizes a Law Day Program for Owasso students at the Owasso 8th Grade Center. During the program the students receive copies of the Constitution, meet with lawyers who talk with them about the law and encourage students to participate in the OBA and TCBA Law Day student contest. Members of the Owasso Mock Trial team also come to talk to students about participating in that program while participants in Owasso Youth Court talk about that program.

TCBF GOLF TOURNEY REVIEW

2018 Tulsa Lawyer 35

The Animal Law Committee Katy Inhofe, Chair

The Tulsa County Bar Association Animal Law Committee discusses issues involving animals that are in the news or areas of our practice and issues involving community concerns such as local animal control laws, the definition of pets and their treatment under the property laws, and the use of service animals in court. Last year, for example, we shared with you news about Alaska having passed a law that requires divorce courts to “take into consideration the wellbeing of the animal” in determining property division issues and even empowering judges to assign joint custody of pets.

This year we were pleased to invite members of the Special Dog Unit (SDU) of the Tulsa County District Attorney’s office to join us at the May 1, 2018 Law Day Luncheon.

Currently, the SDU consists of five highly trained and registered therapy dogs that work closely with prosecutors and victim advocates to help ease the stress of young children in the court process who are involved in abuse or neglect matters or who have witnessed acts of violence.

Four of the five SDU therapy canines – Chance, Rose, Boo and Charlee – and their handlers enthusiastically greeted attendees and shared their unique and critical contributions to our criminal justice system.

The SDU was created as a result of legislation initially drafted by Steve Kunzweiler, District Attorney of Tulsa County. In 2014, the Legislature enacted 12 O.S. Supp. 2014 § 2611.12 as part of the Uniform Child Witness Testimony

by Alternative Methods Act, 12 O.S. 2011 § 2611.3 et seq.

36 Tulsa Lawyer

The intent of the Legislature is to provide for the emotional support for a child witness younger than thirteen years of age in a criminal proceeding. Section 2611.12 allows a child witness to be accompanied by a support person while giving testimony. Additionally, the child witness is able to have a certified therapeutic dog accompanied by the handler in lieu of a support person. The dog must have received requisite training and certification from accredited organizations.

Experts widely agree that therapy animals can benefit individuals who have suffered physical or emotional trauma.

When children have suffered trauma, it is often difficult for them to speak of their experiences. Incorporating a therapy dog into the process can help a child open up and promote the healing process.

In Tulsa, the SDU therapy dogs are involved with the child from the initial interview with the prosecuting attorney through the pre-trial preparation and continue to be present during any courtroom testimony. This process allows the dogs and the child victim to create their own bond that serves to relax the child and provide a sense of security. This bond enables the child to better navigate the criminal justice system as well as to help heal their own emotional wounds.

The use of therapy dogs in the courtroom has become widespread across the country during the past several years although currently in Oklahoma only Tulsa, Rogers, and Washington counties use the services of therapy dogs. Over the past several years the SDU has gained the trust and respect of our judiciary as well as our local bar including defense attorneys. These dogs provide love and comfort to all – unconditionally.

In addition to sharing information about issues, particularly local issues, pertaining to laws about or affecting animals, Committee members also share what they know about animal law and how it relates to various areas of the law through CLE programs and articles. This year we also had a Committee table at the Law Day Luncheon and provided attendees information not only about SDU but also about the Committee’s upcoming events including the annual Lawyers Against Pawverty Fundraiser and Eat Out for a Cause. Each year, the Committee chooses and promotes a worthwhile local organization that positively impacts both animals and people.

While Lawyers Against Pawverty will be an ongoing project, June is special because it is Lawyers Against Pawverty month!

Last year, Lawyers Against Pawverty raised $3,900 to support Feeding the Pets of Tulsa’s Homeless!! The Animal Law Committee is supporting FPTH again this year. FPTH is a donation-driven program run by Tulsa Animal Welfare Officers to help our city’s neediest citizens by providing

food and basic necessities for the companion animals of Tulsa’s homeless. The program was started about four years ago by Tulsa Animal Welfare Officers who saw a need that was not being met in our community and decided to step in and offer assistance. They understand the importance of companion animals to the homeless. Pets provide protection, companionship and, most importantly, emotional stability. These animals are beloved family to the homeless.

