Tulsa MagazineLawyer Awards2021-2022Recognition 1903 September 2022
In this Issue TULSA LAWYER September 2022 A Message from the President Pg. 2 TCBA Members... Philip Hixon TCBA2022-2023President 2 What is Community? Philip Hixon 4 4th Quarter Golden Rule AwardGeorge Miles 6 Lawyers Helping Lawyers Meeting Information 7 Outstanding Senior Lawyer - James Ferris 8 Outstanding Young Lawyer - Aaron Tifft 9 Gary C. Clark Distinguished Service AwardDan Crawford 11 Eat out for a Cause - September 27th 12 Roger R. Scott Community Service AwardKevinn Matthews 13 James C. Lang Mentoring AwardPansy Moore Shrier 14 Courthouse Badge Update 15 Why You Should Renew Your Membership 2022-2023 16 Neil Bogan Professionalism AwardMac D. Finlayson 18 Tulsa Global Alliance Hosts Mongolian Judges 20 Member Event - Oktoberfest 21 Tulsa County Bar Foundation 2021-2022 Awards 22 President's Awards 2021-2022 23 Member Event - Thunder vs. Mavericks 24 VP's Corner - Stephanie Jackson 25 CLE Save the Dates! 26 TCBA Open House Review 28 Sponsorship Opportunities 30 Committee & Section Meeting Dates 33 Grapevine 35 Classified Ads 36 Committees, Sections, Contact Us Itwasagreatyear!
According to the online version of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, “community” means, among other things, “a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society” or “a body or persons of common and especially professional interests scattered through a larger society.” My personal favorite definition of “community,” if I may call it a definition, is Edmund Burke’s oft quoted observation from his Reflections on the Revolution in France that “to love the little platoon we belong to in society, is the first principle (the germ as it were) of public affections. It is the first link in the series by which we proceed towards a love to our country, and to mankind.”
WHAT COMMUNITY?IS
So, what does community mean as a theme for the Association’s fiscal year? Well, again, it means quite a lot of things, and conversely, it doesn’t mean some other things. Too often over the past couple years, forces of all denominations have sought to divide various groups into contentious factions—hostile anti-communities seeking to dominate, destroy, or disparage the other. In my opinion, the Association is not a place for the airing of grievances, whether actual or perceived, or engaging in advocacy, unless the advocacy directly pertain to the Association (and has been approved by the Board as required in our bylaws). That doesn’t necessarily mean the Association should, or will, put its head in the sand. Instead, community, as defined above and as envisioned in my thematic musings, is a place to celebrate those things we as members of the Association have in common, to develop “public affections” among membership, and to engage in civil discourse on matters where views and opinions may differ. The community theme means little things that you’ll see in this publication. Throughout the year, Tulsa landmarks will grace the cover of the Tulsa Lawyer, celebrating our geographic community. (We have several stock photos, but if you are an aspiring photographer, we would be elated to adorn the cover of this publication with the artistic endeavors of our “little platoon.”) We
Community. When I became President-Elect of the Association over a year ago, I began thinking of a theme for my year—this year—as President. I kept coming back to the idea of “community.” I also kept asking myself what does community mean. Well, it means quite a lot of things.
2 Tulsa Lawyer Philip D. Hixon A Message from the President 2022-2023
The community theme means some new memberfocused programming. Like everyone else, the legal profession has been through a rough couple of years. In years past, the Association has undertaken some worthy community service projects, and we’ll continue those programs throughout the year. But it’s time to focus on our member community. The Association is excited to introduce the first annual YLD Leadership Academy, which consists of six sessions beginning with a 3-hour “bootcamp” facilitated by Leadership Tulsa followed by 2-hour sessions on various bar leadership/legal topics with a networking component, culminating in a graduation ceremony with the Association’s PastPresidents. We also intend to bring back the Mardi Gras party as a fundraiser for the Foundation and/or the Association’s programming.
I look forward to serving the Association over the next twelve months. If you have ideas to further the community theme throughout the year, please feel free to reach out to me or Tami Williams.
intend to share unique facts about our members through a monthly guessing game and member profiles. If we can identify civil authors of opposing views, we may also take on a debatable topic or two in these pages.
The community theme also means some modest structural changes in the Association intended to enhance succession planning, develop future leadership, and encourage participation among younger lawyers. If approved by the Board, the Young Lawyer Committee will become a Young Lawyer Division with its own executive leadership and bylaws. The Association’s young lawyers have energy and some great ideas. The transition from the YLC to YLD is intended to provide them with some autonomy to act on those ideas and an opportunity to broaden its leadership base. I am confident the entire bar community will benefit.
Sincerely, Philip D . Hixon TCBA President, 2022-2023
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Jimmy Frasier, senior partner and friend states “My experience and knowledge of George Miles goes back to his very young years. He is a second generation attorney, and I knew of him and his family from my law school days. About 20 years ago, I had an opportunity to be involved in litigation opposing George Miles, and in that experience, I knew that he would be a great asset if he would join our firm.
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9 Conducts himself/herself in a manner that improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public.
