Podcasts about houston bar association

This episode covers the impact of the digital age on lawyers, the law, and society. There are pros and cons to our increasingly sophisticated cyber-world, and this episode covers  the dire consequences of bullying when it's taken online, how criminals use technology to stalk and harass victims, advantages of the continued trend towards online mediation, and legal considerations for online healthcare. We also have a fun "Off the Record" interview with Houston lawyer Adam Schiffer, guitarist for Twenty 24 Souls.  Online BullyingCyberbullying in Texas Schools: Definitions, Remedies, and Concerning TrendsDustin Rynders, Legal Director at Texas Civil Rights Project, discusses the laws and practicalities relating the cyberbullying in Texas and provides insight into potential future trends. (17.5 minutes)Nationwide Cyberbullying: The Real-World Impact of a Viral RumorMonica Uddin, Partner at AZA, discusses an ongoing case in which she represents a young woman who was the victim of an online rumor that went viral. (14 minutes)Online CrimesCybercrimes Against the Elderly: How to Protect the Elderly from Becoming Victims of Online ScamsJoseph Frank, chief prosecutor of the Elder Abuse section at the Harris County District Attorney's Office, discusses cybercrimes that target elderly victims and provides tips on how to protect elderly people from becoming victims of these types of crimes. (10.5 minutes)Cybercrime Prosecution: CyberStalking, Revenge Porn, Online Impersonation, and Online ScamsKeith Houston, Chief Prosecutor in the Cybercrime Section of the Financial Crimes Division of the Harris County District Attorney's Office, discusses revenge porn, cyberstalking, online impersonation, and the online financial scams that tend to go along with these types of crimes. (11 minutes)Online ServicesCyber Mediation: Logistics, Advantages, and Trends Jessica Crutcher, Founder and Principal of Jessica Crutcher Law PLLC, discusses the logistics and benefits of cyber mediation and addresses why she believes it is here to stay. (10 minutes)Cyber Healthcare and the LawInterviewer: Anietie AkpanRachel Rose, Principal with Rachel V. Rose - Attorney at Law, PLLC, addresses legal issues at both the federal and state levels related to online healthcare, including compliance with privacy laws, confidentiality, security, billing, licensure requirements, carve outs for critical care, prescribing controlled substances, and consumer health data. Ms. Rose also discusses potential future trends in virtual healthcare, including the use of AI. (20 minutes)Off the Record: When Law Rocks, Lawyers (and Charities) ThriveInterviewer Nico ZulliBehind-the-Lines Interviewer Nico Zulli interviews lawyer and guitarist Adam Schiffer (Brown Rudnick). Adam plays the guitar for Twenty 24 Souls, the band that won the 2025 Law Rocks competition in April 2025 here in Houston. They discuss the competition as well as the benefits of having a creative outlet. (5 minutes)This episode is approved for 1.25 hours of Texas CLE credit for HBA members. See The Houston Lawyer Committee page on the HBA's website for more details. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org/thehoustonlawyer). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

The Innovation and Expectations episode has knowledgeable guests addressing lithium supply legal issues, how AI is impacting our profession, expectations for attorney hiring, and new lawyer notes about how innovation may impact legal careers in the future. (1) A New Era of Legal Issues Associated with Lithium ExtractionStephanie Noble of Vinson & Elkins LLP discusses the increased demand for lithium, what lithium extraction is, the many types of legal issues that are arising due to this increase in demand, and why it's an exciting time to be an energy lawyer. *New Lawyer Note: John Hinojosa (Winston & Strawn)* (2) Generative AI: Increasing EfficiencyNelson Ebaugh of Nelson S. Ebaugh P.C. addresses common concerns about confidentiality and privileged communication, provides some guidance for addressing this concerns, advocates for the use of generative AI to increase the efficiency of and enhance your legal practice, and briefly addresses legal developments relating to AI. *New Lawyer Note: Caitlin Rogers (Winston & Strawn)*(3) We're Hiring (Mostly): Trends in the Houston Legal Market Now and in the Near FutureTim Reagan of ELR Legal Search discusses current and future trends in the attorney hiring market in Houston, addresses the potential impact of AI on the market, and provides sound advice for young lawyers and students who are trying to determine how they fit into the legal market and where they should direct their talents.  *New Lawyer Note: Drew Pierce (Winston & Strawn)*The first and second segments of this episode are approved for CLE for HBA members. See The Houston Lawyer page on the HBA's website for details. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

It is the “most wonderful time of the year,” and Behind the Lines is focusing on giving back. Section 6 of the Preamble to the Texas Rules of Disciplinary Conduct reminds us that “the provision of free legal services to those unable to pay reasonable fees is the moral obligation of each lawyer as well as the profession generally.” This episode focuses on some of the ways Houston lawyers have been taking that obligation seriously and giving back to people in the Houston area who need legal help. Segment One - Hon. David Hittner: "I Wouldn't Trade That One Trial"Hon. David Hittner, Senior U.S. District Court Judge, discusses a criminal pro bono case he had as a young lawyer, including how he went about preparing for a criminal case as a civil lawyer. He also addresses how this pro bono case played a role in his confirmation hearing when he was appointed to the federal bench. The file for the case, Texas vs. Lockett, was recently formally dedicated for public exhibition at the Historic Documents Room at the Harris County Courthouse. Segment Two - Maryam Ghaffar: "My Client Felt So Validated"Maryam Ghaffar, an associate at Beck Redden and the HYLA Pro Bono and Service Committee Chair, discusses a recent Hague Convention case in which she represented the mother of a two-year-old child whose father wanted the court to order that the child's habitual residence was in Ecuador, not the United States. Maryam was appointed to this pro bono case by the Court, and it was a very fast-paced case. Segment Three - Holiday Wellness Break: Finding the Joy(BTL Interviewer Rinku Ray)Melanie Bragg of Bragg Law PC, who is also the co-chair of HBA's Wellness Committee, author of "Defining Moments: Insights Into the Lawyer's Soul" and other books, and cheerful volunteer, leads listeners through a wellness exercise designed to help find joy and reduce stress during the holiday season. Segment Four - Amy Farish: "There's Always Support"Amy Farish, a partner at Yetter Coleman who is also the firm's pro bono coordinator, discusses a lengthy immigration case she and her team handled and  encourages lawyers to try out pro bono service even if it's in an area outside of one's usual wheelhouse. Segment Five - Andrew Lehmann (HVL): "The Legal Issue Was Actually Really Simple"(BTL Interviewer Rachael Thompson)Andrew Lehmann, who runs HVL's weekly Veterans clinics at Michael E. DeBakey VA Hospital, discusses the issues they typically see and how to volunteer, and he shares recent success stories from the clinic, including a tenant's rights case and Military Sexual Trauma claim. He notes that lawyers should not feel intimidated to volunteer at the clinic or even take a case because often the legal issues are simple and the Veterans just need someone to advocate for them using legal skills that almost every lawyer has. To volunteer, sign up at https://www.makejusticehappen.org/get-involved/legalline/. Music by LudoSoundX from Pixabay.For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

