State Bar of Texas Blog : State Bar of Texas Blog : News & Features on Lawyers & Attorneys & Legal Professionals in Austin, Dallas, Houston & TX

Born/Age: Longview, Texas, September 2, 1972/ 37 years old 

Family: wife, Kari Alkire Skinner, practices family law at the firm of Lilly, Newman & Van Ness; sons, Will-8 years old, Cale-5 years old

Areas of practice: Criminal Defense 

Education: BA- Journalism, Stephen F. Austin State University, 1995
MA- Mass Communication, Stephen F. Austin State University, 1998
JD- South Texas College of Law, 2006

Another little known fact: I love rap music.

What kind of car do you drive?  Chevy Tahoe

Mentors/heroes: Rusty Hardin: both mentor and hero

Favorite saying/quote: “It is what it is.”

Favorite TV program: The Office

Favorite album: Trace, by Son Volt

Favorite music/musician: Steve Earle, circa 1989

Favorite movie: 300

Favorite magazine: Texas Monthly & The Atlantic

Favorite sport: Racing

Favorite food: Whataburger with cheese and jalapenos

Favorite restaurant: Churrasco’s

Where to be found on a Saturday night: Home with my wife and kids

Last book read: Service Included: Four-Star Secrets of an eavesdropping Waiter

My favorite weekend retreats are: New Orleans

If I had more time, I would: Write

The part of my job I do best is: Identifying and communicating with my clients.

What most people don’t know about me: I’m older than I look.

Who are the people you admire most, and why?  I admire people who love what they do.
 

Billy Skinner works at The Skinner Law Firm.

You can also view Billy's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.
 

If I had more time I would: Travel more.

Favorite food: Sushi.

Favorite tv show: The Good Wife.

What most people don't know about me: I have a 25 year-old son.

The part of my job that I do best: Argue cases.

Community Involvement: Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Habitat for Humanity. Texas Humane Society.

Favorite saying/quote: "I will trust God to provide what I need."

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? I would say that ethics-wise, remembering not to cut corners.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? There will be more focus on guardianship and elder law as baby boomers retire and pass away.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would want to be in? I can't imagine being anything else but an attorney.

Patricia is a shareholder in Decker Jones

You can also view Patricia's Texasbar.com profile

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born/Age: 1975/34 years

Areas of practice: Labor & Employment Law

Education: Texas A&M University, B.A., 1998; University of Houston Law Center, J.D., 2002

Most important career lesson: Some clients will lie to you.

Pet peeve: Tardiness

Secret for staying young: Eating more “real” foods and less processed foods

Favorite TV program: 30 Rock

Favorite place to find albums: iTunes

The last movie I saw was: Avatar

Favorite sport: Baseball

Favorite food: Mexican food

Hobbies: Keeping up with politics: local, state, and national

Current reading material: Currently reading The Book Thief (by Markus Zusak) and Open (by Andre Agassi)

If I had more time, I would: Relax more

Daryl Sinkule works at Shellist Lazarz LLP.

You can also view Daryl's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Bet you didn’t know: I have delivered a Sunday sermon at church.

Another little known fact: I like to sew and decorate.

Culinary talent: Hawaiian Stuffed Chicken.

Community Involvement: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dallas, Dallas Volunteer Attorney Program, JL Turner Legal Association Co-Chair of Community Outreach Committee, Dallas Bar Association, Law in the Schools Committee, the Dallas Women's Foundation.

Mentors/heroes: high school mentors --Ron Kirk (current US Trade Representative and former mayor of Dallas, TX) and Amy Yeager (current in house counsel for Baylor Hospital) .

Most important career lesson: As a young associate, I have learned that tenacious persistence and people truly are your best resources because both are a tremendous help that ensure you survive, and (eventually) thrive in a legal career where clients depend on you to know the practice even though you may lack first hand experience.

Current Project: Turning an extra room into a proper study/office.

Favorite saying/quote: “I want young men and young women who are not alive today, but who will come into this world with new privileges and opportunities –I want them to know that these new privileges and opportunities did not come without someone suffering and sacrificing for them.” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Favorite TV program: The Cosby Show.

Favorite music/musician: Gospel/Christian.

The last movie: The Blind Side.

Favorite magazine: The Economist.

Favorite sport: Kickball.

Favorite food: Lamb chops.

Favorite restaurant: Carraba’s Italian Grill.

Talents (besides law): Singing and acting.

Generally likes to read/ Current reading material: Bible.

Memorable vacation: Cancun, Mexico with good friends.

My favorite weekend retreats are: Quick flights to anywhere friends are.

If I had more time, I would: Help save the world.

The part of my job I do best is: To advocate on my client’s behalf.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: The best advice ever given to me was not given in the form of advice but was communicated as an observation by my high school Chemistry AP teacher, Dr. Charles Tuttle. Dr. Tuttle witnessed the huge crocodile tears that spiraled slowly, then uncontrollably, down my cheeks. My many failed attempts to do well on his quizzes and exams had finally gotten to me - not because I was failing but because I was truly trying as hard as I could, even attending tutoring sessions. Noting all of this, Dr. Tuttle looked at me and encouraged me saying “Alia, you will do well because you are ‘tenacious.’ Tenacious means that you never give up when challenged and with that tenacity you will get it, it will click for you. Well, soon thereafter it "clicked," and I made a 103 on the next Chemistry AP exam (even answering the bonus question correctly). Although Dr. Tuttle may not realize it, when faced with challenges, I have repeatedly referred back to his "advice" and it has carried me far!

