Membership & More
A Message from the President
Kara Vincent 2021-2022 TCBA President
Pg. 6
Pg. 2
Golden Rule Award 3rd Quarter
Hugh Robert
TULSA LAWYER
In this Issue
July 2022
2
Choosing Gratitude Kara Vincent
4
Foundation Donation Notice
5
Membership Renewal 2022-2023
7
Member Appreciation Happy Hour Thursday, July 14th
8
TCBF Golf Donations Presented
9
Annual Luncheon - Thursday, August 18th
10
TCBA Member Event Recap
14
Your Customer is My Customer By David B. Parker
17
Membership Drive & Open House Thursday, July 28th
18
Celebrate July Birthdays!
19
Nominations Wanted
20
TCBA Spotlight - Tulsa Lawyers for Children
22
Affinity Bar Mixer Tuesday, August 30th
23
TCBA’s Fee Arbitration Committee – Your Resource to Resolve Billing Disputes By Michael Taubman
Member Benefit-Pilates Yoga Fusion is Back!
Your Member To-Do List 24
Faith Orlowski's Legacy Lives On Katy Inhofe, Animal Law Committee
26
In Memory of...
28
Grapevine
31
Classified Ads
32
Committees, Sections, Contact Us
Cover Photo: Saint Francis Hospital. Tulsa, Oklahoma. Courtesy Elyse Anthamatten, daughter of TCBA Executive Director, Tami Williams.
A Message from the President
Kara Vincent Throughout my life, I have been instructed by my parents to implement a mindset of gratitude. They taught me to appreciate all that I have and they instilled in me the recognition that everything that has happened in our lives has brought us to where we are now. Both the good and the bad (especially the bad) circumstances that we live through shape us and provide experiences that enable us to grow and help other do the same. June 4th was my parents’ 56th wedding anniversary. I’ve included a picture of them on their wedding day in this months’ column because I am grateful for them – for their commitment to each other, and the love and support they have given me over the years. Plus, who’s going to stop me, right? This picture is a reminder to me to be grateful. This month, our nation celebrates its independence. Even with the political conflict and various social issues for which no one has a perfect answer, I am still grateful. I recently attended a high school graduation ceremony at Holland Hall. The speaker was a teacher who was selected by the students.
Happy 4th of July! 2 Tulsa Lawyer
Choosing Gratitude
The recurring theme throughout his speech was (I’m paraphrasing here) “Change the way you view your circumstances and your circumstances will change.” Gratitude provides the necessary shift in thought process that allows us to view the situations that life presents in a different way. So, today, I choose gratitude. I’m grateful that I am able to express my views in this article without concern that my words may lead to a jail sentence. I’m grateful that I have a job and that if I want to work, I can. There are many more things for which I’m grateful – and many more people too. So, I’ll just provide one more. I grateful that I am part of this legal community. Not just a listing of people who have managed to pass a test and can practice law (because we’ll never get it perfect). I’m talking about a group of individuals who have voluntarily managed to accomplish a great deal for those in the larger community around them. We have sections and committees comprised of attorneys who are passionate…and not just about their representation of clients in the courtroom. They have each dedicated themselves to a worthy cause and they spend countless hours making a difference by educating, assisting and empowering those around them. There are not enough times when the members of the TCBA are thanked for everything they do. So, this month I’d like to express my gratitude for the efforts of the members of the TCBA who make a difference to
the larger communities in which they serve. When I was younger, I would sometimes write poems. They were juvenile because, well, I was juvenile. Somewhere along the way, poetry turned to term papers, and the majority of my poems came in the form of Christmas letters. I think I got my penchant for crafting rhyming lyrics from my mother. For our birthdays, she would write rhyming riddles that provided clues for where our birthday gifts were hidden. Often, we would find a wrapped gift in the dryer, and on rare occasions in my father’s underwear drawer (finding a word to rhyme with underwear was not an easy task). I thought about ending this month’s article with an original poem, but time constraints and billable hours prohibited me. I will, however, end this article with a poem written by Julie Herbert called “A Day Will Come.” A day will come in every life, When appreciation is rendered. And this should be taken seriously, And given with love and tender. Anyone who deserves appreciation, Must have done something great. So share with them the way you feel, And always treat them right. But keep in mind that appreciation, Should be given again and again. If you truly appreciate, You'll remind them how great they've been. Do something special to thank the ones, Who've made a difference to you. But don't forget to thank them again, For everything they do. The TCBA appreciates the effort of its members and the positive effect your actions have on the larger surrounding community. In recognition of their acts, the TCBA hosted member events throughout the month of June and has a planned Happy Hour at Fassler Hall on July 14th at 5:00. We hope you’ll attend. I hope that you each have an opportunity to get some rest over the 4th of July holiday and I hope that you realize the impact you have on the people around you and the opportunities you have each day to make a difference. I encourage each of you to expand your circles of influence and when the you need to find a path forward, I hope you will choose gratitude. Sincerely, Kara Vincent TCBA President, 2021-2022
Foundation Donation Notice
STEIDLEY & NEAL, PLLC,
is searching for an associate attorney with 2-4 years’ experience in Insurance Defense for its Tulsa office. Competitive salary and other benefits commensurate with level of experience. Looking for a motivated candidate interested in providing assistance to a partner. Applications will be kept in strict confidence. Send resume to Steidley & Neal, located in CityPlex Towers, 53rd Floor, 2448 E. 81st St., Tulsa, OK, 74137, attention Dwain Witt, Legal Administrator.
Pilates Yoga Fusion
On your TCBA dues statement you have the option to unite with your colleagues to support the Tulsa County Bar Foundation by making a $10 tax deductible donation. These contributions will go towards the Foundation’s continued support of its missions, operations, and repairs and maintenance expenses of TCBF property. With your help, the Tulsa Bar Foundation can make an even greater impact in the 2022-23 fiscal year. All dues paying members are automatically enrolled, but you have the option to opt out of making the contribution.
Pilates Fusion incorporates exercise from different workout styles – including barre, yoga, strength training and cardio to give a modern twist to mat Pilates. Similar to mat Pilates, this style has a deep focus on the core and emphasizing moves that will tone, stretch, and elongate muscles. What better way to end your work week!