In the special episode, Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast celebrates the 70th Anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in Brown v. Board of Education. Behind the Lines Interviewer Anietie Akpan talks with Houston School Law Legend Kelly Frels about the case and its impact here in Houston. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about this very impactful case from a lawyer who was directly involved in desegregating Houston schools, and the Behind-the-Lines team is honored to be able to share this important history with our listeners. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode covers the new Texas Business Court and then addresses the business of law, from starting your own law firm to branding to firm breakups. “We've Only Just Begun”: Texas's New Business CourtNatasha Breaux of Haynes Boone covers everything Texas Business Lawyers need to know about our new Business Court. “You Can Go Your Own Way”: Transitioning from BigLaw to Owning Your Own PracticeMichael Cancienne·or Jordan, Lynch & Cancienne discusses the transition from being a partner at a large international law firm to owning one's own firm, addressing both the challenging and rewarding aspects.  “Pumped Up Kicks”: The Sneaker Lawyer's On-Point BrandingJonathan Jackson of J. Jackson Law Offices is known as the "Sneaker Lawyer." Jonathan talks about how he came up with this branding and why it's important for one's brand to be authentic. “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”: But These Tips Will Help Pete Patterson of Patterson P.C. covers practical legal issues that can arise when law partners break up, how to avoid these issues from the get go, and how to deal with them if they do arise to minimize any disruptions to serving your clients' legal needs. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

In this episode, we escape the summer heat of Houston to explore out-of-the-box places and ways to practice law. Listeners will hear about combatting sex trafficking in Kenya, living in Puerto Vallarta while virtually practicing law in Houston, and engaging in immersive travel without interrupting service to one's clients in Houston.  Segment 1:There's No Place Like Home (in Kenya): Combatting Sex Trafficking in AfricaAnna Swanson, who is now practicing in Houston, completed her work last year as the Manager of Security, Investigations, and Law Enforcement Development at International Justice Mission's (“IJM”) field office in Mombasa, Kenya. In that position, Anna worked with government officials and law enforcement entities in different countries to train officials to use equipment and online investigation tools essential to investigate tips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children digital world of evidence so that the evidence they obtained would be admissible in court. Anna discusses the types of child trafficking crimes in Kenya and how the court system there deals with defendants accused of such crimes. She also addresses the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving international legal goals – in this case protecting children. She also goes into some of the complexities of digital evidence and how the IJM and its partners were able to educate investigators, prosecutors, and even courts in Kenya on its use. Segment 2:You Had Me at Hola! (in Puerto Vallarta): Practicing Law in Texas While Living AbroadNikita Lamar of Lamar Legal Group (https://www.lamarlegalgroup.com/about-6) joins us from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. She has an almost fully virtual law practice as a Houston lawyer living elsewhere. Nikita discusses why attorneys sometimes need to pivot, such as burnout. She also addresses the logistics of changing a firm's practice model to permit moving the practice out of the country, such as necessary changes to client engagement letters, and she talks about what lawyers moving abroad need to consider with regard to Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct 1.03 and 1.05. And, she touches on the importance of exploring Digital Nomad laws and tax implications of the locations you are considering and getting the advice of a tax professional before making a move. Nikita has started an online group called “Esquires Abroad” for lawyers who have virtual practices and live abroad (https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12974315).Segment 3:Adventure is Out There: Enjoying Geographic Freedom While Maintaining a Successful Law PracticeArati Bhattacharya of AB Law (https://ab-firm.com/meet-the-team/) talks with new Behind-the-Lines interviewer Rinku Ray about how Arati structured her firm so that her family can engage in immersive travel experiences while she maintains a successful legal practice in Houston. Arati provides pointers and encouragement for lawyers who would like to take control of their lives and legal practices but may be afraid to do so.  HBA members are eligible for 0.75 hr. CLE credit (0.25 ethics) for listening to the 1st 2 segments. See The Houston Lawyer Committee page on the HBA website for details. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode corresponds with the Bill of Rights issue of The Houston Lawyer magazine.  It addresses several of the rights in the “bright constellation of rights,” including free speech, bearing arms, protection from unlawful search and seizure, and jury trials. Houston lawyers, academics, and a jury consultant tackle issues associated with these rights. Segments One and Two: Second Amendment Professor Josh Blackman of South Texas College of Law Houston and Professor Martin Levy of Thurgood Marshall School of Law provide different academic perspectives on the historical background of the Second Amendment and recent and upcoming cases that interpret the right and the history related to it.  Segment Three: First Amendment Randy Hiroshige of the Texas Civil Rights project discusses a case involving the First Amendment that is currently being played out in Houston: Food Not Bombs v. City of Houston. It is an ongoing case, and this interview provides the plaintiff's perspective.  The City of Houston did not respond to a request for comment.  BTL Interviewer Rachael Thompson is the interviewer on this segment.Segment Four: Fourth AmendmentLaisha Harris, and Assistant Public Defender in the Felony Trial Division of the Harris County Public Defender's Office, discusses how technology and artificial intelligence impact the rights secured by the Fourth Amendment. Segment Five: Jury Trial Dr. Samantha Holmes of Edge Litigation Consulting, LLC, provides insight into the right to a jury trial from a jury consultant, data scientist, and social psychologist's perspective.  Dr. Holmes also provides some data from her ongoing research relating to the public's perception of our judicial system.  This is the final episode of Season Four of Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast. Thanks so much to our guests, the Editorial Board of The Houston Lawyer magazine, and the Houston Bar Association staff for their work and support throughout the season.  And congratulations to our outgoing Editor in Chief, Liz Malpass, and our incoming Editor in Chief, Andrew Pearce.  Talk to you soon – in Season Five! For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This special supplemental episode provides tips for businesses and homeowners whose homes or businesses were damaged during the May 16, 2024 storm in Houston. Thanks to guests Justin Ratley (Munsch Hardt) and Carey Worrell (Simple Law TX) for being willing to join us with very short notice to assist Houstonians who are dealing with the aftermath of this devastating weather event. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

GHWCC Global Businesswomen's Pod Episode 100 The 2024 Law Day theme, “Voices of Democracy,” acknowledges the people's role in democracies. Established in 1958 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, it celebrates the rule of law in a free society. The Houston Bar Association, established in 1870, is one of the largest volunteer bars in the country, with over 10,000 members. Diana, the first Latina president of the 153-year-old organization, is honored to be the President of this significant organization.

GHWCC Global Businesswomen's Pod Episode 100 The 2024 Law Day theme, “Voices of Democracy,” acknowledges the people's role in democracies. Established in 1958 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, it celebrates the rule of law in a free society. The Houston Bar Association, established in 1870, is one of the largest volunteer bars in the country, with over 10,000 members. Diana, the first Latina president of the 153-year-old organization, is honored to be the President of this significant organization.

