Official Government Website
Month: July 2023
Notice of Opportunity to Submit Applications for the Position of Supreme Court Justice – Deadline 8/18
Notice is hereby given that the Judicial Council is now accepting applications for the position of Supreme Court Justice. The Idaho Judicial Council is starting the process of selecting nominees to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable John R. Stegner, effective October 31, 2023. The salary of a Supreme Court Justice is $165,212. Comprehensive information about the benefits afforded judges is available by clicking here.
Application forms are available on the Judicial Council website at www.judicialcouncil.idaho.gov. You must use the 7/1/2020 application form. COMPLETED APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE JUDICIAL COUNCIL OFFICE NO LATER THAN 3:00 P.M., AUGUST 18, 2023. Applications should be submitted to:
Idaho Judicial Council
P.O. Box 1397
Boise, Idaho 83701
Telephone: (208) 334-5213
For hand delivery or via Federal Express, please contact the Judicial Council Office at the phone number above for directions.
Immediately following receipt of the applications, the Judicial Council will circulate a questionnaire to the Bar via e-mail and to the general public concerning the qualifications of the candidates and will notify each candidate of the time and date for personal interviews. The Council is currently planning to hold the interviews and selection of the candidates on October 18, 2023.
50 Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1973
These acknowledgments honor members of the Idaho State Bar who have been admitted for 65 years. Thank you to all who submitted material to be included in this portion of our awards.
Darrel W. Aherin
Darrel W. Aherin is the senior partner in the Lewiston law firm of Aherin, Rice & Anegon, having established his private practice in 1974. He received his J.D. in May 1973 from the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in November 1973. He built his own office building near the Nez Perce County Courthouse, where his practice remains since the spring of 1976. Darrel was admitted to the Nez Perce Tribal Court in 2000, and to the Washington State Bar and Oregon State Bar in 2007. Darrel focused his practice of law in the areas of personal injury, product liability, and insurance claims. He now has added probate and estate planning. He served a term as a bar representative to the Idaho Judicial Council from 1997 to 2003, served as President of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (“ITLA”) from 1994 to 1995, was awarded Trial Lawyer of the Year by ITLA in 2005, and the Distinguished Lawyer Award by the Idaho State Bar in 2017. Darrel was also one of the governors from Idaho on the Board of Governors to the American Association for Justice from 1996 to 2021. Darrel is married to Michelle and has three sons (one deceased) and two grandsons.
James T. (“Tom”) Baird
James T. (“Tom”) Baird is a native Idahoan who is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. He lives in Twin Falls. He has served as a Deputy Attorney General under eight different attorneys general in the Health and Human Services Department. Tom has two daughters and two grandchildren.
Carl F. Bianchi
Carl graduated from Hamilton College and Duke University School of Law. He and his wife, Gloria, moved to Boise in 1973 when he was hired by the Idaho Supreme Court as the first Administrative Director of the Courts, to continue the court reform movement begun in the 1960s. He helped the Supreme Court’s effort to reduce then-endemic delays in the courts, an effort later recognized by the American Judicature Society. In honor of Idaho’s Centennial Celebration in 1990, he edited the first written history of the Idaho courts, “Justice for the Times,” published by the Idaho Law Foundation, and featuring chapters written by leading Idaho judges and lawyers.
After retiring from the courts in 1993, Carl became the first Director of Legislative Services for the Idaho Legislature, where he consolidated and supervised nonpartisan staff services, retiring in 2006. He also helped pass legislation to restore Idaho’s Capitol building and served on the Idaho Capitol Commission for 10 years, aiding the restoration and underground expansion of the Capitol.
Carl and Gloria have been married for 54 years and enjoy family time with their two daughters. He remains supportive of the Idaho court system and how it has adapted in recent years to the changes and growth in our state, and he is proud of the Idaho State Bar, and the individual judges and lawyers that have given our state a national reputation for excellence.
William L. Bird
William Bird is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. William and his wife, Janice, live in Logan, Utah.
Schuyler L. Bradley
Shuyler Bradley is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. Schuyler lives in West Richland, Washington.
Robert L. Brower
Robert L. Brower is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Robert and his wife, Shirley, live in Coeur d’Alene.
Ronald D. Bruce
Ronald Bruce spent four years in the United States Marine Corps, and a brief stint at the U.S. Committee for UNICEF as a secretary (typist level). U.S. District Judge Constance Baker Motley, arranged for his appointment as a Deputy Clerk at the prestigious Southern District of New York courthouse at Foley Square in New York City. It was hard to leave for college those marble halls, the dignity of the judges and lawyers, and the magisterial atmosphere.
His years at Idaho State University (“ISU”) as a philosophy major included speech and debate achievements, editor of the ISU Bengal, and social chairman who booked Tina and Ike Turner, the Count Basie Orchestra, and speakers like Timothy Leary, Amiri Baraka, and Robert Welch, Jr.
After graduating from ISU with a B.A. in philosophy, Ron landed a reporter internship at the Salt Lake City Tribune. There he loved covering court proceedings and was blessed to report a comment by U. S. District Judge Willis W. Ritter, who observed during a pandering sentencing that “prostitution in Salt Lake City is a stinking mess and would be so easy to clean up.” The story made headlines nationally, with Salt Lake City commissioners rightfully grumbling about the judge not specifying such an easy cleansing strategy. Ron often had regrets about leaving the Tribune for law school.
Ron’s paternal grandmother, Clara W. Burrill, was editor of her law review at Boston University College of Law inspired him to better scholarship at the University of Idaho College of Law. He made the moot court team and was lucky to be in the Class of 1973, which was the last class to enjoy an all-essay bar exam.
Attorney General W. Anthony Park hired Ron as deputy upon his graduation. He was primarily in the criminal division, doing trial prosecutions, appellate defense, and principal counsel to the Idaho Department of Corrections. Ron was appointed and elected Magistrate for the Fifth District Court in Rupert, and then upon the retirement of Idaho District Judge Sherman Bellwood, succeeded to his position. It was a high honor and privilege to serve in those positions, and enjoy the professional association with Judge Bellwood, District Judge George Granata, and Magistrate Judge Roy Holloway.