Starting in July
Free & Live Streaming from TCBA
Fridays 12-12:45p
4 Tulsa Lawyer
Golden Rule Award
3rd Quarter
Hugh Robert
I am proud to nominate Hugh Robert for the Golden Rule Award. Hugh epitomizes the ethical and professional qualities of some of our countries most highly-respected lawyers, like Justice John Roberts, Justice Thurgood Marshall and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I know that with certainty based on the many years I had the privilege of working with Hugh when he appeared in my court.
and Board President of Lawyers Fighting Hunger, Inc. which raises money to help feed the hungry. Every November he organizes a Thanksgiving Food drive and personally hands out hundreds of food baskets. I’ve had the rewarding experience of standing alongside Hugh as he filled sacks for those who come seeking a little support for a Thanksgiving meal and I’ve seen the sheer joy in Hugh’s eyes when his generosity is met with Hugh has a heart for “thank you, sir” and “God bless meeting the needs of the under- you man.” No level of inclement privileged in our community. weather has prevented Hugh To that end, he is the co-founder
Award Criteria
The Golden Rule award is given to lawyers who make outstanding contributions to their profession and have the highest of ideals and are willlng to mentor to those with less experience. Criteria for Award: 1. Recognizes the ethical and professional obligations as an officer of the court as well as the spirit and intent of the Rules of Professional Conduct. 2. Practices ethically and honestly and is true to his/her word. 3. Strives for the traditional goals of moral excellence. 4. Exhibits the highest standards of fairness and integrity. 5. Sets a model example for conduct with members of the Bar and the Judiciary not only by words but more importantly by deeds. 6. Is civil, courteous and respectful towards the court and his/her opponents.
7 Is loyal to his/her client without trickery and deception and without using abusive practices or misleading the court or opposing counsel.
8 Avoids the temptation to make his/her client’s case into a personal vendetta. 9 Conducts himself/herself in a manner that improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public. 6 Tulsa Lawyer
GOLDEN RULE 1: capitalized G&R : a rule of ethical conduct : do to others as you would have them do to you 2: a guiding principle
from spending his precious weekends on this effort. Our legal community as a whole benefit from the humanitarian work Hugh engages in year around. He shows people another dimension to the role of lawyers by modeling kindness and compassion toward others less fortunate which improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public. He doesn’t just “talk the talk.” He “walks the walk,” as evidenced by the many awards he has received recognizing his work including the OBA Outstanding Service Award to the Public, the TCBA Roger Scott Community Service Award and the Iron Gates Volunteer of the Year award. Hugh has caused me to aspire to be a better lawyer and a better person. I bet there are many lawyers out there who share that sentiment. Linda Morrissey Attorney and Mediator
TCBF GOLF DONATIONS PRESENTED The chairs of the Annual Charity Golf Tournament held a small reception on Tuesday, May 31st and presented its four beneficiaries with their donations from this year’s fundraiser. Committee members, volunteers, and representatives from the BC Franklin Legal Clinic, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Tulsa Lawyers for Children and the Tulsa County Veterans Treatment Court were all present to receive their donations each in the amount of $5,900.
Present were:
Brian Keester, Doerner Saunders Daniel &Anderson Firm and Golf Tournament Committee Chair Sherry Cherry, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma Kimberly Moore, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma and Golf Tournament Committee Chair Mimi Marton, Associate Dean and Director of Clinical Programs at University of Tulsa College of Law Timothy Michaels-Johnson, Executive Director of Tulsa Lawyers for Children
Top Left: Brian Keester & Kimberly Moore with Mimi Marton (center). Above: Veterans Treatment Center presented check by Brian Keester and Kimberly Moore Left: Sara Cherry, center, from Legal Aid Services of Okalhoma.
Bill Kellough & Larry Leonard
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8 Tulsa Lawyer
Judge Rebecca Nightingale Meghan Murphy, Veterans Treatment Center Coordinator Corey Roberts, Program Administrator Tulsa County Alternative Court Programs
TCBA MEMBER EVENTS RECAP Whiskey Cocktail Class at The Vault
Another great TCBA summer event is in the books! June 14th, the TCBA hosted a CLE (continuing liquor education) event at the Vault to teach about the chemistry involved in making incredible cocktails. The evening was well attended (nearly 40 people), the stories about the history of whiskey interesting, and, most importantly, the cocktails were delicious. The Vault served everyone an appetizer plate of cornbread squares with steak morsels, bowls of nuts, and carrot cake squares with a dollop of a sweet cream cheese frosting. A copy of the menu of drinks prepared for the tasting is included, so you can practice your mixology at home while attempting your best Tom Cruise Cocktail impersonation. Enjoy, drink responsibly, and share with friends!
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YLD-Amanda Duncan, Blake Duncan, Billy Duncan, Julie, Renee Thelen, Michael Thelen, Colton Richardson, Bryan Seaton, Austin Witt, Taylor.
YLD Clubs & Cocktails May 11th
Tacos Tequila & Tulips May 5th
Cassie from Penelope & Lu lead a flower arrangement class with TCBA members for a fun Mother's Day event.
Tulsa Lawyer 11
Main Event Member Appreciation - JUNE 11th
Tim Gifford, wife Megan Martin and family
Kimberly Moore with sons Zachary & Alex Waite
The Duncan's at Laser Tag Amanda, Zoey, Billy, Presley 12 Tulsa Lawyer
Robert Alderson and son Henry
Jennifer Kern & family Carlos Williams with girls and Yvonne White
Allie Alderson and daughter Millie. Deborah Reed and Family, Steven Osborn, Ivy, Blake, and Zane Osborn
Emilyn Potter and son.
Your Customer Is My Customer By David B. Parker
I believe one thing that the COVID pandemic has forced all aspects of the legal system to do is realize that we can work around predicaments rather than dig our heels in deep. Working together hasn’t violated any oath, once we learned new means to communicate. As a career law enforcement professional, I have known little other than the “us versus them” stereotype, when it came to attorneys and their clients. We arrest and detain, and the attorneys try to get them out. I am not saying we have it 100% correct now at all, but I do believe we have established better communication. Learning through necessity, we can work around problems together in order to serve our customers more efficiently and effectively. I must hand it to attorneys that they do seem, in general, to work together even when adversaries. As a law enforcement professional, it seems your side is much better in that aspect. But shouldn’t our common goal be to change or rehabilitate the deviant behavior of those we work with for the good of the community or customer? We have some quality diversion programs locally that have been recognized and modeled nationally. I believe the COVID pandemic accelerated deferred prosecution, leaving diversion as one of the only options in some cases. Yes, we continued to put violent criminals into jails and prisons, but the rate has slowed when compared to the last decade. Confining groups in small, self-contained areas went against everything the government and medical experts advised. Old practices of confinement trended toward increasing exposure, and even death, requiring new protocols to be established and enforced. Some chose politics over science, but somehow, we still worked together to reduce the rate of detention. Courts heard bail suits across the country, while law enforcement argued bail a necessity to keep the community safe. Judges across the country set or revamped bail schedules, issuing many more P.R./O.R. bonds in the interest of public health. If COVID was out of the equation and using only the data, I believe we outlined a picture for the future regarding bond issues, but the evolution will lie in the middle. We should now be asking questions if we keep the current bail process, or we eliminate the bail process? 14 Tulsa Lawyer
The pandemic changed all our lives personally and professionally. Focusing on the gains made in this short baseline time frame of COVID, I believe more has been accomplished cooperatively than any other time in my 36-year career. What changed? I believe the most prevalent response is the attention directed towards our customer base and acknowledging where we made measurable advancements. Whether considering the courts, jails, or prisons, two identifiable customer bases often intermingle. Those customers are the Public and the Detained. A third, less identified and considered cog in the machine, are the individuals working within the system, you and me. The order listed is not relevant, but each is a customer. With regard to the “Public”, the primary function of the law enforcement, including the police, prosecutors, or courts, is to enforce our established laws to protect the public. I hope we all agree that is a fact. This protection is far more in-depth than simply taking law breakers off the street or establishing case law as the sole means of protecting the public. Staying within my expertise and experience, I focus more on the criminal aspect. We arrest, detain, judicate, and incarcerate, but we protect no one as a whole if that is all we do. Yes, we remove an immediate threat, but just like attending law school, the student criminal learns. Warehousing of criminals in our jails and prisons has the unfortunate side effect of providing an institution to learn to be a more effective criminal. A cornucopia of criminal industry experts and educators are there to teach with a never-ending body of students to learn. Examples of available classes run from narcotic manufacturing 101, to establishing more effective trafficking systems, planning murder by the numbers, leadership in gang organization, advancements in technology for white collar criminal enterprises, and no one’s favorite sexual deviants in the shadows. We all know that a large portion of business is based on relationships, so where better to build those relationships. Think about that for a minute. My criminal neighbor, former schoolmate, or cousin is learning how to be a better criminal. Are we really protecting the public when the incarcerated will be your neighbor someday?
