Issuu

Tulsa Lawyer Lawyer Magazine

September 2026

Annual Meeting & Awards

1903

A Message from the President

TULSA LAWYER

In this Issue

Billy Duncan 2026-2027 TCBA President

September 2026

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Recognizing the Best of the TCBA Billy Duncan

Pickle Ball Open Play! Sponsored by the YLD

2025-2026 President's Awards Presented by Michael P. Taubman Lynn Miller Book Club - New September Meeting Information

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TCBA Member Benefits

2025-2026 Foundation President's Awards Presented by Kara Vincent TCBA Member Event - OKC Thunder Basketball

Congratulations & Thank You to All Who Make Our Bar Association Great!

Outstanding Senior Lawyer - A. Mark Smiling

Outstanding Young Lawyer - Madison Cautadella

Roger R. Scott Award for Community Service Daniel Gomez

James C. Lang Mentoring Award - Judge Sharon Holmes

Neil E. Bogan Distinguished Service Award R. Scott Savage

Gary C. Clark Distinguished Service Award Martha Rupp Carter

Golden Rule Award - Scott Goode

Introducing TCBA Bar Stars! Street Law Committee

TCBA Happenings - TCBA YLD Softball League Champions

VP's Corner John Gotwals

The Oath We Already Took Rhiannon K. Thoreson

Redefining Retirement: Introducing Dream Chapter

TCBA Meeting & Event Schedule

Grapevine Classifieds TCBA Contacts, Committees & Sections

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A Message from the President

Billy Duncan Recognizing the Best of the TCBA It is truly an honor to serve as President of the Tulsa County Bar Association. When I first became involved with the TCBA, I expected professional development and networking opportunities. What I didn't expect was to find mentors, lasting friendships, leadership opportunities, and meaningful ways to give back to both our profession and our community. Those experiences have shaped my career in ways I never anticipated, and I am grateful for the opportunity to now serve an organization that has given me so much.

Our inaugural Bar Stars feature recognizes the Street Law Committee for taking legal education beyond the traditional school year by partnering with the Tulsa Boys Home this summer. Rather than taking a break between semesters, these volunteers chose to invest their time helping young people better understand the law, their rights, and the opportunities available to them. Their commitment is a wonderful reminder that the impact of lawyers extends far beyond the courtroom.

I also hope Bar Stars encourages each of us to become more involved. Every member has something valuable to contribute, whether it's serving on a committee, presenting a CLE, mentoring a new attorney, participating in a community outreach project, or simply attending an event and building relationships with fellow members. Those contributions, both large and small, are what continue to make the TCBA such a As I thought about my goals for this year, I kept vibrant and respected organization. coming back to one simple idea: a bar association is only as strong as the people who choose to invest in As we begin another membership year, I encourage you it. The TCBA offers outstanding CLEs, networking to renew your TCBA membership and stay connected. opportunities, and professional resources, but what Be sure to keep an eye on your TCBA emails for truly makes this Association special is its members. upcoming CLEs, networking events, community Every committee, community outreach project, service projects, and other opportunities throughout mentoring opportunity, and social event exists because the year. Whether you've been a member for decades someone volunteered their time and talents. Our or have only recently joined, I hope you'll find a way members strengthen our profession every day through to participate. The more we invest in one another, the acts of service that often happen quietly, behind the stronger our Association becomes. scenes, and without expectation of recognition. This month's challenge: Attend one TCBA event, One of my goals this year is to make sure we celebrate volunteer for one committee, or reconnect with a colleague you haven't seen in a while. Sometimes the those efforts. smallest step toward getting involved leads to the most That is why I am excited to introduce Bar Stars, a rewarding experiences. new monthly feature in Tulsa Lawyer. Each month, we will highlight members and committees who are I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to making a meaningful difference through service, serving alongside each of you. leadership, mentorship, and community involvement. Whether they are teaching students through Street Law, Sincerely, organizing CLEs, serving on committees, mentoring young lawyers, or volunteering in our community, Billy Duncan these individuals represent the very best of the Tulsa TCBA President, 2026–2027 County Bar Association.

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2025-2026 President's Awards Presented by Michael P. Taubman Tami Williams

Since joining us in 2018, Tami has been at the core of the Tulsa County Bar Association. First as our Membership Director, she worked to grow our membership rolls, leading to her selection as our Executive Director in 2020. She is the driving force behind our operations, and, without question, at the core of why we are able to succeed in our leadership roles with the Bar.

Tami is there for all of us as members, for our committees and sections, for our sponsors, and for our community. You can find Tami in the schools with Street Law, managing a golf tournament, or a National conference. If you want to know where to find Tami at any TCBA or TCBF event, look wherever it is most needed, and you'll find Tami at the center supporting the team's efforts, walking the parade routes no matter how warm or cold, simply leading by example. For her tireless efforts in promotion and support of our organization, countless hours supporting our membership, and her personal examples of leadership, Tami Williams deserves recognition and her President's Award.