In addition to Attorney General Park, Ron also worked for Attorneys General Larry Echohawk and Jim Jones. Those three lawyers were extraordinary in their competence and devotion to ethical public service.
These days Ron travels quite often, and in May completed a 111-day world cruise. When resting up between travels he enjoys doing pro bono cases and arbitrations.
Linda J. Cook
An Idaho native, Linda Cook grew up in Ririe, Bonneville County. She obtained a master’s degree and, being adventurous, taught college level classes at the maximum-security men’s Prison in Walla Walla, Washington. She was the first woman who “worked inside the walls” of that facility, in its existence of nearly 100 years. Linda was on the faculty of a local college, so most classes were with typical college students. After two years there, she went to Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, and taught English as a Second Language for a year; at that time, there were not many English as a Second Language (“ESL”) programs. Her position was in conjunction with the U.S. Consulate in that city; some of her responsibilities were at the Consulate and some at a private school. Both jobs provided some communication skills and information that were useful later as a lawyer and magistrate judge.
Linda attended the University of Idaho College of Law at a time when there were few women students and some of the men expected the women to be secretaries, not lawyers. She enjoyed the academic experience as well as friendships with the faculty and other students. After graduation and being adventurous again, she lived in San Francisco and considered a career there, but after a few months realized her heart was left in Idaho and came back home. She then became a deputy prosecutor for Bonneville County and was appointed to be a Magistrate Judge in 1976.
Being a Magistrate was interesting and professionally rewarding. Linda was able to meet many attorneys and judges. She was involved with various professional committees and organizations including the Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Commission, the Governor’s Task Force for Children at Risk, the Court’s Fairness and Equality Committee, the Court’s Legislative Committee, as well as domestic violence and child abuse programs locally. She had many interesting cases and opportunities to hold court outside her judicial district.
Travel has always been interesting – having been everywhere from Antarctica to see penguins (tourists are rarely allowed on the ice) and up to northern Alaska to see puffins. She stood on the spot where the Austrian prince was assassinated in Sarajevo, Bosnia which resulted in World War I, and where Hitler’s generals tried to blow him up in Poland. She’s been to the Amazon River and the Andes Mountains. She’s ridden camels in three countries and hopes to ride an elephant someday.
Linda is involved with the local Museum of Idaho and recently received an award for 20 years of service. As a retired judge, she continues to perform weddings and occasionally performs a wedding for someone whose parents or grandparents were also married by her. She finds it fun to reconnect with people from the past and looks forward to many more years. Linda also has a large and loving family which includes nieces who are also lawyers.
Dale Cox
Dale Cox is a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School. Dale lives in Orofino.
Steve R. Cox
Steve R. Cox is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Steve and his wife, Terry, live in Lewiston.
Jack L. Curtin
Jack Lynn Curtin wants to extend a thank you to the State of Idaho and the majority of those residing therein, including the Idaho State Bar, which has grown significantly from the time he was admitted.
Jack remembers that there were few doors open to returning combat veterans in 1970. Dean Maynard at the University of Idaho graciously opened one and Jack jumped at the chance – he never looked back, although he almost missed it. It was the fall of 1970 and he had recently been released from active duty in the Navy. He was fishing on a coastal river in Oregon toward noon and wandered in the local bait shop. As he walked in a clerk asked his name and said he had a personal phone message from the University of Idaho waiting. Jack returned the call to find out that classes had started and wanted to confirm his attendance. He never quite figured out how they tracked him down but off he went!
To Jack there are many things that make the past 50 years so special. The following story is pretty much on point. We will let you read it from his own words:
“I don’t know the date, but it happened around the time we were still traveling to other jurisdictions for CLE credits. On one such occasion, I journeyed to another jurisdiction to glean the special knowledge that only faraway places seemed to offer. It was at a time when most states had adopted the plastic credit card look for their bar card, with all the shine and substance that can be jammed into a computerized wonder.
It was the first day of the seminar and the lady at the registration desk noted I was from out of town and asked to see my bar card. It was, of course, the paper punchout card that has distinguished Idaho attorneys for decades. The lady examined the card carefully, back and front, she even held it up to the light before handing it back to me. “Interesting,” she said, “did you make it yourself?”
Jack says it’s true when they say Idaho is a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family. His wife, Becky, of 47 years and counting, have done it all. Of the “few good decisions in my life” dropping anchor in Idaho 53 years ago was one of them for Jack. He wishes Godspeed and good fortune to those who follow; and don’t mess it up.
James M. (“Jim”) English
James (“Jim”) English began his law career in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho in the late fall of 1973 as a sole practitioner specializing in litigation and real estate law after graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law.
In 1979, Jim joined Idaho Forest Industries, Inc. (“IFI”), a lumber manufacturer and real estate developer, as corporate counsel. He held various management positions with IFI including Chief Operating Officer and President until retirement in 2001. His focus after IFI was real estate development in Boise, Eagle, Caldwell, and Coeur d’Alene, during which he maintained a limited real estate law practice until transferring to senior status in 2021.
Jim and his wife, Gail, have been married for 57 years; they have two daughters, Rebecca Zanetti and Debra Smith, and four grandchildren.
Donald J. Farley
Donald (“Don”) Farley says that 50 years doesn’t seem that long ago. It has gone all too quickly when he stops to think about it. He tries not to think about it! It has been fun, which is why it has gone by too fast.
Don started as a law clerk for the Honorable J. Blaine Anderson, U.S. District Court Judge in Boise one day after his graduation from the University of Idaho College of Law. From working with and observing Judge Anderson and many skilled trial lawyers during the two-year clerkship he learned how to be a lawyer, including the skills of hard work, preparation, professionalism, and ethics. He has tried to emulate those attributes ever since.
He has been primarily a trial lawyer and so-called insurance defense lawyer, first with a larger law firm in Boise, then he left in 1988 and started another successful law firm with close friends and great lawyers. Unfortunately, that firm closed in 2012, which Don would like to think had nothing to do with him. Don is currently a trial lawyer with Powers Farley PC (formerly Powers Tolman Farley) with close friends, but he says it’s probably time to retire. His areas of practice have varied but he would like to point out that he is undefeated as a criminal defense lawyer. One and done! Having successfully defending a Not Guilty verdict for his cousin’s husband against 93 felony counts of cattle theft, running brands, altering brands, and anything else the Owyhee County Sheriff and prosecutor could throw in.