This episode highlights Houston judges who go the extra mile to serve the lawyers who practice in their courts and the parties who rely on our justice system to be fair, impartial, and efficient. It is a companion to the Bench-Bar Relationship issue of The Houston Lawyer magazine.Segment 1: Practice Tips from a Seasoned Federal JudgeFeaturing the Hon. Gray H. MillerJudge Miller provides practice tips based on his 18 years on the federal bench, including tips relating to civility and professionalism.  Most of his tips are applicable to both federal and state-court litigators, and all lawyers will appreciate his discussion of civility in the profession.  Segment 2: Building a User-Friendly CourtFeaturing the Hon. Andrew EdisonJudge Edison addresses various user-friendly court procedures that make litigating easier and more civil for both judges and lawyers.  He also talks about the order he issued over the holidays in 2023 that went viral. Segment 3: Wellness Break: Run with a JudgeFeaturing the Hon. Amparo Guerra and Joshua UphamJustice Amparo Guerra and HBA Wellness Committee member Joshua Upham discuss the HBA/HYLA Run with a Judge events and the wellness benefits of getting outside and moving. You do not have to be a runner to participate in the Run with a Judge events. Segment 4: Escaping Afghanistan, Finding a New Home, and Meeting a Helpful Judicial MentorFeaturing the Hon. April Farris and the Hon. Narges Hafedzada BTL Interviewer: Mark YablonJudge Narges Hafedzada was a judge in Afghanistan prior to the Taliban resuming control of the country. She was instrumental in helping other Afghan judges leave the country and find opportunities elsewhere. When she arrived in Texas, Justice April Farris was appointed to be her judicial mentor and has helped her to find her bearings here in the United States. Judge Hafedzada addresses the prior justice system in Afghanistan, how she was forced to leave her home country because she was a woman judge, and what she is doing now to try to establish a new career in the United States. Justice Farris talks about how mentoring Judge Hafedzada was a wonderful experience. Both lawyers and non-lawyers will be moved by Judge Hafedzada's journey. Segment 5: Sharing and Seeking Knowledge About Justice SystemsFeaturing the Hon. Ravi Sandill Judge Sandill discusses his trip to India as part of a delegation of U.S. judges. He talks about some of the differences between the justice systems of India and the United States, what he learned there that he thinks would be helpful to our system, and what he thinks the judges in India learned from the U.S. judges.  For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode celebrates Black History Month and focuses on diversity in our profession, allyship, history, and change. 1. The Mosaic of Differences Among Us: Interview with Donna Davis, Director of the Benny Agosto Center for Diversity at STCL-Houston. Ms Davis addresses the importance of understanding the mosaic of differences among us not only in legal education but in practice as we deal with clients and colleagues from diverse backgrounds and different generations. She also provides practical tips for firms for meeting all of the expectations of their teams so that they can retain a diverse and productive workforce. 2. Strengthening the Law School Applicant Pool: Interview with Mariesha Keys, Director of UHLC's Pre-Law Pipeline Programs. Ms. Keys, who is interviewed by BTL-Interviewer Rachael Thompson, discusses the goals, logistics, and benefits of the UHLC Pre-Law Pipeline Programs, as well as why these programs are beneficial to first-generation students who are trying to navigate the law-school admission process. Ms. Keys also talks about  how members of the legal community can get involved in these important initiative. 3.  Navigating the Unique Challenges of an HBCU: Interview with Dean Crystal Ridgley, Associate Dean of Admission, TSU-TMSL. Dean Ridgley, who is interviewed by BTL-Interviewer Anietie Akpan, discusses TMSL's rich 70-year history as an accredited law school that has empowered the disenfranchised and underserved; she also talks about unique considerations in admissions as a HBCU, what's happening with legal education throughout the nation, and how the Houston legal community can assist with the school's effort to reinvest in pipeline and pathway programs.4. Impact of Allyship: Brenda Adimora. Ms. Adimora addresses why it is important for allies to step up for and support lawyers of color, especially in the wake of policy changes related to DEI initiatives that are being made in the wake of Students for Fair Admission v. Harvard. 5. Soldiers in Houston: Race, History, and Change. Gary Alfred discusses the Houston Riot of 1917, how the Black soldiers involved were convicted without Due Process, and the recent overturning of these convictions.  He then discusses the Veteran's Legal Initiative in Houston and other ways Houston lawyers can use our law training to help those less fortunate.6. Impact of Allyship: Alvin Adjei. Mr. Adjei addresses how allyship has impacted his career and discusses why having leaders in the firm or agency who understand and support you is important. 7. BLSA in Houston: Finding a Community and Preparing for Practice. Featuring Malik Wilson (STCL), Jeremiah Sowell (TMSL), and Erica Wheeler (UHLC), all presidents of the BLSA chapters at their law schools. BTL-Interviewer Anietie Akpan talks with these students about what they are doing to foster a sense of community for Black students in their law schools.8. HYLA Allyship Committee: Reading, Learning, Listening, and Acting as Allies. Featuring Lena Silva and Cassie Maneen, Co-Chairs of the Committee.  This discussion focuses on the purposes of the committee and also provides substantive information on civil rights cases and issues that have been discussed in the books they have read for Allyship Book Club.For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

Houston Lawyers have looked forward to receiving each new issue of the Houston Lawyer (THL) magazine for the past 60 years. This episode celebrates both the rich, engaging, and award-winning content from our authors and the lawyers and staff members who have been a part of this publication. 1. A Conversation with 1974-75 EIC Jim Perdue: A Seasoned Storyteller and Trial Trailblazer Jim Perdue of Perdue and Kidd is one of the earliest editors in chief of THL and a legal legend known for pioneering many modern evidentiary techniques who is often referred to as the "Father of Texas Courtroom Storytelling." He discusses his time as EIC and provides some great advice for younger lawyers. 2. Spotlight on Dustin Rynders, Award-Winning Author of "Supporting Adults with Disabilities to Avoid Unnecessary Guardianship" (Jan./Feb. 2018)Interviewer: Rachael Thompson of Winston & StrawnDustin Rynders, the Director of the Criminal Legal Program at Texas Civil Rights Project, discusses the substance of his 2018 article about Texas's law relating to adult guardianship and provides an update and practical examples such as the very-public Brittney Spears case. He also discusses his work with Texas Civil Rights Project and pro bono opportunities.3. Thank You, Round One4. A Conversation with 2011-12 EIC Tamara Stiner Toomer: A THL TrailblazerTamara Stiner Toomer of Johnsen Law is the first Black EIC of THL. She discusses her time as an editor and some of the important legal issues the bar journal covered in 2011-12. 5. Spotlight on Leigh Ganchan, Award-Winning Author of "Immigration & Naturalization Service Worksite Enforcement Operations Re-Emerge as National Security Priority" (2003)Interviewer: Anietie Akpan of Royal VopakLeigh Ganchan, a Shareholder at Ogletree Deakins, discusses her award-winning article from 2003, which covered shifting priorities on large workforce enforcement site operations post-9-11. She also provides an update on how the Government's priorities have shifted in the twenty years since she wrote the article. 6. Thank You, Round Two.7.   A Conversation with 2023-24 EIC Elizabeth Furlow Malpass: Our Current LeaderElizabeth Malpass discusses how and why she got involved with the Editorial Board, the positions she has held, some of the articles she has worked on, what we can expect in future issues this year, and how YOU can get involved. 8.  Thank You, Round Three.9. Working EIC Moms Making It Work: Not Superwoman, Not Perfect, But Everything Is FinePanelists:  Farrah Martinez, EIC 2017-18, Taunya Painter, EIC 2019-20, Brooksie Boutet, EIC 2022-23, Elizabeth Malpass, Current EICThe women on this segment have all served as editors in chief of THL while also working as lawyers and being moms. They discuss the broad topics in "Working Moms Making It Work," a 2018 article that Anna Archer wrote for THL that is part of a series of articles that won an award from the State Bar. The women frankly discuss how they manage so many responsibilities, noting that nobody is actually Superwoman and it is okay to not be perfect. In fact, sometimes cupcakes from H-E-B are just fine.  For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