Within the span of this article, we cannot even address the cost to the customer of detaining or incarcerating. Costs of detention and incarceration, not to mention prosecution, would need a separate article to address issues of tax revenues paid for incarceration, lost taxes due to incarceration, subsidies claimed by families of the incarcerated, cost of litigation, employee training and turn over within the various systems, medical care, and many other items. Protecting the detained subject may be the most difficult customer base for many reasons. Many who are detained, or later incarcerated, suffer from some form or another of a physiological or biochemical cognitive impairment. Detained, in the context here, is defined as arrested but unsentenced, while incarcerated refers to those who are sentenced and imprisoned. Many difficulties and impairments are linked to mental illness, excessive substance abuse, or simple deviant behavior. They manifest poor impulse control, so, when you confine them into small, loud, crowded areas, the potential for problems escalates, which can lead to self-injurious behaviors when the reality of their consequences materializes. For those with substance abuse issues, involuntary detoxing with limited support creates major health risks. Those
suffering from undiagnosed or untreated mental illness can be especially vulnerable. At their core, these are your neighbors, regardless of the NIMBY reaction some in society may hold, and they may return home in a few days with the same disorder with additional complications from their arrest. To be honest, I am not exactly sure what the answer is to all of it, but I do know that we gained a small foothold on implementing changes to improve our systems during the COVID pandemic that we can't afford to let subside. We still lean towards the old ways, but there was and is still progress made, which we must continue to build upon for the future. The breakthroughs and gains we learned during that experience demonstrates that it doesn’t take years as some previously thought. Below are some things we agreed upon or implemented during this time, and there should be no reason why we do not continue our efforts to improve outcomes, lest return to the unsuccessful history we knew. •
Rules and laws have discretion built within.
•
Absorbingly high bonds may not always be in the best interest of our customer base.
•
Attorneys shouldn’t have to waste billable hours Continued on next page...
waiting at a detention facility to communicate with their client when technology is available while there are other essential tasks that must be completed to protect them. •
Detention facilities can write contracts to ensure vendors ensure privilege is maintained whether through the mail, over a telephone or through a video conference.
•
Diversion programs are successful even with a percent of failures.1
•
Judges can set bond schedules that include P.R./ O.R. to include aggregating multiple charges focusing on the most severe as the controlling.
•
Detention centers can entrust attorneys to move freely through the facility to manage time for all involved.
•
Detention centers have learned attorneys who violate rules can still represent their clients without coming inside the facility, and the hardest opponent on violations is the Bar Association.2
•
Law enforcement must understand one charge often sufficient during arrest unless it’s based on existing warrants, and, while that is not always a 100% accurate statement, we have to learn it’s not personal.
•
Bond hearings can be conducted 365 days a year and could occur twice daily with available technology.
•
Drug treatment can begin in detention, with after care and handoffs to providers for continued treatment enhances success.
1 Maybe I am too old-school, but wouldn’t a diversion program where we allow as an alternative to incarceration for people to work and live in government sponsored infrastructure rehabilitation programs make sense? I believe there is a blueprint on the shelf called WPA. Just think, volunteers could work an 8-hour shift, earn a wage, have a place to live while they get back on their feet, and pay the cost to the courts at 25 dollars a day rather than sit in a cell for the same rate, then program for a couple hours before bed. Yes, there will be failures but there will also be successes. 2 Treat the compliant attorneys as partners and cull the violators with remote access to clients via technology. 16 Tulsa Lawyer
•
Incarceration costs continue to rise, and, if you can’t properly staff a unit, you need to reduce the number of units you have. 3
•
And my personal favorite, the Public Defenders are creative, passionate, and should have a seat at every planning committee because they represent many of the customers who enter the judicial system.
As the COVID pandemic slows and releases its stranglehold, many diversion planning groups will reconvene in our quality Tulsa programs. Also, we need to embrace and encourage those that are being developed. As an Early Settlement mediator, I know the civil side of the courts has not fully developed all diversion options. Consider if we could develop some type of early settlement program for low level offenses as a way to unburden the courts who are suffering under the backlog of cases postponed during COVID. Our courts will struggle for years to come from the pandemic’s setback, so diversion programs, whether through existing methods or creation of new ones, could only help these issues. Personally, I want to thank those who have pioneered and embraced many of the changes forced upon us by COVID. After 36 years of service, I retired and moved into the private sector following the tragedy of COVID, and I hope no other generation must transition through it again. Let us employ this unfortunate experience as a catalyst for change. Remember, we all provide a service to the same customer base. I have been published in professional law enforcement articles, but this is a new crowd. My sincere wish is that you find this short article as thought provoking as I intended in putting these words to paper. I welcome any feedback or continued conversation individually as well. If you would like to discuss this further, please email me at dbparker1945@gmail.com. Thank each of you for what you do serve the customers in our systems.
3 Fewer people want to work in this profession, and the turnover rate is over 50% in many places. We the customers are responsible for the cost.