Who is your favorite on-screen or literary attorney, and why? John Travolta in “A Civil Action,” because he sought to right a huge injustice despite this stand costing him his legal practice. Attorneys should strive to have a legal practice built on justice which at times may require a huge sacrifice to do the right thing, nevertheless, the sacrifice  must be made. Afterall, in the words of Justice Douglas S. Lang, each attorney’s career should be built on “deeds, not words.” Joe Pesci in "My Cousin Vinny" is a close second because of its huge lesson to new attorneys. First year attorney Vinny Gambini (Joe Pesci) wins his first case but not before experiencing great humiliation and uncertainy! New attorneys inevitably will experience some embarrassing moments in the practice, but true client advocacy means enduring and quickly learning from those humbling experiences to deliver the favorable results clients seek.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Educator: High School History and/or Spanish Teacher because I love attempting to make an impact on society.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? The turning point that made me restart my journey to becoming an attorney was a good college friend of mine. She called me one evening, gave me a good “talking to,” and the next thing I knew I was applying to law schools.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Relax, catch up with friends, and enjoy my nieces and nephews.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? My Parents (Randall & Alice Dozier) who taught me and my siblings the value of education, the devotion and sacrifice of parenting, and the peace and joy of serving Jesus Christ.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? The use of the internet by the courts. Who would have ever thought you could watch oral arguments for the Texas Supreme Court live; or file pleadings electronically?

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? Video-conferencing voir dire and trials perhaps?

Alia is an associate in the Dallas office of Jackson Walker, L.L.P.

You can also view Alia's TexasBar.com profile

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born: 1952

Family: Still married to Marilyn, my high school sweetheart for 30+ years

Areas of practice: Family, Probate, Real Estate (Homeowner Associations)

Education: South Texas College of Law 1992; University of Texas at El Paso 1980

Bet you didn’t know: I would answer this question

Likes: I like to photograph people un-posed, having fun.

Culinary talent: You bet. I’ll never be skinny.

Community Involvement: Photographer, University of Houston Marching Band

Heroes: My daughters, Jennifer and Rebekah, are my heroines.

Most important career lesson: You are never too old to change careers.

Favorite saying/quote: I have two :

Winston Churchill, "Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing ever happened."

Thomas Jefferson - "The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."

Favorite composer: John Williams

Favorite musicians: My daughters, Jennifer and Rebekah

Favorite place to find albums: my website http://public.fotki.com/cepjr/

Talents (besides law): Photography

Hobbies: Photography

Last book read: Guns, Steel and Germs by Jared Diamond. The book attempts to explain why Eurasian civilizations, as a whole, have survived and conquered others, while attempting to refute the belief that Eurasian hegemony is due to any form of Eurasian intellectual, moral, or inherent genetic superiority.

Memorable vacation: A ten day car trip with my wife and daughters to see mountains and canyons out west.

If I had more time, I would: Learn calculus

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? The internet

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Political Consultant

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? I wanted to stop traveling and stay close to home to be a part of my daughters’ lives.

Charley Prine works at Charley E. Prine, Jr. Attorney at Law

You can also view Charley's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Current Project: Helping my wife start her photography business (check it out! www.fogelphotography.com)

Favorite TV program(s): Currently - Mad Men and Friday Night Lights; of all-time – probably The Wire.

Favorite artist: My daughter.

Favorite movie: The Natural.

The last movie: Blind Side.

Favorite magazine: I get my news and gossip online.

Favorite sport: College basketball.

Favorite food: Kansas City barbecue (Gates, Oky Joe’s, JackStack) – it merits a trip to KC if for no other reason.

Hobbies: Sports (playing and watching), reading, spending time with my family.

Generally likes to read/Last book read/Current reading material: Greg Iles

If I had more time, I would: Fall asleep in the hammock reading a great book.

Biggest misconception about me: I’m actually 6’4. I just slouch a lot and hate playing post in basketball games.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: “Keep the faith – stay on the right track and have a wonderful life.” (my Gram)

Who are the people you admire most, and why? Single mothers. No question. We have two small kiddos who are absolutely incredible children. I have found, though, that despite being married to a world-beater of a wife and having incredibly selfless family members around to help, there are many days when I go to bed flat-out exhausted. I cannot imagine how incredibly difficult it must be to do it all alone. 

You can also view Larry'sTexasBar.com profile

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Age: 44

Areas of practice: Criminal defense, expungements, orders of nondisclosure.

Education: University of North Texas, B.A. University of Houston, J.D.

Is not good at: Anything (and I mean ANYTHING!) having to do with math.

Another little known fact: I once won a belly dancing contest.

Mentors/heroes: My Uncle Lon, who happens to be the smartest AND the nicest guy in the world.

Secret for staying young: Don't drink, don't smoke, work out regularly (weights and cardio)... and drink LOTS of water!

Favorite album: Little Morphine Annie (self-titled). I like it so much, in large part, because I played guitar on the album and wrote the words and music. 

Everett Newton works at Berlof & Newton, P.C.

You can also view Everett's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Family: I am married to Beth, a reading specialist who recently retired from teaching in public elementary schools.  I have two adult children, a teacher and a sound engineer.

Areas of practice: Governmental relations; higher education general counsel practice.

Education: B.A., U.T. Austin with Honors (1973); J.D., U.T. School of Law (1976)

Bad habit: Giving the urgent priority over the important.

Culinary talent: Marinara, Alfredo, all things Italian

Community Involvement: Leadership roles in church and our neighborhood association. Formerly active in leadership roles in school district.

Mentors/heroes: H. Malcolm Macdonald (U.T. Government Professor); Bernie Ward (U.T. Law Professor); Pat Currie (a deeply spiritual and gentle lady)

Latest pursuit: Contentment

Favorite saying/quote: “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle.” Philo Judaeus

Pet peeve: People who think the world is their personal trash can or ash tray.