6. Is civil, courteous and respectful towards the court and his/her opponents.
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George did join our firm and has since that time repeatedly confirmed my suspicions that he is a very insightful attorney. George has displayed the ability to refine the issues and knows how to present a very effective trial, even in complicated situations. George has displayed patience where patience was needed, insight into difficult situations when insight was
4 Tulsa Lawyer RULEGOLDEN 1: principle2:tohaveyoutoconductofG&Rcapitalized:aruleethical:doothersaswouldthemdoyouaguiding Award Criteria
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Golden Rule Award 4th Quarter George Miles
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George M. Miles has practiced as a civil litigator in the greater Tulsa area and throughout Oklahoma. He rigorously represents his clients, in state and federal court, in all manner of cases from traffic tickets to copyright infringement litigation. Since 1999, Mr. Miles has been a member and shareholder of Frasier, Frasier and Hickman.
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7 loyal to his/her client without trickery and deception and without using abusive practices or misleading the court or opposing counsel.
5. Sets a model example for conduct with members of the Bar and the Judiciary, not only by words but more importantly deeds.
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8 the temptation to make his/her client’s case into a personal vendetta.
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1. the and professional obligations as an officer of the court, as well as spirit and intent of Rules of Professional Conduct. ethically and honestly and is true to his/her word. for traditional goals of excellence.
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4. Exhibits the highest standards of fairness and integrity.
needed, excellent research abilities when difficult questions of law are presented, guidance in areas of ethical problems when guidance was needed, strong work ethic, a great example of team play. Aside from the previous mentioned attributes, George has the ability to keep client’s confidence in their case and at the same time an excellent ability to evaluate cases. As I am concluding my legal career, my only hope for my son and my partners is that George Miles will be their partner in years to come.”
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2021-2022 Recipients Previously Recognized 1st
Fellow practitioner and partner Frank Frasier says of George: "I am very fortunate and lucky for many things in my career. I have had the opportunity to practice law with my uncle Tomy and my father for over 25 years. That said, one of the greatest things my father and uncle ever bestowed upon me was asking George to join the law firm. He has been and continues to be a blessing in my life in so many ways (and I have many!) While that may sound awkward to some, then you don’t know George. He is a role model in so many aspects of my life. He is a trusted confidant and friend. He is so conscientious and caring for everyone he meets, and he's dedicated to helping our clients with the problems they face. If you know George, you will agree this is true. George is that voice of reason when you are angry or frustrated, lifting you up when you need it most and he's always first with a kind word and empathy. His reasoning and observations about so many things in life and the practice of law are always poignant. It is so rare for client or counsel to complain or say anything negative about him that I’m always highly suspect when they do. I mean the guy doesn’t really get mad! In this business who can say that? Gandhi taught that “The golden rule is to act fearlessly upon what one believes to be right.” This is George’s approach to the practice of law. Our profession is better because of George. Every attorney should approach the practice in this way: act fearlessly for our clients while respecting others. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. George really does practice law and live life treating those he works for, with and in judgment of the way he expects everyone to be treated." Steve Hickman says of George: “George is good people: decent, honest, nice, capable, hardworking and pleasant to be around. Often times a lawyer will get short with clients, especially ones who are problematic. This is not the case with George. With clients he exhibits the patience of Job, listening to them tell their story, even if it has no legal relevance to the problem. Then he goes about solving the client’s problem ably and professionally, pushing where he needs to, but always with a “down-home” and basic courtesy to others. George is a lawyer whose word you can take to the bank. Having worked with him for decades, I have seen that he does not fudge or cheat on other lawyers, even if he might be able to. Rather, he says straight up how it is and that is how it is.”
Finally, Trevor Reynolds, a friend and colleague adds: “George is a courteous and conscientious person and a joy to practice with and always willing to take the time to talk through an issue. His knowledge of various aspects of the law rivals that of other lawyers that consider themselves to be “experts” in a field. As a primarily criminal defense attorney, I rely on George to help me look at complicated issues with a fresh eye and suggest approaches and resolutions that I haven’t considered. He is an attorney and counselor in every sense of the word. His self-deprecating sense of humor may be his best asset however. His laughter is infections and can be heard throughout the office.”In 1982, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Management from Oklahoma State University. He followed in his father’s footsteps and attended the University of Tulsa Law School where he graduated with a Juris Doctorate in 1985. In addition to his legal practice, Mr. Miles has been a Municipal Judge for the city of Glenpool since 1989 and an occasional adjunct professor at Tulsa Community College since 1998. George is licensed in the United State District Courts of the Eastern, Northern and Western districts of Oklahoma as well as the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals. He is a member of the American Association of Justice and the Oklahoma Association of Justice.When he is not practicing law, George is most likely at his farm where he runs cattle with the occasional help from his brother and two sons, Ryan and Ethan. He and his wife of 32 years, Sydney, reside in Creek County."
