April 2025 Tulsa Lawyer Magazine

Tulsa Lawyer Lawyer Magazine

April 2025

Law Day, Courts & More

1903

TULSA LAWYER

A Message from the President

In this Issue

Stephanie Jackson 2024-2025 TCBA President

April 2025

Pg. 2

SPOTLIGHT The Hon. Daman Cantrell,

2

Sit Down, Sit Up, Lean In, and Lock In Stephanie Jackson

5

Thank You Golf Sponsors!

6

ABA 2025 Midyear Meeting Molly Aspan

9

Law Day Luncheon 2025 Featuring Keynote Speaker Tulsa Mayor, Monroe Nichols

11

Book Club Q & A with Richard Hix

13

TCBA Happenings

Tulsa County District Court Judge

Interview with Tamara R. Piety

Pg. 14

Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association

By Ralph Schaefer

Trevion Freeman Pierre Robertson Pgs. 18 & 22

Brown Bag CLE 14

Spotlight on the Hon. Daman Cantrell, Tulsa County District Court Judge Interview with Tamara R. Piety

16

Softball Kick Off

17

Pickleball Tournament!

18

Voices of the TCBA - Trevion Freeman

20

Street Law: Engaging with Juvenile Justice

21

Celebrating Legacy: Bar Association Past Presidents Luncheon

22

Voices of the TCBA - Pierre Robertson

26

Ask-A-Lawyer

27

Grapevine

&ODVVL¿HGV

The Bar Center will be CLOSED Monday, April 7th for the Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Tulsa Lawyer 1

A Message from the President

Stephanie Jackson

Sit Down, Sit Up, Lean In, and Lock In Sit Down: Prioritizing Self-Care

Embracing the Changing Seasons

We must also Sit Down and commit to making our own health and well-being a priority. Setting boundaries, seeking support, and engaging in self-care—whether through a coffee chat, lunch, spa day, or dinner with colleagues who understand our unpredictable days—can make a difference.

Good physical and mental health practices, such as exercising or simply being intentional about taking breaks, KDYH VLJQL¿FDQWO\ KHOSHG UHGXFH P\ RZQ VWUHVV OHYHOV DQG overall well-being. As a solo practitioner, balancing work, personal life, and TCBA obligations can be challenging, but ¿QGLQJ KHDOWK\ RXWOHWV LV FUXFLDO )RU PH RXU </' %RZOLQJ /HDJXH KDV EHHQ D IXQ ZD\ WR 6LW 'RZQ DQG ODXJK XQZLQG network, and connect with other TCBA members.

As we embrace the changing seasons, April’s showers remind us that growth and renewal are just around the corner, leading us toward the vibrant blooms of May. This season of transition offers an opportunity not only to appreciate the EHDXW\ DURXQG XV EXW DOVR WR UHÀHFW RQ WKH LPSRUWDQFH RI Engaging in Community Service balance in our own lives.

/DZ 'D\ LV ULJKW DURXQG WKH FRUQHU VHUYLQJ DV D SRZHUIXO reminder that the pursuit of justice includes advocating for I truly appreciate all of our Tulsa County Bar Association RXU RZQ ZHOO EHLQJ 2XU GHGLFDWHG 7&%$ $VN $ /DZ\HU members’ hard work and dedication to volunteering, running &R &KDLUV 0DU\ &OHPHQW DQG /L]]LH 5LWWHU DORQJ ZLWK our programs, writing articles, and making a tremendous 7&%) /DZ 'D\ &RPPLWWHH &KDLU 7DQD 9DQ &OHHYH KDYH impact in our community. Through these efforts, we uphold been working tirelessly in partnership with the Oklahoma our oath to serve and ensure Tulsans have access to legal %DU $VVRFLDWLRQ WR RUJDQL]H WKLV \HDU¶V /DZ 'D\ DFWLYLWLHV services, justice, and a better quality of life. However, in 0DU\ &OHPHQW DOVR VHUYHV DV WKH 2%$ /DZ 'D\ &RPPLWWHH IXO¿OOLQJ WKHVH GXWLHV , UHFRJQL]H WKDW OLNH PH PDQ\ RI XV Co-Chair, further demonstrating her commitment to this work long hours and inadvertently neglect our own personal important initiative. needs. /HW¶V VKRZ RXU VXSSRUW IRU WKHLU KDUG ZRUN DQG RXU FRPPXQLW\ E\ YROXQWHHULQJ IRU XSFRPLQJ /DZ 'D\ DFWLYLWLHV See pages 9 & 26 for more on the Acknowledging Our Members’ Dedication

Law Day Luncheon and Ask-A-Lawyer

2 Tulsa Lawyer

Opportunities include taking a two-hour shift at the TCBA EDU FHQWHU RQ 0D\ WR DQVZHU FDOOV IRU WKH $VN $ /DZ\HU HYHQW RU SXUFKDVLQJ D WLFNHW WR DWWHQG WKH /DZ 'D\ OXQFKHRQ RQ 0D\ $VN $ /DZ\HU YROXQWHHU DWWRUQH\V DUH QHHGHG WR provide legal guidance over the phone to residents across Oklahoma.

These opportunities not only allow us to serve but also help strengthen our professional and personal connections.

Engaging with fellow members fosters friendships, creates shared experiences, and provides a space to support one another through the challenges of our profession.

for the rule of law. Joining a section or committee and actively engaging in our practice areas allow us to distribute the work more effectively. Sit Up and listen to the visions and goals of section and committee chairs, as they lay the groundwork for the next generation of leaders. Think about who you want to be when you are ready to get up and lead the way.

Supporting the Bar Foundation

/DVWO\ GRQ¶W IRUJHW WR VHL]H WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR VXSSRUW RXU XSFRPLQJ 7XOVD &RXQW\ %DU )RXQGDWLRQ¶V $QQXDO *ROI 7RXUQDPHQW IXQGUDLVHU 7KLV HYHQW IXHOV WKH )RXQGDWLRQ¶V impactful work within the legal community and beyond.

Lean In: Being Present at Home <RXU SDUWLFLSDWLRQ VSRQVRUVKLS RU VLPSO\ VSUHDGLQJ WKH While I love discussing volunteer opportunities, it is equally word plays a key role in supporting our 2025 designated LPSRUWDQW WR /HDQ ,Q DQG EH IXOO\ SUHVHQW DW KRPH :H PXVW EHQH¿FLDULHV &RIIHH %XQNHU 7KH &LW\ /LJKWV )RXQGDWLRQ bring the same energy and passion to our friends and family DQG 7XOVD /DZ\HUV IRU &KLOGUHQ 7RJHWKHU OHW¶V PDNH D WKDW ZH GHGLFDWH WR RXU ¿UPV FOLHQWV DQG FRPPXQLW\ VHUYLFH PHDQLQJIXO GLIIHUHQFH IRU WKHVH RXWVWDQGLQJ RUJDQL]DWLRQV Achieving balance and maintaining boundaries is essential Lock In: Strengthening Our Commitment to ensuring that we show up fully for our loved ones.

Sit Up: Seizing Opportunities for Impact Sit Up and take notice of new opportunities to make a difference in our community through your TCBA membership. Transforming lives through our committed service starts with being brave enough to share our passion

/HW¶V 6LW 'RZQ 6LW 8S /HDQ ,Q DQG /RFN ,Q²WR RXUVHOYHV our community, and the impact we strive to make.