Volunteers go to Iron Gate every Wednesday morning and

Night Lights every Thursday evening. They hand out about 6,000 pounds of pet food, and 10-20 collars and leashes each month. During the winter months, they also provide dog sweaters and blankets.

FPTH relies entirely on donations to assist those pets in need. The group receives no grants or subsides to further its mission. A donation of $100 will provide five 50 pound bags of dog food and will feed approximately 30 dogs for a week. To learn more about FPTH, check out its Facebook page. Donors may make checks payable to the Tulsa County Bar Foundation and reference “Lawyers Against Pawverty.”

June also marks our second Lawyers Against Pawverty event. We’ll be hosting Eat Out for a Cause in June in conjunction with the Tulsa County Bar Foundation Community Outreach Committee. Enjoy fabulous woodfired cuisine at Amelia’s Restaurant on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, to “eat out for a cause” and support Feeding the Pets of Tulsa’s Homeless. Amelia’s is located at 122 N. Boston Ave. in the Brady District.

Our next Animal Law Committee meeting will be Wednesday, June 6, at noon at the Tulsa County Bar Center.

2018 Naturalization Ceremony Hosted by the Law Week Committee

The ceremony began by the methodical seating of both the soon-to-be newly naturalized citizens, their families and friends, and the guests invited to speak and sing and honor them.

Magistrate Judge Jayne officiated the opening statements. Judge Jayne spoke about the Tulsa County Bar Association and Law Day.The Barbershop Harmony Group sang a beautiful medley and told the guests that they were also celebrating they’re 80th anniversary on that very day! Moises Echevaria spoke about his experiences as an immigrant and the newly naturalized citizens responsibilities in particular when it comes to voting. He urged them to take it upon themselves to become educated and active in our community.

Rick Rogers from United States Customs and Immigration Services read the petitioner’s names aloud and then the court recited the oath of allegiance. The petitioner’s raised their right hands and repeated the oath.

We were led in the Pledge of allegiance, and this was followed by another beautiful rendition of the Star spangled banner by the Barbershop Harmony Group. A welcome address was played on video by President Trump and then we were honored to watch the presentation of certificates.

It was an extremely joyous occasion with smiles from the petitioners, their families, and those of us there to welcome them as new citizens.

By Whitney T.B. Webb

Wednesday

April 11, 2018

Tulsa Lawyer 37

Grapevine News Titus Hillis Reynolds Love Dickman & McCalmon congratulates Kimberly Lambert Love on being named to the Oklahoma Super Lawyers list of Top 25 Woman Lawyers in Oklahoma.

Ms. Love represents employers in all aspects of employment and labor law including litigating claims of discrimination, harassment, retaliation and wrongful discharge. She also provides preventative advice to employers in the day-to-day handling of personnel issues. She frequently lectures on employment law topics, is a regular contributor to the Oklahoma Bar Journal, and is past chairperson of the labor and employment section of the Oklahoma Bar Association. Ms. Love is an experienced mediator through Dispute Resolution Consultants and was appointed by the judges in the Northern District of Oklahoma to serve as an Adjunct Settlement Judge. She has received the highest Martindale-Hubbell rating of A-V, has repeatedly been selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America and has been named an Oklahoma Super Lawyer by Oklahoma Magazine

Paul Robert Tom

Paul Robert Tom, 64, was born March 3, 1953 and passed from this life at home on December 31, 2017, after a valiant fight with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife, Melissa Montgomery and their three children, Evan Daniel, Andrew Robert, and Ann Margaret (Bonnie) Tom. He was intensely proud that all three of his children chose to serve our great country. Their branches are Evan, Oklahoma Army National Guard, 45 IBCT; Andrew, United States Marines, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and Bonnie, United States Navy, United States Naval Academy, Class of 2022.

Paul was educated at Indiana University, graduating in 1976, the University of Arkansas School of Law, graduating in 1980 and the University of Florida College of Law, graduating in 1981 with an LLM degree in taxation. A longtime member of the Tulsa County Bar Association, Paul specialized in tax and bankruptcy law and leaves behind many trusted colleagues in the Tulsa area and beyond. Paul also leaves many valued clients who often became family friends. His greatest joy was to help clients end a difficult time in their lives and move on to better things.