Don has tried cases or at least appeared in every district court in Idaho. He is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers and has worked with lawyers from all over the country. He has won more than he has lost but the losses still sting.
Don and his beautiful, loving wife, Geridee, have been married for 54 years. In his own words: “I wouldn’t have gotten this far without her. She deserves this Milestone recognition more than I do.” Don has two sons: Brandon, who was born the year before Don started law school, and Ryan, who came along during his federal court clerkship. Don and Geridee are incredibly proud of their children’s accomplishments, successes, and families. They have two grandsons and two granddaughters; the oldest grandson is in college, the next oldest grandson will be graduated from high school by the time this is read and headed to college, and the two talented and beautiful granddaughters will be graduating and on to college or wherever their interests take them over the next two years.
Don signs off this Milestone recognition with a note from Bob Seger, “There I go, turn the page.” (1973)
James R. (“Jim”) Fields
The law opened many doors for Jim Fields. He started law school at the University of Idaho College of Law as a senior. He was selected as one of the 12 Outstanding Seniors. But an unexpected, interpersonal relationship situation caused him to drop out; in the interim he participated in the Peace Corps and served in the Army as an officer in Vietnam. Jim finally returned to the University of Idaho College of Law and graduated with the Class of 1973. After this five-year hiatus, the former mystique of law school was gone.
Jim spent three years in Washington, D.C. as Staff Counsel to U.S. Senator Jim McClure, focusing on legislative writing, veteran’s affairs, and social security. Returning to Idaho he became General Counsel and later Vice President for the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry (“IACI”) in Boise, lobbying for 11 years for employers and private enterprise. In 1978, he helped develop IACI’s Idaho Business Week, which taught high school students America’s private enterprise system. One of his focuses was Idaho’s Workers Compensation System.
Jim also worked for Penland and Munther, focusing on employers’ issues, for three years followed by working for himself. This time was focused on non-profit, legislative, and private enterprise issues. Moving to Olympia, he managed the Washington Self-Insurers Association. Finally, after returning to Boise, he worked for Quane, Smith, Howard, and Hull, focusing on workers compensation defense for five years.
In 1998, Jim and his wife returned home to Filer. Rather than practice law he again turned to non-profit work for the South-Central Community Action Agency. Later he took charge of the College of Southern Idaho’s Office of Aging for 10 years.
During his career, he has been active in his communities in the Kiwainis service club, local boards and committees, and statewide associations.
Jim loves to fish, camp, hunt, and travel. He has visited all but five of the 50 states so far. He has always been fascinated by differences in cultures and how we are different, yet the same. Jim and his lovely wife, Barbara, have one daughter, Karrie. He hopes to fulfill one of his earliest bucket list items of traveling the world.
Greg J. Fuller
Greg Fuller graduated from the University of California Berkeley in 1966, with a bachelor’s degree in zoology, followed by three years of graduate studies in biology at California State Long Beach in the master’s degree program. Then came a career change from education to law and Greg headed for law school at Hastings College of the Law. Immediately upon graduating from Hastings, Greg and his wife, Shawna, headed for Idaho to begin a six-year tutelage in private practice with James J. May. After this time of invaluable mentoring, Greg met and formed a partnership with another great influence in his life, future Idaho Attorney General and Supreme Court Chief Justice, Jim Jones. After a few years with Jim, who had many important future roles to fill in Idaho jurisprudence, Greg continued his private practice in Twin Falls and Jerome, specializing in criminal law, family law, and general practice. Over the last 50 years, Greg has partnered with many young lawyers who have all contributed to the success of Fuller Law, including Daniel Brown who has practiced with Greg for the past 16 years.
Greg and his wife, Shawna, of 55 years, have six children, Matthew, Michael, Amy, Mark, Joanna, and Nicole, and 10 grandchildren. Over the last 40 years, the entire family has snowmobiled, snow and water skied, motorcycled, and hiked all throughout the Sawtooth Valley from their cabin in Smiley Creek. Greg was the producer of the Northside Playhouse, producing musical theatre productions for 15 years in Twin Falls and Jerome. Finally, for 46 years, Greg has answered the call as Chairman of the Board to form and support the Port of Hope, the oldest drug and alcohol treatment center in the State of Idaho, operating at one time or another out of Twin Falls, Boise, Nampa, and Coeur d’Alene.
Greg continues to practice in Twin Falls, Idaho, and is always the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave at night.
William F. Gigray III
William Gigray proudly obtained his Juris Doctorate from the esteemed University of Idaho College of Law in 1972. Little did he know that this milestone would mark the beginning of an illustrious legal career spanning five decades. He is filled with gratitude for the opportunities, experiences, and achievements that have shaped him both personally and professionally.
In June 1973, William embarked on his legal career as a part of the respected law firm of Gigray, Downen & Morgan in Caldwell, Idaho. As the youngest attorney in the office, he was entrusted with diverse responsibilities, including representing indigent criminal defendants as court-appointed counsel. It was during this time that he gained invaluable experience in criminal defense practice, handling notable cases such as a murder appointment that ultimately reached the United States Supreme Court. These formative years laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
In 1977, the firm merged with the Caldwell-based Miller & Weston law firm, marking a significant milestone in William’s career. For over a decade, William continued to thrive as a member of the firm, until July 1990 when he joined and became a shareholder of the present-day White, Peterson, Gigray & Nichols P.A. This transition allowed him to further refine his legal skills and focus on diverse areas, including criminal law, business law, probate, estate planning, divorce, product liability, medical malpractice, personal injury, workers’ compensation, bankruptcy, real estate, and municipal law.
William actively engages in professional associations and organizations, making significant contributions to the legal community. He served as the President of the Third District Bar Association from 1978 to 1979 and again from 1998 to 2003; he sat on the Board of Directors for the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association, later assuming the presidency from 2001 to 2002. Recognized for his professionalism and dedication, William was honored with the Idaho State Bar Professionalism Award in 2006 and the Idaho State Bar Distinguished Lawyer Award in 2019. Additionally, his commitment to the development of civil rules led to involvement with the Idaho Supreme Court Civil Rules Committee and the Idaho Supreme Court Civil Rules Ad Hoc Committee.