Order in the court! Our co-host Carolina Arenas sits down with Diana Gomez to discuss her historical position as the first ever Latina President of the Houston Bar Association. Prior to her presidential status, Diana had a successful career as an attorney, and shares with us some insight into the legal world. Like many of us, Diana's ambition for a career in law came from her desire to offer a better life for her family. Diana's story once again proves just how resilient the Latina spirit can be. Did you know the HBA went 153 years without having a Latina as President? Don't believe me? Listen for yourself and tune in to this week's episode about Diana's incredible career! To learn more, visit us at latinaleadershippodcast.com

Episode Two of Season Four complements the Employment Law issue of The Houston Lawyer magazine and highlights some of the major changes Texas employment lawyers have seen this year. As Heraclitus said, "there is nothing permanent except change." Segment One: Presidential Goals Plus Employment LawGuest: Diana Gomez, President, Houston Bar Association & Shareholder at Chamberlain Hrdlicka HBA President Diana Gomez. who is the first Latina HBA President, discusses her goals for the bar year and how they are going. Then, she turns to her area of legal expertise and discusses the potential impact of the Hamilton v. Dallas County on employment discrimination cases filed in the Fifth Circuit. Segment Two: The Religious Accommodation Claim in Groff v. DeJoy: Arguing to Change the Standard Guest: Christopher Tutunjian, Associate, Baker Botts LLPBaker Botts Associate Christopher Tutunjian argued the Groff v. DeJoy case in the Third Circuit, and he was second chair at the U.S. Supreme Court. His firm represented the plaintiff, and they were arguing to change a long-established legal standard. Chris discusses the facts and legal issue in the case as well as the outcomes in the district court, Third Circuit, and U.S. Supreme Court. Segment Three: The CROWN Act: What Is It and How Does It ImpactTexas Employers? Guest: Akilah Craig, Associate, Locke LordAkilah Craig, Associate at Locke Lord, tells listeners about the new Texas Crown Act and addresses why it was enacted, the interplay between state and federal law with regard to the issues addressed by the Act, and how important it is for employers to review policies to ensure compliance. Segment Four: Affirmative Action: Does the Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College Decision Affect Employers? Guest: E. Phileda Tennant, Counsel, Vinson & ElkinsPhileda Tenant, Counsel at Vinson & Elkins, addresses whether the Supreme Court's decision in Students for Fair Admissions has any impact on employer DEI initiatives. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This is Part Two of a Two-Part episode entitled "Client-Centered Approach: Pathway to In-House, Protecting Your Client's Data, and Privilege Concerns." Part One was "Pathway to In-House," and this Part addresses "Privilege and Privacy." It also contains a wonderful wellness break featuring the Hon. George Hanks, Jr.Part Two. Segment One.Protecting Your Client's Data in the Age of AIFeaturing Laura L. Ferguson, Partner, Locke Lord LLP. Interviewed by Behind-the-Lines Interviewer Anietie Akpan.Laura discusses cybersecurity, privacy, and data breaches. She addresses laws relating to these areas, how AI impacts these areas, and the related ethical obligations.  And, she gives advice regarding how companies - and law firm managers - can protect themselves from cybersecurity threats. Part Two. Segment Two. Wellness Break: Traveling Runner: The Hon. George Hanks on Completing Marathons on Every Continent Featuring the Hon. George C. Hanks, Jr., U.S. District Court Judge, Southern District of Texas, Houston DivisionHear about some of the amazing places Judge Hanks has traveled to run, why he believes running while traveling is the best way to experience new places, and how this type of break from the stressors of a career in law is beneficial. You will also learn a little bit about how the law protects the environment in Antarctica. Part Two. Segment Three.Privilege Considerations: In-House Lawyers, Privilege Logs, and UTFeaturing Gail Foster, E-Discovery Attorney, and Carolyn Southerland, Senior Consultant at Construction Discovery Experts.  Gail and Carolyn first provide a quick review of attorney/client privilege. They also discuss (1) some of the complexities that arise when an in-house lawyer is also involved in business matters, and (2) current issues, including the recent University of Texas case decided by the Texas Supreme Court. Finally, they also delve into a few best practices for privilege logs and document review teams. This episode is approved for 1 hour of Texas CLE credit, including 1/2 hour of ethics credit, for lawyers who are also members of the Houston Bar Association. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode of Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast is a double feature. Part One features four in-house lawyers who address their paths to in-house. Part Two features lawyers discussing Privilege and Data Privacy as well as a wellness break with the Hon. George Hanks, Jr., who has run a full marathon on all seven continents. This is Part One.Pathway to In-House: Spotlight on Four Accomplished In-House LawyersFeaturing Dani Sanchez, Sr. Director ACG at Academy Sports + Outdoors, Fermeen Fazal, Sr. Counsel, Chevron, Americas Exploration and Production, Marissa Marquez, Managing Labor and Employment Counsel at Houston Methodist Hospital, and Carson Brown, Compliance Counsel at LyondellBassell. These lawyers discuss the career paths leading to their current in-house roles, point out how certain experiences in prior roles benefit them as in-house counsel, and provide tips for other lawyers who are interested in eventually going in-house. This half of the episode is approved for 1 hour of CLE credit for lawyers who are also members of the Houston Bar Association.  See the HBA's CLE webpage for more details. Don't miss Part Two to learn more about Data Privacy, Privilege, and Judge Hanks's marathons. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode focuses on hot topics that lawyers who do not go to court handle. Segment One: The Future Is Here: Drafting Contracts with Artificial Intelligence (13 minutes)Guest Professor Frank Fagan explains what AI or ChatGPT is and discusses its ability to draft contracts and how this technology is impacting transactional law practice now.Segment Two: Real Estate Law - What's Trending? (18 minutes)Guest Adam Weaver, real estate counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw and Pittman, explains what types of issues he keeps up with for his clients and what is currently trending in real estate law, and he provides a couple of predictions for future trends. Segment Three: Young Transactional Lawyer Spotlight: What Do You Do and Why? (15 minutes)Featuring Nancy Molina, Nnamdi Ezenwa, Franklin Shen, Morgan Moore, Joe Holloway, and Eddie Michel, who explain what they do on a daily basis and why they decided to pursue their practice areas. Segment Four: Wellness Break: The HBA's Focus on Wellness (12 minutes)Maggie Martin, the HBA's Director of Marketing and Communications and Managing Editor of The Houston Lawyer magazine first shares how she has recently made fitness an important part of her day and then briefly discusses some of the wellness initiatives the HBA implemented during the 2022-2023 Bar Year. Then, Samantha Torres, who is a member of the HBA's Board of Directors, discusses her involvement with some of these initiatives, why she wanted to be involved, and how the HBA is hoping to continue to make wellness a priority in the coming bar year. Segment Five: Tips for Establishing Your Own Non-Court-Centered Law Firm (12 minutes)Carey Worrell, founder of Simple Law TX, has made it her mission to not go to court, and she provides tips to lawyers who are interested in establishing their own firm but don't want to be in court every day. Segment Six: Ancillary Organization Spotlight: Dispute Resolution Center (10 minutes)Behind-the-Lines Guest Interviewer Anietie Akpan interviews Kevin Jacobs, the 2022-2023 Chair of the Dispute Resolution Center (DRC), and Nick Hall, Director of the DRC, about the DRC's mission, the important services this organization provides to our community, and how to become involved as a volunteer mediator. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode corresponds with the Criminal Law issue of The Houston Lawyer magazine and considers criminal law from different perspectives. It includes interviews with the current U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas (S.D.Tex.), a Harris County Judge who presides over one of the criminal specialty courts in Harris County, the CEO of a Houston nonprofit agency that provides criminal defense and services for those who cannot afford a lawyer, and a former U.S. Attorney for the S.D. Tex. who became a criminal defense attorney after his public service career. It also includes a wellness break about the wellness initiatives being offered at South Texas College of Law-Houston (STCL). Segment One: Confronting Gang Violence in HoustonFeaturing U.S. Attorney for the S.D. Tex., Mr. Alamdar Hamdani.  First, from the prosecution perspective, Mr. Alamdar Hamdani, the new U.S. Attorney for the S.D. Tex. (https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdtx/meet-us-attorney), discusses how his office works with other agencies to combat gang violence in Houston. Segment Two: Restoring Competency: The Harris County Competency Restoration CourtFeaturing the Hon. Lori Chambers-GraySecond, we hear from the Hon. Lori Chambers-Gray about how the Harris County Competency Restoration Court works with criminal defendants who are incompetent to stand trial. Wellness Break: South Texas College of Law - Houston Ensures Students Have the Wellness Tools They Need for Learning and Practicing LawFeaturing Dean Michael Barry, Lyndsay Garmond-Duvernay (STCL Senior Director of Student Support), and Jazmine Rivera (STCL Student Support Specialist)Dean Barry, along with key wellness staff members Ms. Lyndsay Garland-Durvernay and Ms. Jazmine Rivera, talk about how they are prioritizing wellness and teaching their students to advocate for themselves. See https://www.stcl.edu/student-academic-affairs/wellness/ for more about STCL's wellness initiatives. Segment Three: Restoring Justice with a Holistic Approach to Criminal DefenseFeaturing Drew Willey (Founder & CEO of Restorying Justice, https://www.restoringjustice.org/), Interviewed by Rachael Thompson (Associate, Winston & Strawn, and Podcast Committee Member)Mr. Drew Willey speaks with guest interviewer Rachael Thompson about why there is a need for a holistic approach to criminal defense for those who cannot afford adequate representation and how his organization is attempting to provide the services these individuals need. Segment Four: From Public Service to Private Practice and Prosecution to DefenseFeaturing Former S.D. Tex. U.S. Attorney (1999-2001)  Mervyn Mosbacker, Jr. (https://mosbacker.law/), Interviewed by Mark P. Yablon (Yablon Law, PLLC, and Podcast Committee Member)Mr. Mervyn Mosbacker, Jr., who was the U.S. Attorney for the S.D. Tex. from 1999 to 2001, talks to guest interviewer Mark Yablon about his path to becoming the U.S. Attorney for the S.D. Tex. and his transition from that role to a successful criminal defense practice. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