Outstanding Senior Lawyer James
Jim Ferris grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He will proudly tell you he hasn’t lived more than 2 blocks off of Harvard his entire life. He was inspired to enter the profession of law by his father and grandfather (both lawyers). He admired their professionalism and the intellectual aspect of solving problems as a lawyer. He has continued to carry on that professionalism at the highest levels. Besides his family influence, his practice of law has also focused on the guidance and mentoring of many great lawyers that have gone on to practice in Tulsa since Jim started practicing in 1975. As a role model, he has continued to instill in others how the law should be practiced at its highest caliber. While Jim will be the first to tell you that he believes that he stood on the shoulders of giants, it is Jim who today provides a tremendous example for the younger lawyers in the firm and the Tulsa legal community at large. His efforts, intellect and practical wisdom are a terrific example for anyone. He not only has experience in so many areas of the law but also understands the importance of these legal issues for his clients. Regardless of the size of the matter, he prides himself on providing personal service to his clients and finding optimal solutions. Jim’s commitment to his clients is obvious – for decades, Jim has maintained a Bixby office to handle matters for clients that prefer not to come downtown. He absorbs the time and travel because he believes that every client’s matter is important to them and they should be treated with the greatest respect. Outside of his professional life, Jim is a tireless contributor to the community. From serving as president of the Bixby Chamber of Commerce, to being a Rotarian, a member of the Tulsa Community Youth Home, and the American Business Club, Jim uses his passion and experience to deliver service and assistance to the local, national and international communities. Jim’s reputation as an outstanding lawyer and his dedicated service to the legal profession and to the community throughout his four decades of practice make him worthy of recognition as TCBA’s Outstanding Senior Lawyer. “Jim” Ferris
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Outstanding Young Lawyer
Aaron Tifft is a regular volunteer for the Court Assistance Program and has been since it began in 2017. Since returning to the docket in June of 2021 after the COVID closure, he has made 6 appearances, managed 13 cases for a billing equivalent of 15 hours*. Beth Nellis, CAP Coordinator says everyone admires Aaron's enthusiasm and willingness to learn every aspect of legal processes, whether he is representing a Hall Estill client on a private case or volunteering. Those who have worked with Aaron agree that he is the perfect example of the next generation of outstanding attorneys. He is exceedingly bright, a gifted "listener" and alwaysAaronprepared.isagraduate of the University of Tulsa College of Law and was Editor-in-Chief of the Tulsa Law Review, served as a student law clerk for the Honorable Jane Wiseman, and was named Most Outstanding Student in his graduating class. Aaron is also active in the Tulsa community and is a member of the Board of Trustees for Riverfield Day School and a member of the Tulsa Chapter of Young Professionals in Energy. *thru May 2022
Aaron Tifft
The Bar Center will be closed Monday, Sept. 5th Regular Bar Hours return Sept. 6th 9am - 5pm Mon. - Fri. Do you know a Veteran you would like to recognize? Send us their name, branch of service, a photo if available and include a short tribute to them. We'll publish it in the November issue of Tulsa Lawyer. Deadline Oct. tulsabarnews@yahoo.com3rd Addres Change? Be sure to update your contact information with the TCBA!
Gary C. DistinguishedClarkService Award
CrawfordDan
It is my true honor to nominate Dan Crawford for the Gary Clark Distinguished Service Award. Not only has Dan participated in thirty-two consecutive ASK-A-LAWYER programs, but he has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty in devoting his time, energy and creative talents to ensure that each event was a success. Over a twenty year period, Dan remained at the event the entire twelve hours, ensuring that all phones were answered. In fact, in 2001, he stayed the entire twelve hour marathon, personally manning phone #1, which is the busiest phone.
Lawyers Helping Lawyers
Meeting Dates: Aug. 4, Sept. 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, Dec. 1.
Nancy L. Rothman, Attorney at Law
Not only has Dan volunteered over three hundred hours in personally answering calls, over the years he has consistently obtained participation from Judges and law professors, in addition to the private attorneys. These professionals come year after year, not only to help the cause, but because they see how well it is run.
Oklahoma City Meetings 6-7:30 p.m. on the dates listed below. In-person meetings in Oklahoma City are held at the office of Tom Cummings, 701 NW 13th St., Oklahoma City. The group will also meet virtually at the same time using BlueJeans. Email debraj@ okbar.org for login information.
If you need support... reach out!
This year, Dan helped spearhead the program change from the OETA location to the Tulsa County Bar Association, hosting with their own equipment. Dan took the time to ensure that each participant was comfortable with the new technology being used. In fact, this year’s numbers show a sixty percent increase in calls received compared to last year’s numbers.
As I mentioned earlier, Dan also used his creative talents for the programs. Dan personally created yearly posters to garner attention to the event. Below are two such examples: Another fact worthy of notation is that Dan reached one thousand calls that were documented over a cumulative 96 hour period. Dan has worked very hard to achieve this milestone. If there is anyone worthy of this award, it is Dan Crawford and it is my absolute privilege to be able to nominate him.