Beyond his legal practice, William has always been driven to give back to his community. Taking on leadership roles in various civic organizations, he served as the President of both the Jaycees and the Caldwell Optimist Club. Presently, William proudly serves as the President of the Greenbelt Civic League of Caldwell, Inc., the Caldwell Foundation for Educational Opportunity, Inc. (“CFEO”), and the Foundation for Ada/Canyon Trails Systems, Inc. (“FACTS”). Furthermore, William’s commitment to faith has led him to serve at all administrative levels of the Presbyterian Church, including membership on the local church session, the Boise Presbytery, Synod of the Pacific, and General Assembly.
William considers himself blessed with a loving family and a fulfilling personal life. Alongside his wife, Barbara, they raised three successful children who have each found their own paths to contribute to society. Will Gigray IV serves as a Captain with the Caldwell Fire Department, Anne Kinley Middleton excels as a middle school teacher, and Mary Gigray is an attorney with the Canyon County Public Defender’s office. William has also been blessed with five grandchildren.
David D. Goss
David D. Goss is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. David and his wife, Anne, live in Boise.
Blair J. Grover
Blair J. Grover is a graduate of the George Washington University Law School. Blair and his wife, Joann, live in Rigby.
Robert G. Hamlin
Robert G. Hamlin is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Robert and his wife, Carol, live in Boise.
Jesse B. Hawley III
In 1989, after 16 years as a sole practitioner on Main Street in Boise, Jesse (“Jess”) Hawley accepted an offer of employment as an executive for Morrison Knudsen Co., then a Fortune 500 company. This choice marked his exit from the legal profession.
Jess began his career in healthcare in 1993 when he was appointed Administrator of Syringa General Hospital in Grangeville. He held that position for 13 years and then accepted employment with Essentia Health, a large Minnesota-based health care system with hospitals throughout that region and also in Montana and Idaho. He served as Vice President for Business Development, working with rural hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, he took special assignments in both Montana and Idaho. He became the interim CEO of the Great Falls Hospital for 18 months and worked to put the hospital and its many clinics on a path for integration with a larger system.
In 2010, he became CEO of St. Benedict’s Hospital in Jerome, where he oversaw the successful merger of that hospital into the St. Luke’s Healthcare System. After this transaction closed, he retired in 2011.
He has enjoyed challenging and gratifying board service: nine years on the Blue Cross of Idaho Board. He was elected to the Idaho Hospital Association Board and served as its Chairman in 2001. Other board affiliations included the Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the University of Idaho National Alumni Association.
For work/life balance, Jess is a committed River Rat, a Baldy Mountain skier, a chukar hunter, golfer, and proud founding member of the Chiseled Features Running Club.
He and his wife, Iris, find joy spending time with their family: three kids and two grandchildren, all of whom live in Idaho. They split time between their homes in Boise and Jug Mountain Ranch in McCall.
An Idaho native, Jess earned his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Idaho. He values the enduring friendships forged with his law school classmates.
John P. Howard
John P. Howard is a graduate of the University of Washington School of Law. John and his wife, Patty, live in Boise.
Ronald D. Howen
Ronald D. Howen is a graduate of the University of California-Davis School of Law (King Hall). Ronald and his wife, Amy, live in Lakeview, Oregon.
Alan K. Hull
Alan K. Hull is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Alan and his wife, Cathy, live in Boise.
Peter J. Hutchinson
Peter J. Hutchinson is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Peter and his wife, Donna, live in St. Maries.
Ray D. Johnson
Ray D. Johnson is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Ray and his wife, Vicki, live in Meridian.
Terry L. Johnson
Terry L. Johnson is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Terry and his wife, Carolyn, live in Hagerman.
Dennis R. Jones
Dennis R. Jones is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Dennis and his wife, Kerry, live in Boise.
Steven L. Kauer
Steven L. Kauer is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Steven and his wife, Patricia, live in Blackfoot.
James P. (“Jim”) Kaufman
James (“Jim”) Kaufman was married in August 1968 and began law school at the University of Idaho College of Law shortly thereafter. Almost immediately he was drafted into the Army for the Vietnam War but was able to complete the first year of school before reporting. Jim returned in 1971 and finished the last two years, then started his career with the Attorney General’s Office in the criminal division in the fall of 1973. In 1975, he moved to the Department of Finance and worked with the team regulating the offering and sale of securities.
While there, the Hunt brothers from Dallas made the corporate raid on the Sunshine Mine Corp., which took Jim around the country for a year. Working with large law firms specializing in corporate takeovers was quite an experience for a young, small-town attorney, and he learned to appreciate the simple life.
In 1978, Jim left state government for private practice with the firm of Anderson, Kaufman, Anderson & Ringert, which eventually became known as Ringert Clark Chartered, and then finally Ringert Law Chartered.
Not knowing any better, Jim accepted a request from the federal court to represent a person charged with a crime, before they would tell him the name of the defendant. It turned out to be a member of the Aryan Nations charged with having enough weapons to outfit a small army. During the case, he met people having extreme racist views and general hatred for others. Whether for political or religious reasons, they felt justified in conducting a war against the world. It was an experience Jim decided not to repeat.
Jim’s practice eventually settled into estate planning, guardianships, and conservatorships. He was one of the initial attorneys specializing in the area and co-authored the guardianship/conservatorship and probate form books that are still in use today.
In 2014, the firm of Ringert Law Chartered dissolved and Jim started a new firm with his partner James G. Reid, which was known as Kaufman Reid PLLC. They enjoyed practicing together until Jim moved to his retirement firm, Gravis Law PLLC, in February 2020.
Jim is a past member and president of the Treasure Valley Estate Planning Council, a member of the Trust and Estates Professionals, Inc., and part of the team that convinced the Idaho Legislature that common law marriage is no longer needed in Idaho. He is also a member and past president of the Taxation, Probate & Estate Planning Section of the Idaho State Bar, a past member of the Idaho Supreme Court Guardianship Committee, and is currently a member of the Boise Estate Planning Council.