Part One: Best Practices for Attorney Wellness (Segment One)The first half of this episode is a panel discussion about best practices for attorney wellness featuring Amy Bice Larson, Managing Partner of BSP Law Houston, Elizabeth Stevens, HR Director of the Harris County District Attorney's Office, and Josie Morgan, COO of BoyarMiller.  These guests share the most successful attorney wellness initiatives in their offices or firms.  This panel discussion will be very interesting for attorneys who work in firm management or HR, or any attorney who is interested in what local legal employers are doing to make sure that the attorneys in their office stay well. They also take a deeper dive into wellness and address how attorneys need to look out for one another and specifically point out that the State Bar has programs that are of benefit to attorneys who are struggling with mental health issues. Wellness Break: Slowing Down for Healing and Health: How Lawyers can Benefit from Restorative/Trauma-Informed Yoga (Segment Two)The Wellness Break features Jessica Crutcher, who is a partner at Mayer Brown and also a yoga instructor. She shares how inclusive, trauma informed yoga and meditation classes can improve wellness in attorneys. Part Two: The Intersection of Law and Mental HealthThis part of the episode focuses on the types of mental health issues that impact cases in different practice areas and how the lawyers deal manage these issues. It includes a lot of practical tips that will be particularly beneficial to younger lawyers. The Intersection of Employment Law and Mental Health (Segment 3) The third segment of this episode features Ashlee Grant, who is a partner at BakerHostetler and is and is board-certified in labor and employment law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.  Ashlee discusses the intersection of employment law and mental health and provides practical advice for employment lawyers who are faced with mental health issues in their cases.The Intersection of Estate Planning, Guardianship, and Mental Health (Segment 4)The fourth segment of this episode features John B. Henry, III, of the Law Office of John B. Henry, III, PLLC, who is interviewed by Behind the Lines interviewer Anietie Akpan.  John is certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in estate planning and probate law and is a certified elder law attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation.  John addresses how mental health and wellbeing issues impact his practice, including mental incapacity issues in his cases and how he manages mental wellbeing issues that his clients are dealing with. The intersection of Family and Immigration Law and Mental Health (Segment 5)The final segment of this episode features Jody-Ann Greenwood, who is the founder and managing attorney of Greenwood Legal Advocacy Group, PLLC where she has been practicing family and immigration law since 2016.  Behind the Lines interviewer Anietie Akpan interviews Jody-Ann about the types of mental health issues she encounters in both her family law and immigration law practices and how she effectively handles these issues. Listeners who are HBA members can receive up to 1.75 hours of TX CLE credit for listening to this episode. Details available at hba.org.For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode of Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast features 3 panels about practicing while parenting in different stages and unique situations, a wellness break, & a spotlight on one of the Houston Bar Association's ancillary organizations. The episode has 2 titles because the content in the 3 main segments will be helpful in different ways to different people. The guests in these segments offer support and guidance to lawyer parents in various stages of their careers, provide context for colleagues who are not parents about the challenges they face, and give practical tips to legal employers about how to retain talented lawyer parents. The guests also discuss several legal topics associated with having children, including college savings plans and cyberbullying. I. Lawyers: Practicing While Parenting Young Children / Legal Employers: How to Support and Retain Talented Parents of Young ChildrenIn this segment, 3 lawyers who are also parents of young children---Maryann Zaki of Zaki Law, Sara M. Prasatik of Wilson Gibbs + Gorn, and Keri Brown of Baker Botts---discuss best practices for maternity/paternity leave, changing career paths, & how to make legal work environment more inviting to parent lawyers. Keri Brown also offers advice from a tax law perspective on college savings plans.II. Wellness Break: Eating Right While on the Go with Nutritionist Catherine KruppaIII. Lawyers: Practicing While Parenting in the Teen, Tweens, and Twenties / Legal Employers: Considering the Needs of More Seasoned Parent LawyersIn this segment, Rachael Thompson of Winston & Strawn and Lewis Thomas of Lewis Thomas P.C., who are parents of children in the tweens, teens, or twenties, talk about how they manage their law practice while parenting older children. Rachael also addresses how her firm supports parent lawyers, and Lewis addresses starting your own firm to increase flexibility. The panelists also provide tips relating to cyber-bullying and best practices for teen-aged drivers during a traffic stop. IV.  Lawyers: Practicing While Adopting  / Legal Employers: Best Practices for Supporting and Retaining Talented Adoptive ParentsHeather Potts of Nathan Sommer Jacobs adopted 2 older children internationally while she was a practicing lawyer. She provides tips for lawyer who are considering international adoption, encourages adoption of older children, & discusses how firms or legal employers can provide a healthy environment that goes beyond FMLA requirements so that adoptive parents feel supported in their decisions, which leads to the lawyer being more of an asset to the lawyer's employer. V. Ancillary Organization Spotlight: HVL's Guardianship Partnership with HYLAIn this segment, Behind the Lines Interviewer Mark Yablon interviews the Honorable Jerry Simoneaux about the partnership between Houston Volunteer Lawyers and Houston Young Lawyers' Association. The Judge encourages listeners to become HVL volunteers and consider taking these types of cases. CLE CreditListeners who are also members of the HBA can receive 1.5 hours of CLE credit for listening to this entire episode. Visit the HBA's CLE page for more details. For full speaker bios, visit The Houston Lawyer (hba.org). To read The Houston Lawyer magazine, visit The Houston Lawyer_home. For more information about the Houston Bar Association, visit Houston Bar Association (hba.org).*The views expressed in this episode do not necessarily reflect the views of The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board or the Houston Bar Association.