David B. Parker began his 36year career in Law Enforcement as a deputy with the Woods County Sheriff’s Office in Alva, Oklahoma. While attending a college job fair he accepted a position with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. Entering as a Correctional Officer, he promoted through the ranks as an Investigator, Divisional Supervisor of Construction and Maintenance, Deputy Warden, Warden, Deputy Director and retiring as Director of Division II over prisons. After retiring he accepted the position of Jail Administrator of the David L. Moss Criminal Justice Center in Tulsa County. He severed in that position for 3.5 years. David is a graduate of Northwestern Oklahoma State University with degrees in Law Enforcement and Biology. Throughout his career he received multiple awards, but his most notable achievement was never received an American Corrections Association facility accreditation score of less than 100%. Which includes both prisons and jail. He served as a committee chair for Southern States Corrections Association, a member of the National Institute of Corrections Large Jail Network think tank, Regional Director of Oklahoma Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and Area Chairman for Ducks Unlimited. He currently provides consultation as a detention expert.
Stephanie Jackson Jim Milton Harris Prescott Carl Vincent
Tulsa Lawyer 17
July Birthday Celebrations? HAPPY BIRTHDAY! We are striving to take care of our members as well as taking care of the community. If there’s anything we can do to help you, please let us know. We are here to support your business and we want you to be successful. By being a member of the TCBA, you are also a member of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. As a general rule, the funds that come into the Foundation are the result of a fundraising event for our community and the monies raised are immediately distributed back out into the community through non-profit organizations. In an effort to assist the Foundation, we have implemented a monthly “Fund the Foundation” program. To participate we are asking each member who has a birthday this month to consider making a donation to the Foundation. You can do so with the QR Code to the below.
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If you are not currently a Fellow, please consider joining that program. As a thank you (and let’s be honest, an encouragement to other members), if you donate before the 10th of the month we will include a shout out to you in the next issue of Tulsa Lawyer Magazine. If you wish to donate or join the Fellows program, please contact Tami Williams or Julie Rivers and they can assist you. We value your membership & Happy Birthday! Sincerely, Kara Vincent, TCBA President
TCBA SPOTLIGHT
In 2000, Tulsa Lawyers for Children (“TLC”) was incorporated to ensure legal services for Tulsa County’s abused and neglected children involved in child welfare cases when conflicts prevent representation by the Tulsa County Office of the Public Defender. Child welfare cases, also referred to as deprived cases, are a niche arena of legal procedures designed with the intent to “provide the foundation and process for state intervention into the parent-child relationship whenever the circumstances of a family threaten the safety of a child and to properly balance the interests of the [parents, child, and state].” 10A O.S. § 1-1-102(B). Deprived cases are designed to react to allegations of abuse and neglect, including substance abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, and medical neglect, and when possible provide rehabilitative services to assist in the safe reunification of families. When a deprived case is initiated, the children involved are guaranteed legal representation. In Oklahoma, an expressed interest state, attorneys for children are required to maintain as normalized an attorney-client relationship as possible and advocate for the child’s expressed wishes and goals. While there are nuanced positions in every case, advocacy generally aims to achieve the client’s preferred permanency plan, i.e. reunification with family, guardianship, adoption, or planned alternative placement (also referred to as aging out of custody). In situations where the child lacks competency to direct an attorney’s representation, attorneys for children are statutorily required to substitute their judgment for the child based on objective criteria and advocate for a position which serves the best interest of the child.
cases. However, conflicts in representation can arise when there are pending criminal matters against parents who are represented by an assistant public defender or, because we are an expressed interest state, when siblings disagree and desire different legal outcomes in their case. These conflicts require the assistant public defender withdraw from representation, which leaves a child without legal representation. TLC fills this gap. When an assistant public defender withdraws from representation, the judges of the Tulsa County Family Center for Juvenile Justice appoint TLC. In turn, TLC assigns a staff attorney to immediately represent the interests of the child pending assignment of the client to a volunteer attorney who donates their time and skills to represent children. TLC recruits, trains, and mentors these volunteer attorneys, asking them to meet with their clients monthly, to advise and counsel their clients about the legal system and the facts of the case, and to advocate for the clients’ expressed interests in and out of court. In some situations, the underlying case is particularly complicated or the children are placed in homes outside of Tulsa County. When this occurs, staff attorneys remain assigned to the child and continue to provide legal representation.
In 2021, TLC provided legal representation for 272 children, 15.9% of Tulsa County Children involved with Oklahoma Human Services. TLC is exploring opportunities to increase capacity, seeking sufficient funding to hire a third staff attorney, allowing each attorney to be assigned to one of the three primary deprived dockets. There are four deprived dockets in Tulsa County: two general child welfare dockets, one Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) docket, and one In Tulsa County, the Office of the Public Family Treatment Court Docket. The ICWA and general Defender has a department, consisting of four attorneys, child welfare dockets are the largest dockets. Only when representing approximately 1400 children in deprived certain factors exist in a case, including significant 20 Tulsa Lawyer
substance abuse, may the case be transferred to the Family Treatment Court Docket, so these cases would be followed by the initially assigned attorney and that docket does not require its own attorney. This will reduce how often each staff attorney faces a week in jury trial, reduce the number of days each attorney spends in court, and permit them to have a much more active role in the training and mentorship of volunteers with cases in their court room. Tulsa Lawyers for Children is actively seeking attorneys within the community interested in serving children. In addition to the support provided by TLC’s staff and executive director, TLC provides a wealth of resources on their website (with free registration) and in trainings on child welfare law and practice throughout the year. For example, TLC, in collaboration with the National Association of Counsel for Children and Haruv USA, is developing an Oklahoma-specific training to introduce an evidence-based best practice model of legal representation of children for TLC volunteers and those in the legal community throughout the state working with children. The QIC-ChildRep Best Practice Model, developed by the U.S. Children’s Bureau and the University of Michigan Law School, was empirically tested in Georgia and Washington to determine the impact of the model on a randomly assigned group of attorneys. The group of QIC Modeltrained attorneys initiated more contact with their clients, increased communication with others involved in the case, were more likely to be involved in conflict
How to Volunteer
resolution and negotiations, and observed a measurable improvement in permanency outcomes for children. TLC is proud to announce the inaugural presentation of this new two-day training on August 11 and 12, 2022. Participation is absolutely free and CLE will be requested. For more information on registration for the training or opportunities to volunteer, please contact TLC at volunteer@tulsakidlaw.org. Over the years, Tulsa Lawyers for Children has been blessed by the support of many local philanthropic foundations, including the Oklahoma Bar Foundation and the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. In 2021, these grants made up about 60% of TLC’s operations income. Another 24% of their income was from a federal grant with strict limitations on its use. Additionally, last year, TLC did receive assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program, which was also quite restrictive on its use. Unfortunately, only 5.5% of TLC’s funding in 2021 was from individuals, law firms, and local corporations. While TLC absolutely appreciates the annual grants received from Oklahoma foundations, there is a significant desire to see growth in financial support of TLC from Tulsa individuals, law firms, and corporations. These types of gifts often provide a level of freedom, not otherwise available, to experiment with expanding services to the children served and the volunteers supported. Please consider supporting TLC on an annual basis at a level comfortable to you. Every $100 received funds one month of legal representation for a Tulsa child. For more information about Tulsa Lawyers, check out their website, www.tulsalawyersforchildren. org, like their Facebook page, and register for their newsletter. To donate via PayPal https://www.paypal.com/ donate/?hosted_button_id=Y5L5MCHWPLGZN
TLC Donation Page
TLC Newsletter Registration Tulsa Lawyer 21
TCBA’s Fee Arbitration Committee – Your Resource to Resolve Billing Disputes By Michael P. Taubman
Inevitably, every lawyer’s career will involve an uncomfortable discussion with a client disgruntled over the bill. All engagements do not end well, leaving attorneys with clients who withhold payments or demand a return of money. In Utopia, all lawyers perform their best, and clients always pay their bill. Our Tulsa County Bar Association created the Fee Arbitration committee for the dystopian reality in which inharmonious parties find themselves. Our TCBA provides a free service for lawyers and clients to resolve disputes over fees. The Fee Arbitration committee is comprised of twenty (20) lawyers licensed in practice for more than five (5) years, together with five (5) lay persons, who investigate, review, deliberate and render binding arbitration decisions. Our Fee Arbitration service requires the voluntary participation of both the attorney and the client. By contrast, California requires attorneys to submit fee disputes to binding arbitration while clients may elect whether or not to participate.1 When lawyers and clients volunteer to submit their dispute, one of the attorney members conducts an investigation, interviewing the parties, receiving evidence, and reports their findings to the full committee for deliberation. The discovery and evidentiary processes are largely informal, consisting of the investigator asking the parties to volunteer their information and documentation. The committee meets monthly to review and deliberate 1
See California Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 6200 et seq.