Jim’s career has focused on helping people with reasonable planning for incapacity and the transfer of assets to the next generation in a manner in which they are least likely to struggle. He has been involved in many cases with bitter family dissention, trying to help them through the process expediently. It has been quite a challenge at times. It is not the system at fault, but an awkward plan and family discord that causes the difficulty. The hundreds of guardianship and conservatorship cases in which he has been involved have provided many memories.
Jim initially went to college intending to study oceanography, but soon realized that was not his true calling. It was helping people with their personal estate issues. Jim has enjoyed a wonderful career and if given the chance, would do it all over again.
David J. Knowlton
David J. Knowlton is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. David lives in Ogden, Utah.
William F. Lee
William F. Lee is a graduate of the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law. William lives in Emmett.
John C. Lynn
As John Lynn looks back over the years, he feels mostly lucky. He somewhat fell into law school. He was teaching at a federal prison for deferment purposes – deferment from the Vietnam war draft. This was a younger, racially tense population. He learned far more than what he taught. A couple inmates asked to write an article about what to expect in prison from a teacher’s perspective. It was objective and not positive. The administration took offense and fired John. Unbeknownst to him, the professional staff objected and petitioned for his reinstatement. By the time John got the notice, he had been accepted into law school. That was his first experience with the First Amendment.
In those days you didn’t need a life-plan at age 22. John could afford the $500 tuition on his janitor’s pay. Times have changed! It was great, particularly living in Ann Arbor in the early 70’s. In his final year, he worked part-time for an older lawyer (Carl) in a nearby small town with a ski hill (in southern Michigan, no less). Carl remodeled his office and wanted John to, basically, inherit his practice – an opportunity of a lifetime, so to speak. But growing up in the Midwest, John had always wanted to go to the mountains. So, John gave Carl a hug and chose Boise instead – population 60,000. “Two roads diverged in a wood…”
John was warmly received by the local bar – people like Allyn Dingel and Charlie McDevitt. He learned a lot the hard way. He recalls arguing a legal point a bit too far before a very distinguished district judge. The judge, in so many words, ordered John to sit down and shut up. John needed to apologize so he went to chambers the next day. Before he could get it all out, the judge said, “Wait John, it was my fault too – I overreacted.” This set the tone for decades of helping people get out of one form of trouble or another.
John said he must give tribute to his two partners for most of this time – Gar Hackney and Larry Scott, both deceased. They collected stories about funny things. This kept them going in the right direction. John enjoyed the employment/whistleblower cases the most. “What goes around comes around,” he says.
John is mostly retired now, living half-time in Mexico – a different place with a different way of doing things. He is content and has a loving family. But living in the relative tranquility of Mexico, he can see what he calls the great unraveling in the U.S. – at least from headline news. The loss of decency and civility, most illustrated by dysfunctional politics. He says he sees a reckoning for democracy – a war, really. On one side are the crazies creeping relentlessly toward authoritarianism – the last refuge for the true believers. On the other are you, his fellow lawyers and jurists. He hopes he’s wrong. But thinking some of you will have to become foot soldiers against the looming chaos, armed only with ideas like due process, respect for the law, and legal accountability. John thanks you all in advance on behalf of the grandchildren. Good luck.
J. Frederick Mack
J. Frederick Mack is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Frederick and his wife, Mona, live in Boise.
Raymond J. Malouf, Jr.
Raymond N. Malouf, Jr. is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. Raymond and his wife, Sharyl, live in Logan, Utah.
Stephen J. McGrath
Born into a family history of lawyers dating back to 1881, Stephen McGrath grew up in rural Iowa, where his father, James W. McGrath, practiced law for over 50 years in the first courthouse built in the State of Iowa (1840).
Steve received his education at the University of Iowa (B.A., 1968), University of Stockholm, Sweden (1966-67), University of Idaho College of Law (J.D., 1973), and then served briefly in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam conflict.
He first engaged in the general practice of law in Idaho Falls in 1973 with an emphasis in litigation and mediation, successfully mediating several hundred cases. He never lost a jury trial or appeal to the Idaho Court of Appeals or the Idaho Supreme Court during his 35-year career.
Steve served on the Idaho State Bar Professional Conduct Board for three terms, the third being at the request of then-bar counsel and with special approval of the Idaho Supreme Court due to then-applicable term limits. While actively practicing, he received the Idaho State Bar’s Professionalism Award and Service Award.
By way of public service, he served on the original Idaho Depredation Committee dealing with depredation by wildlife on agricultural crops. Following a negotiated settlement between sportsmen and the agricultural representatives, Steve assisted legislative counsel in drafting Idaho’s wildlife depredation program. (I.C. Sec. 36-1107, et seq.)
He also served on the Idaho Fish and Game Advisory committee and Idaho Fish and Wildlife Foundation Board of Directors. Steve was instrumental in designing and obtaining legislative approval for Idaho’s elk license plate.
Steve is past general counsel and a director of the North American Elk Breeders Association, and Past president and director of the Elk Research Council, an international animal health research non-profit corporation.
Throughout his legal career, Steve has always stayed busy farming and ranching, hunting and fishing, and managed to travel to over 20 foreign countries which gave him the perspective of how lucky we are to live in America.
He lists his biggest disappointments in his 50 years of the practice of law in Idaho as: the failure of the legislature to provide adequate funding to attract the best candidates for Idaho’s judgeships. The sad day that Idaho’s lawyers made the transition to billing their time in increments of 6/10 of an hour. Since that day, some have become “overly business-like and less professional,” he feels.
Steve is currently happily retired on a small working ranch at the base of a mountain in Swan Valley with his bride of 40 years, Julie. They continue to raise elk and manage a small wildlife sanctuary for the benefit of waterfowl, birds of prey, and occasional moose, elk, and deer.
Harlow J. McNamara
Harlow J. McNamara is a graduate of the George Washington University Law School. Harlow and his wife, Judy, live in Idaho Falls.
Manderson L. Miles, Jr.