Sincerely, Stephanie Jackson TCBA, President, 2024-2025

Summary of the ABA 2025 Midyear Meeting Molly Aspan, Tulsa County Bar Association Delegate to the ABA House of Delegates

I was honored to serve as the Tulsa County Bar Association Delegate at the ABA Midyear Meeting in )HEUXDU\ 7KH +RXVH RI 'HOHJDWHV PHW IRU LWV EXVLQHVV PHHWLQJ RQ )HEUXDU\ DQG LQ DGGLWLRQ WR GLVFXVVLQJ and adopting 29 measures, heard remarks from ABA 3UHVLGHQW :LOOLDP 5 %D\ RI 0LVVRXUL $%$ ([HFXWLYH • 'LUHFWRU $OSKD 0 %UDG\ DQG RWKHUV LQFOXGLQJ $UL]RQD Governor Katie Hobbs and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

Barbara J. Howard of Ohio accepted the nomination to serve as nominee for ABA President-Elect, following current ABA President-Elect Michelle Behnke of Wisconsin, who will become President following the ABA Annual Meeting in • August.

The 597 members of the House of Delegates adopted 29 resolutions at the 2025 Midyear Meeting. These SROLF\ SURSRVDOV HQDEOH WKH $%$ WR OREE\ OHJLVODWRUV DQG ¿OH amicus briefs in these policy areas. Below are summaries of a few of the resolutions and reports that were approved by • the House of Delegates.

•

•

WKH GLVFORVXUH RI SHUVRQDOO\ LGHQWL¿DEOH LQIRUPDWLRQ RI DFWLYH RU IRUPHU JRYHUQPHQW RI¿FLDOV DQG HPSOR\HHV and the immediate family members with whom they share a residence.

5HVROXWLRQV DQG PDGH DPHQGPHQWV DV UHFRPPHQGHG E\ WKH &RXQFLO RI WKH 6HFWLRQ RI /HJDO Education and Admissions to the Bar to the ABA Standards and Rules of Procedure for Approval of Law Schools.

5HVROXWLRQ XUJHV IHGHUDO VWDWH WHUULWRULDO DQG WULEDO bar associations to develop practices and policies to focus inquiries into bar applicants’ convictions and legal MXGJPHQWV WR WKRVH WKDW UHÀHFW RQ D EDU WKH DSSOLFDQW¶V propensity to engage in fraud, deceit, dishonesty or misrepresentation in the future delivery of legal services.

5HVROXWLRQ XUJHV WKH DGRSWLRQ RI PLQLPXP FRQWLQXLQJ OHJDO HGXFDWLRQ 0&/( UHTXLUHPHQWV ZKLFK SHUPLW DQ DWWRUQH\ WR HDUQ XS WR IRXU KRXUV SHU \HDU RI 0&/( FUHGLW E\ MXGJLQJ RU FRDFKLQJ PRFN trials, moot courts, negotiation, arbitration or mediation competitions at the law school, undergraduate or high school levels, provided that such programs meet certain qualifying requirements.

5HVROXWLRQ XUJHV WKH 6XSUHPH &RXUW RI WKH 8QLWHG 6WDWHV WR PRGLI\ WKH HWKLFV FRGH LW DGRSWHG LQ and adopt a binding ethics code for the Supreme Court that is as strict as the Code of Conduct for United States judges, adopted by the Judicial Conference of the United States, including a Supreme Court-adopted If anyone would like further information on any of appropriate enforcement mechanism. Speaking to the +RXVH LQ VXSSRUW RI WKH UHVROXWLRQ 6WHSKHQ 6DO]EXUJ these resolutions or reports, or would like the complete list a delegate from Washington, D.C., said there are “only of resolutions adopted, please do not hesitate to reach out to nine lawyers in America who aren’t bound by an ethics me. code, and that’s the Supreme Court.” )ROORZLQJ KLV UHPDUNV DW WKH 0LG\HDU 0HHWLQJ ABA President Bay released a statement on behalf of the Two resolutions were passed concerning judicial VHFXULW\ 5HVROXWLRQ XUJHV VWDWH ORFDO WHUULWRULDO ABA supporting the rule of law. The statement was shared tribal and specialty bar associations to adopt policies by email to ABA members, published on the ABA’s website, WR SULRULWL]H HQKDQFLQJ MXGLFLDO VHFXULW\ LQ WKHLU and circulated through its social media.

MXULVGLFWLRQ 5HVROXWLRQ XUJHV MXULVGLFWLRQV WR HQDFW legislation, regulations or take judicial action to prohibit

6 Tulsa Lawyer

8 Tulsa Lawyer

April is a great time to help GROW your Foundation By being a member of the TCBA, you are also a member of the Tulsa &RXQW\ %DU )RXQGDWLRQ $V D JHQHUDO UXOH WKH IXQGV WKDW FRPH LQWR WKH )RXQGDWLRQ DUH WKH UHVXOW RI D IXQGUDLVLQJ HYHQW IRU RXU FRPPXQLW\ and the monies raised are immediately distributed back out into the FRPPXQLW\ WKURXJK QRQ SUR¿W RUJDQL]DWLRQV ,Q DQ HIIRUW WR DVVLVW WKH )RXQGDWLRQ ZH KDYH LPSOHPHQWHG D PRQWKO\ “Fund the Foundation” program. To participate we are asking each member who has a birthday this month to consider making a donation to the )RXQGDWLRQ You can do so with the QR Code shown here. ,I \RX DUH QRW FXUUHQWO\ D )HOORZ SOHDVH consider joining that program. As a thank you (and let’s be honest, an encouragement WR RWKHU PHPEHUV LI \RX GRQDWH EHIRUH WKH 10th of the month we will include a shout RXW WR \RX LQ WKH QH[W LVVXH RI 7XOVD /DZ\HU 0DJD]LQH

10 Tulsa Lawyer

Gary C Clark James McAuliff Michael Nesser Michael Taubman

Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club Book Club Q & A with Richard Hix

5HWLUHG ORFDO DWWRUQH\ DQG DXWKRU 5LFKDUG +L[ GLVFXVVHG his novel, Nobody Knows When the Truth Goes By, and engaged LQ D 4 DQG $ DW WKH )HEUXDU\ /DZ Day meeting. His novel combines an unsolved mystery spanning decades, a captivating love story RI WZR PLV¿WV DQG D WUDYHORJXH RI a complex and mysterious country.

The twists and turns of Hix’s novel will keep his readers at full attention.

With thirty guests in attendance, the atmosphere ZDV OLYHO\ DQG HQJDJLQJ 0DUWKD 5XSS &DUWHU LQWURGXFHG Mr. Hix, and he then shared background information about his writing process, inspirations, and challenges he faced while creating the book. Guests shared their thoughts and insights about the book, discussing themes, characters, and overall impressions.

The meeting concluded with a book signing and casual networking where guests connected with the author. %H VXUH WR MRLQ XV ZKHQ WKH /DZ 'D\ %RRN &OXE LQ collaboration with Magic City Books hosts attorney and DXWKRU 0DUWLQ )UH\ DV WKH\ GLVFXVV KLV QHZ KLVWRULFDO ¿FWLRQ book Captain Hornigold and the Pirate Republic. This is open to all TCBA members and guests, and there is no fee to attend.

Book Club Calendar April 22 - James, Percival Everett May 27 - The Supermajority, Michael Waldman June 24 - $ )DWH ,QNHG LQ %ORRG 'DQLHOOH / -HQVHQ July 22 - Calling for a Blanket Dance, Oscar Hokeah

September 23 - Anxious People )UHGULN %DFNPDQ October 28 - When Will There Be Good News, Kate Atkinson November 25 - Book by H.W. Brands, historian

American

August - No meeting (Bonus meeting for anyone December - No meeting. interested, to discuss 6HFUHWV RI WKH 6SUDNNDU ,FHODQG¶V Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World (OL]D 5HLG 'DWH 7%'

Note: %RRN &OXE JHQHUDOO\ PHHWV DW S P RQ WKH IRXUWK 7XHVGD\V DW WKH %DU &HQWHU H[FHSW $XJXVW DQG 'HFHPEHU

Tulsa Lawyer 11

TCBA HAPPENINGS Left: February 11th Workers Comp CLE

Don't miss out...join us for TCBA Events!