Jeril Haug

In recognition of her commitment to the Tulsa County Bar Association, I nominate Jeril Haug. Jeril has worked tirelessly to coordinate and improve our Lawyer Referral Service program throughout her years with us. She has spearheaded the recruitment of members to take cases from LRS, and she shepherds clients through the process of finding the right lawyer for their situation.

This year especially, Jeril has gone above and beyond for LRS, assisting clients in connecting with the new attorneys taking over the cases of represented parties whose lawyer, through the LRS Referral program, passed away. In addition, Jeril's efforts with the CAP program have substantially increased TCBA's involvement with assisting parties facing eviction, connecting them to important resources to ensure their access to justice is protected.

Milly Dunlap

For nearly three decades, the Tulsa County Bar Association has relied on Milly Dunlap's steady hand, institutional memory, and unwavering dedication. As we honor her remarkable journey, we celebrate a staggering 28 years of service to the TCBA and 25 years as the creative engine behind our magazine, Tulsa Lawyer.

Milly’s story with the association began in 1998, when she joined the full-time staff managing the front desk and the Lawyer Referral Service. In April 2001, she transitioned to a part-time role with a very specific, monumental mission: producing Tulsa Lawyer. For a quarter of a century, Milly has taken raw content, brilliant legal insights, and association news and transformed them month after month into the publication our members look forward to reading. Her meticulous eye for detail, creative vision, and quiet resilience have kept our magazine's pages vibrant and connected to our legal community through changing times. Please join us in congratulating and thanking Milly Dunlap for 28 years of exceptional service and 25 years of shaping the voice of the Tulsa County Bar Association!

Lynn Miller Law Day Book Club 2026 Sept. New Date/Time/Place September 29 at 5:30 pm. Gathering Place in The Lodge

Agatha Christie: An Elusive Woman by Lucy Worsley. October 27 The Buffalo Hunter Hunter, Stephen Graham Jones Contact frontdesk@tulsabar.com for more information

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2025-2026 Foundation President's Awards Presented by Kara Vincent Catherine Hoopert

Mbilike Mwafulirwa & Catherine Hoopert was Austin Bond recognized and thanked for her monumental, behind-the-scenes achievement—the kind of critical heavy lifting that strengthens the very foundation of our organization.

Over the past year, our Treasurer, Catherine Hoopert, took on the daunting task of completely reorganizing our financials. Through tireless effort and extensive dedication, she oversaw the recategorization of our entire chart of accounts and brought our books into compliance with GAAP. Because of her exceptional vision, precision, and hard work, our financial operations are now clearer and more transparent.

Michael Thelen Michael Thelen was recognized for his vision, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit, which took the annual charity golf tournament to the next level. For the past three years, Michael Thelen has served as chair, and he was always looking for ways to maximize our impact. When he realized that outside groups raised extra funds by running games at holes, he took the initiative to create his own custom games, which are managed entirely by our volunteers. Thanks to his brilliant strategy and hard work, 100% of the funds raised by these games stayed right here with us, significantly boosting the bottom line and the amount donated back to the community.

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MEMBER EVENT

Mbilike Mwafulirwa & Austin Bond were recognized for their vision and hard work on this year’s Judicial Dinner, which was the best event to date. The Bar is thankful for their time and dedication to such an important activity that supports the judiciary.

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2025-2026 TCBA Awards

Outstanding Senior Lawyer Recognizes those who exemplify the ideals and standards that all attorneys should strive to achieve with their outstanding reputation as lawyers and for dedicated service to the profession and community.

A. Mark Smiling It is a distinct privilege to present the Outstanding Senior Lawyer Award to a true fixture of the Oklahoma legal community, A. Mark Smiling. For over 40 years, Mark has practiced across Tulsa County and courts throughout Oklahoma, trying well over 400 cases and earning recognition as a Top and Best Lawyer. Yet, ask anyone who has worked with him, and they will tell you that Mark’s true legacy lies far beyond his accolades. As Truman Rucker shared, Mark is immensely respected for his kind and agreeable demeanor, his wealth

of experience, his endlessly interesting stories, and his unselfish willingness to share his wisdom with lawyers young and old. He approaches the profession with profound humility, deep respect for the courts and opposing counsel, and above all, as a friend to everyone he meets. Across the state, lawyers know Mark as a gentleman—soft-spoken, but a man of absolute honor and authority when he speaks, and a trial lawyer without peer.

Supporting Your Foundation & Fellows The Foundation owns the Bar Center and the adjacent building. The rentals from those two buildings help maintain them. However, as a general rule, the Foundation raises funds through community fundraising events. The funds raised are immediately distributed to the community through nonprofit organizations. To support the Foundation's efforts, we have introduced a monthly "Fund the Foundation" program to raise funds for the Foundation's general fund. Scan the QR code to make a donation.

