A Message from the President
Stephanie Jackson
2024-2025
TCBA President Pg. 2
The Hon. Daman Cantrell, 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
April 2025
2Sit Down, Sit Up, Lean In, and Lock In Stephanie Jackson
5Thank You Golf Sponsors!
6ABA 2025 Midyear Meeting Molly Aspan
9Law Day Luncheon 2025 Featuring Keynote SpeakerTulsa Mayor, Monroe Nichols
11Book Club Q & A with Richard Hix
13TCBA Happenings
Brown Bag CLE
14Spotlight on the Hon. Daman Cantrell, Tulsa County District Court Judge Interview with Tamara R. Piety
16Softball Kick Off
17Pickleball Tournament!
18Voices of the TCBA - Trevion Freeman
20Street Law: Engaging with Juvenile Justice
21Celebrating Legacy: Bar Association Past Presidents Luncheon
22Voices of the TCBA - Pierre Robertson
26Ask-A-Lawyer
27Grapevine
The Bar Center will be CLOSED Monday, April 7th for the Annual Charity Golf Tournament
A Message from the President Stephanie Jackson
Embracing the Changing Seasons
Sit Down, Sit Up, Lean In, and Lock In
Sit Down: Prioritizing Self-Care
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,
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 balance in our own lives.
Acknowledging Our Members’ Dedication
I truly appreciate all of our Tulsa County Bar Association members’ hard work and dedication to volunteering, running our programs, writing articles, and making a tremendous impact in our community. Through these efforts, we uphold our oath to serve and ensure Tulsans have access to legal services, justice, and a better quality of life. However, in
work long hours and inadvertently neglect our own personal needs.
overall well-being. As a solo practitioner, balancing work, personal life, and TCBA obligations can be challenging, but
network, and connect with other TCBA members.
Engaging in Community Service
reminder that the pursuit of justice includes advocating for
been working tirelessly in partnership with the Oklahoma
Co-Chair, further demonstrating her commitment to this important initiative.
Opportunities include taking a two-hour shift at the TCBA
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.
Lean In: Being Present at Home
While I love discussing volunteer opportunities, it is equally bring the same energy and passion to our friends and family
Achieving balance and maintaining boundaries is essential 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
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 impactful work within the legal community and beyond.
word plays a key role in supporting our 2025 designated
Lock In: Strengthening Our Commitment
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
and adopting 29 measures, heard remarks from ABA
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
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.
• 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 appropriate enforcement mechanism. Speaking to the a delegate from Washington, D.C., said there are “only nine lawyers in America who aren’t bound by an ethics code, and that’s the Supreme Court.”
•Two resolutions were passed concerning judicial tribal and specialty bar associations to adopt policies legislation, regulations or take judicial action to prohibit
and the immediate family members with whom they share a residence.
• Education and Admissions to the Bar to the ABA Standards and Rules of Procedure for Approval of Law Schools.
• bar associations to develop practices and policies to focus inquiries into bar applicants’ convictions and legal propensity to engage in fraud, deceit, dishonesty or misrepresentation in the future delivery of legal services.
• 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.
If anyone would like further information on any of these resolutions or reports, or would like the complete list of resolutions adopted, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
ABA President Bay released a statement on behalf of the ABA supporting the rule of law. The statement was shared by email to ABA members, published on the ABA’s website, and circulated through its social media.
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
and the monies raised are immediately distributed back out into the
“Fund the Foundation” program. To participate we are asking each member who has a birthday this month to consider making a donation to the You can do so with the QR Code shown here.
consider joining that program. As a thank you (and let’s be honest, an encouragement 10th of the month we will include a shout
Gary C Clark
James McAuliff
Michael Nesser
Michael Taubman
Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club
Book Club Q & A with Richard Hix
his novel, Nobody Knows When the Truth Goes By, and engaged
Day meeting. His novel combines an unsolved mystery spanning decades, a captivating love story
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
Mr. Hix, andhe 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.
collaboration with Magic City Books hosts attorney and 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 -
J
uly 22 - Calling for a Blanket Dance, Oscar Hokeah
August - No meeting (Bonus meeting for anyone interested, to discuss Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World
September 23 - Anxious People
October 28 - When Will There Be Good News, Kate Atkinson
November 25 - Book by H.W. Brands, American historian
December - No meeting.