Below: March 13th Happy Hour at Welltown Brewing

Above: March 4th - Mark Darrah spoke at the Basic Probate & Estate Administration CLE

Tulsa Lawyer 13

Spotlight on the Hon. Daman Cantrell, Tulsa County District Court Judge Interview with Tamara R. Piety 4 2ND\ -XGJH OHW¶V GR WKH ELRJUDSKLFDO SDUWV ¿UVW , NQRZ you were born and raised in Oklahoma. Was there anything in your childhood that inspired you to be a lawyer? $ , ZDV ERUQ DQG UDLVHG LQ 2NODKRPD ¿UVW 2.& DQG WKHQ went to high school in Mustang. Mustang was a small country town back then! I was drawn to high school debate E\ DQ LQVSLULQJ WHDFKHU 0U 5DOSK 6PLWK 0U 6PLWK FUHDWHG a wonderful championship speech and debate and drama program at Mustang in the mid to late 1970’s and it changed my life. We had a great community among the students. I am VWLOO IULHQGV ZLWK PDQ\ RI WKHP \HDUV ODWHU 7KH MR\RXV fellowship Mr. Smith created at Mustang inspired me not only to become a lawyer, but to create the high school mock WULDO SURJUDP DW 2ZDVVR \HDUV ODWHU

Judge Daman Cantrell is one of the longest serving judges currently on the bench in Tulsa County. He has been D MXGJH IRU \HDUV +H says he is going to “probably” retire this year. Those of us who have worked for the Judge have heard that before. So, we will believe it when we see it.

Nevertheless, this year it seems a little more serious. I spent DERXW D \HDU SDUW RI WR SDUW RI VHUYLQJ DV WKH judge’s bailiff/informal law clerk. During my time working IRU KLP WKH MXGJH PDGH VHULRXV LQURDGV LQWR FOHDULQJ RXW years’ worth of books and memorabilia from his chambers. It is almost empty compared to how it looked when I arrived in 2FWREHU RI <HW KH LV VWLOO RQ WKH EHQFK 6R ZKR NQRZV if this is really the year? If it is not this year, so much the EHWWHU IRU WKH FLWL]HQV RI 7XOVD &RXQW\ EXW LW LV FORVH HQRXJK that I though members of the Tulsa County Bar might enjoy DQ LQWHUYLHZ ZLWK KLP DERXW VRPH RI KLV UHÀHFWLRQV RQ KLV career and his thoughts about the profession.

Judge Cantrell is a native Oklahoman, born and raised in Oklahoma City and later Mustang. In high school in Mustang, Cantrell was drawn to the debate team, an experience that offered a great introduction to many of the VDPH VNLOOV QHFHVVDU\ IRU D WULDO ODZ\HU /DWHU KH DWWHQGHG University of Central Oklahoma on a debate scholarship and then later attended OU for law school. The following interview is drawn from several conversations I had with the Judge. In some places I have condensed some responses to ¿W WKH IRUPDW KHUH

Q. What a great story! I too had a high school teacher, Alex Tuss, who had a profound effect on me. It is amazing how important teachers are! I know you considered teaching as a career at one point, but you majored in business in college and then ended up in law school. Did your parents play a role in that decision?

A. My parents were wonderful folks and supported me in every way, right down to my mother typing up hundreds of debate “evidence” cards for me when I was a high school debater. My Dad was a welder and could do anything with his hands. I did not get any of those skills so was especially motivated to go to law school after one very hot summer ZRUNLQJ LQ KLV FRPSDQ\ WRRO VKRS , ZDV WKH ¿UVW LQ P\ immediate family to go to college, so my parents were really proud when I went to UCO and then to law school.

Q. So you went to the University of Central Oklahoma. That LV ¿WWLQJ VLQFH 0XVWDQJ LV SUHWW\ FORVH WR WKH FHQWHU RI WKH state! Any special memories from undergrad?

A. I went to UCO on a debate scholarship and had a great time touring the country in a van, going to debate tournaments on the weekends. In theory I majored in business, but I really PDMRUHG LQ GHEDWH ROG GHEDWHUV ZLOO JHW WKLV Q. What about law school? Where did you go? Did you have any favorite subjects or professors?

A. I went to the University of Oklahoma, where I graduated LQ 3URIHVVRU 7HSNHU ZKR WDXJKW &RQVWLWXWLRQDO /DZ was my favorite professor by far. I made some great friends in law school. I just got back last night from a mock trial event at OU law school; it was a fun trip down memory lane to be there. One

IXQ IDFW P\ VPDOO VHFWLRQ DW 28 SURGXFHG MXGJHV 7KDW Q. What has been one of the most memorable cases you’ve must be some kind of record. We have tried to get a “class ever tried? picture” at judicial conferences every year. Those are some A. When I was a family court judge, I had a trial with a guy great people and good memories. who was in a cult/commune and wanted custody of his child Q. :KDW ZDV \RXU ¿UVW MRE RXW RI ODZ VFKRRO" :K\" :HUH over the wife who got out. It was a fascinating trial and not there memorable experiences in that job? necessarily a slam dunk for either side, but I ended up ruling for the wife.

A. I was extremely fortunate to get a job at the Attorney *HQHUDO¶V RI¿FH ZKHQ 0LNH 7XUSHQ ZDV LQ WKDW RI¿FH , Q. What was the most satisfying experience you’ve had in learned a lot about litigation in state and federal courts your legal career? On the bench? from that job. And I met people who became great mentors for me. But most importantly, that’s where I met my wife, A. While acting as a public defender, I won a death penalty Brita. AG Turpen came to our wedding because he said case on appeal that took months of hard work. On the bench, “he felt responsible” for bringing us together. Memorable , ZDV SURXG WR KDYH KHOSHG UHYLWDOL]H WKH IDPLO\ GUXJ FRXUW H[SHULHQFHV" , ZURWH DQ RSLQLRQ IRU WKH $*¶V RI¿FH WKDW in my time at juvenile court. Now, it is a National Mentor Oklahoma’s law that men are the “head of the household” Court. for various legal purposes was unconstitutional. It doesn’t Q. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you in seem like a heavy lift now, but back then it was, incredibly court? enough, very “controversial” and got the AG into some hot ZDWHU SROLWLFDOO\ 7KDW ODZ ZDV ¿QDOO\ UHSHDOHG KRZHYHU VR A. Once I had a lawyer cross-examine his 80-year-old mother in court, although not really in an adversarial context. He clearly, we were right! started out his cross with, “now, Mom....”. I also had a car Q. So how did you become a judge? wreck case where the two parties exchanged information $ , KDG OHIW WKH $*¶V RI¿FH DQG JRQH WR WKH 3XEOLF 'HIHQGHU¶V and then began dating before he sued her. In his lawsuit he RI¿FH LQ 7XOVD 7KLV ZDV LQ WKH ¶V , ZDV IRUWXQDWH WR WU\ raised some damages issues that, considering their personal several cases in front of several District Judges and got some relationship, led to some funny testimony. I leave the details encouragement from some of them to think about a judicial to your imagination! career. After a couple of tries, I was honored to be appointed Q. What is your biggest pet peeve as a judge? What do you D VSHFLDO MXGJH LQ 7KHQ LQ , UDQ IRU 'LVWULFW wish lawyers knew?

Judge and was fortunate to win the election.

A. Professionalism and civility have not always been my Q. I know former Associate Justice of the United States main concerns. It’s up to us, the judges, to make sure the Supreme Court, Sandra Day O’Connor, was very vocal “good guys” who follow the rules don’t lose out for their about her concerns about making judges run for election (as compliance through overly generous leave to amend or by opposed to being appointed). She argued that the need to us overlooking rules violations. We have to make sure that be re-elected could place undue pressure on judges. How good habits are reinforced and backed up by the Court. Still, do you feel about that aspect of the job? Do you just run for sometimes you also need to make allowances for human error, retention?