Manderson (“Mandy”) Miles began working as an intern in 1972 for Owen L. Knowlton, an attorney in Lewiston, while he was in law school. Owen had a general civil law practice and a public defender contract for Nez Perce County. After graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law, Mandy began practicing full-time in Owen’s law office. Owen and Mandy tried numerous criminal cases including several murder cases. Their general law practice grew to include contracts, real estate, family law, and personal injury, both plaintiff and defense. They represented many interesting people from all walks of life, including loggers, farmers, ranchers, guides and outfitters, business clients, and many others. Mandy truly enjoyed the variety of clients and learning about their issues. He learned a lot about the colorful history of Idaho and its people.
Over the years Mandy has been awarded the Pro Bono and Professionalism Awards for the Second District Bar Association. He appreciated the education he received at the University of Idaho College of Law and enjoyed working with many lawyers in Idaho and other states. Four of the lawyers from his firm are now judges and he is proud of their service. The law firm of Knowlton & Miles is still active with attorney Rick Cuddihy and Joe Schumacher.
Mandy has been a pilot for 45 years and has flown his Cessna 180 to Alaska, Mexico, Canada, all over the Idaho backcountry, and the Western States. He enjoys fishing, camping, bible study, flying, and bird hunting.
Mandy has two children, Sonja and Spencer, who both attended the University of Idaho and are both successful in financial jobs and business. He also has two granddaughters who are his pride and joy.
Paul B. Mosley
Paul B. Mosley is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Paul and his wife, Marjorie, live in Long Beach, California.
Hugh V. Mossman
Hugh Mossman was admitted to the Iowa Bar Association in 1971 and practiced in his dad’s Iowa law firm briefly before starting his ROTC commitment (his dad loved to remind him years later of the potential litigation he faced from Hugh’s first wills and title opinions). Following the Army Reserves, Hugh moved to Idaho, where he was employed as an Ada County public defender, city prosecutor, and eventually Boise City attorney.
In 1981, he went into private practice specializing in litigation, worker’s compensation, and social security disability and served as the president of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association in 1996. He was very proud and fortunate when his daughter, Taylor, joined the practice resulting in a gradual shift from law to babysitting, climbing mountains, and watercolor painting.
Fifty years is indeed a milestone and looking back, Hugh says how lucky he has been to share it with colleagues, clients, and friends in the legal community and, of course, his wife, Barb, and daughter, Taylor.
Douglas R. Nelson
Douglas Nelson is a fourth generation Idahoan raised in rural Bonneville County, spending much of his youth at his grandparents’ farm milking cows and chasing chickens. He graduated from Bonneville High School where he participated in wrestling, concert band, student government, and debate. Doug attended Brigham Young University with the aid of a debate scholarship and enjoyed competing in tournaments throughout the United States. He also participated in the National Model United Nations Competition held at the U.N. in New York City.
Doug received an “early” admission to the University of Utah College of Law where he graduated with high honors at the age of 23. He returned to Idaho Falls and joined the Sharp, Anderson and Bush law firm, which after 50 years in the same location, is known as Nelson Hall Parry Tucker, PLLC.
Doug and his wife, Billie Call Nelson, have been married for 52 years. Their six children include five daughters who followed their mother in receiving education degrees and one son, Ryan Nelson, who currently serves as a judge on the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
During high school Doug worked as a news photographer for KID-TV, a CBS affiliate, where he filmed stories as diverse as automobile crashes, political campaigns, and the 1965 visit of President Lyndon Johnson to the Idaho National Laboratory.
Doug has enjoyed a diverse legal career. During law school he clerked for the Utah Attorney General’s Security Fraud Office and held teaching assistant positions in criminal law and estate planning. His early practice included commercial litigation, small business organizations, and representing lenders in state and federal court with several arguments before the Idaho Supreme Court. During the 1980s “farm crisis” his practice focused on troubled loan resolution and included representation before Congressional committees in Washington, D.C.
In recent years, Doug’s practice has emphasized estate planning and education law. He is a past president of the East Idaho Estate Planning Council and has provided numerous continuing education presentations relating to lending, estates, and education law. He has served as a lecturer for the Idaho State University and Brigham Young University-Idaho Departments of Education.
Doug has enjoyed church and community service. He has served as an LDS bishop, stake presidency member, and as a director of public affairs. He is a past president of the Bonneville United Way, Idaho Falls YMCA, and Idaho Falls Civitan and Rotary Clubs. He served for several years on the “Big Sky” and the Western States boards for YMCA of America. Doug is a past Chairman of the Idaho Community Foundation where he and Billie maintained a charitable fund and served on various advisory and grants panels for many years. Their work has emphasized assistance for non-traditional students re-engaging with post- secondary education, local school educational enhancement, and addressing food insecurity. Recently, Doug was instrumental in repurposing a 17,000 square foot LDS meeting house into a new food distribution and self- reliance education center operated by the Regional Council for Christian Ministry in the Idaho Falls area.
Doug is the recipient of various recognitions, including the Idaho Community Foundation’s Friend of the Foundation award, the Idaho State Bar Professionalism Award, and the Idaho Governor’s Home-Town Hero Award.
Doug’s hobbies have included skiing, boating, historical biography, artistic glass work, and tennis. He has competed in several USTA Sectional and National championship competitions where his personal motto was, “age and treachery can prevail over youth and athleticism.” Recently, he and Billie have been spending time on their Pickleball court, entertaining their 27 grandchildren, or exploring various deserts around Palm Springs, California.
John P. Nollette
John Patrick Nollette is a graduate of Gonzaga University School of Law. John lives in Spokane, Washington.
John M. Ohman
John Ohman moved to Idaho Falls immediately following his graduation from Creighton University Law School on his 22nd birthday. The first 50 have been fantastic and rewarding in so many ways! Though he knew no one, he found the community – and particularly the local bar members – to be very welcoming. That has continued to this day. His years have indeed rewarded him with friendships beyond measure – clients, attorneys, judges, and citizenry of all persuasions. Financial success has been important, but pales in comparison to those rewards.
Gratification comes in many ways! Reflecting on the thousands (yes, literally thousands) of clients whom John had been privileged to assist brings pride and satisfaction to his legal career. Each case, each client, each experience has a lasting effect, regardless of the outcome. And, yes, he has won some, and lost some – but never with regret, for the commitment to the law and to justice is what the practice of law is and continues to be! His membership in the Idaho State Bar has provided these memorable experiences of a lifetime and a career without regrets.