investigator reports, and the Chair reports the decision to the parties, who may then proceed to enforce their judgment in Court, if need be. Over the past 7 years, 65% of the attorneys that have complaints filed against them declined to participate in the Fee Arbitration committee process, leaving clients further aggrieved and forced to pursue other alternatives. Some client complaints are clearly unjustified; however, there are instances where the lawyer failed the client. Lawyers have control at the outset of the engagement to define the terms and conditions of their services, but many do not. Too often, the Fee Arbitration committee learns that no written fee agreement existed, leading to miscommunication of expectations between the attorney and client. As the Captain would say, “What we got here is… a failure to communicate.” 2 No system is foolproof, and a better fool seems always in the offing. The Fee Arbitration process does not guarantee a client will not file a complaint, but the OBAPRT does not help to resolve fee disputes. When you find yourself at an impasse over your fees, consider bringing it to the Fee Arbitration committee. If the price doesn’t convince you (it’s free!), the potential time saved and expediency of the process should.
2 See Strother Martin as Captain in Cool Hand Luke, Jalem Productions, 1 Nov. 1967.
Tulsa Lawyer 23
Faith Orlowski’s Legacy Lives On Faith Orlowski’s birthday is July 28, so July is the month to honor and celebrate her.
Remembering Faith
many nonprofit animal organizations, and provided advice and counsel to numerous animal lovers and organizations. She was the TCBA’s go-to person for any question that related in any way to animals and the law - from estate planning for your pet, ownership disputes, and dog bites, to quarrels over pets defecating on neighbors’ patios.
Donations may be made to:
Faith was also a long-time Tulsa Society for the Prevention of Cruelty board member. She helped with all kinds of legal and practical matters and was instrumental in helping to establish the new clinic that provides low-cost vaccinations, microchipping, spay/ neuter, and more. Perhaps Faith teetered on going overboard to assist animals in need. Who else would have a litter of adoptable Tulsa SPCA puppies at their husband’s memorial service?
And be sure to drop by the Animal Law Committee table at the TCBA Membership Drive, Committee Expo & Open House on July 28 to celebrate Faith’s birthday and pick up some dog or kitty treats to take home to your four-legged family member(s)!
July is Faith’s birthday month, and we are asking for When we think of Faith, most of us think of donations to help build a permanent memorial honoring her laugh. It was unmistakable. I remember hearing her contributions to the Tulsa County Bar Association her down the hall in the Bar Center, from the lobby at and the Tulsa SPCA, both organizations that were very Moyers Martin, walking into Tulsa SPCA meetings, important to her. and even at the other end of Sam’s Club a couple of times. Her laugh was irresistible and infectious. Doug The TCBA is working with the Tulsa SPCA to erect and I always made a special effort to get to the TCBA a pergola in the Tulsa SPCA’s friendship yard for pets Holiday Party early so we could sit with Faith for a big and their people for their “Going Home” pictures to forever celebrate the occasion. A memorial plaque will dose of cheer. recognize Faith’s work as a TCBA member who shared Faith Orlowski was an active (understatement) her legal expertise, knowledge, and passion for animal and dedicated member of the Tulsa County Bar welfare to help the Tulsa SPCA and countless others. Association where she served as President, board member, chair of various committees, and frequent CLE Let’s Honor Her Memory speaker. She was honored with two President’s Awards We hope you can join the TCBA in honoring Faith, her for her service. Faith was recognized by her peers as a dedication to the legal community, and her willingness brilliant lawyer, mentor, leader, and dear friend. to use her knowledge and experience to help animals Most of you know, too, that Faith is a legend and people in need. The Animal Law Committee is in the animal law community. She started the TCBA raising funds this year to support these efforts but we Animal Law Committee years ago, helped establish need a lot of help to reach our goal of $7,000.
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Tulsa County Bar Foundation Faith Orlowski Memorial 1446 S. Boston Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119
Katy Inhofe, Animal Law Committee Chair
Tulsa Lawyer 27
Be sure your account information is up to date. Contact Julie Rivers for assistance. julier@tulsabar.com
Member renewal begins in July.