EHVW LQWHQWLRQV QRW ZRUNLQJ RXW DQG VR IRUWK )RUWXQDWHO\ WKH $ 1RW MXVW UHWHQWLRQ ZH IDFH UH HOHFWLRQV DJDLQVW SRWHQWLDO vast majority of the lawyers who appear before me are great. opponents. I was lucky to not have an opponent since that It’s usually the same few attorneys who cause most of the ¿UVW UDFH EXW , KDYH KDG VHYHUDO JRRG IULHQGV ZKR ZHUH problems. That said, I see lawyers cooperating and acting outstanding judges who have lost races for re-election. It’s appropriately more times than not. not a perfect system by any means but it’s the system we have. And there is something to be said for accountability to the voters. That said, I understand Justice O’Connor’s concerns. But there is no perfect system because systems that rely on appointments rely more on patronage systems and sometimes that can also be bad. I think we all try to follow our best judgment about what the law provides, regardless of whether we think it might be popular, and let the chips fall where they may. That is your duty. And as I say, I have been fortunate not to ever face opposition.

Q. How has being a judge changed your life? For example, is it harder to make new friends?

A. We’re supposed to be circumspect about our social relationships with other lawyers, but I have enjoyed participating in Inns of Court and other professional RUJDQL]DWLRQV ZLWK ODZ\HUV <RX GH¿QLWHO\ QHHG WR ZDWFK your public social media posts and other public actions so as not to violate the canons of ethics. On the other hand, after I became a judge, I noticed that my bad jokes are now funnier around lawyers.

Continued on next page...

Tulsa Lawyer 15

Q. :KR KDV EHHQ WKH JUHDWHVW LQÀXHQFH RQ \RX LQ \RXU many talented lawyers start out their careers with me this judicial philosophy? way. Outstanding though, even in an outstanding group, was Darrah Day, who is an outstanding young lawyer who A. I’ve had many good mentors in my career, fellow judges was willing to serve in this position for 7 years, a service Jane Wiseman, Jefferson Sellers, and Bill Kellough to name not just to me but to the people of Tulsa County. And now I a few. I was a fan of former Supreme Court Justice Steven have hired one of my prodigies from the Owasso Mock Trial Breyer, who was a pragmatic judge in his philosophy. At team, Alyson Bushey, who is doing a superb job. my level, we aren’t usually deciding the major issues of the day, but the bottom line is to give both sides a fair shot and 8VLQJ WKH EDLOLII SRVLWLRQ WKLV ZD\ LV D PRUH HI¿FLHQW XVH RI their day in court when appropriate. They all told me, “Work the bailiff because bailiffs’ main job is handling juries and the hard, stay on top of your docket, keep up with the current courtroom. It takes a lot of resources and advance planning caselaw. And have a sense of humor. That never hurts.” I’d to pull together a jury trial and still, cases regularly settle “on OLNH WR WKLQN WKDW WKHLU ZLVGRP ZDV UHÀHFWHG LQ WKH VWDWHZLGH WKH FRXUWKRXVH VWDLUV´ DV WKH\ VD\ DQG ZH ¿QG RXUVHOYHV ZLWK 2%$ ³-XGJH RI WKH <HDU´ DZDUG , ZDV KRQRUHG WR UHFHLYH LQ no trial on our trial weeks, despite our best efforts. Having

bailiffs who are able to work on drafting orders makes better use of the down time.

Q. What has been the biggest change you’ve seen from when \RX ¿UVW EHFDPH D MXGJH WR QRZ" This is not an ideal long-term solution however, EHFDXVH JLYHQ WKH ORZ SD\ LW¶V KDUG WR ¿QG ODZ\HUV ZLOOLQJ $ 2YHU P\ \HDUV DV D MXGJH , IHHO WKDW WKH SXEOLF KDV to do this job (I think you would agree with this, having been been incredibly supportive, generally, of the work we do. P\ ODZ FOHUN IRU D \HDU $QG DV JUHDW DV VRPH RI P\ QRQ The jurors that appear every week take their oaths seriously. lawyer bailiffs have been and are, the judges also really need While we decry the lack of civility in the legal profession, ODZ FOHUNV ZKR FDQ VRUW WKURXJK DQG VXPPDUL]H WKH LVVXHV in many ways I see improvements and cause for hope in the presented by the many motions and pleadings we receive. younger generation improving things. My biggest complaint Keeping these complex civil cases moving without adequate is probably the physical plant- the Tulsa County Courthouse staff requires thinking outside the box, but it would be nice has seriously deteriorated over the last couple of decades. to have more support for the judges to help them stay on top We need a new courthouse. We also need to fund staff of the docket and render thoughtful, well-reasoned rulings, attorneys for the courts, at least for the largest counties. UHSOHWH ZLWK FLWDWLRQV WR WKH UHFRUG ZKLFK FDQ EH GLI¿FXOW WR We’re one of the few states that does not provide law clerks generate given the volume we handle. for trial judges and then we wonder why there are delays in reviewing motions and decisions.

Next month this interview continues with a focus on Judge Cantrell’s passion project, coaching Owasso High One innovation I pride myself in is using my bailiff School Mock Trial team, his advice for mock trial-ers, some spot for law clerks. This has improved the speed with which of his favorite stories about Mock Trial, what he plans to do I can render decisions and improves their quality in my in retirement, and what is most important to him, his family. opinion. After all, I was lucky enough to have a former law professor working for me! And over the years I have had

The Bar Center will be CLOSED for Good Friday, April 18TH

16 Tulsa Lawyer

Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association

Trevion Freeman

By Ralph Schaefer

majors, they took similar classes, and both were interested LQ ODZ +HU]¶V PRWKHU -LOO +HU] D VXFFHVVIXO 'DOODV DWWRUQH\ DQG D 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7XOVD &ROOHJH RI /DZ DOXP VXJJHVWHG that perhaps both might consider her alma mater. “She got on the phone and gave us expectations about what we might expect during an upcoming law fair, adding ‘you know what, Trevion, you should apply to TU,” “That’s where I went to law school and it is a great school, 0UV +HU] VDLG ³, ZDV WKLQNLQJ ZK\ ZRXOG , GR WKDW VLQFH I’ve never been to Oklahoma before except for a football game,” Trevion said. “But being obedient, I said ‘yes ma’am’.”

Trevion chuckled as he recalled how he got to the University RI 7XOVD &ROOHJH RI /DZ The Oklahoma school was on the back burner, and he thought that if everything else fell apart, he might consider coming to Oklahoma. Trevion was placed on the waitlist at VHYHUDO XQLYHUVLWLHV ZKHUH KH DSSOLHG DQG 78 ZDV WKH ¿UVW law school that called. “My father drove me and a couple of 7UHYLRQ )UHHPDQ TXLFNO\ VD\V D FRPPXQLW\ UDLVHG KLP my siblings to Tulsa for a visit,” he said. “When I saw the 7KDW LQFOXGHG KLV IDWKHU $OIUHG )UHHPDQ DQG KLV PRWKHU pit in the law school lobby I was like, woah, you want to .HOL -DFNVRQ )UHHPDQ JUDQGSDUHQWV JUHDW JUDQGSDUHQWV become a lawyer, and you might as well go here.” and close-knit relatives on both sides of Dearborn Street in East Waco, Texas. However, two men, President Barack 'HDQ /\Q (QW]HURWK ZDV WKH ODZ VFKRRO GHDQ LQ ZKHQ 2EDPD DQG WKH ODWH 8 6 5HSUHVHQWDWLYH 6\OYHVWHU 7XUQHU 7UHYLRQ DQG KLV IULHQG +DUU\ VWDUWHG FODVVHV (QW]HURWK former Houston mayor and representative for the State of returned to the classroom in 2022 and was followed by Texas, had an indirect impact on his future. “Both were 'HDQ 2UHQ 5 *ULI¿Q ZKR KROGV WKDW SRVW WRGD\ &ODVVHV lawyers. That went to college for political science and later ZHUH FKDOOHQJLQJ WKDW ¿UVW VHPHVWHU DV WKH / VWXGHQWV law school,” Trevion said. “I saw those individuals who had learned the Socratic Method and related law classes. New gone to law school and thought that if they could do it, so challenges were ahead in the second semester when students could I. At that time, some of the people I admired, such and faculty had to deal with the pandemic and classes went DV 3UHVLGHQW 2EDPD DQG 5HS 7XUQHU LQ WKH SROLWLFDO UHDOP virtual. inspired me to pursue a degree in political science.”