We often ask, “If you had it to do all over again, would you?” Sure, there have been changes, some of considerable magnitude, with effects not anticipated or easily measured, (e.g., lawyer advertising, less collegiality, high litigation costs, prolonged delays), but all in all, John still subscribes to the high values and worth of our profession. “Lawyers are the most learned of profoundly ignorant men (and women)” – every day is a new one, with something new learned on each of them. Approach each day with alacrity, and sagacity in results.
His practice allowed full participation in all sorts of other activities, each meaningful in their own way. Whether a state board (Idaho Transportation Board, Association for the Humanities – now Idaho Humanities Council), a bar committee (Unauthorized Practice of Law, bar exam grading, etc.), a civic club (Civitans, Elks) or volunteering for eleemosynary events, all are integral and vital to building, maintaining, and enjoying a thriving law practice.
As we all know, support is critical to sustaining the demands of a law practice and to meeting the rigors of any active trial schedule, and John would be remiss if he did not recognize the unconditional love and support of his family members, immediate and extended. His appreciation goes to all, but first to his wife, Elaine, and his daughters, Brittany and Andrea. John could then express gratitude to his 10 siblings and all their families. (Mom always said, “With the numbers of family members, you don’t need other clients.”)
His practice has overall been a general practice, with an emphasis on litigation. Long before the pressure to identify with either the plaintiffs’ bar or the defense bar, John was fortunate to engage in both, with memberships in the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association and the Idaho Defense Council. John found both plaintiff’s work and defense work to be both challenging and gratifying. He was very proud to be designated as a certified trial specialist, undoubtedly resulting from innumerable court appearances and over 100 jury trials. Humbling also is his AV rating by Martindale Hubbel. Participation in the Eagle Rock Inns of Court, the Seventh Judicial District Bar Association, the Idaho State Bar, and Nebraska Bar also contributed to whatever successes John attained – sometimes in spite of himself, and not because he felt he was deserving.
John is also grateful for his status as a veteran, having been commissioned as an officer while in college, and having served as an ordnance officer, primarily at Aberdeen Proving Ground (MD).
His bar memberships include the U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Court of Appeals, U.S. District Courts for both Idaho and Nebraska, and Supreme Courts for both Idaho and Nebraska – and while he has enjoyed each, his heart has always been in the trial courts where commitment, dedication, and lots of good luck provide the rewards discussed.
Now entering Senior Status, John finds the time to do many of the things he had neglected, or set aside, and anxiously awaits the benefits of continued travel, home and abroad, volunteer work with charities, pleasure reading (instead of law cases and legal briefs), and enjoying family, to include grandchildren of whom he is particularly fond, and by whose existence make him blessed beyond measure.
Yes, he would do it all over again! And he encourages each of you to take pride in what you do, be satisfied in knowing the extent to which you have served your clients, and be humbled by the extent to which you are held in esteem by your communities. Your success is in your control, and it is not measured in dollars. Set goals, remain relevant, perform to the best of your abilities. Focus on what is right. The road ahead is yours – go pave your way.
John would like to note that the accompanying pictures well demonstrate that the rigors of law do not age you. Notice there is no perceptible change in his appearance from the 50-year-old picture and the current one. John wishes you the very best in the years to come.
James W. Phillips
In reflecting upon James (“Jim”) Phillips’ 50 years of practicing law, several things come to his mind. First, is the opportunity it gave him to be involved in his community to help preserve the best and shape the future of the special place where he had the good fortune to find home, family, and friends. Second, is the ability it gave him to help people often in troubling times. Finally, it is an interesting way to make a living with the flexibility (if one chooses) to have many adventures along the way. Jim wishes to thank the all the people who personally and professionally helped him over the years.
Photo caption for “Phillips, James:” Jim in the Boulder Mountains. Photo courtesy of Jim Phillips.
John R. Porter
John R. (“Jack”) Porter is a graduate of Stanford University Law School. Jack and his wife, Cathy, live in Moscow.
David L. Posey
David Lee Posey is a graduate of Texas Tech University School of Law. David lives in Payette.
Jerry D. Reynolds
Jerry D. Reynolds is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. Jerry lies in St. Anthony.
Ernesto G. Sanchez
Ernesto came to Idaho as a migrant farmworker. He was born in Texas, the sixth of ten children. The family travelled throughout Texas, the South, the Midwest, and the Northwest following the crops. The family finally settled in Pingree, Idaho. He graduated from Snake River High School in 1963, Idaho State University (B.A.) in 1969, and the University of Idaho College of Law (J.D.) in 1972. He was the first Latino to graduate from the University of Idaho College of Law. He was also the first Latino admitted to practice law in Idaho.
Ernesto had a passion for fairness and for helping the disadvantaged. He joined Idaho Legal Aid Services (“ILAS”) in the Caldwell office. He received a Reginald Heber Smith Fellowship for four consecutive years to work at ILAS. His entire career was spent with ILAS, as a legal intern, staff attorney, and managing attorney. In 1978, he became Executive Director, a position he held until his retirement. In that position, he was instrumental in expanding ILAS offices statewide and in establishing the ILAS Indian Law Unit and the Migrant Farmworkers Law Unit.
Ernesto was involved with national legal services organizations including the National Project Advisory Group. He also served on the National Legal Aid & Defender Association Board of Directors, where he served as Secretary-Treasurer. He was active in representing Native Americans and Latinos through his career. He helped in creating the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs. He also worked to secure workman’s compensation for farmworkers. He co-founded the Idaho Hispanic Caucus and the Idaho Hispanic Caucus Institute for Research and Education and served as the organizations’ first President for several years. He served on the Idaho State Department of Employment Advisory Council for many years.
Ernesto was active in the Idaho State Bar (“ISB”), the Idaho Law Foundation (“ILF”), and the Idaho Supreme Court. He served on ISB and Idaho Supreme Court Committees, including the Idaho Supreme Court Fairness and Equality Committee. He also served on the University of Idaho College of Law Advisory Council. He was active in the establishment of the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program and the Access to Justice Idaho campaign. He was the first recipient of the Idaho State Bar Diversity Section’s “Justice for All” award.