Tulsa Tulsa Meetings are held 5:30-6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the office of Scott Goode, 1437 S. Boulder Ave., Ste. 1200, Tulsa. scottbgoode@gmail.com
Meeting Dates: Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Tulsa Lawyer 11
United States District Court
For The Northern District of Oklahoma
Applications are now being accepted for a full-time position of Magistrate Judge in Tulsa. The duties are demanding and wide-ranging and will include: (1) conduct of most preliminary proceedings in criminal cases; (2) trial and disposition of misdemeanor cases; (3) conduct of various pretrial motions and evidentiary proceedings as may be delegated by the Judges of the District Court; and (4) trial and disposition of civil cases upon consent of the litigants. The deadline to apply is September 30, 2022. The incumbent will begin to serve on April 1, 2023. See full notice, including qualification requirements and application instructions, at: www.oknd.uscourts.gov
United States Magistrate Judge
KenKaraUnderwoodVincent
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Kevinn currently serves as the Chair of the TCBA Bench & Bar Committee where he is working passionately to bring community partners into the Courthouse with the goal of building relationships with community partners to increase the court’s Access to Justice efforts.
Roger R. Scott
Community Service Award
Since its launch in 2019, Kevinn has been a part of Nest Collective Tulsa sponsored by Black Wall Street. This is an entrepreneurial program offered through the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce. This program focuses on nurturing, developing, advising, and educating Black, Indigenous, People of Color business owners that need support in taking their businesses to the next level.
Kevinn Matthews
Kevinn currently serves as a managing attorney for the Cochran Law Firm where he specializes in oil field injury law where his larger purpose is to prevent future accidents, injuries, or deaths, by advancing oil field safety and creating safer energy industry workplaces. Even in his practice, he pays attention to the things that matter. The TCBA encourages all its members to emulate Kevinn’s enthusiasm for community service as he truly lives up to the qualifications of a James C. Lang award winner.
The Tulsa County Bar Association is proud to award Kevinn Matthews with the Roger R. Scott award for Community Service. Those who know Kevinn can attest to his abundance of energy and his passion to make the community better. The results of his many years of volunteer service have left a positive impact on the lives of the students and attorneys he has mentored and the community he has tirelessly served. Kevinn was celebrated by the Tulsa Heart Walk for outstanding leadership and fundraising in 2017 and 2018. In the same year, he also received the TCBA James C. Lang Mentoring Award for his commitment to providing encouragement, guidance and support to aspiring attorneys and the University of Tulsa College of Law's Office of Professional Development service award that same year.
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Rachel Baker, Associate Dean, Director of Professional Development, The University of Tulsa College of Law adds that “Kevinn is always ready and willing to help the students at The University of Tulsa College of Law. Not only does he help when asked, but he regularly checks in to ask what more he can do. I am deeply grateful for his ongoing service and support.” Kevinn continues to meet and mentor with students from years past because he is committed to seeing other attorneys succeed.
In 2021 he was instrumental in the TU College of Law’s launch of the Buck Colbert Franklin Legal Clinic, which provides legal assistance to residents of Tulsa’s Greenwood District. During this time, he also received the Oklahoma Access to Justice Summer Pro Bono Challenge winner for solo attorneys and the Caring for the Community Award, sponsored by T-Mobile, News on 6 and K-Hits 106.9. In 2022 he has been commended for his work in the Greenwood District. He received the 2022 Tulsa Juneteenth "Community Leader Impact Award" which was created to honor persons who are making significant contributions to the Tulsa Community through their actions, talents, and dedication to the Black community. The Historic Vernon AME Church also presented Kevinn with a brick from the basement of the church for his generous donations, time and continuous support to restoring the Grandmother of Greenwood. During this past year he volunteered at the Tulsa County Expungement Expo and for the TCBA Street Law program where he escorted middle and high school students on a tour and meeting with the Honorable Sharon Holmes. He has been a part of several initiatives introducing students from diverse backgrounds to the legal profession as a career.
James C. Lang Mentoring Award Pansy Moore Shrier
2. Supervise new attorneys, fellows, and students in civil litigation cases; and 3. Continue to supervise students in the upcoming Pansysemester.hasbeen coaching the University of Tulsa National Trial Competition Team for five years. Not only has she coached students at this extraordinarily high level, but she’s also created a program that consistently places in the top levels of regional competition. In coaching the team, Pansy goes well beyond what is needed to coach the published problem. She provides the students with further reading on advocacy, professionalism, and bias that will continue to assist them as they graduate and move into the practice of law. She provides the students with her personal contact information and allows them to contact her at any time if they have questions or need assistance, even if they leave the team. She will continue to mentor students long after their tenure on the team is complete and is always willing to lend a listening ear or help with a client problem. Once a student is “hers”, she never stops mentoring.
TCBA Workers Comp Section
Meeting Sept 13 from 12pm-1pm
Valerie Evans, Chair
Pansy Moore Shier is the 2022 recipient of the James C. Lang Mentorship Award. This award recognizes those who offer TulsaPansytoguidance,encouragement,andsupportaspiringattorneys.isanativeofandreceived her Juris Doctor, with honors, in 2004 from the University of Tulsa College of Law. She maintains a general litigation practice and has been involved in complex matters throughout the United States. On top of her busy practice, she also serves as chair of the TCBA Access to Justice Committee and is the new fiscal year’s chair to the CLE Committee.