Secret for staying young: Exercise, reading, involvement.

Favorite album: Blind Faith/ Blind Faith

Favorite place to find albums: My son’s collection of his (and mine)

Favorite movie: Paths of Glory (1957; Kubrick)

The last movie: Up!

Favorite magazine: Popular Mechanics

Favorite sport: High school football

Favorite food: Italian

Collects: Vintage mechanical watches

Generally likes to read: History, including historical fiction. Last book read: American Gospel, Meacham.

Memorable vacation: A month with no plans or obligations.

My favorite weekend retreats are: Kairos Prison Ministry

If I had more time, I would: Ride my motorcycle more.

Best thing about being a lawyer: Being a problem solver.

The part of my job I do best is: Thinking and communicating.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: People are always more important than stuff. Jack Collins (my dad).

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would it be? I don’t care to be anybody else.

Who is your favorite on-screen or literary attorney, and why? Atticus Finch, because he acted with integrity.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in?  Pastoral care.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? High school speech and debate.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? Those people who have learned to be content with whatever their circumstances.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed?   Having been licensed for 33 years, EVERYTHING has changed technologically. I am barely Westlaw literate; I still prefer BOOKS.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? As with many other professions, ours will have to learn to deal with the ever-growing abundance of bad information and bad legal advice that circulates on the internet.

Read Steve's Texasbar.com profile

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Family/personal:  My husband Alan and I have two teenaged sons, Ian and Graham; one dog; and two cats.

Areas of practice: My practice focuses on commercial and bankruptcy litigation, and related appeals.

Education: I have a B.A. in economics from UT Austin, and a J.D. from SMU.
 
Community Involvement: I serve on my parish’s finance council.  I have also taught religious education at the three-year-old, five-year-old, second grade, and seventh grade level, and, with my husband, been a sponsor couple in our parish’s marriage preparation program.

Favorite magazine:  Slate.com
 
The part of my job I do best is:  Advocacy

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would it be? Rachel Maddow

Who is your favorite on-screen or literary attorney, and why?  Matthew Shardlake, for his combination of compassion, conscience, and intellect, and for his ability to recognize and admit his mistakes.

Stefanie Klein works at Neligan Foley LLP.

You can also view Stefanie's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born/Age:  September 15, 1976 in Austin, Texas. Age is 33. 

Family/personal: I live in Maypearl, Texas with my wonderful wife Stephanie and two children, Madison (age 5) and Teagan (3 months).
  
Areas of practice: Personal Injury. 

Education: University of Texas at Austin, B.A. and St. Mary’s School of Law, J.D.  

Another little known fact: I have an English Bulldog named Lovie.  

Likes/Dislikes: I like rational thinking based on facts. I dislike the blatant misrepresentation of anything.  

Bad habit: Leaving too many water bottles in my car.  

Is not good at: Cooking.  

Culinary talent: Eggs, barely.  

What kind of car do you drive? Chevrolet Tahoe.  

Mentors/heroes: My parents, friends and teachers throughout my life. Also, during my senior year at UT, I was the personal assistant to Sarah Weddington, the attorney who won Roe v. Wade. She gave valuable advice on life and the legal profession.  

Most important career lesson: Choose your jobs carefully.  

Latest pursuit: I am the VP of the Ellis County Bar Association and we are finally setting up an online presence for members and the citizens of Ellis County.  

Pet peeve: Defense lawyers that sit at the table closest to the jury box.  

When they do the film about you, what actor/actress should portray you? David Boreanaz.

Secret for staying young: Get exercise and eat healthy. Enjoy life.  

Favorite plays: I saw Lion King and Rent in New York, which were both excellent. Exploring Polyester was a local play in Dallas that was great as well.  

Favorite TV programs: Mythbusters, Lost, The Tudors and Meet the Press. I still watch reruns of Seinfeld, Friends and Stargate SG-1.  

Favorite artists: GNR, George Strait, Beatles, Billy Joel, Garth Brooks.  

Favorite composers: Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  

Favorite albums: Eagles Greatest Hits, Appetite for Destruction, Forrest Gump Soundtrack, George Strait Greatest Hits Collection.  

Favorite music: Rock and country.  

Favorite place to find albums: I download my music from Amazon MP3 Store and iTunes.  

Favorite movies: I love movies so this one is tough. Godfather, Gone with the Wind, Pulp Fiction, Star Wars, Fight Club, Matrix, Forrest Gump and Terminator 2.  

The last movie I saw was: “Inglourious Basterds” with Brad Pitt.

Favorite magazines: Wired, Popular Science, Golf, Time and Sports Illustrated.  

Favorite sports: UT Football, Cowboys Football and Golf.  

Favorite food: Mexican Food

Favorite restaurant: Nos Ancêtres les Gaulois, Paris, France.

Where to be found on a Saturday night: With family and friends.  

Talents (besides law): Computers.  

Hobbies: Golf, Computers.  

Collects: Latest electronics.  

Current reading material: Currently reading The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown.  

Memorable vacation: Trip to Europe with my wife.  

My favorite weekend retreats are: My home and we occasionally like to travel to random places around Texas on the weekends.  

If I had more time, I would: Spend all the time with my family and travel the world.  

The part of my job I do best is: Holding wrongdoers accountable.  

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: Stand up for what you believe in, be proud of yourself and learn from your mistakes – Parents.  

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would it be? U.S. President or NFL quarterback.  

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? I think the two main challenges for attorneys is (1) overcoming the negative propaganda associated with being an attorney; and (2) adjusting to the technological changes that will impact the practice of law in Texas.  