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John B. Jarboe passed on to eternal rest with the Lord on May 1, 2022 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. John was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on March 28, 1940 to Joseph R. and Mildred Maguire Jarboe. He was the youngest of three children, having two older sisters, Joan Marie and Mary Geraldine "Jerry" Jarboe who predeceased him. John attended Marquette Elementary School and Cascia Hall High School, graduating in 1958 and continuing his education at the University of Oklahoma. There he was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History in 1962. In the summer of 1960, John began his education in what would become a future career in his family's wholesale wine and spirits business, Jarboe Sales Company. For three months he toured wineries and distilleries across Europe, meeting with owners, vintners, and distillers, learning about their craft and products. It was an experience he considered a highlight of his life. In 1962, John enrolled at the University of Tulsa College of Law where he was Editor-In-Chief of the TU Law Journal, graduating first in his class and named Outstanding Law Student. While attending law school, John served as law clerk for the Honorable Allen C. Barrow He graduated in 1965 with his Juris Doctorate, and passed the Oklahoma Bar Examination, earning his license to practice law in Oklahoma. After graduation, John joined the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington D.C. as a participant in the Attorney General's Honor Program until 1966 when he was drafted into the Army. He entered as a Private First Class, at Fort Polk, Louisiana, where he served for two years and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service for his work in the Legal Department. While serving in the Army, John obtained his license to practice law in the State of Louisiana, passing the Louisiana Bar Exam (Napoleonic Code of Law). John was discharged from the Army in 1968 with the rank of Specialist Fifth Class. Upon returning to Tulsa, John ran for Oklahoma's First District, U.S. House of Representatives seat. He won the Democratic primary election, but lost the general election to the incumbent, Page Belcher. Following his Congressional race, John considered moving back to Washington, D.C., but decided to remain in Tulsa to practice law and become involved in Jarboe Sales Company. It was a wise decision, as he had the good fortune to meet his future wife, Sally Bauer, his lifelong love. They married in 1969 at Christ 26 Tulsa Lawyer
John B. Jarboe 1940-2022 the King Catholic Church, where John and his family have been lifelong members. Their union was blessed with three wonderful children: John Bruce II "J.B.", Sarah Elizabeth, and Susanne Christine. In 1970, John started his own law firm, where he practiced until he closed his office in December of 2021. He was a member of Southern Hills Country Club and the Summit Club. In 1985, John was appointed General Counsel for the Catholic Diocese of Tulsa and Eastern Oklahoma, a position he held until 2016, serving (now) ArchBishop Eusebius J. Beltran, Bishop Edward J. Slattery, and Bishop David A. Konderla in legal matters involving the Diocese. John took special pride in incorporating Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma, and helping it to grow and develop to its present ability to provide fourteen vital services to persons in need, regardless of race, color or religious affiliation. He was also a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, a Catholic organization that supports the preservation of Christianity in the Holy Land. In 1971, John was appointed by Governor David Hall to serve on the Board of Regents at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in Chickasha, then named the Oklahoma College of Liberal Arts. He served a seven-year term, part of that time as Chairman of the Board. He was also appointed to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board by Governor George Nigh, serving from 1979 to 1983. Upon the death of his father in 1980, John succeeded him as a Partner in Jarboe Sales Company, inheriting Wholesale Wine and Spirits License No. 7, reportedly the second wholesale license issued after prohibition ended in Oklahoma in 1959. He became active in the business with his partners, Louis Abraham, Jr. and Mark Carson. Working with Oklahoma Legislators, John and interested stakeholders were finally able, in 1985, to modernize Oklahoma's laws to allow the sale of liquor by the drink. Growing up, John worked summers on his father's cattle ranch near Nowata, Oklahoma, where he learned the cattle business, which included a feedlot and commission company in Kansas, as well as the ranch. Upon his father's death, he continued to operate the ranch while also practicing law and helping to manage Jarboe Sales Company. John loved auto racing. He was thrilled to race several laps around the Indianapolis 500 Motor Speedway track at speeds well over 100 miles per hour. He also raced at Hallett Motor Racing Circuit, and drove a NASCAR at Fontana Speedway in Fontana, California. John also had a passion for travel, which he often referred to as the best education available. His favorite trips were with Sally and the children to the wine regions of France and Italy, visiting vineyards and historic places, many of which he had visited in 1960. He also loved Ireland, where he and Sally made several trips to visit family and friends. John is survived by his wife, Sally; and their three children, John Bruce II "J.B." and his wife Carrie, their children
John Bruce III "Jack" and Caroline; Sarah Jarboe Tucker and her husband Jefferey Tucker, their daughters Elisa and Leah; and Susanne Jarboe Pereira and her husband Charles Pereira, and their children Lauren, Charles Joseph "C.J." and Alexa. The family wants to extend special thanks to Sue, Betty, Elaina, Shayna, and the staff at Porta Caeli House, who all helped care for John during his final days. John was an exemplary son, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who selflessly helped many people during his life. He was loved by family, friends, clients, and coworkers alike. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. Friends may honor John with donations to Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma, P.O. Box 580460, Tulsa, OK, 74158, or to Porta Caeli House, 2440 N. Harvard Ave., Tulsa, OK , 74115. A Rosary Service for John was held Thursday, May 5, at Christ the King Catholic Church in Tulsa. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Friday, May 6, also at Christ the King Catholic Church, with a private family interment following at Calvary Cemetery.
Merl Whitebook 1953-2022 It saddens us to announce that Merl Whitebook, husband, dad, grandfather, lawyer, judge, chef, scout, and friend, died on June 4, 2022. Merl was born on March 15, 1953, the son of Dorothy and Charles Whitebook. He followed the footsteps of his father to become a lawyer (after graduating from Hol land Hall, OU, and TU Law) and of his mother to become a volunteer and support system for friends and family. Merl practiced law at Whitebook, Holtz, Gaddis and Powers and served as a municipal judge. He battled cancer 110%. That 110% reflects everything he did in life. He gave his children and grandchildren a childhood that most kids dream about. Merl loved camping, barbeque, and scouting. When he was not tending a grill with a simmering brisket, Merl and Carol traveled around the country as barbeque contest officials, he volunteered with Boy Scouts, or took others glamping in the wilderness with steak dinners cooked over a fire. Recently, people have shared his altruism and the family is grateful to hear these stories. He will be missed by so many including his wife Carol, sons Jason (Olivia) and Brandon, step-son Jake Bagley, step-daughters Glynna (Kenny) Ruggiano and Renata (Dan) Haney, grandkids Haley, Haden, McKinnley, Waylon, Ruby, and Mikayla, sister Joan Whitebook, and second mom Azzeline Colbert (“Azzie”). The family celebrated his life in Merl and Carol’s backyard on June 18, 2022. The family requests donations in lieu of flowers to the Dorothy Whitebook Memorial Youth Fund at Temple Israel or to either of the Boy Scouts of America Councils that Merl was affiliated with: Cherokee Area Council, Bartlesville or Indian Nation’s Council, Tulsa.
"It is not length of life, but depth of life." – Ralph Waldo Emerson Would you like to contribute to Tulsa Lawyer? Email tulsabarnews@yahoo.com or michael@tulsafirm.com Tulsa Lawyer 27
Grapevine News McAfee & Taft received top marks in the 2022 edition of the exclusive Chambers USA Guide to America’s Leading Lawyers for Business and was the only Oklahoma law firm to receive the top Band 1 ranking in all nine major categories of legal practice — Corporate/Commercial, Energy & Natural Resources, Environment, Healthcare, Intellectual Property, Labor & Employment, Litigation, Real Estate, and Tax.