In person at the Bar Center with a virtual option to attend. We hope you will come and share your thoughts and concerns on cases or legal issues. We can talk about legislation that we would like to see; factual issues you are facing on a case, CLE topics that you would like us to consider, and other topics of interest to the practice of workers compensation. Please feel free to forward this to other attorneys in the county that practice workers compensation in the event that would like to become members of both the Tulsa County Bar and this section.~
The TCBA is proud to have Pansy Moore-Shrier as a member and encourages everyone to give back to the University of Tulsa’s Law School and mentor a student or a young attorney. We know that better lawyers build a stronger community and Pansy is just one shining example of the TCBA membership mentoring and building up law students and young attorneys.
Mimi Marton, Associate Dean of Experiential Learning and Director of Clinic Programs for TU College of Law explained how Pansy stepped up when the University lost one of its clinical faculty to do three particularly important
1.things:Take over cases from the related clinic because the University did not have the capacity to manage them;
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On your dues statement, you are encouraged 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.
• Personal Integrity – When serving CAP, Mac routinely takes on clients and cases at the evictions docket. He understands how having an eviction on one’s record sets a person up for failure and he works tirelessly to keep families in their homes long enough so they
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Neil Bogan Professionalism Award Mac D. Finlayson
“A consummate attorney, meticulously prepared, forceful and persuasive but with a true servant's heart” is how CAP Coordinator Beth Nellis describes him. She goes on to call him a “true renaissance man, friend of the arts and champion for those who need someone to listen to their story”. The characteristics of a true professional are exemplified by scholarship, honor, personal integrity, leadership, pride in our system of justice, and generous pro bono public service. Anyone who knows Mac knows he exemplifies the high ideals of the legal profession through public service. He works as diligently and ethically for his pro bono clients as he does for contracted clients. Here is a breakdown of the characteristics of a true professional and how and why Mac is this year’s award winner.
• Scholarship – Mac was once a jazz musician! Not only did he serve on the Board of Directors for the Tulsa Jazz Hall of Fame, he also donated his own valued collection of instruments and recordings to the organization. Mac helped elevate the Jazz Hall’s profile during his time on the board, not only in Tulsa and throughout the state of Oklahoma, but nationally and internationally. He led the charge to secure funding for the Jazz Hall’s home at Tulsa’s historic landmark, Old Union Depot Train Station.
The TCBA is honored to award Mac D. Finlayson with the Neil E. Bogan Award for Professionalism. This award honors a member who exemplifies the high ideals of the legal profession, someone who serves the public and his or her clients ethically, diligently, and competently. Mac is senior counsel with Eller and Detrich. He graduated from Drury College (B.A. degree, cum laude, 1973). and the University of Tulsa (J.D., 1976), and has been engaged in the private practice Tulsa since that time, emphasizing commercial litigation, creditors’ rights and bankruptcy law. He is nationally recognized for his expertise in the defense of guarantors of student loans in bankruptcy dischargeability adversary proceedings. He is boardcertified by the American Board of Certification as one of only two “triple-certified” attorneys in the United States in creditors’ rights law, business and consumer bankruptcy law and is a Director and Officer (President, 2014) of that organization. He has also been granted the designation of Certified Fraud Examiner by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners.
• Honor – Mac is a mentor and fire safety educator at Celia Clinton Elementary School. He also serves as a volunteer firefighter and Captain of the Beggs Rural Fire Department. He spends at least one night a week "at the house" protecting residents in this rural area.
• Leadership – Mr. Finlayson is a Paul Harris Fellow and Community Fellow of the Rotary Club of Tulsa, serving multiple terms on its Board of Directors, and honored as its 2009 Rotarian of the Year. He chaired the Rotary Club of Tulsa’s Henry P. Iba Citizen Athlete Awards in 2005 and has overseen its honorees and speakers’ selection for over 15 years. He has also served as the Chair of the Tulsa County Bar’s Pro Bono Committee since 2019.
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Tulsa can find another place to live, thus helping these families before they fall into further despair.
• Pride in the Justice System – Just in 2021 alone, Mac worked with the Tulsa County Court Administrator to update the Landlord Tenant Act booklet and get that out to the public. He also worked diligently to complete a re-write of the CAP Evictions Handbook outlining and updating current processes and procedures. This handbook serves as a bench manual by some judges, a testament to the thoroughness of the information.
• Generous Pro Bono Public Service –Since CAPs inception, Mac has made 62 appearances at the Evictions Docket, representing 180 pro bono client cases. This accounts for 315.50 hours of his time. This is the equivalent of $46,350 in donated billable hours. This is just the time that the TCBA could verify and does not include the hours of service to the other wonderful organizations that Mac has served over his career. These brief glimpses about Mac are just the tip of the iceberg when one begins to dive into his long and lustrous career and more than enough to celebrate and honor him. The next time you have the privilege to see Mac, please thank him for his continued contributions to our community and for serving the public and his clients ethically, diligently, and competently.