This episode focuses on sports and entertainment law and includes interviews with lawyers who have successfully combined practicing law with something else they love, including a lawyer who has the privilege of working for his hometown team - the Houston Texans, two lawyers who were professional gamers prior to law school and are now prominent esports lawyers/podcasters, and a lawyer who pursued her passion for entertainment law.Segment One:Touchdown: Scoring the Job of a Lifetime Behind the Lines Interviewer: Anna ArcherSunil Jamal, Associate Counsel of the Houston Texans, discusses his journey to becoming a lawyer for the Houston Texans, the types of projects he gets to work on, and ways in which lawyers who are interested in pursuing sports law can work towards achieving that goal.Segment Two: Game On: The Law of ESportsBehind the Lines Interviewer: Anna ArcherNefi Lopez and Jake Hicks explain what esports is, why they became involved in the industry, the types of legal issues esports lawyers encounter, and how lawyers who are interested in competitive gaming and streaming can start to build a practice in this growing field of law. Nefi and Jake host a popular podcast about esports called "The Law of ESports," which is available at The Law of Esports Podcast (podbean.com). Segment Three: Wellness Break: MindfulnessBehind the Lines Interviewer: Anna ArcherProfessor Lonny Hoffman of University of Houston Law Center discusses mindfulness and provides a quick and easy exercise that will help busy lawyers slow down for just moment. For more about mindfulness, Professor Hoffman recommends visiting https://junghouston.org/mind-body-spirit-institute/.Segment Four: Something for Thee Lawyers: Megan Thee Stallion's "Album" IssuesBehind the Lines Interviewer: Anietie AkpanAttorney Stephanie Hay, a local entertainment lawyer, discusses how she became an entertainment lawyer and provides an analysis of Megan Thee Stallion's recent legal issues relating to whether "Something for Thee Hotties" is an album or a mixed tape. She also provides tips for lawyer who are interested in practicing entertainment law.Complete bios of all of our amazing guests are available at https://www.hba.org/?pg=the-houston-lawyer-cmte. Members of the Houston Bar Association are eligible to receive 1.5 CLE credits for listening to this episode. Details are available on the HBA's CLE page. 

GHWCC Global Businesswomen's Pod Episode 24: 2022 Breakthrough Woman Lauren Waddell, Family Law Attorney, Waddell Law Firm, P.C. Please join us for our July 21st Businesswomen's POD to hear Lauren Waddell, a Houston family law attorney. Lauren is a graduate of South Texas College of Law Houston. Her advice for women entering the legal profession: "[t]here is nothing that can replace hard work," she says. "Women often have to work twice as hard as men to achieve the same level of success. Success isn't given, it's earned. Be authentic, work hard, and success will follow." Ms. Waddell is actively involved in leadership for legal and local community organizations. She currently serves on the Boards of the Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce and The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. She has served as the Chair of the Houston Bar Association, Family Law Section; the President of Texas Women Lawyers; and the President of the Association of Women Attorneys – Houston.

GHWCC Global Businesswomen's Pod Episode 24: 2022 Breakthrough Woman Lauren Waddell, Family Law Attorney, Waddell Law Firm, P.C. Please join us for our July 21st Businesswomen's POD to hear Lauren Waddell, a Houston family law attorney. Lauren is a graduate of South Texas College of Law Houston. Her advice for women entering the legal profession: "[t]here is nothing that can replace hard work," she says. "Women often have to work twice as hard as men to achieve the same level of success. Success isn't given, it's earned. Be authentic, work hard, and success will follow." Ms. Waddell is actively involved in leadership for legal and local community organizations. She currently serves on the Boards of the Greater Houston Women's Chamber of Commerce and The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. She has served as the Chair of the Houston Bar Association, Family Law Section; the President of Texas Women Lawyers; and the President of the Association of Women Attorneys – Houston.  

This episode focuses on ways in which lawyers can use their voices to effectuate change.The first segment, "In the Literal Room: Running for Office to Be Part of the Change," features an interview with Harris County Attorney Christian Menafee.  County Attorney Menafee addresses deciding to run for office and the logistics of doing so, and he talks about what holding office has been like for him.  This interview will be inspirational for attorneys who have been considering running for office to get into the "room where it happens."The second segment, "In the Virtual Room: Influencing Understanding on Social Media," features an interview with Zach Wolfe, the creator of Five-Minute Law and a Houston Law Twitter influencer.  Zach discusses how he got started on social media and some of the ways social media can be a positive way to learn more about the law. He also provides tips for lawyers who may want to expand their social media presence and provides some tips for attorney wellness as well.The third segment, "Belonging in the Room: Yes You Do!" features Anietie Akpan, Tracy LeRoy, and Kiara Gradney.  This panel addresses imposter syndrome--what it means, how it feels, how it can impact your career, ways in which more seasoned lawyers can help, and tips for lawyers who are dealing with imposter syndrome. Please note that the views expressed on Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast are those of the panelists only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Houston Bar Association, The Houston Lawyer Editorial Board, or the Podcast Committee.  More information about the guests on this episode is available on The Houston Lawyer Committee webpage, available at hba.org/thehoustonlawyer. Members of the HBA may receive 1.5 hours of CLE credit (no ethics) for listening to this episode -- information is available at hba.org on the CLE page. "The Evolving Legal Landscape" issue of The Houston Lawyer will be available soon at www.thehoustonlawyer.com.  HBA members will receive a hard copy of the magazine in the mail.