Note:
TCBA HAPPENINGS
Left: February 11thWorkers Comp CLE
Above: March 4th - Mark Darrah spoke at the Basic Probate & Estate Administration CLE
Don't miss out...join us for TCBA Events!
Below: March 13thHappy Hour at Welltown Brewing
Spotlight on the Hon. Daman Cantrell, Tulsa County District Court Judge
Interview with Tamara R. Piety
Judge Daman Cantrell is one of the longest serving judges currently on the bench in Tulsa County. He has been 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 judge’s bailiff/informal law clerk. During my time working years’ worth of books and memorabilia from his chambers. It is almost empty compared to how it looked when I arrived in if this is really the year? If it is not this year, so much the that I though members of the Tulsa County Bar might enjoy 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 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
you were born and raised in Oklahoma. Was there anything in your childhood that inspired you to be a lawyer?
went to high school in Mustang. Mustang was a small country town back then! I was drawn to high school debate
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
fellowship Mr. Smith created at Mustang inspired me not only to become a lawyer, but to create the high school mock
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
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 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
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 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
must be some kind of record. We have tried to get a “class picture” at judicial conferences every year. Those are some great people and good memories.
Q.
there memorable experiences in that job?
A. I was extremely fortunate to get a job at the Attorney learned a lot about litigation in state and federal courts from that job. And I met people who became great mentors for me. But most importantly, that’s where I met my wife, Brita. AG Turpen came to our wedding because he said “he felt responsible” for bringing us together. Memorable
Oklahoma’s law that men are the “head of the household” for various legal purposes was unconstitutional. It doesn’t seem like a heavy lift now, but back then it was, incredibly enough, very “controversial” and got the AG into some hot clearly, we were right!
Q. So how did you become a judge?
several cases in front of several District Judges and got some encouragement from some of them to think about a judicial career. After a couple of tries, I was honored to be appointed Judge and was fortunate to win the election.
Q. I know former Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court, Sandra Day O’Connor, was very vocal about her concerns about making judges run for election (as opposed to being appointed). She argued that the need to be re-elected could place undue pressure on judges. How do you feel about that aspect of the job? Do you just run for retention?
opponents. I was lucky to not have an opponent since that outstanding judges who have lost races for re-election. It’s 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. What has been one of the most memorable cases you’ve ever tried?
A. When I was a family court judge, I had a trial with a guy who was in a cult/commune and wanted custody of his child over the wife who got out. It was a fascinating trial and not necessarily a slam dunk for either side, but I ended up ruling for the wife.
Q. What was the most satisfying experience you’ve had in your legal career? On the bench?
A. While acting as a public defender, I won a death penalty case on appeal that took months of hard work. On the bench,
in my time at juvenile court. Now, it is a National Mentor Court.
Q. What is the funniest thing that has happened to you in court?
A. Once I had a lawyer cross-examine his 80-year-old mother in court, although not really in an adversarial context. He started out his cross with, “now, Mom....”. I also had a car wreck case where the two parties exchanged information and then began dating before he sued her. In his lawsuit he raised some damages issues that, considering their personal relationship, led to some funny testimony. I leave the details to your imagination!
Q. What is your biggest pet peeve as a judge? What do you wish lawyers knew?
A. Professionalism and civility have not always been my main concerns. It’s up to us, the judges, to make sure the “good guys” who follow the rules don’t lose out for their compliance through overly generous leave to amend or by us overlooking rules violations. We have to make sure that good habits are reinforced and backed up by the Court. Still, sometimes you also need to make allowances for human error,
vast majority of the lawyers who appear before me are great. It’s usually the same few attorneys who cause most of the problems. That said, I see lawyers cooperating and acting appropriately more times than not.
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 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...