“I had a pretty good grasp on how to study based on the Trevion, now a Tulsa County Assistant District Attorney, ¿UVW VHPHVWHU ´ 7UHYLRQ VDLG ³, NLQG RI WUDQVLWLRQHG LQWR WKH LV WKH ¿UVW ODZ\HU LQ D ³YHU\ ELJ IDPLO\ ´ 7KH ROGHVW RI VL[ situation and I think it was a blessing for me.” Trevion said children, with the youngest sibling being eight years old. he is the kind of person who went to the law school daily and along with a group of friends, studied in the library. It After graduating from Waco High School, Trevion attended was quiet, and it was a great experience to spend time alone WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 7H[DV DW $XVWLQ 87 ZKHUH KH JUDGXDWHG in an almost empty library, grasping the concepts of each LQ ZLWK D %DFKHORU¶V LQ JRYHUQPHQW 3ROLWLFDO 6FLHQFH legal course. Attending law school virtually came with its and a minor in religious studies. While at UT, Trevion met challenges, including virtual law exams +DUU\ +HU] DQG WKH WZR EHFDPH IDVW IULHQGV $V JRYHUQPHQW 18 Tulsa Lawyer

Trevion relieves the stress of his courtroom advocacy by spending a great deal of time in activities at his church in North Tulsa, Metropolitan Baptist Church, being active ZLWKLQ KLV IUDWHUQLW\ $OSKD 7DX /DPEGD &KDSWHU RI $OSKD 3KL $OSKD )UDWHUQLW\ ,QFRUSRUDWHG ZKLFK SURYLGHV VHUYLFH and advocacy for those within his community, and teaching LQ WKH 6WUHHW /DZ 3URJUDP QRZ EHLQJ SUHVHQWHG DW &HQWUDO High School.

Trevion Freeman, JP Ray and Pierre Robertson

7UHYLRQ DQG 3LHUUH 5REHUWVRQ $VVLVWDQW 7XOVD &RXQW\ 3XEOLF 'HIHQGHU DUH RQ WKH JURXQG ÀRRU RI WKH 6WUHHW /DZ 3URJUDP proposed by Tami Williams, Tulsa County Bar Association H[HFXWLYH GLUHFWRU DQG .DUD 9LQFHQW IRUPHU 7&%$ SUHVLGHQW DQG D VKDUHKROGHU ZLWK WKH %DUEHU %DUW] /DZ )LUP Trevion has found the junior and senior high school students involved in the program want to learn and are curious not only about the law but about becoming future professionals and overall advocates for their respective communities.

Issues ranging from landlord-tenant law to what to do when RQH LV SXOOHG RYHU E\ SROLFH DQG FRQÀLFW UHVROXWLRQ DUH just some of the topics covered over the year-long course.

Trevion explained that students leave the program now with a better grasp of the Oklahoma criminal justice system, and some may have a mindset that they could become lawyers.

Many will also leave the program with the experience of doing a mock trial before a Tulsa County District judge and the inspiration to believe that they can be in those positions LQ WKH IXWXUH 7KH 6WUHHW /DZ SURJUDP GRHV QRW RQO\ IRFXV RQ WKRVH VWXGHQWV ZKR ZDQW D IXWXUH LQ WKH OHJDO ¿HOG ,I someone expresses an interest in nursing, then individuals with nursing degrees are brought in to talk about those career experiences. Trevion believes that the ultimate goal is to create advocates for the Tulsa community. “Ten years from Graduating in 2022, Trevion joined the Johnson-Cephas now, when we look back at the program and the countless /DZ )LUP ZKHUH KH SUDFWLFHG FULPLQDO GHIHQVH DQG IDPLO\ students, who participated in it, my prayer is we have created law. A short time later he joined the Tulsa County District DUWLFXODWHG DQG ZHOO URXQGHG FLWL]HQV ZKR FDQ EH DVVHWV WR $WWRUQH\¶V RI¿FH DQG IRU WKH SDVW \HDU DQG D KDOI KDV EHHQ not only their family but the community they come from. trying to help people. “I made this change to embrace the And if one just so happens to become a lawyer…. well, that opportunity for courtroom experience and to be a strong would be icing on the cake.” advocate for my community.” /DZ 6FKRRO IULHQGV 3LHUUH DQG 7UHYLRQ GRQ¶W RIWHQ PHHW As assistant district attorney, Trevion has been given the as courtroom adversaries. “It is an interesting experience, opportunity to hold those who make mistakes accountable. VHHLQJ RQH RI \RXU EHVW IULHQGV ]HDORXVO\ DGYRFDWH IRU WKHLU He is currently on the felony domestic violence team. clients and knowing that they truly care because you see the work they do in the community,” Trevion said. “We are )RU 7UHYLRQ WKH PRVW UHZDUGLQJ FDVHV DUH WKRVH ZKHUH KH able to be civil and advocate our positions. We have a strong can put a victim at ease, letting them know that someone not friendship regardless of what we do inside the courtroom.” only cared about their situation but is willing to advocate on Ultimately, Trevion believes that while he and Pierre are in their behalf. Similarly, it is rewarding to see the tears on the their respective positions, they are providing advocacy to a victims’ faces when their accuser is held accountable. They community that needs them both. know that someone heard their concerns and helped them.

“I explain that whatever has happened to them was not their Continued on next page... fault, and although I did not go through the same experience that they went through, I care, and I am going to be here for them.”

7UHYLRQ FUHGLWV PRVW RI KLV VXFFHVV DW 78 /DZ WR VWXGHQWV who came before him and provided a guiding light through the rigors of law school. Those students and now best IULHQGV ZHUH 3LHUUH 5REHUWVRQ 78 /DZ DQG -3 5D\ 78 /DZ $FFRUGLQJ WR 7UHYLRQ D UHODWLRQVKLS WKDW started as a Mentor-Mentee soon formed into lifelong connections. “Pierre and JP encouraged me to take on tasks and overcome new obstacles during my time at TU. This included becoming the Student Bar Association President (an honor also bestowed on JP and Pierre during their times DW 78 /DZ UHVSHFWIXOO\ EHLQJ DGPLWWHG LQWR 7XOVD /DZ Journal and having an article published, and joining a trial advocacy team.”

Trevion doesn’t know if he will return to his native Texas. “Back in East Waco, my family raised me on IDLWK DQG KRSH 7KH KRSH WKDW WKHLU VDFUL¿FHV FRXOG pave a better future for my siblings and myself, and the faith to believe that it would happen despite seen and unforeseen circumstances. Wherever I go, I want to provide the same faith and hope to others.”