38 Tulsa Lawyer

McAfee & Taft has announced that trial lawyer Micah J. Petersen has joined its Litigation Group. His state and federal litigation practice encompasses the areas of complex business litigation, products liability, professional liability, personal injury, and insurance defense.

In addition to his private practice, the Missouri native also serves as a volunteer attorney for Tulsa Lawyers for Children, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to ensure the effective and zealous legal representation of abused and neglected children in Tulsa County.

Petersen’s achievements as a trial lawyer have earned him inclusion in Oklahoma Super Lawyers’ list of “Oklahoma Rising Stars,” which recognizes the state’s top up-and-coming attorneys.

Petersen earned his bachelor’s degree in public relations from Missouri Valley College in 2011 and graduated with highest honors from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 2014. He is a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association and Oklahoma Association of Defense Counsel.

Doerner, Saunders, Daniel & Anderson, LLP welcomes Nathan S. Cross to its Tulsa office.

Nathan has extensive experience representing buyers and sellers of real estate. He has also helped developers and financial institutions in matters relating to the sale, acquisition, and development of real estate including representing property owners in connection with obtaining zoning and land use approvals.

Aside from his real estate practice, Nathan helps clients in the areas of corporate mergers and acquisition, plus corporate formation and restructuring. In recent years, Nathan has been the lead counsel for buyers and sellers on more than $50 million of real estate transactions, developments and refinancing ventures.

Nathan earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa College of Law and his Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Oklahoma State University.

Grapevine submissions that exceed these limits will be edited as necessary.

Tulsa Lawyer will make every attempt to include announcements received by the a in the next available issue. If space runs low, we will hold your announcement until the next issue that has available space.

Large announcments such as Super Lawyers, etc. may be withheld from publication if space is limited in any given issue.

McAfee & Taft has expanded again, adding four attorneys in its Tulsa office.

W. Kirk Turner, has joined McAfee & Taft as a shareholder. Prior to joining the firm, he served as a director and the leader of the Labor & Employment Law Group at Newton, O’Connor, Turner & Ketchum, a law firm he cofounded in 1995.

Joining him in the Labor & Employment Group are colleagues Samanthia Sierakowski Marshall, Jacob S. Crawford and Harrison M. Kosmider.

For nearly 30 years, Turner has represented companies and management exclusively in all aspects of labor and employment law, with a specific emphasis on litigation before federal and state courts, regulatory and administrative agencies, and in arbitration matters. He has particular experience representing automobile dealerships in legal issues unique to that industry.

Turner earned his bachelor’s degree from Arkansas Tech University in 1986 and went on to graduate from the University of Arkansas School of Law in 1989. He is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association, Tulsa County Bar Association, Oklahoma Bar Association, and American Bar Association and is admitted to practice in all state and federal courts in Arkansas and Oklahoma, federal district court in Colorado, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, U.S. Tax Court, and U.S. Supreme Court.

Turner’s achievements have earned him numerous honors, including national recognition by the researchers and publishers of the Chambers USA Guide to America’s Leading Lawyers for Business, The Best Lawyers in America, and Oklahoma Super Lawyers, where he has been named to the list of “Top 50 Oklahoma Lawyers.”

Samanthia S. Marshall, a 2009 graduate of the University of Tulsa College of Law, joins the firm as of counsel.

She is a member of the Tulsa County Bar Association, Oklahoma Bar Association, and Hudson-Hall-Wheaton American Inn of Court. She also serves as president of the board of directors of The Center for Individuals with Physical Challenges and is a graduate of Class 43 of Leadership Tulsa.

Marshall’s achievements have earned her inclusion in Oklahoma Super Lawyers’ list of “Oklahoma Rising Stars,” which recognizes the state’s up-and-coming attorneys.

Associate Jake Crawford graduated with highest honors from the University of College of Law in 2012. He is a member of the Tulsa County Bar Association and Oklahoma Bar Association and serves as vice president of legislative affairs for the Tulsa Area Human Resources Association.

Associate Harrison Kosmider is a 2014 honors graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Law and a member of the Tulsa County Bar Association, Oklahoma Bar Association, and Council Oak Johnson-Sontag American Inn of Court. A portion of his practice is devoted to general civil and business litigation.

Gideon Fletcher Pratt, son of John and Kara Pratt

March 13, 2018 1:36 am.

10# 3oz, 21 3/4 inches long.

Gideon joins big sisters Judah and Karis and big brothers Granite and Gryffon.