Between July 16-23, the Tulsa Global Alliance hosted a group of five judges from Mongolia, accompanied by an interpreter and facilitator, through the U.S. Congressional Office of International Leadership. The theme of their program was “Judicial Rule of Law” and the TCBA assisted in hosting and facilitating visits with local attorneys and judges as well as tours of our courthouses and the Bar Center. Judge Keele hosted the Judges in her courtroom where they sat in on a Parenting Planning Conference docket for family cases involving custody/visitation of minor children. They watched Steven Amend, the Family Court Resource Coordinator, and Ross Aston, attorney with Oklahoma DHS Child Support Services give a presentation of important information to help guide litigants through the family court process. Afterwards, Judge Keele answered questions about family court processes. The following day, OBA President Jim Hicks, TCBA President Kara Vincent, TCBA President Elect Philip Hixon, and Bench & Bar Chair Kevinn Matthews hosted the judges at the Bar Center for coffee and Q&A. It was an honor to meet these honorable individual and learn about their culture and judicial system, which is similar to the US.
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Tulsa Global Alliance Hosts Mongolian Judges Tulsa Lawyer
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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.
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!
September Birthday Celebrations?
TCBAPhilipSincerely,HixonPresident
Tulsa
Tulsa Lawyer 21
James R. Gotwals
Chad McLain, a partner at Graves McLain, has served as a devoted member of the Board of Directors of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation for multiple terms. He has chaired the Law Week, Community Outreach, and Bench and Bar Committees. In addition he has negotiated projects and spear-headed fundraising for various Foundation projects over the past several years, including playing an integral role in the Capital Campaign for much needed building repairs at the Bar Center. His firm was the first to become the “Official Sponsor” of the TCBA/ TCBF which enables our organization to continue providing excellent service to our community and our members. It is with great honor and pleasure that I present the President’s Award to Chad McLain on behalf of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. Thank you for your dedication and excellence in serving our Foundation.
James R. Gotwals, currently of counsel with Barrow and Grimm, has graciously served the Tulsa County Bar Foundation for many years, including serving back-to-back terms as President, and has remained a member of the Board of Directors. Jim’s breadth of knowledge of the historical events and plans of the Foundation has been a valuable asset, especially in strategic planning. His years of dedication and leadership to our Foundation is deserving of special recognition and appreciation. Therefore, it is with great honor and pleasure that I bestow the President’s Award to Jim Gotwals on behalf of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. Thank you for your outstanding commitment to our Foundation.
Chad McLain Ken Underwood
County Bar Foundation 2021-2022 Awards
Ken has been one of the Foundation’s most loyal and strongest supporters this year. Ken spent much of his time mentoring high school students from Owasso Mock Trial Team all the way to the National Championship and he has done that for the past five years too. He is always the first to contribute, promote or register for Foundation activities and is always gracious to everyone he meets. It is an honor to present Ken Underwood with the President's award for his continued service to the Foundation. Thank you for your continued support.
Judge Nightingale is often found working to address issues that affect access to justice for the community at large. She currently presides over the Veterans Treatment Court, a program that helps those who served our nation, but who have been charged with a criminal offense while struggling with drug and/or alcohol addictions and/or mental health problems. She has served as presiding judge of the panel of state judges who hear cases involving judges being disciplined. Judge Nightingale is a true champion of access to justice.
Cheyenne Barnard is entering her third year at the University of Tulsa College of Law. Cheyenne agreed to assist with the Street Law program and continued to be involved to the end. She rarely missed a session and actively worked with the students to teach the concepts we were covering. Her efforts were instrumental in making this program a success.
Rachel Johnson
Cheyenne Barnard
Pierre Robertson
Judge Rebecca Nightingale
22 Tulsa Lawyer
Rachel Johnson is a recent graduate of the University of Tulsa College of Law. Rachel agreed to participate in the Street Law program from the beginning and she readily engaged with the students each time she was there. Her commitment helped to make this inaugural effort a success. Rachel is currently working with Housing Solutions and plans to take the bar exam in February.
President's Awards 2021-2022
Pierre Robertson has been involved in the Tulsa County Bar Association for several years and while all members contribute to the success of the organization, Pierre invests himself significantly on multiple levels. Every time I ask Pierre to assist with a project, he says, “Yes!” He is enthusiastic and thinks creatively about how the TCBA can better help the community. This year, he was instrumental in working with the Street Law Project. From researching the teaching materials available to actually teaching the materials, Pierre became an integral part of the program. As an organization, we must assist our younger attorneys in developing their skills both as attorneys and as leaders and members like Pierre Robertson provide assurance that the further of the TCBA is bright.
In August, TCBF President Ann Keele and TCBA VP Stephanie Jackson attended the National Bar Presidents Conference in Chicago. Also in attendance was OBA Executive Director John Morris Williams and OBA President, Jim Hicks. Stephanie Jackson participated in a plenary with Keith and Dana Cutler from Kansas City. The Cutler’s were featured speakers at the TCBF 2021 Law Day Summit. They also have a show called Couples Court with the Cutlers where they help couples find resolutions and move forward.
National Conference of Bar Presidents Annual Meeting 2022
LET’S TALK!
If you have ideas to share, would like to serve on a committee, or have a TCBA project or program you would like to see highlighted, please feel free to reach out to me or Tami Williams.