April Fun Fact: On April 30, 1789, George Washington became the ÀUVW 8 6 3UHVLGHQW DQG ZDV DGPLQLVWHUHG WKH RDWK RI RIÀFH RQ WKH EDOFRQ\ RI )HGHUDO +DOO DW WKH FRUQHU RI :DOO DQG %URDG 6WUHHWV LQ 1HZ <RUN &LW\

Voices of TCBA 7KLV LQQRYDWLYH SURMHFW E\ WKH 7&%$ /DZ :HHN &RPPLWWHH DLPV WR SUHVHUYH DQG VKDUH WKH ULFK VWRULHV RI RXU PHPEHUV DQG WKH KLVWRU\ RI WKH $VVRFLDWLRQ 0HPEHUV LQWHUYLHZHG DUH HQFRXUDJHG WR FRQWULEXWH WKHLU XQLTXH H[SHULHQFHV DQG LQVLJKWV UHÁ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·V EULQJ RXU VWRULHV WR OLIH

Street Law Class: Engaging with Juvenile Justice 5HFHQWO\ WKH 6WUHHW /DZ class welcomed guest presenters from the 3XEOLF 'HIHQGHU V RI¿FH and several new law students eager to share their knowledge and experiences. The session focused on the intricacies of juvenile law, highlighting the rights of minors and the importance of legal representation in the juvenile justice system.

Our guests shared invaluable insights into their work and students engaged in lively discussions, asking questions and participating in mock scenarios that illustrated the practical application of juvenile law. The interactive nature of the class fostered a deeper understanding of the legal processes and the critical role of lawyers advocating for juveniles.Through this enriching experience, we continue to foster a commitment to law related education, civics training, and introducing careers in law to young people in our community.

Thank you to our guests and volunteer attorneys from the Public 'HIHQGHUV RI¿FH .DWKU\Q *DUGQHU &KDQFH %HQQHWW .HOOH\ )HOGKDNH DQG /DQGHV %DXWHU IRU WKHLU WLPH DQG H[SHUWLVH DQG WR our students for their engagement and curiosity!

20 Tulsa Lawyer

Celebrating Legacy: %DU $VVRFLDWLRQ 3DVW 3UHVLGHQWV /XQFKHRQ On March 10, our Bar Association hosted a remarkable gathering honoring our esteemed past presidents. This event was not just a celebration of leadership and dedication but also an opportunity for the current members and WKH /HDGHUVKLS $FDGHP\ WR FRQQHFW DQG learn from those who have shaped our association.

The atmosphere was vibrant as past leaders shared their experiences, insights, and stories that have guided our community through various challenges and triumphs. $V ZH UHÀHFW RQ WKH OHJDF\ RI WKRVH ZKR KDYH VHUYHG ZH DUH UHPLQGHG RI WKH importance of mentorship and collaboration in our profession. This event was a beautiful reminder of the strong bonds that unite us and the shared commitment to H[FHOOHQFH LQ WKH OHJDO ¿HOG 7KDQN \RX WR HYHU\RQH ZKR DWWHQGHG DQG FRQWULEXWHG to a memorable celebration. We look forward to continuing these traditions and fostering the next generation of leaders in our Bar Association.

Tulsa Lawyer 21

Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association

Pierre Robertson

By Ralph Schaefer

“I’ve always wanted to help others, especially kids,” he said. ³,W PDGH VHQVH WR WHDFK ¿UVW DQG WKHQ SLYRW WR EHLQJ D ODZ\HU ´ 5HDOLW\ FKHFNV RFFXUUHG ZKHQ WDONLQJ ZLWK IRXUWK JUDGHUV and their families.

“I learned so many lessons working with families, attending parenting conferences and professional development VHPLQDUV ´ KH VDLG ³5HÀHFWLQJ RYHU P\ WLPH LQ WKH FODVVURRP my students taught me far more than I taught them.” /RRNLQJ EDFN 3LHUUH VDLG PRVW VWXGHQWV¶ IDFHV ZRXOG OLJKW up as they learned.

Pierre started his quest for a law career at the University of 7XOVD &ROOHJH RI /DZ LQ +H FRPSOHWHG KLV DFDGHPLF work in 2020, but his actual graduation ceremony was a year later. &29,' FKDQJHG WKLQJV IRU HYHU\RQH LQ +H VDLG LW ZDV weird learning about the law in a remote setting. :KHQ 3LHUUH 5REHUWVRQ FKDQJHG FDUHHUV IURP D WHDFKHU WR Pierre passed the Oklahoma bar examination and now a lawyer in 2017, he hoped that none of his former fourth- SUDFWLFHV FULPLQDO GHIHQVH 'XH WR &29,' WKH grade students would need his services. graduation ceremony was held in 2021. He said it was interesting to have been practicing for a year and then return 6DGO\ VRPH RI KLV IRUPHU VWXGHQWV IURP WR WR KLV DOPD PDWHU WR RI¿FLDOO\ ZDON WKH VWDJH JUDGXDWH DQG are now adults and see him in a different role, a criminal then give a speech to new graduates since he was the Student defense attorney with the Tulsa County Public Defender’s Bar Association President of his class.

2I¿FH 6RPH KDYH EHHQ FKDUJHG ZLWK D FULPH DQG QHHG OHJDO assistance.

“I just wanted the formalities, and Mom wanted pictures,” he said.

3LHUUH¶V ORQJ WHUP JRDO ZDV D OHJDO FDUHHU EXW KH GHFLGHG ¿UVW to become a teacher and then switch to law. :KLOH DW /HJDO $LG KH KRQHG KLV FRXUWURRP VNLOOV LQFOXGLQJ introducing exhibits, cross-examining witnesses, and testing Today, he has carried out the high standards that his mother, courtroom theories.

Deanna, set for him and his brother, Mario. His brother also pursued a legal career and works with the Chicago- Pierre was also involved with the Tulsa County Bar EDVHG 0XFKLQ 5RVHQPDQ //3 /DZ )LUP 7KRVH VWDQGDUGV Association Pro Bono Committee. That committee runs the were carried into the classroom, where a high bar was set Court Assistance Program where attorneys can volunteer for students. Every single one of his students reached those to represent people facing eviction. This is an invaluable expectations. program because everyone should have the right to an attorney.

The Cleveland, Ohio native came to Tulsa after being selected to participate in the highly competitive Teach for America He said it is sad when someone comes to court with an program. This program is designed to send teachers to states eviction notice without an attorney. Most people may not with underperforming education systems, and Oklahoma think of eviction as important until they are in court and was on that list.

WHUUL¿HG EHFDXVH WKH\ NQRZ WKH\ FRXOG ORVH WKHLU KRPHV ZLWKLQ PLQXWHV Pierre was matched with fourth-grade students and assigned to Tulsa’s Hawthorne Elementary School.

It is gratifying to help people in situations that result in a successful outcome. Still, they often have other legal issues “I taught students that were nine and ten years old,” he said. that cannot be addressed during a single hearing.

“Nearly ten years later, my former students are now adults, and I see them in the community.”

7KRVH H[SHULHQFHV EHFDPH VLJQL¿FDQW ZKHQ 3LHUUH MRLQHG “violent” felony a few years ago. In just six short months, WKH SXEOLF GHIHQGHU¶V RI¿FH LQ he was faced with a sentence of a minimum of 20 years to life in prison. :KHQ KH OHIW /HJDO $LG 6DUD &KHUU\ 0DQDJLQJ $WWRUQH\ RI WKH 7XOVD /HJDO $LG 2I¿FH WROG KLP KH ZRXOG VHH WKLQJV “I negotiated with the Tulsa County District Attorney’s differently as a criminal defense lawyer since he worked RI¿FH RQ KLV VHQWHQFH ´ 3LHUUH VDLG 7KH \RXWK GLGQ¶W ZDQW with people who needed help on a holistic level. The typical to go to trial because the minimum was a 20-year sentence criminal defense lawyer only sees their job as helping a nor enter a blind plea and risk what a judge might impose, client with their case. While there is nothing wrong with this knowing his statutory minimum sentence. approach, helping someone with their case and resources such as food, housing, and others, can reduce the odds that There was no guarantee the district attorney, with a minimum focus on a 20-year sentence, would come any lower since someone reappears on a criminal docket. the youth picked up these cases so quickly.