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The Fellows Endowment Fund is more than a donation—it is a permanent, invested legacy. Contributions to this fund are not spent immediately; rather, they are invested to generate income in perpetuity. A portion of this income supports our annual scholarship program, while the principal grows, providing a permanent, reliable source of funding that shields our mission from economic fluctuations. Fellows agree to pay $1,000 in $100 increments over ten years, or in one flat donation. Members may also sign up as a Sustaining Fellow, agreeing to pay $100 annually until they choose to stop contributing. Interested in becoming a Fellow? Contact Tami Williams at tamiw@tulsabar.com.

Outstanding Young Lawyer This award recognizes attorneys who have been practicing for less than ten years and have made outstanding contributions to the profession and the community.

Madison Cataudella

It is an honor to present Madison Cataudella with the Young Lawyer Award in recognition of her dedicated service to the legal profession and our community. Madison consistently demonstrates exceptional leadership through her service as co-chair of both the Tulsa Lawyer Magazine and the Tulsa County Bar Foundation's Community Outreach Committee. Her commitment to service is evident in every project she undertakes, and she continually gives back to the community through her tireless work on behalf of the Tulsa County Bar Association while

successfully balancing the demands of her legal career and family life. Beyond her formal leadership roles, Madison is always willing to step in wherever needed, generously volunteering her time and talents to ensure the success of TCBA initiatives. Her professionalism, collaborative spirit, and unwavering dedication to serving others exemplify the qualities the Young Lawyer Award was created to recognize, making her an exceptionally deserving recipient.

Roger R. Scott Award for Community Service This award honors a member who has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to community service.

Daniel Gomez

Daniel Gomez, now a Partner with the Marzulla Law Firm in Washington, D.C., has long embodied the tenets of outstanding leadership and community involvement that best exemplify the standard of volunteerism here in Tulsa. Daniel has been tireless in his efforts to make his Tulsa and surrounding community better, most recently being elected this month to a three-year term as a Trustee of the Tulsa County Bar Foundation. But for those who know Daniel or have worked with him throughout his legal career and tenure in Tulsa, it is often Daniel’s leadership by example, with such grace and humility, that has distinguished him from so many.

The Bar Center will be CLOSED Monday, Sept. 7th Labor Day

These are just a few of Daniel’s volunteer and pro bono efforts that we would like to celebrate today: Daniel has been an active member of the Tulsa County Bar Association’s Community Outreach Committee for almost a decade. He has provided pro bono legal services, working on multiple

federal asylum appeals with the TU Law Immigration Clinic, and he has represented Native American Students in religious freedom cases for the Native American Rights Fund. Mr. Gomez has been a member of the Downtown Rotary Club for ten years, serving as the President from 2024-2025. Daniel chaired the Rotary’s Celia Clinton Elementary Partners Program for four years, and he served as a Council Oak Foundation Board Member for seven years. Daniel organized the TCBA softball league for almost fifteen years, and he co-founded the Tulsa Breeze Sandlot Baseball Club seven years ago (which has directly contributed to ongoing community-led improvements at both Lacy and Reed Parks here in Tulsa). And for the last ten years running, Daniel has served as a volunteer crossing guard one day a week at Council Oak Elementary. Sincere congratulations to Daniel Gomez, a deserving recipient and embodiment of the TCBA Roger R. Scott Community Service Award.

Lawyers Helping Lawyers LHL hosts a monthly meeting led by a LHL Committee member. The small group discussions are intended to give group leaders and participants the opportunity to ask questions, provide support and share information with fellow bar members to improve their lives – professionally and personally.

Tulsa Meetings • 5:30-6:30 p.m. • Second Thursday of each month • Office of Scott Goode 1437 S. Boulder Ave., Ste. 1200 • scott@militarylawok.com 10 Tulsa Lawyer

Women’s Lawyers Helping Lawyers • •

3rd Tuesday of every month, same time/place. Amartuch@martuchlaw.com

Check the OBA Event Calendar for upcoming dates and more group meetings. www.okbar.org

James C. Lang Mentoring Award This award recognizes those who encourage, guide, and support aspiring attorneys.

Judge Sharon Holmes

In recognition of her outstanding reputation within the legal profession and her unwavering dedication to serving both the profession and our community. Judge Holmes has generously opened her courtroom to participants in the TCBA Street Law Program, allowing high school students to experience a mock trial in an authentic courtroom setting. She volunteers her time to preside over the mock trial during her lunch hour and consistently provides encouragement, mentorship, and thoughtful guidance to each student.

By making the courtroom and herself accessible to these young people, Judge Holmes inspires confidence, fosters civic understanding, and encourages the next generation as they consider careers in law and public service. Her selfless commitment embodies the very purpose of the James C. Lang Award.