Who are your favorite on-screen or literary attorneys?

1. Atticus Finch / Gregory Peck, To Kill a Mockingbird
2. Perry Mason / Raymond Burr, Perry Mason
3. Vincent Gambini / Joe Pesci, My Cousin Vinny
4. Jake Tyler Brigance / Matthew McConaughey / A Time to Kill
5. Denny Crane / William Shatner / Boston Legal  

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Physician or computer programmer.  

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? I do not think there was ever a turning point because it is something I have always wanted to do.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? I like to spend time with family, friends and travel the world.  

Who are the people you admire most, and why? I admire my parents.  

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? Email through cell phones is probably the biggest change. Only a handful of people had it when I began practicing and now it is very common. Also, many lawyers use electronic filing and rely more on internet for advertising.  

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? I think the legal world will change over the next 15 years mostly aided by technology. I believe that technology, to the extent it is not already happening, will render most traditional legal advice redundant.  There are internet sites right now where lawyers give real time advice online which is very convenient and appealing to many people.  

Also, I think the following will be common place in the next 15 years, most of which is already happening: (1) automated document assembly and retention; (2) full time connectivity to networks; (3) on-line legal guidance and advice; (4) open-source legal resources; (5) on-line networking and sharing of experience; (6) workflow automation and project management; (7) constant connection to relevant laws, codes, regulations, etc.; and (8) on-line communications minimizing need for in-person meetings.  

Any words of wisdom or advice for the new president of the State Bar of Texas? Best wishes.

Stephen Daniel works at Jenkins & Jenkins, P.C.

You can also view Stephen's TexasBar.com profile and his other profiles below:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dallaslawyer
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/stephendaniel
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dallaslawyer
Google Profile: http://www.google.com/profiles/plaintiff

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Hobbies: Skiing, reading, making gemstone jewelry.

Collects: Gemstones.

My favorite weekend retreats are: My own home, spending the weekend with my husband.

Bet you didn’t know: In August, 2009, I started my own law firm – Cami Boyd Law PLLC. Running my own firm is something that I have wanted to do for 5 years. Now, I’m off to a tremendous start.

Another little known fact: My relationship with my husband, Randy, is the perfect compliment to my law practice. My husband is an artist, musician and photographer.

Bad habit: Work too much and play too little!

Culinary talent: My strongest culinary talent is knowing when to turn over the kitchen to my husband (who is an excellent chef)!

Community Involvement: Every year, I make a significant time commitment to a charity or non-profit organization, typically one focused on improving education for young people in Texas public schools. I served on the Board of Directors of Junior Achievement of Dallas for 7 years. More recently, I served on the Board of Directors of the Texas Music Project. And, currently, I am supporting Imagination Celebration and the actress Betty Buckley’s project to bring arts education to students of the Fort Worth Independent School District.

Latest pursuit: At long last – the launching of Cami Boyd Law PLLC!

Favorite saying/quote: Goodness, truth and happiness!

Secret for staying young: Laughter!

Favorite TV program: I admit it, as stereotypical as it may sound, I am hooked on Law & Order and CSI.

Favorite food: Sushi.

Favorite restaurant: Tei Tei Robata Bar.

If I had more time, I would: travel the world.

Best thing about being a lawyer: Freedom to do what I am passionate about every day.

The part of my job I do best is: Invest myself and my time in my clients and their businesses. Building relationships with clients is the key to success.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? I think that clients are weary of the traditional law firm business model and the feeling most clients get that their attorney, and law firm, are simply out to generate as many fees as possible. The current economic climate is, in my view, creating an important change in the legal profession. Lawyers need to understand the challenges their clients are facing, economic and otherwise, and work to accomplish results that clients need, as quickly and cost effectively as possible.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? I was a child when I decided that I wanted to go to law school and become a lawyer. I have not regretted a single moment of it!

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Vacation and enjoy time with family.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? I have been practicing long enough to remember a time when most filings were not made electronically and many clients preferred not to communicate by email. The great leaps forward that we have made as a society over the past 15 years, in communications technology and use of the internet for business, have dramatically changed my practice and the expectations of my clients.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? I believe that clients will demand changes in law firm billing practices and attorney fee structures. I believe that attorneys and law firms that cannot keep pace with changes in technology (which impact our society and business world from top to bottom) will not be able to keep pace with the competition for business.

Cami recently established her own law firm, Cami Boyd Law PLLC.

 You can also view Cami's TexasBar.com profile

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Update Your Online Profile
Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

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Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born: In Port Arthur, Texas, December 10, 1970    

Family: I live in Georgetown, Texas with my teenage son.

Areas of practice: Family law comprises the bulk of my practice. I also perform services in areas related to Probate, Criminal, and Civil.

Education: Juris Doctor, Texas Southern University, 2004, Summa Cum Laude; Executive Editor of The Law Review, The University of Texas at Austin, 2000

Likes/Dislikes: I dislike personality types that are prone to make premature judgments about situations and people in those situations. I like rational thinking.

Bad habit: I leave water bottles in the car; I have heard that drinking the water is unsafe.

Doesn’t: I do not require others to fulfill responsibilities that are mine.

Is not good at: I am not good at math.

Culinary talent: Rice Krispy Treats!!

What kind of car do you drive? Infiniti FX35

Community Involvement: AAU and Select Basketball

Mentors/heroes: President Obama; Dr. John Butler, professor, entrepreneur, world renowned speaker, author, creator, and businessman; Judge Lora Livingston of the Judicial District Court, Austin, Texas.                                                     

Most important career lesson: As soon as you know the facts are not aligned in your client’s favor, be honest with your client and with yourself regarding the chances of emerging the victor.