Sadly, over the years, he has seen some former students and young clients who make one or two poor choices and could Pierre followed his clients’ desire to negotiate with the district attorney on the case. In the end, his client received a VSHQG D VLJQL¿FDQW SDUW RI WKHLU OLYHV LQ SULVRQ 10-year prison sentence, before his 20th birthday.

He recalled a case where an 18-year-old stole a car and was given probation, a deferred sentence. The young man, not his Pierre looks at things holistically and hopes if a client gets former student, was warned not to have any further contact the assistance they need, he might never see the individual with law enforcement as this could violate his probation and again. potentially spend more time in jail or prison.

Said assistance could be a treatment program that helps Two months later, he stole another car. His deferred sentence was accelerated to a suspended sentence, and he received a suspended sentence on his new case. At this point, he had two convictions on his record. Two months later...he stole another car, but he also drove away from the police. Under Oklahoma law, this is known as “endangering while eluding RWKHUV ´ 7KH 2NODKRPD OHJLVODWXUH FODVVL¿HG WKLV FULPH DV D

someone get their life back together. Over his years in practice, he has had numerous clients who graduate from treatment programs and turn their lives around. Some thank him for the chance, but he always reminds them that it was the judge who allowed them to have a chance, and most importantly themselves who did the heavy lifting.

Continued on next page...

Tulsa Lawyer 23

He cannot do it in his current role as a criminal defense attorney.

That is why he looks to the community for help. +H VDLG WKDW SDUWQHUVKLSV ZLWK OHJDO RUJDQL]DWLRQV FDQ KHOS get individuals out of the legal system. “I try to take a client and help them move forward. Unfortunately, the criminal justice system is a revolving door, and once you are in, it is hard to get out on your own.”

Pierre later had another client on a deferred sentence who SLFNHG XS D QHZ FDVH 3LHUUH DSSOLHG KLV FOLHQW WR WKH )LUVW Step Men’s Diversion Program. This was started by David Phillips, a former assistant public defender, and William Kellough, a retired Tulsa district judge.

Pierre and other attorneys go to Central High School to teach students about life challenges beyond the classroom and introduce them to the legal community. Minority students see others like them, which can inspire them to become lawyers.

He admits the program is too young to track students and their careers beyond high school.

Pierre loves his job as an assistant public defender, but he UHDOL]HV KH LV OLPLWHG LQ ZKDW KH FDQ GR +H VHHV WKDW FOLHQWV need more help than the cases in which he is involved.

He is wrestling with his future, which might include a private practice focused on civil or criminal defense work.

The bigger picture might include politics because systemic changes happen in the legislature and the court system.

The client who entered the program welcomed his daughter into the world last year and is doing well, thanks to the great VWDII DQG IHOORZ SURJUDP SDUWLFLSDQWV LQ WKH )LUVW 6WHS 0HQ¶V Diversion Program.

³5LJKW QRZ QR RQH NQRZV ZKDW LV JRLQJ WR KDSSHQ ´ 3LHUUH said. “We know the justice system is constantly changing.

1RWKLQJ LV SHUPDQHQW /DZV FDQ EH FKDQJHG DQG FDQ EH interpreted to either help or hurt people. Just look at the history of this country and recent headlines. I just hope that ³, DP RQ WKH )LUVW 6WHS 0HQ¶V 'LYHUVLRQ ERDUG 7KLV LV DQ ZKHQ ODZV DUH FKDQJHG LW ZRUNV WR EHQH¿W WKH SHRSOH ZKR DPD]LQJ SURJUDP WKDW KHOSV PHQ WXUQ WKHLU OLYHV DURXQG ´ need it the most.”

“I do my best to connect people with other resources and I His mother, Deanna, a private criminal defense attorney in do everything I can for them,” he said. Other partnerships &OHYHODQG VXSSRUWHG 3LHUUH¶V GHFLVLRQ WR MRLQ /HJDO $LG DQG LQFOXGH WKH UHFHQWO\ VWDUWHG -XVWLFH /LQN DQG :RPHQ LQ ODWHU WKH SXEOLF GHIHQGHU¶V RI¿FH 5HFRYHU\ They do similar criminal defense work in their respective Even though Pierre has limited time, he is involved with the communities and have similar cases, stories, and experiences.

6WUHHW /DZ SURJUDP “She just wants my brother and I to be happy.”

It started three years ago at an invitation to lunch with Tami Williams, Executive Director of the Tulsa County Bar “Mom doesn’t really mind what I do — as long as it’s legal,” $VVRFLDWLRQ DQG DWWRUQH\ .DUD 9LQFHQW RI WKH %DUEHU Pierre said. %DUW] /DZ )LUP WKHQ 7&%$ 3UHVLGHQW

Tulsa Lawyer 25

26 Tulsa Lawyer

Grapevine News Eller & Detrich is proud to announce that Nathalie M. Cornett has EHFRPH D 6KDUHKROGHU RI WKH )LUP ZKHUH KHU SULPDU\ SUDFWLFH FHQWHUV RQ ]RQLQJ land use planning, real estate and alcohol beverage law. Ms. Cornett earned her B.A., 2010 from Boston University. She earned her Juris Doctor, cum laude, 2015 from the University of Tulsa.

Additionally, Bailey B. Betz has MRLQHG WKH )LUP DV DQ $VVRFLDWH ZKHUH his practice will primarily focus on commercial real estate and business transactions, mergers and acquisitions DQG HVWDWH DQG SUREDWH PDWWHUV 0U %HW] HDUQHG KLV % 6 % $ LQ (FRQRPLFV ZLWK D 0LQRU LQ )LQDQFH IURP 2NODKRPD State University. He earned his Juris Doctor, with highest honors, 2020 from WKH 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 2NODKRPD &ROOHJH RI /DZ ZLWK D &HUWL¿FDWH LQ ,QWHUQDWLRQDO /DZ Pray Walker is pleased to announce that as of March 1, 2025, the attorneys and staff of Aston Mathis and Campbell will join Pray Walker. The addition of VHYHQ DWWRUQH\V DQG ¿YH SURIHVVLRQDO VWDII LV D VWUDWHJLF combination that will add expertise across a broader array of legal disciplines and escalate the blended practice to a higher level of service.

Joining Pray Walker are veteran attorneys Stephan Mathis, Rachel C. Mathis, John Campbell, Roger Gassett, Amy Hampton, Jeff D. Scott, and Nancy P. Hearn. In addition to Pray Walker’s strong corporate, civil litigation, real estate, employment, estate planning, DQG HQHUJ\ SUDFWLFHV WKH ¿UP ZLOO QRZ RIIHU DQ H[SDQGHG suite of services, including Indian law and Tribal gaming, insurance defense, construction law, criminal law, and family law.

7KLV UHSUHVHQWV D VLJQL¿FDQW VWHS IRUZDUG LQ RXU commitment to providing comprehensive legal solutions for our clients," said Brett Crane, Managing Partner at Pray Walker. "With the addition of this talented team of attorneys, we are enhancing our ability to deliver exceptional results DFURVV D ZLGH UDQJH RI SUDFWLFH DUHDV ,W LV D QDWXUDO ¿W IRU ERWK ¿UPV DV ZH ORRN WR WKH IXWXUH %RWK ¿UPV VKDUH DQ HQWUHSUHQHXULDO FOLHQW FHQWHUHG DSSURDFK WR OHJDO SUDFWLFH HPSKDVL]LQJ SHUVRQDOL]HG

service and tailored solutions. The integration will ensure that clients continue to receive the highest level of service, ZLWK WKH DGGHG EHQH¿W RI H[SDQGHG UHVRXUFHV DQG HQKDQFHG capabilities. :H DUH H[FLWHG WR XQLWH ZLWK 3UD\ :DONHU D ¿UP that shares our values and commitment to client success," said Steve Mathis. "Together, we will be better positioned to meet the evolving needs of our clients, providing innovative legal strategies and superior representation."