Q. judicial philosophy?
A. I’ve had many good mentors in my career, fellow judges Jane Wiseman, Jefferson Sellers, and Bill Kellough to name a few. I was a fan of former Supreme Court Justice Steven Breyer, who was a pragmatic judge in his philosophy. At 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 their day in court when appropriate. They all told me, “Work hard, stay on top of your docket, keep up with the current caselaw. And have a sense of humor. That never hurts.” I’d
many talented lawyers start out their careers with me this way. Outstanding though, even in an outstanding group, was Darrah Day, who is an outstanding young lawyer who was willing to serve in this position for 7 years, a service not just to me but to the people of Tulsa County. And now I have hired one of my prodigies from the Owasso Mock Trial team, Alyson Bushey, who is doing a superb job.
the bailiff because bailiffs’ main job is handling juries and the courtroom. It takes a lot of resources and advance planning to pull together a jury trial and still, cases regularly settle “on
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
been incredibly supportive, generally, of the work we do. The jurors that appear every week take their oaths seriously. While we decry the lack of civility in the legal profession, in many ways I see improvements and cause for hope in the younger generation improving things. My biggest complaint is probably the physical plant- the Tulsa County Courthouse has seriously deteriorated over the last couple of decades. We need a new courthouse. We also need to fund staff attorneys for the courts, at least for the largest counties. We’re one of the few states that does not provide law clerks for trial judges and then we wonder why there are delays in reviewing motions and decisions.
One innovation I pride myself in is using my bailiff spot for law clerks. This has improved the speed with which I can render decisions and improves their quality in my opinion. After all, I was lucky enough to have a former law professor working for me! And over the years I have had
This is not an ideal long-term solution however,
to do this job (I think you would agree with this, having been lawyer bailiffs have been and are, the judges also really need presented by the many motions and pleadings we receive. Keeping these complex civil cases moving without adequate staff requires thinking outside the box, but it would be nice to have more support for the judges to help them stay on top of the docket and render thoughtful, well-reasoned rulings,
generate given the volume we handle.
Next month this interview continues with a focus on Judge Cantrell’s passion project, coaching Owasso High School Mock Trial team, his advice for mock trial-ers, some of his favorite stories about Mock Trial, what he plans to do in retirement, and what is most important to him, his family.
Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association Trevion Freeman
By Ralph Schaefer
and close-knit relatives on both sides of Dearborn Street in East Waco, Texas. However, two men, President Barack
former Houston mayor and representative for the State of Texas, had an indirect impact on his future. “Both were lawyers. That went to college for political science and later law school,” Trevion said. “I saw those individuals who had gone to law school and thought that if they could do it, so could I. At that time, some of the people I admired, such
inspired me to pursue a degree in political science.”
Trevion, now a Tulsa County Assistant District Attorney,
children, with the youngest sibling being eight years old.
After graduating from Waco High School, Trevion attended
and a minor in religious studies. While at UT, Trevion met
majors, they took similar classes, and both were interested
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,
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
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
law school that called. “My father drove me and a couple of my siblings to Tulsa for a visit,” he said. “When I saw the pit in the law school lobby I was like, woah, you want to become a lawyer, and you might as well go here.”
returned to the classroom in 2022 and was followed by
learned the Socratic Method and related law classes. New challenges were ahead in the second semester when students and faculty had to deal with the pandemic and classes went virtual.
“I had a pretty good grasp on how to study based on the situation and I think it was a blessing for me.” Trevion said 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 was quiet, and it was a great experience to spend time alone in an almost empty library, grasping the concepts of each legal course. Attending law school virtually came with its challenges, including virtual law exams
who came before him and provided a guiding light through the rigors of law school. Those students and now best
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
Journal and having an article published, and joining a trial advocacy team.”
Graduating in 2022, Trevion joined the Johnson-Cephas law. A short time later he joined the Tulsa County District trying to help people. “I made this change to embrace the opportunity for courtroom experience and to be a strong advocate for my community.”
As assistant district attorney, Trevion has been given the opportunity to hold those who make mistakes accountable. He is currently on the felony domestic violence team.
can put a victim at ease, letting them know that someone not only cared about their situation but is willing to advocate on their behalf. Similarly, it is rewarding to see the tears on the victims’ faces when their accuser is held accountable. They know that someone heard their concerns and helped them. “I explain that whatever has happened to them was not their 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.”