Favorite saying/quote: “People do not plan to fail; they fail to plan.”

Pet peeve: Half-hearted attempts at accomplishing the task.

When they do the film about you, what actor/actress should portray you? Halle Barry

Favorite plays: The Color Purple and A Chorus Line

Favorite TV program: Reality TV.

Favorite artist: Michael Jackson - RIP                         

Favorite album: Thriller

Favorite musician: Michael Jackson - RIP

Favorite movie: Walt Disney’s Meet the Robinsons

The last movie I saw was: Transformers

Favorite magazine: US Weekly

Favorite sport: Gymnastics

Favorite food: Vegetables

Favorite restaurant: Pappadeaux

Where to be found on a Saturday night: At a movie, dinner, or home.

Talents (besides law): Dancing, choreography, writing.

Hobbies: Dancing, bike riding, exercising, tending to my plants and yard, swimming, and traveling.

Collects: Lamps

Generally likes to read/Last book read/Current reading material: The Davinci Code; Triumph of Justice by Daniel Petrocelli

My favorite weekend retreats are: Going to Dallas for a play or concert, or the coast for fishing.

If I had more time, I would: Complete the three books I started writing.        

Biggest misconception about me: Because I am small, I often believe people underestimate how aggressive I can be.

What most people don’t know about me: I am older than I look.

The part of my job I do best is: Staying calm and making my clients comfortable and giving them support.                                                                 

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: “You can get more from honey than you can with vinegar,” by my mother.

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would it be? Michelle Obama

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? Juggling the multitude of tasks in their personal life and keeping up with ever changing laws.

Who is your favorite on-screen or literary attorney, and why? Perry Mason. He was always in control.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Psychiatrist or psychologist.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? I always wanted to be an attorney; when I got divorced in 2001, I figured it was the perfect time to go for it.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Spend time with my family and friends; get chores done around the house; play, exercise, and travel.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? I admire people who work hard and know how to orchestrate successful outcomes.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? The Texas Family Code.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? I believe the laws will get more beefy relative to child protection.

Any words of wisdom or advice for the new president of the State Bar of Texas?  Be courageous!

Victoria Broussard works at the Law Office of Victoria Broussard.

You can also view Victoria's TexasBar.com profile. 

 
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Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

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Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Most important career lesson: Choose your law partners very carefully.

Current Project: Taking a deep breath and reflecting on 30 years of a wonderful private practice and several years of university teaching.

Favorite saying/quote: There are so many, one perhaps, “ I want nothing,” “I fear nothing,” “I am free.” Nikos Kazantzakis, Report to Greco.

Pet peeve: Political spin as fact.

Secret for staying young: If anyone knows, please tell me.

Favorite TV program: Charlie Rose.

Favorite artist: Pieter Brueghel/ Thomas Hart Benton.

Favorite composers: Ludwig van Beethoven.

Favorite album: Concert by The Sea – Erroll Garner.

Favorite music/musician: Frank Sinatra.

Favorite place to find albums: Mail-order catalogues.

Generally likes to read/Last book read/Current reading material: A Lucky Child - A Memoir of Surviving Auschwitz as a Young Boy. Thomas Buergenthal.

Memorable vacation: Greek Islands.

My favorite weekend retreats are: Home.

If I had more time, I would: Read & travel.

Bad habit: Can’t sleep  

The part of my job I do best is: In trial; In court; in the class room.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: If For Boys, Rudyard Kipling.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? I could write a book on this subject, we often are the best; perhaps self- image and dedication to the profession of the law; “Attorney heal thyself.”

Who is your favorite on-screen or literary attorney, and why? Clarence Darrow /Louis Nizer: real literary lawyers through their writings and recorded trial presentations.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Surgeon, perhaps, perhaps not.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? Graduate School.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Read, grandchildren, workout, ride my horse.  

Favorite movie: Shane.

The last movie I saw: Glengarry Glen Ross.

Favorite sport: Football.

Favorite food: Steak.

Favorite restaurant: Las Palomas.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? People who believe in what they are doing with their life, and try to do it the best they can.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? Computerized virtual reality and the loss of human interaction.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? More computerized virtual reality and more loss of human interaction.

Thomas W. George is a private practitioner.

 You can also view Thomas' TexasBar.com profile

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

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Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

If I had more time I would: Travel.

If you could be anyone else for a day, who would it be? Paris Hilton (I love shopping and that's all she ever seems to do).

Favorite on-screen or literary attorney? Atticus Finch.

Mentors: Tom Stickler.

Heroes: Thurgood Marshall.

Best thing about being a lawyer: Being part of keeping constitutional laws in place.

Stacey Holley Valdez works at The Law Office of Laird Valdez, LLP

You can also view Stacey's TexasBar.com profile

 
Prizes

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Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Education: University of Texas School of Law, JD, 1985; Baylor University, BBA, 1982

Areas of practice: Family law

Family/personal: Married for 18 wonderful years; two children in high school and one in middle school.

Bad habit: Improving the lie of my golf ball, but only when it’s really necessary.

Doesn’t: admit to improving the lie of my golf ball.

Is not good at: texting.

What kind of car do you drive? Black

Mentors/heroes: Ed Blackstone, retired from practicing law, now a Methodist minister in East Texas; and Keith Nelson, the coolest divorce lawyer in Texas.

Most important career lessons: Get paid before trial. Clients will lie to you. Know when to stop talking and sit down.

Favorite saying/quote: “The best day in a man’s life is the day after his first divorce.”

Pet peeve: Self-absorbed people.

Secret for staying young: Choose your parents carefully.