Anna DeMaggio is a foreign-trained lawyer with a background in international studies and she joins us on Hylights to give her perspective on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Anna is from Ukraine but came to the United States over 10 years ago to do an LLM. She has lived in Houston for many years, currently working as counsel at Orion Group Holdings, Inc. Despite being born in Ukraine when it was part of the USSR, growing up there after the end of the Cold War, and going to law school at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, not even Anna expected a war like this to ever take place. Nevertheless, Anna is uniquely positioned to give us insight into the changes the country has undergone since the end of the Cold War, as well as into the war, discussing its historical context and its import on international law and policy. In addition to now being a voice for the Ukrainian community in Houston, at Orion Group Holdings, Anna works with the project teams, operations, and management on contracting, compliance and claims prevention, management, and defense for the company's concrete segment, TAS Concrete Construction, LLC. Anna has also been involved in various community activities, including HYLA's Professional Development Committee, the Houston Bar Association, Chicago Women's Alliance, and a number of pro bono efforts pertaining to immigration. The Hylights Podcast is brought to you by the Houston Young Lawyers Association! If you have any comments or questions, or if you would like to be a guest on a future episode, please email us at hylightspodcast@gmail.com. Join HYLA: https://www.hyla.org/page-18141

This special spotlight episode of Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast corresponds with the Section Spotlight feature of The Houston Lawyer magazine. We are featuring the Houston Bar Association's (HBA) Law Practice Management Section in this episode.  The spotlighted program is a hybrid (online and in person) CLE presentation provided by the section in March 2022. The CLE, entitled "The Best of the ABA Techshow 2022," was presented by Ruby Powers. The ABA Techshow is an event where lawyers, legal professionals, and technology experts convene once a year to share ideas, talk trends, and improve the legal profession. Ms. Powers attended the entire conference and spoke on two panels. Her presentation provides the key takeaways from the three-day event and highlights the useful tips that law practice managers can instantly put into place.  Ms. Powers refers to some slides and websites in her presentation, and listeners can find those on the HBA's The Houston Lawyer webpage: www.hba.org/thehoustonlawyer. Note that because the podcast contains a recording of a live event, there is some unavoidable background noise.  Ruby Powers is the owner and managing partner of Powers Law Group Immigration Law Firm in Houston.  She is an active member of the HBA Law Practice Management Section, and she is on the Editorial Board of The Houston Lawyer magazine. "The Law Practice Management Section Provides information and resources to HBA members about building and managing law practices more effectively and successfully while maintaining the highest standards of the legal profession. CLE-approved programs focus on both fundamental principles and emerging trends related to building and enhancing client relationships; office management and supervisory issues; effective use of legal technology; billing and accounting practices; and professionalism." (Law Practice Management (hba.org)). John Meredith is the 2021-2022 Chair of the Section.Thanks to Ms. Powers, Mr. Meredity, and the Law Practice Management for sharing your program with Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast listeners. Listeners who are also HBA members are eligible for 45 minutes of Texas CLE credit. Visit Continuing Legal Education (hba.org) for more information. 

Stacey Burke is a 20-year attorney who provides consulting services to law firms. She has worked with over 300 law firms in a wide range of practice areas across the United States. She litigated in the field of consumer advocacy before transitioning to a consulting career over eight years ago. She has won legal industry accolades including the President's Award from the Houston Bar Association and has been selected as a Texas Super Lawyers Rising Star. Her work has also been published in the Texas Bar Journal, Trial magazine, Forbes, and Legal Business World. Her consulting company has won the American Marketing Association Crystal Awards for Online Marketing in Google Analytics and for Print Collateral or Direct Marketing: Company or Organization Brochure. She lives in Houston, Texas with her husband, two teenage daughters, and two French bulldogs and eats a lot of popcorn. Website: www.staceyeburke.com Facebook: MarketingLawyers Twitter: staceyeburke Instagram: marketinglawyers LinkedIn: stacey-e-burke-p-c LinkedIn: staceyeburke Youtube: UCjWE5hKUjG-G6y7iF1SHelA

Houston attorney Anuj Shah provides his thoughts on recent developments in immigration law. This portion is accredited for CLE. Then, we spotlight the HBA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee's summer clerkship program, with an overview from committee co-chair Daniella Martinez and shared experiences from law students Goldia Ezekwere and Silvia Chicas. Contact Daniella at dmartinez@bakerlaw.com for more information on participating as a law student or employer.After listening to this episode, Houston Bar Association members can visit hba.org/watchcle for information to obtain CLE credit.Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the Houston Bar Association.

Houston Bar Association members discuss what made the 2020-21 bar year transformative for each of them. Immediate HBA Past President Bill Kroger reflects on his year in office, and Ruby Powers leads a panel discussion with law firm managing partners Thais Amaral Tellawi, Karleana L. Farias, and Marc Whitehead about changes during the pandemic year.HBA members can earn CLE credit by listening to this episode. Visit hba.org/watchcle for details.   Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the HBA. 

Utsav Mathur is a partner at Norton Rose Fulbright in the Houston office, where he is a shipping, offshore energy, and global disputes lawyer. On this episode, he talks to Patrick about his career as a maritime lawyer. As the son of a captain who had the chance to spend time at sea growing up, Utsav was a young lawyer in Houston who raised his hand and volunteered to tackle maritime issues that arose in his matters. Today, it is 100% of what he does. In our conversation, he breaks down the fundamentals of maritime law and the industries and disputes where it arises. He also talks to us about recent trends and events in the industry, from offshore wind farms to the recent obstruction of the Suez Canal. This episode is part of a collaboration with Behind the Lines: The Houston Lawyer Podcast, a podcast of the Houston Bar Association (https://behind-the-lines-the-houston-lawyer.buzzsprout.com/930415). On April 21, it released an episode on "Energy and the Environment," featuring informative segments on the February 2021 winter storm, cryptocurrency, and electric vehicles. On our Hylights episode today, we focus on maritime law, which, as Utsav demonstrates, is relevant to the economy of the Houston Ship Channel and offshore energy projects for both carbon-based and, increasingly, renewable forms of energy. The Hylights Podcast is brought to you by the Houston Young Lawyers Association! If you have any comments or questions, or if you would like to be a guest on a future episode, please email us at hylightspodcast@gmail.com. Join HYLA: https://www.hyla.org/page-18141

Anita Wadhwa and Udoro Ekpin-Gatewood discuss the concepts behind restorative justice and their own restorative justice program, Restorative Empowerment for Youth ("REY").After listening to the episode, HBA members can visit hba.org/watchcle for information to obtain CLE credit. Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the HBA. 

This episode celebrates the 150th anniversary of the Houston Bar Association ("HBA"). The Honorable Ken Wise of the Fourteenth Court of Appeals discusses Houston's legal legends (1:06). Next, Bill Kroger speaks about Peter Gray, founder of the HBA (26:13). Then, Justices Eva Guzman, Jane Bland, and Rebeca Huddle of the Supreme Court of Texas discuss their journeys to the high court and offer practical advice to young attorneys and practicing lawyers (51:30). After listening to this episode, HBA members can visit hba.org/watchcle for information to obtain CLE credit.Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the HBA.