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Additionally, for the fourth consecutive year, McAfee & Taft was the sole Oklahoma firm to earn a Band 1 ranking in the category of Litigation. In addition to firm honors, 38 McAfee & Taft attorneys – including four first-time honorees – were singled out for individual honors. Those named to the prestigious list for the very first time were Bonner J. Gonzalez (Tax), Zachary A.P. Oubre (Intellectual property), Terra Lord Parten (Healthcare) and J. Todd Woolery (Energy & Natural Resources). Returning honorees in the “Corporate/Commercial” category were W. Chris Coleman and Joshua D. Smith. Timothy J. Bomhoff was top-ranked in “Energy & Natural Resources,” and J. Derek Hardberger, Robert J. Joyce and Garry L. Keele, II were honored in “Environment.” Elizabeth Dalton, Michael E. Joseph, and Patricia Rogers were once again named in the “Healthcare” category. Returning honorees for “Intellectual Property” were Rachel Blue, Clifford C. Dougherty, III, Jessica John Bowman, John A. Kenney, Michael J. LaBrie and Anthony Rahhal. “Labor & Employment” honorees were Courtney Bru, Michael F. Lauderdale, Brandon P. Long, Charles S. Plumb, Tony G. Puckett, W. Kirk Turner and Nathan L. Whatley. Honorees for “Litigation: General Commercial” were Mary Quinn Cooper, William S. Leach and Drew Neville. Ranked for “Real Estate” were Frank D. Hill, 28 Tulsa Lawyer
Robert L. Garbrecht, Lloyd T. Hardin, Jr., Myrna Latham, Joe C. Lewallen, Jr., Cole Marshall and Richard A. Riggs. T. Michael Blake and Matthew B. Hickey returned as top-ranked honorees in the corporate area of “Tax.”
Smakal Munn, P.C., is pleased to announce that Kyle M. Trice has joined the firm as an associate attorney. Kyle graduated cum laude from Oklahoma State University in December 2011 with a degree in Political Science. After several years of working for a Fortune 500 company, Kyle returned to academia and received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa School of Law in December 2021. During law school, Kyle cofounded the Government and Military Law Society, and was an Executive Board Member of the Student Bar Association. Kyle is a member of the Oklahoma and Tulsa County Bar Associations. As a Tulsa native, Kyle enjoys the constantly growing music scene and all things outdoors. Smakal Munn, P.C., is a full-service law firm located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with a focus on family and domestic, probate and estate planning matters.
Riggs, Abney, Neal, Turpen, Orbison & Lewis celebrated its 50th anniversary in May. Founded by four University of Tulsa College of Law graduates, the firm opened its doors at 1640 S. Boston in Tulsa in May of 1974. Today, the firm has grown to include offices in Oklahoma City and Englewood, Colorado. The more than 80 attorneys at Riggs Abney provide broad-based legal counsel and representation in all aspects of the law. “We’ve followed a clear principle that has served us well for 50 years,” said Riggs Abney president Kristopher Koepsel. “We are passionate advocates for our clients and our communities. Whether through legal representation, serving in public office or improving our community, we thrive in the service of others.” Riggs Abney’s range of clients include Fortune 500 companies, national association, state agencies, privately-owned companies, and individuals. Its areas of
expertise include appellate law, banking & finance, civil litigation, estate planning, government law, healthcare, medical malpractice, energy law, tax law and workers compensation. Additionally, Riggs Abney is a LegalShield affiliate, representing individuals, families, small businesses and commercial drivers across Oklahoma and Colorado through an on-demand network of established attorneys. More than 80,000 LegalShield members depend on Riggs Abney for representation in all areas of the law. At the core of the firm’s ethos is the call to public service. Through the firm, attorneys and staff are involved in numerous charitable, service and civic organizations.
OPVEON Litigation Services, LLC, a fullservice national litigation support and consulting firm, announced June 13, 2022 that the parties have agreed to the terms under which OPVEON will acquire Litgistix, LLC, one of the largest document and data management companies in the region. April J. Ferguson, CEO of OPVEON: “Our strategic acquisition of Litgistix will create the largest and most wellrounded litigation support and consulting firm in the region. We are excited to bring the talents of the Litgistix team to our clients at OPVEON and to further serve the Litgistix client-base with an expanded array of service offerings that are unique to OPVEON. This powerhouse combination is a huge win for both our clients and employees.” OPVEON is a certified Women-Owned and Woman-Controlled Small Business (WOSB), a certified Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and is TERO certified through the Cherokee Nation. OPVEON’s team has decades of combined legal experience and has worked on hundreds of trials throughout the United States. Their service offerings include trial technology, jury consulting, virtual and in-person mock trials and jury focus groups, paralegal services, court reporting and legal video, and demonstrative graphics. Litgistix has been in business in the Tulsa area since 1980. Over the years, Litgistix service offerings have expanded from copying, binding and offset printing to litigation support, electronic data discovery, scanning, tab manufacturing, sports and promotional graphics, and large format printing and framing. Litgistix is known for its industry knowledge, high quality, and quick turnaround on projects. The existing management team at Litgistix, including Brian Grossman, the current co-owner and CFO, will be joining OPVEON’s management team. Their involvement in the combined entity will ensure a smooth transition for both clients and employees. The remainder of the Litgistix employees, including the full account management and sales team, will be joining OPVEON as well.
TULSA SENIOR SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL The Tulsa Senior Black Sox need several players for the summer and fall seasons. Summer season games are played Monday and Wednesday evenings starting at 6:30 in Broken Arrow. Ages 59 to 70+ with basic softball skills. Team especially needs a short stop and outfielders, but all who wish to play are welcome. If you’ve played ball before, this a great chance to get outdoors, get some exercise, get a little friendly competition, have some fun, and meet new people. Don’t think you can’t do it. Lots of guys are out here after not playing for 20+ years and we all have a great time. C’mon out and play ball…..you’ll be glad you did. For details, contact Steve at snovicklaw@aol.com.