Community Outreach Committee New Meeting Dates Beginning Sept. 8th Second Tuesdays of the Month @ Noon

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Neil E. Bogan Distinguished Service Award

Honors those who personify professionalism, not just in how they deal with their colleagues, but in how they treat their clients. Demonstrates the highest level of excellence and professionalism as an attorney while never forgetting to see things from their client's perspective.

R. Scott Savage Lawyers typically consider themselves professionals, but not all of them can personify professionalism. R. Scott Savage is such a lawyer and is rightly deserving of the Tulsa County Bar Association’s Neil E. Bogan Award for Professionalism. Scott is a tough, hard-nosed litigator who fights fair. Clients and the attorneys with whom he practices at Moyers Martin value his opinion. Opponents respect his ability to be a zealous advocate. Everyone appreciates his candid and frank opinion of the merits of a case. He genuinely enjoys his work and the people he works with and against, and he has the rare ability to be gracious and respectful during and after even the most hard-fought proceedings. Scott has served the profession well. In a 40-plus-year career, he has represented countless businesses and individuals in contract, employment, environmental, and oil and gas litigation matters. He has tried jury cases in all federal courts and numerous state courts in Oklahoma, as well as in several courts in Texas. In addition to his work for clients, Scott serves as a mediator and arbitrator, as well as an Adjunct Settlement Judge in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma. He is a member of the Board of Directors for Oklahoma Attorneys Mutual Insurance Company and of the American Inns of Court. He has been recognized with an AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell and the Golden Rule Award from the TCBA. In addition to demonstrating the highest level of excellence and professionalism, Scott is always mindful of his clients’ perspectives and interests. In an era when even simple litigation can consume substantial time and expense, his ability to focus on the key issues in a case and avoid costly disputes over minor matters serves his clients well. 12 Tulsa Lawyer

Scott leads a rich life outside of the practice of law. He and his wife are fortunate enough to have their newly married daughter nearby. His dedication as a husband and father, along with his meticulous care for his horses on the family’s ranch, has enhanced his professional life, as that attention to detail carries over into his work. Putting it all together, Scott’s outstanding contributions to the legal profession, combined with his high standards of fairness and integrity, make him a role model for other members of the Bar and the Judiciary, and a deserving winner of this award. Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is looking for an Associate Attorney to join our team! We are a high volume personal injury firm providing aggressive advocacy and counsel for the legal rights of injured persons. A candidate should be able to handle the demands of fast pace pre-suit and litigation dockets, including but not limited to third party/ first party insurance claim handling and negotiations, medical and legal research and analysis, drafting legal documents, depositions, etc. Experience in plaintiff’s personal injury, workers compensation, civil litigation, and insurance defense preferred but not required. Training and mentorship provided. Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus additional benefits. If you want to join a law firm driven by service to both our clients and our community this is the place for you. Interested candidates should send their resume to Managing Partner Rachel Gusman at rachel@ gravesmclain.com

Gary C. Clark Distinguished Service Award

This award is given to those who have provided extraordinary service to the Bar and made distinguished contributions to the legal profession. It recognizes those few individuals who, over many years, have donated their time and talents to the TCBA above and beyond what others do.

Martha Rupp Carter

For several years, Martha has spearheaded and chaired the TCBA’s book club, curating compelling books, speakers, and topics of profound interest to our profession. Under her leadership, these gatherings have fostered wonderful debates, literary curiosity, and vibrant intellectual engagement, successfully drawing in new members while keeping longtime members thoroughly engaged. Martha’s many years of service, combined with her generous contributions of time, talent, and leadership, truly distinguish her and merit our highest recognition and respect.

YLD MEETING & HAPPY HOUR

Tuesday, Sept 8 5:30p at the Bar Center

Golden Rule Award This award is given to those who have provided extraordinary service to the Bar and made distinguished contributions to the legal profession. It recognizes those few individuals who, over many years, have donated their time and talents to the TCBA above and beyond what others do.

Golden Rule Award Criteria The Golden Rule award is given to lawyers who make outstanding contributions to their professions, have the highest of ideals, and are willng to mentor to those with less experience. 1. Recognizes the ethical and professional obligations as an officer of the court, as well as the spirit and intent of the Rules of Professional Conduct.

Scott Goode Scott Goode exemplifies the spirit and purpose of this award through his sustained commitment to service, compassion, and leadership in the legal profession. His conduct reflects a consistent dedication to treating others with dignity, empathy, and fairness. Specifically, Scott demonstrates a deep and personal commitment to supporting attorneys with mental health and substance abuse problems through Lawyers Helping Lawyers. He shares his own struggles by leading CLEs to raise awareness in the community and direct lawyers to resources that can help them with their own struggles. Additionally, Scott has been a mentor to many young lawyers, whether they are struggling to maintain work-life balance or need assistance navigating the legal profession. Personally, I have been able to go to Scott whenever I needed to ask questions about procedure or for help with a case strategy. His help has been invaluable in my legal career.