24 Tulsa Lawyer
As we transition into a new fiscal year, I am excited to greet our members. Whether you are a seasoned member, recently reclaimed, or newly engaged, I want to take the opportunity to personally thank you for your support of the TCBA. As we continue to make positive impacts throughout our community, I look forward to working with the dynamic TCBA staff, members, and committees that make it all happen. When I began my leadership journey with TCBA, I cannot tell you how often I have been asked about where to start or how to get involved, or how to know if you are ready to lead within the association. During almost every one of these encounters, I found myself bragging about TCBA programs and projects being led by members just like them. In nearly every encounter, the colleague would remark about how easy and fun it sounded. In those same conversations, as I heard the awe in their voices, I also saw the regret about missing out on their faces. I want to keep that momentum going, so we can start to replace the regretful moments about not getting involved with more Fear Of Missing Out (“FOMO”) moments. I want to continue encouraging colleagues to bring their talents and ideas to the TCBA President or join their practice area’s section to foster collaborations with other members.As a way to continue fostering those conversations, I hope to use this monthly letter in the VP’s Corner to encourage and inspire members to find their place in our TCBA community, by spotlighting open TCBA committee opportunities, and sharing my own personal inspirations. I have said this before and I will say it again, our Tulsa legal community base is incredibly talented, incredibly impressive, and incredibly diverse. As attorneys, we offer a unique service, not only to the community we serve, but to each other and aspiring law students. I know, at times, stepping into a leadership role can seem scary. However, we have a weatlh of experience at our fingertips within the TCBA, yet it remains largely untapped. With information being power, I hope to be able to start tapping into your great ideas to begin connecting members more effectively and mindfully with each other. Hopefully, my monthly letter will encourage and inspire the next generation of leaders amongst us to see their own inner potential for leadership. Let’s build more FOMO moments together!
VP'S CORNER Stephanie Jackson
Stephanie Jackson TCBA, Vice President TCBA Vice
President 2022-2023
26 Tulsa Lawyer TCBA OPEN HOUSE
animals?loveyouDo Tulsa Lawyer 27 The Bar Center welcomed visitors at an open house on Thursday, July 28th. Drinks, snacks and lots of information was shared! Thank you to all who stopped by. This is your Bar Center and we want to see you!
28 Tulsa Lawyer SponsorshipsEventTCBA2023 activities!supportcommunityandeventsTCBAallofpartabecanorganizationYour
SponsorshipsBundled2023here!sponsorshipsyourPickevents!TCBAallofpartabecanorganizationYour
News 32 Tulsa Lawyer
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Dellegar focuses his practice on handling domestic and international patent and trademark portfolios, along with administrative proceedings at the USPTO. Numerous companies rely on Dellegar more comprehensively as their intellectual property general counsel, handling licensing and due diligence, helping them determine where they should file applications internationally, and offering strategy and advice about their“Shawncompetitors.isanoutstanding leader who has shown great dedication to the firm, our clients and their businesses,” said President Roger Stong. “Crowe & Dunlevy has deep roots in Oklahoma and particularly in Tulsa. Under Shawn’s leadership, I know our commitment to the community and the clients we serve will remain strong.” In his new role, Dellegar will continue serving clients through his intellectual property practice while also continuing the expansion of the firm’s Tulsa office, strengthening the firm’s relationships with civic and business leaders in the Tulsa community, and guiding the firm’s strategic direction locally in order to build an even stronger foundation for the future.
Grapevine
Crowe & Dunlevy is pleased to announce the appointment of shareholder Shawn M. Dellegar as the new Vice President of Administration for its Tulsa office. This appointment underscores the firm’s commitment to empowering new leaders. “It is an incredible honor to be asked by the firm to serve as managing attorney of the Tulsa office, and I am excited to be involved in this step of the firm’s evolution,” Dellegar said. “Crowe & Dunlevy is a special place, and I have very big shoes to fill in succeeding Randall Snapp, who has done a phenomenal job as V.P. of Administration for Tulsa for over 15 years.”
is pleased to announce that Josh Ihler has joined the Firm as an associate in the Tulsa office, where he will focus on mergers and acquisitions, commercial financing, and commercial agreements. Prior to joining, he was an attorney at an AmLaw 100 firm in Las Vegas, where he gained experience with commercial real estate transactions, asset-based loan sales, single-lender and syndicated credit facilities, loan agreements, and other commercial lending matters.
“We are excited to add Josh to our business transactions team. His various experience in transactions and advising energy, hospitality, and real estate companies complement our dynamic practice, which recently included a $1+ billion bid to acquire energy assets in Texas and a $435 million sale of marine terminals,” said Jeffrey Hassell, co-chair of the Firm’s Business Transactions Practice.