Hall Estill, has elected Stephen W. Ray as its new president and managing partner. Ray will be only the fifth managing partner in the firm’s 56-year history. Previous managing partner Mike Cooke is retiring after a successful 20 years at the firm’s helm. “Steve is an excellent lawyer and good friend,” said Cooke. “We have every confidence he is the right leader to continue Hall Estill’s legacy as a
top tier law firm. Steve has been in firm leadership in other roles for many years, as well as being actively involved in community and charitable work.” As president and managing partner, Ray is responsible for managing the dayto-day operations of the firm. Hall Estill is a full-service law firm with more than 150 lawyers and legal professionals. He will continue serving clients primarily in the business and tax sectors, specifically dealing in business organizations and transactions, commercial finance, health care, executive compensation and securities, as well as trust and estate work. Ray has been with the firm since 1992. Ray has been recognized as an “Oklahoma Super Lawyer” in business and corporate law and is listed in Best Lawyers in America in corporate governance law, corporate compliance law, mergers and acquisitions law, securities and capital markets law and securities regulation. He earned his law degree in 1982 from the University of Oklahoma College of Law and his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Oklahoma in 1979. He also served for 10 years as corporate secretary for an NYSE-listed company and has expertise in governance and compliance issues. Additional elections: In addition, Sarah Hansel and Steve Soulé have joined Hall Estill’s executive committee. Hansel focuses her areas of practice in the
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corporate and commercial and intellectual property sectors. Steve Soulé, serving for the second time on the executive committee, specializes in bankruptcy litigation and transactions, workouts, reorganizations, and creditor’s rights. He also handles general business and commercial transactions for clients. Sarah Miller, Moira Watson and Ken Williams have all been elected to Hall Estill’s board of directors. Miller joined Hall Estill's energy and natural resources practice group in 2017. Her current practice is focused on commercial contracting primarily in the energy industry. Moira Watson joined Hall Estill in 2016 and practices primarily in the banking and commercial finance area. Ken Williams is a 40-year business defense attorney with expertise in environmental, municipal law, natural resources, real estate and renewable energy law.
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July Did You Know? 2.5 Million
The estimated number of people living in the newly independent nation in July 1776.
Bar Center Summer Hours Fridays closing at 2pm beginning June 3rd
331,449,281
The nation’s population on April 1, 2020.
56
The number of signers of the Declaration of Independence.
Who signed First?
John Hancock was a merchant by trade and was the first signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 2020, more than 1 million business establishments nationally with paid employees were in the retail trade industry like Hancock. (Source: 2020 County Business Patterns, Table CB2000CBP)
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/facts-for-features/2022/fourth-of-july.html Tulsa Lawyer 31
2021-2022 TCBA CONTACTS, COMMITTEE & SECTION CHAIRS
www.tulsabar.com
PHONE: 918-584-5243 FAX: 918-592-0208 1446 South Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119-3612 Executive Director Tami Williams tamiw@tulsabar.com Ext. 1002 Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees Julie Rivers julier@tulsabar.com Ext. 1001
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General Inquiries
frontdesk@tulsabar.com Ext. 1000 Accounting accounting@tulsabar.com
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Tulsa Lawyer Editor - Michael Taubman michael@tulsafirm.com Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com
TCBA OFFICERS
President................................................................ Kara Vincent Past President.........................................................Kimberly Moore President-Elect.........................................................Philip D. Hixon Vice President.......................................................... Mike Esmond Secretary..............................................................Stephanie Jackson Treasurer................................................................. Lesa Creveling Budget/Internal Operations..................................Michael Taubman Foundation President ............................................Hon. Ann Keele Director at Large (1) Large Firm.................................Austin Birnie Director at Large (2) Large Firm.......................... Philip Hixon Director at Large (1) Medium Firm........................Jennifer Struble Director at Large (2) Medium Firm.................. Kara Pratt Director at Large (1) Small Firm...........................Linda Morrissey Director at Large (2) Small Firm...........................Tamera Childers Director at Large (2) Public Sector.........................Hon. Ann Keele ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan OBA Delegate................................................................Rick White Library Trustee (1)......................................................Kim Vojvoda Library Trustee (2)........................................................ Julie Evans Presiding Judge .......................................... Hon. Doug Drummond U.S. District Court .................................. Hon. John Heil Tulsa Municipal Court............................. Hon. Gerald Hofmeister TU Law School Student Representative............... Matthew Blewitt
FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS
Law Day ......................................................................Lizzie Riter Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb Golf Chair.......................................................... ...Kimberly Moore Scholarship Chair........................................................Randy Lewin
Submission, Grapevine & Advertising- Visit www.tulsabar.com Subscriptions to Tulsa Lawyer are available for $40.00 a year to those who are not Tulsa County Bar Association members or others who do not currently receive the publication. Contact tamiw@tulsabar.com
FOUNDATION
President.............................................................. ...Hon. Ann Keele Foundation Vice President............................................Justin Munn Treasurer..................................................................... Philip Hixon Trustee....................................................................... Lizzie Riter Trustee........................................................................Chad McLain Trustee......................................................................... Jim Gotwals Trustee................................................................Catherine Hoopert Trustee...........................................................................Rick White Trustee..................................................................Michael Taubman TCBA President..........................................................Kara Vincent TCBA Pres. Elect....................................................Philip D. Hixon
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Access to Justice..........................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Animal Law..................................................... ..........Katy Inhofe Bench & Bar.................................................... Kevinn Matthews Children & the Law......................................... ........Lizzie Riter Children & the Law Vice Chair..........Timothy Michaels-Johnson CLE ................................................................. ...Michon Hughes Diversity Development...........................................Deborah Reed Fee Arbitration................................................. ...........Gary Crews Law Related Education................................................................. Lawyer Referral............................................... .......Karen Wilkins Membership Services....................................................Kara Pratt Mentoring......................................................... .................................. Military/Veterans ............................................. ...Mitchell Garrett Military/Veterans Co-Chair.............................. Hon. David Guten Nominations & Awards.................................... ..Kimberly Moore Pro Bono............................................................... Mac Finlayson Professionalism................................................ ...........Rick White Public Relations....................................................Steve Layman Social Media.........................................................Collaborative Special Events.................................................. .......Natalie Sears Tulsa Lawyer.................................................... Michael Taubman Young Lawyers Division..............................Colton Richardson Young Lawyers Division............................... ........Billy Duncan
SECTION CHAIRPERSONS
ADR/Mediation..........................................................Melissa Fell Bankruptcy....................................................... ........Paul Thomas Business/Corporate.......................................... .............................. Criminal Law................................................... ........Daniel Levy Employment Law..............................................Kassidy Quinten Energy & Mineral Law.................................... .......Ryan Pittman Family Law...................................................... ..Jordan Dalgleish Health Law ...................................................... ............................ Health Law Vice Chair.................................................................. Juvenile Law.................................................... ..........Lizzie Riter Juvenile Law Co-Chair.......................Timothy Michaels-Johnson Litigation...............................................................Mark A. Smith Municipal Law.......................................................................TBD Paralegals/Legal Assistant.......................................Karlyn Apon Paralegal /Legal Assistants Vice Chair............ Kathyrn Keener Probate/Estate/Elder......................................... ......................... Tax ......................................................... .....Ashlee Crouch Technology ...................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Workers Comp................................................. ............................ * Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled. Tulsa Lawyer is a monthly publication of the TCBA. The TCBA does not necessarily share or endorse the opinions expressed in the materials published. The views are those of thoughtful contributors. Similarly, advertising does not imply endorsement by the TCBA of products or services or any statements concerning them.
Tulsa County Bar Association 1446 S. Boston Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119
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