2. Practices ethically and honestly and is true to his/ her word. 3. Strives for the traditional goals of moral excellence. 4 Exhibits the highest standards of fairness and integrity. 5. Sets a model example for conduct with members of the Bar and the Judiciary, not only by words but more importantly deeds. 6. Is civil, courteous and respectful towards the court and his/her opponents.

7 Is loyal to his/her client without trickery and deception and without using abusive practices or misleading the court or opposing counsel. 8 Avoids the temptation to make his/her client’s case into a personal vendetta. 9 Conducts himself/herself in a manner that improves the image of the legal profession in the eyes of the public.

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bar star Highlighting members and committees who are making a meaningful difference through service, leadership, mentorship, and community involvement.

The TCBA Street Law Committee Welcome to the debut of Bar Stars, our brand-new monthly magazine feature dedicated to celebrating the individuals and groups who go above and beyond for the Tulsa County Bar Association. Whether they are spearheading vital community outreach, volunteering countless hours behind the scenes, or raising the bar for our profession, these members embody the true spirit of service. Each month, we’ll shine a light on the passionate leaders making a lasting impact in our legal community and we invite you to help us recognize them.

“A bar association is only as strong as the willingness of its members to give back. This committee doesn’t just show up—they inspire our entire legal community to raise the bar.”

In Their Own Words •

Committee Leadership: Trevion Freeman, JP Ray, Pierre Robertson

Kara Vincent, Mari Riera, and Courtney Thomson

•

Why They Shine:

By bringing practical legal life skills directly to the youth, this committee demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication. Their summer commitment ensures that mentorship and education don't stop when the school bell rings, leaving a lasting impression on the next generation.

- J.P. Ray

Highlight of the summer series: “The most rewarding part was watching these young men realize the law isn't just something that happens in a courtroom. It's a tool they can use to make better decisions, protect themselves, and build a brighter future. If we can help even one student see new possibilities for their life, we've made a real difference. ”

Focus Area: Legal Life Skills for High School Kids

While the traditional Street Law program runs throughout the academic year to educate young people on their rights and legal careers, this year the Street Law Committee chose not to hit pause when summer arrived. Instead of taking a seasonal break, these dedicated members carved out time during the scorching summer months to launch an impactful four-week program at the Tulsa Boys Home.

What inspired taking the program into the summer months? “Legal education and life skills shouldn't take a summer vacation. The opportunity to partner with the Tulsa Boys Home was too important to wait until the fall, and our volunteers were eager to keep the momentum going.”

This Month’s Stars: The Street Law Committee

Committee Members:

- Kara Vincent, TCBF President

•

- Billy Duncan, TCBA President, and Tulsa Boys Home volunteer

How to get involved: Whether you want to help out during the school year or join our ongoing initiatives, we are always looking for passionate members to share their time and expertise. Join the committee to stay informed on what it's up to.

Know a Bar Star? Do you know a Tulsa County Bar Association member or group that goes above and beyond? Nominate them for an upcoming issue by emailing Tami Williams at tamiw@ tulsabar.com.

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TCBA Happenings

Snapshots from the Bar: Staying Connected and Informed

TCBA YLD Softball League Champions Huge congratulations to Franden Farris Quillin Goodnight Roberts + Ward for taking home the championship title in the Tulsa County Bar Association Young Lawyers Division Softball League!

The team capped off an incredible season with a dominant 23-2 victory over Pray Walker in the title game. Great teamwork, hustle, and sportsmanship all season long! Think your firm has what it takes to compete for the championship? Start getting your roster together now— and stay tuned for registration for the Summer 2027 league! Thank you to these Firm Teams for participating:

Charney Brown Conner Winters/Spencer Fane Franden, Farris, Quillin, Goodnight, Roberts & Ward GableGotwals Gladd, Maquire, Allen, Brown & Wakeman, P.C. Hall Estill Riggs Abney TU Law School Tulsa County DA's Office

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VP's Corner John Gotwals A Year of Gratitude

As the new calendar year starts for the TCBA, I would like to convey my own gratitude and likewise challenge our members to do the same. First and foremost, I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve my colleagues within this community and the chance to continue to work with the staff and Executive Committee in furthering the Bar’s reach and purpose. I have been a part of the Executive Committee for the last two years and am consistently impressed with the care and thoughtfulness that governs these meetings. I have no doubt that this spirit will continue during the upcoming calendar year. As lawyers, we find ourselves intrinsically involved in other people’s problems and worries. We spend our days listening to difficult circumstances, navigating conflict, and working to find solutions. At times, that focus on what is wrong can cloud our own perspective, both professionally and personally. Without taking time to pause and reflect, it can be easy to lose sight of the opportunities and rewards that come with the practice of law.