First-year Tulsa University College of Law student Fareshteh Hamidi was recently honored with Crowe & Dunlevy’s Diversity Scholars Program scholarship, an honor awarded to one outstanding TU Law candidate each year who qualifies based on academic achievement, financial need and commitment to the law.

The scholarship totals $10,000, with $2,000 installments granted each semester based on the student’s excellent progress and performance.

Crowe & Dunlevy has a long-standing tradition of enhancing diversity not only in the firm but throughout the legal profession. Since the firm’s Diversity Scholars Program was established in 2005, more than a quarter of a million dollars in scholarships have been awarded to outstanding candidates.

Hamidi graduated in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Oklahoma City University. Since that time, she has held a legal internship and worked in the health care and hospitality industries. Today, she is seeking a health law certificate from the University of Tulsa College of Law, where she is a member of the Immigration Law Society and won first place in the Board of Advocates Redbud Invitational Competition. In her spare time, Hamidi is an active community member, volunteering with the Junior League of Oklahoma City, Emergency Infant Services, NewView Oklahoma, OK Kids Korral at the Toby Keith Foundation and more.

Submission Deadlines for Tulsa Lawyer are the 1st of the month prior to the month of publication. Example: June 1st deadline = July publication Tulsa Lawyer 39

Classified Ads Office space for lease in established firm.

Space located in Boulder Towers at 1437 S. Boulder Ave., Suite 1080, Tulsa, OK. Space includes two conference rooms, kitchen, reception area, security and free parking. $750.00 per month.

Contact Christine Fugate at 918-749-5566 or cfugate@trsvlaw.com.

MoreLawSuites.com 406 South Boulder & 624 South Denver 918-582-3993 or 918-398-5678 Virtual Offices Starting at $180

Two Offices available – One lawyer in the Building Rent Negotiable and Client Referrals Available Free Parking in front of building!

Located between Swan Lake and Utica Square 918-749-9007 Applications are now being accepted for the City Attorney position at the City of Broken Arrow.

In their role at the City of Broken Arrow, our City Attorney will perform complex, executive and professional level work as a legal advisor to the City Manager, the Assistant City Managers, the Mayor, the City Council, City staff and various boards, commissions and City departments.

He/she will assist in ensuring that the City faithfully performs its functions pursuant to federal, state and locate statutes, regulations and ordinances. He/she will be well versed in municipal practices, having significant experience and exposure in managing the expansive legal aspects of city utilities and capital improvement projects.

He/she will advise on issues of law: review agendas, ensure compliance, represent the City in administrative and legal proceedings, conduct research, try cases, draft pleadings, etc. Our City Attorney will oversee the City's Legal Department and department personnel and organize the efforts of the department towards successful completion of departmental assignments and tasks.

Mediators & Arbitrators of Oklahoma, LLC Jon Starr * Michael Gassett Scott McDaniel * Jack Crews Mark Smiling * David Wilson Scott Ryan * Richard Warzynski Mark A. Warman * Truman Rucker Peter Erdoes * Jeff Curran Call (918) 693-7850 to schedule you next mediation CLUGSTON POLYGRAPH & INVESTIGATING SERVICES FBI National Academy graduate, 25 years law enforcement experience.

See our Website at www.clugston-polygraph.com or call (918) 622-7008 for information about our services.

Corporate internal investigations, criminal defense, divorce, child custody, loss prevention….

We can help answer your questions.

Advertising in Tulsa Lawyer is easy!

Visit www.tulsabar.com for rates and details.

Apply now: www.brokenarrowok.gov/jobs

40 Tulsa Lawyer

" TWITTER, TWEET, RETWEET and the Twitter logo are trademarks of Twitter, Inc. or its affiliates. "

Tulsa County Bar Association 1446 S. Boston Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119

"I used to say that, as Solicitor General, I made three arguments of every case. First came the one that I planned-as I thought, logical, coherent, complete.

Second was the one actually presented-interrupted, incoherent, disjointed, disappointing.

The third was the utterly devastating argument that I thought of after going to bed that night."

Supreme Court, 37 Cornell L. Rev. 1, p. 6 (1951)

PRSRTD STD US POSTAGE PAID Pontiac, Illinois PERMIT# 592

~ Robert H. Jackson, Advocacy Before the United States