Favorite TV program: The Office

Favorite artist: David Gilmour

Favorite album: Dark Side of the Moon

Favorite movie: The Godfather, Part II

Favorite sport: UT football

Favorite restaurant: Ojeda’s

Collects: old black and white boxing photographs.

Memorable vacation: Cabo, via private jet on someone else’s dime. Sweet.

If I had more time, I would: play golf every Friday afternoon.

Biggest misconception about me: That I am cocky. 

The part of my job I do best is: keep my clients calm in the storm of divorce.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? Living a balanced life. The pressure to work more, bill more, and make more money will pass, and so will we.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? A Tarrant County Judge. Hey, just kidding! If you’re from Dallas, you get it.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? I was a senior about to graduate from Baylor when it struck me that in less than 90 days I would start a career in accounting, working for someone else for the rest of my life. Sheer terror. Just in the nick of time to apply for admission to law school.

Any words of wisdom or advice for newly licensed attorneys? When you leave on Friday, don’t darken the door of your office until Monday morning. Your family and friends love you and deserve your time more than any client or case you will ever have.


Mark Williamson works at The Williamson Group, PC.

You can also view Mark's TexasBar.com profile. 

 
Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born: November 6, 1981

Family/personal: I am single. My family is from New York/New Jersey. They all currently live in New Jersey, except for me. My mom is a semi-retired school secretary, and my dad is a semi-retired jack of all trades. I am very close to my sister, even though she is fourteen years my senior. I have three nieces, Taylor, Haley, and Lindsey, who keep me young.

Areas of practice: Immigration

Education: Rutgers, 2003; University of Houston Law Center, 2006

Culinary talent: Scrambled eggs - that’s about it.

What kind of car do you drive? Beat-up pickup truck. I have gone through four cars since I was sixteen. All of them eventually died on me because I would drive them into the ground. My dad gave me this truck (used) in 2004 because he thought I ought to have a pickup truck if I were in Texas. I drove the truck down from New Jersey, have used it to move countless times, and have used it to move many friends. At least a few times, the car has held all my worldly possessions. It keeps me grounded to say the least.

Most important career lesson: You have to want what you got. Take advantage of your God-given gifts. Don’t try to be something that you aren’t. I’m not a genius, so I don’t pretend to be. I always look up everything. I don’t pretend to remember every client’s entire life story. I listen, I take notes, and I study the case. I try to learn new things every day. I think the biggest mistake lawyers make is thinking that they are doing learning in law school. Law school taught us “how to learn.” I think I have earned multiple JD’s for the amount of studying I’ve done since entering practice.

Favorite saying/quote: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” 

Secret for staying young: Be happy.

The last movie I saw was: Monsters vs. Aliens in 3-D with my two nieces Taylor and Haley.

Favorite food: Anything in Houston.

Favorite restaurant: Again, anything in Houston is fine by me.

Where to be found on a Saturday night: With friends and family.

Talents (besides law): Jeopardy?

My favorite weekend retreats are: New Jersey/New York. My entire family still lives there as well as all my childhood friends who I now consider family. It is my foundation, and sometimes I just need to visit and recharge. I made a promise to my sister when I left for law school in 2003 that I would be home for my nieces' birthdays every year. She tricked me by adding another to the bunch in 2006. So I’m back to New Jersey every February, April, and September for Taylor, Lindsey, and Haley.

If I had more time, I would: spend more time with family, expand our practice to help more people in the greater Houston area and beyond.

The part of my job I do best is: Client service. We give out our personal cell phone numbers so our clients can always reach us.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: Do your best, from my Mom and Dad. No matter what ability or talent you may have, no one can fault you for doing your best.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? Providing quality service to clients, listening to clients.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Accountant, teacher, or politician. Every college graduate in my family has become an accountant. My mother and stepfather worked in the school system for my entire life. I spent a lot of time seeing the education system from the school point of view instead of the student. I think I would make an awful teacher, but it wouldn’t be for lack of effort. I was a political science major in college and would have taken a position with a congressman in Washington, D.C., but I wouldn’t have been able to live on the salary. 

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? When I applied for a number of congressional staff positions, the chief of staff told me bluntly, “You are the best person for this job and I want to hire you, but you won’t make any money. If you want to get a good job in this town, you either have an Ivy League degree or a law degree.” I was a month away from graduating Rutgers College, so the only option was law school. When I visited the University of Houston, I felt the opportunity in the air. I still get the same feeling when I arrive in Houston from a business trip; I walk out of the airport, and I’m excited about the possibilities that await me. 

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Enjoy life to the fullest. I am still relatively new to Houston and Texas. There is a lot to explore.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? My family, whether it is my co-worker Frank, my sister Laura, my Mom and Dad, or my best friends; I am constantly inspired and motivated by how individuals face and overcome monumental challenges. 

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? There is no reason why attorneys should not take advantage of all that technology has to offer. We use technology to better serve our clients: filing cases online, sending documents instantly overseas, conversing with embassies and consulates around the world, and getting information to people who need it, when and where they need it.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? I think the practice will shift to a service oriented industry. We will no longer be able to stand firm with “our way” of doing business when our clients find that they can prosper without us. We need to work with our clients to find the best possible outcome.

Brian Johnson works at Guerra & Johnson, P.C.

You can also view Brian's TexasBar.com profile. 

 
Prizes

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Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Areas of practice: Criminal Law only, Board Certified in Criminal Law.

Education: B.S. Speech, University of Texas – Austin, 1987; J.D. South Texas College of Law, 1992.

Culinary talent: Makes a great potato salad.

Community Involvement: Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, have served for 19 years. Active at Denman Ave Baptist Church.

Mentors/heroes: Jesus Christ, George Patton, my father, my father-in-law.