With that in mind, during this upcoming calendar year I want to challenge each of us to pause throughout the week and take a moment to recognize what we are grateful for. Perhaps it is a client who trusted you during a difficult time, a colleague who offered assistance when you needed it, a staff member who made your day easier, or simply the opportunity to use our profession to make a meaningful difference in someone else’s life. Most importantly, remain grateful for your friends and family. The practice of law can be demanding, but it also gives us countless opportunities to serve, to advocate, to lead, and to make a difference. My hope for the coming year is that, amid the inevitable challenges of our profession, we will also take the time to notice and appreciate those opportunities. Thank you for your continued participation in and commitment to the TCBA. I am grateful to serve alongside you, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead. John Gotwals TCBA Vice President, 2026-2027

Animal Law and Community Outreach Committees Give Back to the Tulsa SPCA in Memory of Faith Orlowski In July, members of the Animal Law and Community Outreach Committees came together for a meaningful day of service at the Tulsa SPCA, volunteering their time in loving memory of our dear colleague, Faith Orlowski. Faith was a passionate champion for both the legal community and animals in need, making the Tulsa SPCA a fitting place to honor her legacy. Alongside rolling up their sleeves to assist staff and care for animals, the committees also raised and proudly donated $300 to support the organization's ongoing mission. Thank you to everyone who participated, contributed, and helped keep Faith’s generous spirit alive in our community. Tulsa Lawyer 19

THE OATH WE ALREADY TOOK By Rhiannon K. Thoreson

Every September 17, we mark the day in 1787 when The Oath delegates in Philadelphia signed the document that would become the longest-surviving written charter Title 5, Section 2 of the Oklahoma Statutes requires of government in the world. Congress made it official every attorney admitted to the state bar to take this oath: in 1956, establishing Constitution Week each year “You do solemnly swear that you will support, beginning on September 17th. In 2004, Senator Robert protect and defend the Constitution of the United Byrd of West Virginia went further, adding language to States, and the Constitution of the State of that year’s appropriations act that designated September Oklahoma; that you will do no falsehood or consent 17th as Constitution Day and required schools and that any be done in court, and if you know of any government offices to mark it with educational you will give knowledge thereof to the judges of the programming. court, or some one of them, that it may be reformed; you will not wittingly, willingly or knowingly The instinct behind that designation is worth sitting with promote, sue, or procure to be sued, any false or for a moment: the Constitution’s framers understood unlawful suit, or give aid or consent to the same; that the document’s survival would depend not on the you will delay no man for lucre or malice, but will parchment itself, but on the knowledge and experience act in the office of attorney in this court according of each succeeding generation of Americans. A to your best learning and discretion, with all good constitution is not self-executing. It requires people, in fidelity as well to the court as to your client, so every generation, to actually do the work of keeping it. help you God.” For lawyers, that work isn’t abstract civic sentiment. It’s a promise we made out loud before we were allowed to Most of us said these words once, years ago, and haven’t thought about them since. But read closely, the oath practice.

isn’t a formality; it’s a job description. It doesn’t ask us to admire the Constitution or to have opinions about it. It asks us to support, protect, and defend it. Those are active verbs, not passive ones. And it ties that defense to a set of unglamorous daily obligations: don’t lie to the court, don’t help anyone else lie to the court, don’t file suits you know to be false, don’t stall a case out of greed or spite. The oath’s theory of constitutional fidelity is that it’s built one case, one filing, one appearance at a time, by people who do the small things honestly.

own party, and lawyers willing to do the oath’s quiet, procedural work of insisting that process be followed even when it’s inconvenient.