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
and advocacy for those within his community, and teaching High School.
proposed by Tami Williams, Tulsa County Bar Association
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 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
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 now, when we look back at the program and the countless students, who participated in it, my prayer is we have created
not only their family but the community they come from. And if one just so happens to become a lawyer…. well, that would be icing on the cake.”
as courtroom adversaries. “It is an interesting experience,
clients and knowing that they truly care because you see the work they do in the community,” Trevion said. “We are able to be civil and advocate our positions. We have a strong friendship regardless of what we do inside the courtroom.” Ultimately, Trevion believes that while he and Pierre are in their respective positions, they are providing advocacy to a community that needs them both.
Continued on next page...
Trevion Freeman, JP Ray and Pierre Robertson
Trevion doesn’t know if he will return to his native Texas. “Back in East Waco, my family raised me on
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
Voices of TCBA
Street Law Class: Engaging with Juvenile Justice
class welcomed guest presenters from the
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
our students for their engagement and curiosity!
Celebrating Legacy:
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 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.
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 to a memorable celebration. We look forward to continuing these traditions and fostering the next generation of leaders in our Bar Association.
Voices of the Tulsa County Bar Association Pierre Robertson
By
Ralph Schaefer
a lawyer in 2017, he hoped that none of his former fourthgrade students would need his services.
are now adults and see him in a different role, a criminal defense attorney with the Tulsa County Public Defender’s assistance.
to become a teacher and then switch to law.
Today, he has carried out the high standards that his mother, Deanna, set for him and his brother, Mario. His brother also pursued a legal career and works with the Chicagowere carried into the classroom, where a high bar was set for students. Every single one of his students reached those expectations.
The Cleveland, Ohio native came to Tulsa after being selected to participate in the highly competitive Teach for America program. This program is designed to send teachers to states with underperforming education systems, and Oklahoma was on that list.
Pierre was matched with fourth-grade students and assigned to Tulsa’s Hawthorne Elementary School.
“I taught students that were nine and ten years old,” he said. “Nearly ten years later, my former students are now adults, and I see them in the community.”
“I’ve always wanted to help others, especially kids,” he said.
and their families.
“I learned so many lessons working with families, attending parenting conferences and professional development my students taught me far more than I taught them.”
up as they learned.
Pierre started his quest for a law career at the University of work in 2020, but his actual graduation ceremony was a year later.
weird learning about the law in a remote setting.
Pierre passed the Oklahoma bar examination and now graduation ceremony was held in 2021. He said it was interesting to have been practicing for a year and then return then give a speech to new graduates since he was the Student Bar Association President of his class.
“I just wanted the formalities, and Mom wanted pictures,” he said.
introducing exhibits, cross-examining witnesses, and testing courtroom theories.
Pierre was also involved with the Tulsa County Bar Association Pro Bono Committee. That committee runs the Court Assistance Program where attorneys can volunteer to represent people facing eviction. This is an invaluable program because everyone should have the right to an attorney.
He said it is sad when someone comes to court with an eviction notice without an attorney. Most people may not think of eviction as important until they are in court and
It is gratifying to help people in situations that result in a successful outcome. Still, they often have other legal issues that cannot be addressed during a single hearing.
differently as a criminal defense lawyer since he worked with people who needed help on a holistic level. The typical criminal defense lawyer only sees their job as helping a client with their case. While there is nothing wrong with this approach, helping someone with their case and resources such as food, housing, and others, can reduce the odds that someone reappears on a criminal docket.
Sadly, over the years, he has seen some former students and young clients who make one or two poor choices and could
He recalled a case where an 18-year-old stole a car and was given probation, a deferred sentence. The young man, not his former student, was warned not to have any further contact with law enforcement as this could violate his probation and potentially spend more time in jail or prison.
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
“violent” felony a few years ago. In just six short months, he was faced with a sentence of a minimum of 20 years to life in prison.
“I negotiated with the Tulsa County District Attorney’s to go to trial because the minimum was a 20-year sentence nor enter a blind plea and risk what a judge might impose, knowing his statutory minimum sentence.
There was no guarantee the district attorney, with a minimum focus on a 20-year sentence, would come any lower since the youth picked up these cases so quickly.
Pierre followed his clients’ desire to negotiate with the district attorney on the case. In the end, his client received a 10-year prison sentence, before his 20th birthday.
Pierre looks at things holistically and hopes if a client gets the assistance they need, he might never see the individual again.