Most important career lesson: NEVER QUIT OR GIVE UP.

Latest pursuit: Working to retire from the Marine Corps Reserve.

Favorite saying/quote: Never Give Up.

Pet peeve: People who are not on time or waste time because they are unorganized.

Secret for staying young: Keep your weight down and stay in shape.

Favorite album: Boston’s Greatest Hits.

Favorite movie: Too many to list.

Favorite sport: Football.

Favorite food: Bar-B-Que.

Favorite restaurant: Cheddar’s.

Hobbies: Reading.

Current reading material: Crazy Horse and Custer, the Parallel Lives of Two American Warriors by Stephen Ambrose.

Memorable vacation: Skiing with my daughters in Winter Park Colorado this year.

My favorite weekend retreats are: Staying at home and doing nothing.

If I had more time, I would: Sleep.

What most people don’t know about me: I am a warrior at heart.

The part of my job I do best is: Presenting my case to a jury and convincing them that following my theory is the right thing to do.

The best piece of advice ever given to you and by whom: Give 110% in whatever task assigned and no one can complain that you did not give your best. Emmett Sterling Huff, Attorney in Houston, TX whom I worked for as a law clerk.

If you weren't an attorney, what profession do you think you would be in? Sales.

What's the turning point that made you decide to become an attorney? A friend of mine, David Brown, told me that I should be in law school. I took the LSAT and applied. The rest is history.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Spend time with my family.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? Computers and wireless internet.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? I believe that more court files will go paperless.

Albert John 'Al' Charanza, Jr. works at the Charanza Law Office P.C.

You can also view Al's TexasBar.com profile

  
Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Education: B.A. and J.D., both from University of Texas

Areas of practice: I focus mainly on contested probate, trust, and guardianship matters. However, like many lawyers in small towns, I also do estate planning, real estate, and small business transactions.

Culinary talent:   Though not a very inventive cook, I do a lot of baking and have become known among friends for specialties such as chocolate cheesecake, shortbread brownies, and cinnamon rolls. I also make a mean chocolate chip cookie, with oatmeal, coconut, and pecans. My tips for good baking are: use jumbo-sized eggs and lots of vanilla.

What kind of car do you drive? I usually drive a Toyota Highlander Hybrid, but it is currently being repaired after a recent collision with a truck that was stopped in the road just after I came over a hill. The rolling hills around Brenham are quite beautiful, especially during bluebonnet season, but they can also make for perilous driving!

Favorite TV program: It’s a toss-up: “The Closer” or “House.”

Favorite album:   It would be impossible to name only one, so I’ll settle for the following five: “Closing Time,” Tom Waits; “Jubilant,” Jubilant Sykes; “Hymns of the 49^th Parallel,” k.d. lang; “A Room With a View” soundtrack; and “Nickel Creek,” Nickel Creek.

Favorite magazine: Vanity Fair.

The last movie I saw was: “The Bourne Ultimatum,” on DVD.

Memorable vacation: A couple of years ago, I flew with my kids to Philadelphia and went to Independence Hall and the Franklin Institute; took a train to Hershey, PA, where we visited the water park and chocolate factory; then rode the train to New York City, where we saw all the tourist sites and went to a Broadway musical. We rode in a plane, train, taxi cab, subway, ferry, bus, bike taxi, and horse carriage all in a week’s time – none of which we have at home!

My favorite weekend retreats are: my garden, Salado, and my mother’s house. For a long weekend, it would be Santa Fe, NM.

Secret for staying young:  Trying to keep up with my children and all of their activities helps me to stay young. I had my first child at age 37, and my son was born a week after I turned 40. So while many of my friends from high school are already grandparents, I am still reading bedtime stories, listening to knock-knock jokes, and going to little league games and on bicycle rides.  Having a pre-teen daughter helps me to keep current on younger trends in music (Hannah Montana is out, Taylor Swift is in), fashion (leggings are soooo last year) and slang (a 12-year-old who is “going out” with someone doesn’t really go anywhere; it means what “going steady” meant when I was 12). Also, most of the parents of my kids’ friends are several years younger than I am, which means that I end up hanging out a lot with a younger crowd. All of this makes me feel older, but probably helps me seem younger than I am.

 
Laura Upchurch works at Moorman Tate Moorman Urquhart Haley L.L.P.

You can also view Laura's TexasBar.com profile. 

 
Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Family: I have been married to Jason Hernandez, my high school sweetheart,
for 6 years. We have three children, Elijah (5), Ethan (3) and Isabella (1).

Areas of practice: General civil litigation, personal injury, medical malpractice
Education: B.B.A. from the University of Notre Dame (1999); J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law (2002).

Culinary talent: I make some great tacos.

Secret for staying young: My husband is very adventurous, so he keeps me young.

Favorite composers: Lennon/McCartney.

Favorite food: Fried Chicken.

Current reading material: The Twilight Saga.

My favorite weekend retreat: Cozumel, MX.

If I had more time, I would: Travel a lot more.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? Unfortunately, I think we lawyers have gotten a bad name as a result of a few bad attorneys and lots of negative propaganda. The public has an attitude of mistrust about us although we are a part of a noble profession.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Spend time with my family.

Marissa works at the Law Offices of Preston Henrichson, P.C.

View Marissa's TexasBar.com profile.

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

Born: Fort Bragg, North Carolina

Age: Have made it to 55 so far.

Family: Married with adult children.

Areas of practice: Family law, especially family law appeals.

Education: B.A. (Political Science), University of Utah, 1975; M.A. (Political Science), Emory University, 1976; J.D., University of San Diego, 1979; Ph.D. (Public Policy & Political Economy), University of Texas at Dallas, t/b/a May 2009.
 