After the historic election of the first woman vice president Kamala Harris, it is clear we are ushering in a new era of politics. This most recent election was the culmination of decades of work put in by Black women across the country and up and down the ballot. In 2018, a record number of Black women were elected to Congress and other down ballot positions, a win for representation at large. In Harris County, 17 Black women were elected to judgeships setting a national record. Here to talk about the importance of the role of Black women in politics we have Judge Dedra Davis, who was apart of that class of 17. Judge Dedra Davis of the 270th District Court elected as judge on November 6, 2018. Judge Davis received her Bachelor’s Degree from Texas Tech University, and her Doctor of Jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law. Judge Davis is a member of the Texas Bar College, American Bar Association, Houston Bar Association, Association of Women Attorneys, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., NAACP, ACLU, and a number of other groups and organizations. Judge Davis is the recipient of numerous awards including being formerly named “Legal Executive of the Year,” receiving a “Dedra Davis’ Day” from the mayor of Houston, and a proclamation from a Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.

This episode explores housing rights and discrimination, featuring the life and legacy of J. Vance Lewis, one of Houston's first Black trial attorneys, and his influence on Freedmen's Town. Then, Christopher Tyson of Build Baton Rouge discusses the law and policy behind housing rights and urban development, followed by an overview of race-based housing discrimination cases with Lone Star Legal Aid. Use the chapter markers in Buzzsprout to navigate between the segments. After listening to this episode, Houston Bar Association members can visit hba.org/watchcle for information to obtain CLE credit.Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the Houston Bar Association.

In this episode we'll examine the intersection of the law and the coronavirus pandemic. Donna Haynes and Carey Jordan of Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP discuss COVID-related innovations, including vaccine development and energy industry trends. Then, Henry Gonzales, Executive Director of the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department, and Professor Ellen Marrus, Director of the Center for Children, Law & Policy at the University of Houston Law Center, take our listeners inside the Harris County Juvenile Justice System. After listening to this episode, Houston Bar Association members can visit hba.org/watchcle for information to obtain CLE credit.Views expressed by the participants of this program are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors of The Houston Lawyer or the Houston Bar Association.

In Episode 023 of the podcast, Casey unpacked the pending lawsuit and contract dispute between Megan Thee Stallion and her record label 1501 Entertainment. Has Meg been overreacting, or is the contract as terrible as the social media wars would have you think? Well today, we’re back with an update!  In today’s episode, we take a look at Meg’s recent victories in court and what they really mean (p.s. It may not be what you think!). To help steer the conversation, Casey has teamed with fellow entertainment and music attorney, Corian Johnson. The two discuss where both parties of this lawsuit went wrong when they initially signed this contract, the standard terms that should be included in every contract to help steer disputes, and so much more!  More on Corian Corian Johnson is an associate at Robert D. Clements Jr., Law Group, LLP. He was born in Fort Stewart, Georgia and raised in Birmingham, Alabama. Corian obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Texas Southern University. He also received his law degree from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law.    Prior to earning his law degree, Corian gained experience in the entertainment industry, working with such companies as Radio-One, ScoreMore and CIROC (via Combs Enterprises). His professional memberships include: The Houston Bar Association and The Recording Academy (GRAMMY’s) - Texas Chapter. Corian is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and enjoys serving the community in his spare time. Where to Find Corian Instagram: @corian_esq The best way for Audience to Contact You: corian.johnson18@gmail.com

Brian Michael Cooper is president of the XFL football team in Houston, The Houston Roughnecks. We are excited for one season to end and another to begin. The XFL will do a great job of continuing Americas passion for football. Let's get in the Huddle with Brian and find out more!!! Cooper, who most recently served as a partner in the Houston and Denver offices of Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith LLP and as a member of the firm’s Entertainment, Media and Sports Practice, will be responsible for the team's fan engagement and business operations, including ticket sales, corporate partnerships, marketing, content, communications, community relations, and the game day experience.   Before returning to his law practice in 2017 at Lewis Brisbois Bisgaard & Smith, he served as Director of Sports Programming for DISH Network. Cooper served as Senior Associate Athletic Director at Rice University from 2010-2013, and as President of the Rio Grande Valley Vipers from 2008-2010. The Vipers are the NBA G-League affiliate of the Houston Rockets.  Before joining the Vipers, Cooper spent six years as an attorney at Haynes Boone LLP in Houston from 2002-2008, where he worked on matters for the Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation. For his work in Houston sports, he received the Outstanding Service Award from the Houston Bar Association’s Entertainment and Sports Law Section in 2009 and 2012, along with the HBA ESL Chairman’s Award in 2014.  Cooper began his legal career at Proskauer LLP in New York, where his clients included the NBA, NHL, ATP, and MLS.  A graduate of Cornell University, the Harvard Kennedy School, and Columbia Law School, Cooper has served on the boards of Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts and Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston.  An avid runner, he also has completed five New York City Marathons and two Houston Aramco Half Marathons.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Rocky Dhir is joined by special guest co-host, Victor Flores, president of the Texas Young Lawyers Association, to interview State Bar of Texas president Randy Sorrels and Houston Bar Association president Benny Agosto, Jr. They cover some of the initiatives the new presidents will aim to accomplish during their tenure as well as why they’re so passionate about developing a more diverse bar. Randy Sorrels is the managing partner of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz, and is the 2019-2020 President of the State Bar of Texas. Benny Agosto is a partner at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Aziz and is the 2019-2020 President of the Houston Bar Association. Special thanks to our sponsor, LawPay.

Many lawyers and law students are passionate about assisting in disaster relief, but two things keep them from offering pro bono: they don’t have the time and resources to help and they feel insecure about representing in a different legal specialty. But lawyer volunteers are enormously important in helping victims who are struggling with many different disaster-related legal issues. So how do we bridge the gap? In this report from On The Road at the 2018 Equal Justice Conference, host Kimberly Sanchez interviews Michael Hofrichter, Pablo Almaguer, and Jeff Baker about their panel titled “The Disaster is Gone -- so Are My Volunteers! Strategies for Pro Bono Engagement During the Response and Recovery Process.” They discuss the importance of pro bono lawyers in disaster relief and how lawyers (and other legal professionals) can get involved. Michael Hofrichter is director of operations for Houston Volunteer Lawyers Program, the pro bono arm of the Houston Bar Association. Pablo Almaguer is attorney at law and group coordinator at Texas RioGrande Legal Aid Inc. in Edinburg, TX. Jeff Baker associate clinical professor of law and director of clinical education at Pepperdine University School of Law in Malibu, CA.

Established in 1870, the Houston Bar Association's purpose was to maintain high standards in the legal profession and provide legal education for Harris County attorneys. Today, the HBA is the fifth largest metropolitan bar association in the nation and has expanded its goals to include public service and better access to legal services for all citizens in the Greater Houston area. Ringler Radio host Larry Cohen talks with colleague, Robert P. Caples and guest, Attorney David Chaumette, President of the Houston Bar Association, to discuss the HBA's initiatives for 2014, public service and giving back and a fantastic community project program called The Veterans Legal Initiative.

Established in 1870, the Houston Bar Association's purpose was to maintain high standards in the legal profession and provide legal education for Harris County attorneys. Today, the HBA is the fifth largest metropolitan bar association in the nation and has expanded its goals to include public service and better access to legal services for all citizens in the Greater Houston area. Ringler Radio host Larry Cohen talks with colleague, Robert P. Caples and guest, Attorney David Chaumette, President of the Houston Bar Association, to discuss the HBA's initiatives for 2014, public service and giving back and a fantastic community project program called The Veterans Legal Initiative.