Judge Learned Hand made a version of this point in 1944, in a speech that has outlasted the moment that prompted it. He told the crowd gathered in Central Park that liberty “lies in the hearts of men and women,” and that no constitution, no law, no court can save it once it dies there. It’s a humbling thing for a lawyer to read, because it puts the document in its proper place: not a A Document Built to Be Tested machine that runs itself, but a set of instructions that only works if the people bound by it, especially those of It’s tempting, in any given moment, to believe we’re us who swore an oath to it, actually carry it out. living through the Constitution’s greatest test. History suggests otherwise, or rather, it suggests every What the Oath Asks of Us Now generation has had a version of this feeling, and the Constitution Day isn’t an occasion to render a verdict document has absorbed all of it. on the news cycle. It’s an occasion to reread the oath we John Adams’s administration passed the Alien and took and ask whether our own practice, this year, has Sedition Acts in 1798, criminalizing criticism of the honored it. government. Andrew Jackson is reported to have shrugged off a Supreme Court ruling he disagreed with. That’s a genuinely useful exercise regardless of one’s Abraham Lincoln suspended habeas corpus during politics, because the oath doesn’t grade on ideology. It the Civil War. Woodrow Wilson’s administration asks whether we’ve been candid with tribunals. Whether prosecuted dissenters under the Espionage Act. we’ve filed suits we believed in, not just suits that were Franklin Roosevelt tried to pack the Supreme Court convenient. Whether we’ve treated opposing parties and, separately, presided over the forced internment of and opposing counsel with the “good fidelity” the oath Japanese American citizens. Harry Truman seized the demands, even when we disagreed with them. Whether nation’s steel mills during the Korean War, convinced we’ve used our position for lucre or malice, or resisted that wartime necessity gave him the authority, and the the temptation to. Supreme Court told him it didn’t. In his concurrence Every one of us who has stood in open court and taken in that case, Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. v. Sawyer, that oath has already answered, in advance, the question Justice Robert Jackson wrote candidly about how much of what we owe the Constitution. The answer wasn’t power concentrates in a single executive, and how easily “defend it when convenient” or “defend it when our that concentration can overwhelm the checks meant to side is in power.” It was unconditional. Constitution restrain it. Richard Nixon resigned rather than face the Day is simply the one day a year we’re asked to say it constitutional consequences of Watergate. In the years back to ourselves. after September 11, the government’s expansion of surveillance and detention powers drew constitutional challenges that took years to resolve. None of this is a partisan list. It spans parties, decades, and ideologies, and that’s the point: constitutional strain isn’t a feature of one administration or one side of the aisle. It’s a recurring condition of self-government, because power, whoever holds it, tends to test the limits placed on it. The Constitution has never been self-enforcing. It has only ever been as strong as the people, in each era, willing to hold the line: judges willing to rule against a president who appointed them or their predecessors, legislators willing to check their Tulsa Lawyer 21

Redefining Retirement: Introducing Dream Chapter Retirement can be exciting — full of possibility and freedom. But with an extra 2,000-plus hours a year suddenly free, it also comes with real responsibility: finding motivation, direction, and fulfillment during that time. For most of your career, work has shaped how you invest your time, energy, and attention — and given you a sense of purpose. Without a clear plan for what comes next, many retirees find themselves unexpectedly adrift, missing the structure and meaning their careers once provided. Dream Chapter is a transformational roadmap that prepares professionals for retirement — not just financially, but personally. Unlike traditional retirement planning courses, the program centers on mindset, purpose, and daily structure. In our work with attorneys specifically, we've found that loss of identity and purpose is one of the most significant — and least discussed — challenges of approaching retirement. At larger firms, this often creates a bottleneck: senior partners delay retirement, which slows advancement for younger attorneys. For solo and small-firm attorneys, the absence of a plan often means the absence of an exit strategy altogether.

Tulsa Lawyer 23

Grapevine News McAfee & Taft shareholder and director Mary Quinn Cooper has been named to Benchmark Litigation’s recently released 2026 list of “Top 250 Women in Litigation.” The annual publication honors women trial lawyers who have distinguished themselves through their work on significant litigation matters and who have earned the respect of peers and clients alike. A nationally recognized trial lawyer, Cooper serves as national trial counsel for major corporations and has extensive experience defending product liability claims, class actions and complex commercial disputes throughout the country.

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GLADD, MAGUIRE, ALLEN, BROWN & WAKEMAN is seeking an associate attorney with zero to five years of experience who is proficient in research and writing. Gladd, Maguire, Allen, Brown & Wakeman is primarily a defense litigation firm focusing on general civil trial and appellate practice, insurance defense, civil rights, general negligence, manufacturers’ products liability, medical and legal malpractice, and Native American law. Compensation and benefits package will be commensurate with the applicant’s experience. Applicants should submit a resume, writing sample and transcript to Carol J. Allen at callen@abg-oklaw.com.

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scan the QR code here or visit www.tulsabar.com and click on Member Services. 24 Tulsa Lawyer

Jon Starr Mediator and Arbitrator Contact DRC for scheduling 918-382-0300 The Law Firm of Gladd, Maguire, Allen, Brown & Wakeman is currently seeking an associate attorney with experience in litigation, bad faith is a plus. The associate in this position will be responsible for court appearances, depositions, performing discovery, interviews and trials in active cases filed in the Oklahoma Eastern, Northern, and Western Federal District Courts and Oklahoma Courts statewide. Gladd, Maguire, Allen, Brown & Wakeman is primarily a defense litigation firm focusing on general civil trial and appellate practice, insurance defense, medical and legal malpractice, and Native American law. Salary is commensurate with experience. Please provide your resume, references and a cover letter including salary requirements to callen@abg-oklaw.com

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PHONE: 918-584-5243 FAX: 918-592-0208 1446 South Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119-3612 Executive Director Tami Williams tamiw@tulsabar.com Ext. 1002 Membership Director CLE, Sections & Committees Kelly Smith kellys@tulsabar.com Ext. 1001

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Tulsa Lawyer Editors - Rhiannon Thoreson Madison Cataudella Associate Editor - Milly Dunlap Tulsa Lawyer Submissions - tulsabarnews@yahoo.com TCBA OFFICERS