What kind of car do you drive? An Audi, but the lease is about to run out, so we just ordered a Smart Car.
 

Mentors and heroes: Ms. Hansen, my high school English teacher; Ms. Miller, my high school math teacher. These teachers inspired me and demanded my best.

Favorite musician: There are so many, but if I had to pick just one, I'd pick the Grateful Dead.
 

Favorite magazine: It's a tie between The Nation and Fast Company.

Favorite restaurant: Waffle House.

Current reading material: The Mamur Zapt series, by Michael Pearce.

Memorable vacation: When my wife and I vegetated for a week at an all-inclusive resort on the Mexican Riviera.

My favorite weekend retreats are: My wife and I are renovating an old sailboat that we keep on Joe Pool lake. When we can get out of town for a few days, we like to go to the mountains to fish or ski.

If I had more time, I would: Finish all the projects I have already undertaken.

When you are not practicing law, what do you like to do? Build/enhance websites.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? Politicians who stood fast in daunting circumstances. My shortlist includes Lincoln, F.D.R. and Churchill. I also admire moral leaders such as Gandhi, Jimmy Carter, Nelson Mandela, and MLK.

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been licensed? Without question, technology. For example, back in the day, many lawyers considered the industry standard to be typing on paper with carbon attached using an IBM Selectric.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? Use of the Internet and wireless technologies will increase exponentially.

Jimmy Verner works at Verner & Brumley, P.C.  and has a blog, North Texas Family Law Blog.

You can also view Jimmy's TexasBar.com profile. 

 
Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas.

The last movie I saw was: Slumdog Millionaire

Favorite magazine: The Economist. Over the years, they seem to have been ahead of the curve on a lot of important calls.   

Education: BA, University of Nebraska (1970); JD, St. Mary’s Law School (1972).

Family: My wife, Nan, and I have been married for 37 years (we met in second grade). Our two sons are married to wonderful young women. We have four grandchildren.

Who are the people you admire most, and why? Parents and teachers of children. How do they do everything they do, on a consistent basis, in a 24-hour day is amazing! Now days, there are so many things that compete for priority. In the face of that, most parents and teachers still make sure the kids come first.

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing attorneys today? I’ve been away from it for awhile; but staying current, and coping with the pressures presented by the business side of the practice, were always two of the biggest challenges. Don’t know about now.

Bad habit: Being late for meetings, but that’s not much of a problem anymore!

Community Involvement: St. Anthony Catholic Grade School, Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church

Mentors/heroes: My parents, my wife.

Most important career lesson: Stay current and keep your resume updated.  

Latest pursuit: Expanding the farm inventory to include lesser used, drought-tolerant  native tree species, e.g. Texas persimmon, Carolina buckthorn, etc.. 

Current Project: Trying to manage the farm in a way that maximizes organic practices.

Favorite saying/quote:
“Be yourself” (from my mother)
“Do the best you can, and forget about it” (from my father);
“Age quod agis” or “Do what you’re doing”, a favorite reminder from the terrific priests of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who ran the high school I went to.

Pet peeve: My not putting things back were they belong.

Secret for staying young: Aspirin and red wine!

Favorite TV program: “24”

Favorite artist: Kay Jackson of Washington D.C.

Favorite album: Swing Low

Favorite music/musician: Sam Cooke

Favorite sport: College football and basketball

Favorite food: Mexican food

Favorite restaurant: La Fonda on Main in San Antonio

Generally likes to read/Last book read/Current reading material: The Snowball Warren Buffet and the Business of Life (Schroeder); The German Generals Talk (Hart). I also like to see what other people are reading, e.g. http://abajournal.com/news/whats_on_your_reading_list/

Memorable vacation: Camping in Yellowstone; Visiting the Normandy beaches and cemetery.

Best thing about being a lawyer: Being able to work with people who know what they’re doing, on projects that have a chance of accomplishing something worthwhile.

The part of my job I do best is: grow things

If you weren't an attorney (or farmer), what profession do you think you would be in?  A teacher. I’ve taught before and it’s something I think most lawyers might like to do, and would be good at doing. 

What has changed the most technologically or practice wise since you have been - licensed? I was licensed in 1973. The ways in which we can now communicate have changed everything in the practice. There are higher expectations on lawyers by clients and the judiciary. Technology has also provided great ways to help meet those expectations. Of course, the ‘increased production’ resulting from these technological developments has a price that’s not always acknowledged.

How do you think the practice will change in the next 15 years? Given the enormous changes in past 15 years, I can’t imagine; but it seems like there will be tremendous opportunities for lawyers. People who can spot issues, solve problems, pose alternate, and hopefully constructive, courses of action, etc. will always be in demand – and in the future, more than ever. On the civil side, in business settings, it seems like there will be an ever increasing demand for practitioners good at those things. The more complex things get, the more those talents will be at a premium. In that context, keeping the lines clear between the role of the client and the role of the lawyer will be as important as ever.   

Prizes

It's not every day that you're randomly picked from among 80,000 peers. To commemorate, randomly-profiled attorneys receive a TexasBar.com t-shirt and a law firm link (a $50 value).

Update Your Online Profile

Have you updated your attorney profile lately? Go to MyBarPage on TexasBar.com, log in, and click "Update My Profile."

Once on your MyBarPage on TexasBar.com under the "Update My Profile" section, click "Edit" under "My Directory Options" to add your photo for free. While you're there, consider adding a law firm link too. This is a hyperlink from your profile in our Find-a-Lawyer directory to your own law firm website. At only $50/yr, law firm links are a great way to drive traffic to your site.

Opinions and statements expressed in these profiles are those of their subjects - not the State Bar of Texas