Said assistance could be a treatment program that helps 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...
He cannot do it in his current role as a criminal defense attorney.
That is why he looks to the community for help.
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
Step Men’s Diversion Program. This was started by David Phillips, a former assistant public defender, and William Kellough, a retired Tulsa district judge.
The client who entered the program welcomed his daughter into the world last year and is doing well, thanks to the great Diversion Program.
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 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.
said. “We know the justice system is constantly changing.
interpreted to either help or hurt people. Just look at the history of this country and recent headlines. I just hope that need it the most.”
“I do my best to connect people with other resources and I do everything I can for them,” he said. Other partnerships
Even though Pierre has limited time, he is involved with the
It started three years ago at an invitation to lunch with Tami Williams, Executive Director of the Tulsa County Bar
His mother, Deanna, a private criminal defense attorney in
They do similar criminal defense work in their respective communities and have similar cases, stories, and experiences.
“She just wants my brother and I to be happy.”
“Mom doesn’t really mind what I do — as long as it’s legal,” Pierre said.
Grapevine News
Eller & Detrich is proud to announce that Nathalie M. Cornett has
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 his practice will primarily focus on commercial real estate and business transactions, mergers and acquisitions
service and tailored solutions. The integration will ensure that clients continue to receive the highest level of service, capabilities.
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."
location in the Greenwood District of Tulsa.
State University. He earned his Juris Doctor, with highest honors, 2020 from
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
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, suite of services, including Indian law and Tribal gaming, insurance defense, construction law, criminal law, and family law.
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
Did you know theTulsa
County Bar
Association can handle client fee disputesat no cost to the attorney or the client?
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
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 anequal number of experienced attorneys and non-attorney professionals.
Adding the following statement to your contracts complaint with the Oklahoma Bar Association. “Any Arbitration Committee of the Tulsa County Bar Association.”
C LASSIFIED A DS
Please provide your resume, references and a cover letter including salary requirements to
2024-2025 TCBA CONTACTS, COMMITTEE & SECTION CHAIRS
www.tulsabar.com
PHONE: 918-584-5243 FAX: 918-592-0208
1446 South Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119-3612
Executive Director Tami Williams
Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees
Front Desk Coordinator General Inquiries
Accounting
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Lawyer Referral & Community Resource Navigator
Tulsa Lawyer Editors 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
Secretary....................................................................Shena Burgess
Treasurer..........................................................Mbilike Mwafulirwa
Budget/Internal Operations........................................John Gotwals
ABA Delegate............................................................. Molly Aspan
OBA Delegate..............................................................Philip Hixon
Presiding Judge .......................................... Hon. Dawn Moody
Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court..........Hon. Gerald Hofmeister
YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION BOARD
FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS
Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb
Community Outreach Co-Chair...................... Madison Cataudella
Golf Chair................................................................Michael Thelen
FOUNDATION
President.....................................................................Justin Munn
Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert
Trustee........................................................................Jim Gotwals
Trustee...........................................................................Ann Keele
Trustee ....
Trustee ....
Trustee .....................................................................Mike Esmond
TCBA President................................................Stephanie Jackson
TCBA Pres. Elect..............................................Michael Taubman
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS
Access to Justice... .......................................................Katie Dilks ................................................................Katy Inhofe ..............................................Erica Grayson
Bench & Bar........................................................Kevinn Matthews
Bench & Bar Co-Chair...............................................Diana Cupps ..............................Michael Nesser ............................Matt Ingham ..........................................................Alan Barker
Mentoring ................................................................Shena Burgess ..................................................Mitchell Garrett
Nominations & Awards .............................................Mike Esmond
Pro Bono................................................................. Shandi Stoner
Pro Bono Co-Chair .........................................
Professionalism ...............................................
Membership & Special Events..................................Natalie Sears
Membership & Special Events Co-Chair .......................Kara Pratt
Publications Co-Chair .....................................Madison Cataudella
SECTION CHAIRPERSONS
Bankruptcy ........................................................Hon. Paul Thomas
Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman .........................................................................Open
Immigration ................................................................Elissa Stiles .........................................................Michael Nesser
Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs.........Kelly Jones/ Phillip Jennings
Workers Comp Co-Chair ................................