Before to going into private practice, Josh externed in the legal department of NGL Energy Partners, LP, and worked as a landman for an upstream oil and gas operator in Tulsa. He received his J.D. from The University of Tulsa College of Law with highest honors and was the Executive Notes Editor of the Energy Law Journal. He received his B.B.A. from the University of Oklahoma. Save the
Come march with us!
calendMarkyourars! OBA NovemberMeetingAnnual2nd,3rd,&4thGableGotwals
Friday,Veteransdate!DayParadeNovember11th
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 12:15-12:45p FusionYogaPilates 34 Tulsa Lawyer
Mid-size Tulsa AV, primarily defense litigation, firm seeks 3-5 year lawyer with emphasis on Defense OKC office. If interested, please send confidential resume, references, and writing sample to
C lassified a ds Jon Starr Mediator and Arbitrator Contact DRC for 918-382-0300scheduling
Insurance
for our
Position for Litigation Associate Attorney in Tulsa McDaniel Acord, PLLC is recruiting an Associate Attorney to assist our clients in civil litigation and family law within a strong team setting that focuses on client service and maximizing outcomes. Our practice includes challenging procedural and technical issues, and the successful candidate will possess strong analytical and advocacy skills. We use the latest technology to maximize efficiency. Our Firm provides excellent benefits and rewards performance. We are looking for the right attorney to join our team who will take pride in the service we deliver and fit within our family-oriented, friendly, and low-key firm environment. Candidates should have 2 to 5 years litigation experience that reflects skill in legal research, drafting memoranda, briefs and discovery, taking depositions, managing document production, and oral Candidatesargument.should submit a recent writing sample and CV to smcdaniel@ok-counsel.com
lawresumes918@gmail.com Tulsa Lawyer 35 Tulsa MagazineLawyer has tulsabarnews@yahoo.comEmailopportunities!advertisingusat for rates and information! Do you own a small business in our community? “Without ambition one starts nothing. Without work one finishes nothing. The prize will not be sent to you. You have to win it.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
2022-2023 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 Ext.tamiw@tulsabar.comWilliams1002 Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees Julie Ext.julier@tulsabar.comRivers1001 Lawyer Referral & Community Resource Navigator Jeril Ext.jerilh@tulsabar.comHaug1003 Tulsa Lawyer Editor - Michael Taubman michael@tulsafirm.com Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com TCBA OFFICERS President ......................................................................Philip Hixon Past President...............................................................Kara Vincent President-Elect............................................................Mike Esmond Vice President......................................................Stephanie Jackson Secretary....................................................................... Lizzie Riter Treasurer.............................................................. Michael Taubman Budget/Internal Operations.........................................Austin Birnie Foundation President ...................................................................... Director at Large (1) Large Firm.................................Natalie Sears Director at Large (2) Large Firm.......................... Austin Birnie Director at Large (1) Medium Firm..................................Kara Pratt Director at Large (2) Medium Firm.................. Jennifer Struble Director at Large (1) Small Firm.................................. Mark Smith Director at Large (2) Small Firm...........................Linda Morrissey Director at Large (2) Public Sector.........................Hon. Ann Keele ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan OBA Delegate................................................................Rick White Library Trustee (1)........................................................ Julie Evans Library Trustee (2)..................................................... Kim Vojvoda Presiding Judge .......................................... Hon. Doug Drummond Chief Judge, U.S. District Court ...................Hon. John F. Heil, III Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court..........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister TU Law School Student Representative............... Matthew Blewitt FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS Law Day .........................................................Martha Rupp Carter Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb Golf Chair..............................................................Kimberly Moore Scholarship Chair.......................................................Randy Lewin FOUNDATION President.................................................................Hon. Ann Keele Foundation Vice President...........................................Justin Munn Treasurer......................................................................Philip Hixon Trustee.................................................................... Hon. Ann Keele Trustee........................................................................ Justin Munn Trustee......................................................................... Philip Trustee................................................................TrusteeTrusteeTrustee.......................................................................ChadTrustee...........................................................................LizzieHixonRiterMcLain......................................................................JimGotwalsCatherineHooperMichaelTaubman TCBA President......................................................Philip D. Hixon TCBA Pres. Elect.......................................................Mike Esmond 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...............................................................Pansy Moore-Shrier Diversity ......................................................... ........................ Fee Arbitration............................................................Gary Crews Law Related Education......................................Kimberly Moore Lawyer Referral .......Karen Wilkins Membership Services....................................................Kara Pratt Mentoring ......Shena Burgess Military/Veterans ...Mitchell Garrett Military/Veterans Co-Chair Hon. David Guten Nominations & Awards ................................... ........Kara Vincent 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...........................................Billy Duncan Young Lawyers Division Colton Richardson SECTION CHAIRPERSONS ADR/Mediation..........................................................Melissa Fell ADR/Mediation Co-Chair ....Lauren Lyndsey Bankruptcy ........Paul Thomas Business/Corporate....................................................................... Criminal Law ........Daniel Levy Employment Law.......................................................................... Energy & Mineral Law............................................Ryan Pittman Family Law ..Jordan Dalgleish Health Law ................................................................................... Juvenile Law. ..........Lizzie Riter Juvenile Law Co-Chair.......................Timothy WorkersTechnologyTax................................KelleyProbate/Estate/Elder.......................................................Co-chairsParalegalParalegals/LegalMunicipalLitigation...............................................................MarkMichaels-JohnsonA.SmithLaw...............................................................................Assistant....................................KathrynKeener/LegalAssistantsViceChair.....................GloriaJonesHunt,PhillipJennings,JohnGotwals...................................................................AshleeHall...................................................PansyMoore-ShrierComp.........................................................ValerieEvans * Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled Front Desk Coordinator General Inquiries Ext.frontdesk@tulsabar.com1000 Accounting accounting@tulsabar.com 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 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.
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