7KH ¿UP ZLOO RSHUDWH IURP 3UD\ :DONHU¶V H[SDQGHG location in the Greenwood District of Tulsa.

Did you know the Tulsa County Bar Association can handle client fee disputes at no cost to the attorney or the client?

7KH 7&%$ )HH $UELWUDWLRQ Committee arbitrates disputes between lawyers and clients involving fees charged for professional services where all parties to such disputes have voluntarily agreed to submit the dispute to binding DUELWUDWLRQ RI WKH )HH $UELWUDWLRQ Committee. Such disputes shall be investigated and arbitrated according to the rules of procedure adopted by the committee.

This committee does not resolve client grievances, handle practice complaints, or disciplinary matters, which are the exclusive jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Bar Association. It is a voluntary service for clients and attorneys to resolve billing disputes. The Committee comprises an equal number of experienced attorneys and non-attorney professionals.

Adding the following statement to your contracts PD\ DOOHYLDWH ELOOLQJ FRPSODLQWV EHIRUH D FOLHQW ¿OHV D complaint with the Oklahoma Bar Association. “Any GLVDJUHHPHQWV FRQFHUQLQJ IHHV ZLOO EH UHIHUUHG WR WKH )HH Arbitration Committee of the Tulsa County Bar Association.”

Tulsa Lawyer 27

CLASSIFIED ADS

Jon Starr Mediator and Arbitrator Contact DRC for scheduling 918-382-0300

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28 Tulsa Lawyer

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Tulsa Lawyer Editors 5KLDQQRQ 7KRUHVRQ Madison Cataudella Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com

TCBA OFFICERS

President..............................................................Stephanie Jackson Past President.............................................................Mike Esmond President-Elect.....................................................Michael Taubman 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW %LOO\ 'XQFDQ Secretary....................................................................Shena Burgess Treasurer..........................................................Mbilike Mwafulirwa Budget/Internal Operations........................................John Gotwals )RXQGDWLRQ 3UHVLGHQW -XVWLQ 0XQQ 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH /DUJH )LUP 1DWDOLH 6HDUV 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH /DUJH )LUP $OH[ 7HODULN 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH 0HGLXP )LUP .DUD 3UDWW 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH 0HGLXP )LUP -HQQLIHU 6WUXEOH 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH 6PDOO )LUP 0DU\ &OHPHQW 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH 6PDOO )LUP /LQGD 0RUULVVH\ 'LUHFWRU DW /DUJH 3XEOLF 6HFWRU -XGJH $SULO 6HLEHUW ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan OBA Delegate..............................................................Philip Hixon /LEUDU\ 7UXVWHH -XOLH (YDQV /LEUDU\ 7UXVWHH .LP 9RMYRGD Presiding Judge ..........................................

Hon. Dawn Moody &KLHI -XGJH 8 6 'LVWULFW &RXUW +RQ -RKQ ) +HLO ,,, Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court..........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister 78 /DZ 6FKRRO 6WXGHQW 5HSUHVHQWDWLYH (XJHQH )O\QQ 78 /DZ 6FKRRO 5HSUHVHQWDWLYH 1DWDOLH )URVW

YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION BOARD </' &KDLU /DF\ :LOOLDPVRQ </' 3DVW &KDLU &ROWRQ 5LFKDUGVRQ </' &KDLU (OHFW .\OH 7ULFH </' 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW ,VDLDK %U\GLH </' 7UHDVXUHU 0RUJDQ 6PLWK </' 6HFUHWDU\ .DLD .HQQHG\

FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS /DZ 'D\ &KDLU 7DQD 9DQ &OHDYH Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb Community Outreach Co-Chair...................... Madison Cataudella Golf Chair................................................................Michael Thelen 6FKRODUVKLS &KDLU 5DQG\ /HZLQ

FOUNDATION President.....................................................................Justin Munn Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert Trustee........................................................................Jim Gotwals Trustee...........................................................................Ann Keele 7UXVWHH 5LFN :KLWH 7UXVWHH /L]]LH 5LWHU Trustee .... &KDG 0F/DLQ Trustee .... .DUD 9LQFHQW Trustee .....................................................................Mike Esmond TCBA President................................................Stephanie Jackson TCBA Pres. Elect..............................................Michael Taubman COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Access to Justice... .......................................... .............Katie Dilks $QLPDO /DZ .................................................... ............Katy Inhofe $QLPDO /DZ &R &KDLU..................................... .........Erica Grayson Bench & Bar........................................................Kevinn Matthews Bench & Bar Co-Chair.................................... ...........Diana Cupps &KLOGUHQ WKH /DZ /H[LH $OOHQ &KLOGUHQ WKH /DZ &R &KDLU....................... .......Michael Nesser &/( 2SHQ 'LYHUVLW\ 'HYHORSPHQW 0DUYLQ /L]DPD 'LYHUVLW\ 'HYHORSPHQW 9LFH &KDLU................. ...........Matt Ingham )HH $UELWUDWLRQ 6FRWW 6DYDJH /DZ 5HODWHG (GXFDWLRQ 6WUHHW /DZ 3LHUUH 5REHUWVRQ /DZ 5HODWHG (GXFDWLRQ 6WUHHW /DZ &R &KDLU .DUD 9LQFHQW /DZ\HU 5HIHUUDO .............................................. ............Alan Barker Mentoring........................................................ ........Shena Burgess 0HQWRULQJ &R &KDLU 1DWDOLH )URVW 0LOLWDU\ 9HWHUDQV ............................................ ......Mitchell Garrett Nominations & Awards ................................... ..........Mike Esmond Pro Bono................................................................. Shandi Stoner Pro Bono Co-Chair ......................................... (ULF <RGHU Professionalism ............................................... 5LFN :KLWH Membership & Special Events........................ ..........Natalie Sears Membership & Special Events Co-Chair ........ ...............Kara Pratt 3XEOLFDWLRQV 5KLDQQRQ 7KRUHVRQ Publications Co-Chair ..................................... Madison Cataudella SECTION CHAIRPERSONS $'5 0HGLDWLRQ 2SHQ Bankruptcy ...................................................... ..Hon. Paul Thomas Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman &ULPLQDO /DZ .................................................. .......................Open (QHUJ\ 0LQHUDO /DZ %XIRUG 3ROOHWW (PSOR\PHQW /DZ ............................................ &KULV 9DXJKW )DPLO\ /DZ $QDVWDVLD .ULFK 0DKRQH\ +HDOWK /DZ 6KHOE\ )LHOGV Immigration ................................................................Elissa Stiles ,PPLJUDWLRQ 9LFH &KDLU .DUUL 3D\QH -XYHQLOH /DZ .................................................. .......Michael Nesser -XYHQLOH /DZ &R &KDLU /H[LH $OOHQ /LWLJDWLRQ 0ELOLNH 0ZDIXOLUZD 0DUN 6PLWK 0XQLFLSDO /DZ 5KLDQQRQ 7KRUHVRQ 3DUDOHJDOV /HJDO $VVLVWDQW 'DQQD 0DORQH 3DUDOHJDO /HJDO $VVLVWDQWV 9LFH &KDLU 6DEULQD 1LW] 3DUDOHJDOV /HJDO $VVLVWDQW 6HFUHWDU\ 6KHUL :DUG Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs.........Kelly Jones/ Phillip Jennings 6ROR 6PDOO )LUP 0DU\ &OHPHQW 7D[ &R &KDLUV -RKQ *RWZDOV /DXUHQ 3HWHUVRQ 7HFKQRORJ\ 7UHYRU 5LGGOH :RUNHUV &RPS 9DOHULH (YDQV Workers Comp Co-Chair ................................ 0LFDK )HOWRQ 6HFWLRQ &KDLUV ZLOO EH XSGDWHG DV SRVLWLRQV DUH ¿OOHG

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