President......................................................................Billy Duncan Past President......................................................Michael Taubman President-Elect.........................................................Shena Burgess Vice President............................................................John Gotwals Secretary.................................................................Jennifer Struble Treasurer.......................................................................Justin Munn Budget/Internal Operations..............................................Kyle Trice Director at Large (1) Large Firm....................................Ann Keele Director at Large (2) Large Firm...............................Sean McCalip Director at Large (1) Medium Firm............................Natalie Frost Director at Large (2) Medium Firm.......................Jason McVicker Director at Large (1) Small Firm...........................Allison Martuch Director at Large (2) Small Firm....................... ...Spencer Pittman Director at Large (1) Public Sector............... Judge Greg Lavender ABA Delegate............................................................ Molly Aspan OBA Delegate.............................................................Philip Hixon Library Trustee (1).........................................................Kobi Cook Library Trustee (2)............................................... Caitlin Getchell Presiding Judge .................................................Hon. David Guten Chief Judge, U.S. District Court ..................Hon. John F. Heil, III Chief Judge, Tulsa Municipal Court....... .Hon. Gerald Hofmeister TU Law Student Bar Representative...........................Carly Oldag TU Law School Representative..............................Morgan Moore

YOUNG LAWYERS DIVISION BOARD

YLD Chair..................................................................Isaiah Brydie YLD Past-Chair..............................................................Kyle Trice YLD Chair Elect......................................................Morgan Smith YLD Vice President........................................Nathan Miramontes YLD Treasurer...........................................................Phillip Berry YLD Secretary..................................................Cheyenne Barnard

FOUNDATION APPOINTMENTS

Law Day Chair ....................................................Tana Van Cleave Community Outreach................................................ Ashley Webb Community Outreach Co-Chair...................... Madison Cataudella Golf Chair.........................................................Nathan Miramontes Scholarship Chair.....................................................................TBD

FOUNDATION President....................................................................Kara Vincent Treasurer...........................................................Catherine Hoopert Trustee...............................................................Stephanie Jackson Trustee.................................................Timothy Michaels Johnson Trustee..........................................................................Rick White Trustee........................................................................Zach Brown Trustee......................................................................Daniel Gomez Trustee...........................................................................Julie Evans Trustee........................................................................Ashley Webb TCBA President.........................................................Billy Duncan COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS Access to Justice.............................................. .............Katie Dilks Animal Law..................................................... ............Katy Inhofe Animal Law Co-Chair...................................... .........Erica Grayson Bench & Bar.......................................................Stephanie Jackson Children & the Law.......................................................Lexie Allen Children & the Law Co-Chair........................ .............Lizzie Riter CLE...........................................................................Morgan Smith Diversity Development...............................................Matt Ingham Fee Arbitration.............................................................Scott Savage Law Related Education / Street Law Co-Chairs.............................. ............................... Trevion Freeman, Pierre Robertson, & JP Ray Lawyer Referral............................................... ............Alan Barker Mentor/Mentee.................................................Rhiannon Thoreson Military/Veterans ............................................. .........Travis Barnett Nominations & Awards.......................................Michael Taubman Pro Bono Chair...............................................................Eric Yoder Membership.....................................................................Kara Pratt Publications......................................................Rhiannon Thoreson Publications Co-Chair...................................... Madison Cataudella Special Events....................................................Cheyenne Barnard SECTION CHAIRPERSONS ADR/Mediation................................................... .......Zack Brown Bankruptcy....................................................... ..Hon. Paul Thomas Business/Corporate................................................Spencer Pittman Criminal Law................................................... .......................TBA Energy & Mineral Law.............................................Buford Pollett Employment Law............................................. ..........Chris Vaught Family Law ..........................................Anastasia Krich-Mahoney Health Law................................................................Shelby Fields Immigration ............................................................Maria Mattern Juvenile Law.................................................... .............Lizzie Riter Juvenile Law Co-Chair..................................................Lexie Allen Litigation Co-Chairs...........................Jake Pipinich & Don Smolen Municipal Law........................................................Laurie Phillips Municipal Law Vice Chair.........................................Michael Carr Native American Law Section Co-Chairs.................Randy Knight ..............................................................................Courtney Jordan Paralegals/Legal Assistant........................................Inca Mendoza Paralegal /LegalAssistantsVice Chair...................Ashleigh Casebolt Paralegals / Legal Assistant - Secretary..............John Vandiver Probate/Estate/Elder Co-chairs....................................Jim Stamper ..................................................................Linda Van Arkel-Greubel Solo/Small Firm ......................................................................TBA Tax.....................................................................TBA Technology ...............................................................Trevor Riddle Workers Comp.........................................................................TBD Workers Comp Co-Chair................................. ................. ......TBD * Section Chairs will be updated as positions are filled

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