Ernesto received several awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs and United Vision for Idaho. He was also a recipient of the University of Idaho President’s Medallion.
Ernesto credits all his accomplishments to the support of his family, friends, co-workers, and colleagues. He enjoys the great Idaho outdoors especially camping, RV-ing, fishing, hiking, exploring the back country, and rock hounding.
He currently lives in Boise with his wife of 42 years, Kathleen Hobdey-Sánchez. His three children, two grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren all live in Boise.
Andrew M. Schwam
Andrew M. Schwam is a graduate of Columbia University School of Law. Andrew lives in Pullman, Washington.
Kenneth M. Sebby
Ken graduated with distinction from the University of Nebraska College of Law in Lincoln, Nebraska. He first worked with Michael E. McNichols in Orofino, then in Boise with Quane, Smith, Howard and Hull, and later with Elam Burke and Boyd. The last half of his career was with the Department of the Interior (“DOI”), Office of the Solicitor, Boise Field Solicitor’s Office, representing DOI Bureaus and Offices, including the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Geological Survey, Office of Aviation Services, National Interagency Fire Center, and the Firefighter and Law Enforcement Retirement Team. He practiced before the Interior Board of Lands Appeals, the Merit Systems Protection Board, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the Federal District Court in conjunction with the United States Attorney’s Office. Issues included Federal Tort Claims Act Administrative Determinations, mining contests, rights-of-way, grazing and trespass disputes, personnel issues, and retirement claims.
He has enjoyed practicing with many fine judges, hearing officers, and lawyers in Idaho and other jurisdictions, and has appreciated the hard work, dedication, and courtesies bestowed by county clerks, court clerks, and other court officials and public employees over the years.
Ken and his wife, Patty, have been married for 54 years. They have two sons, Matthew and Thomas, both Maniacs, having been born in Orofino. In 2012, they moved aboard their 1991 Kady Krogen Widebody 42 Foot Trawler “OOGACHAKA” berthed in Umatilla, Oregon. They explored the Columbia River from Astoria to Kennewick, Oregon and the Snake River east to Lewiston, Idaho as a training ground. In 2012, they crossed the Columbia River Bar and headed north along the Pacific Coast to extended stops on Bainbridge Island, Washington, and Sydney, British Columbia, Canada, for provisioning and improvements to the boat before embarking on a leisurely four-month cruise through the Inside Passage north to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and back. They then motored to San Diego in preparation for the 2012 Baha HaHa group cruise to Cabo San Lucas and spent the next year cruising as far south as Zhuateneo and then back north through the Sea of Cortez before staging at Puerto Vallarta for the 2,750 nautical mile trip to Nuka Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas’ Islands in French Polynesia, Fakarava in the Tuamotus, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Vava’u in Tonga, Fiji, New Caledonia, and Sydney, Australia where they sold Oogachaka.
Ken and Patty presently live in Grand Forks, North Dakota, where they dote on their grandchildren, try to stay warm, and ponder what is next.
William H. Shibley
William H. Shibley is a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law. William and his wife, Patricia, live in Long Beach, California.
Milton A. Slavin
Milton A. (“Jock”) Slavin of Salmon became interested in becoming an attorney at an early age. As a youngster his parents wanted to acquire property near the family homestead at Carmen and engaged a family friend and local attorney, Charles Herndon, to help them through that process. It was a good learning experience that helped encourage Jock to aim towards a career in the law. He earned a business degree from the University of Idaho, worked for Lockheed Martin during Vietnam, then was accepted to, and graduated from, the University of Idaho College of Law in 1973. He has served as a public defender, city attorney, county attorney, magistrate judge, and helped numerous friends and neighbors with their different legal quandaries.
Jock has also served as President of the local Rotary Club, as Chairman of the Church Board, held various leadership positions in the Masonic organization, and is a longtime Elks member.
Jock and his wife, Roberta, met when they were teenagers and together raised three boys, Matt, Chace, and John. They enjoy Idaho and all the outdoor opportunities that it has to offer. In their younger years they enjoyed skiing, but have taken up pickleball, become snowbirds, and now spend their winters in warmer weather.
Robert W. Stahman
Robert W. Stahman is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Robert and his wife, Myrna, live in Boise.
Randall L. Stamper
Randall L. Stamper is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame Law School. Randall and his wife, Conni, live in Spokane, Washington.
Robert P. Stephens
Robert P. Stephens is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Robert and his wife, Sharon, live in Spokane, Washington.
Paul S. Street
Paul Street graduated from the College of Idaho in 1970 and the University of Washington School of Law in 1973.
Paul has practiced law as a corporate and business lawyer for 50 years. After clerking for the Idaho Supreme Court, Paul joined the Moffatt Thomas law firm in 1974. In 1999, he became General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for Building Materials Holding Corporation – a publicly held building materials and lumber distribution company. In 2015, it merged and became BMC Stock Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: BMCH) and Paul became General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the merged company. BMCH was a leading provider of diversified building products and services for the residential construction industry, with over $3 billion in sales, 10,000 employees, and 93 distribution locations in 18 states. Paul retired from BMCH in 2017. He joined Hawley Troxell in an Of Counsel role in 2017. In 2020 and 2021, Paul served as interim general counsel for Healthwise Incorporated.
Throughout his career, Paul has had an active transactional practice representing both sellers and buyers. In his role as General Counsel, he oversaw the legal aspects of financing the corporation through asset-based loans and the issuance of notes. Paul also had responsibility for SEC filings and compliance along with corporate governance.
Paul has been a member of the Idaho State Bar Business and Corporate Law Section since its beginning. He served as Secretary for the Committee on Corporate Laws of the American Bar Association. He currently serves on the board of the Idaho Pacific Lumber Company and the Northwest Chapter of the National Association of Corporate Directors. He has served as a Trustee of the College of Idaho and Chairman of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Paul and his wife, Peggy, have a combined family of four children and six grandchildren.
David J. Thornton, Jr.
David Thornton was hired by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) as a tax attorney in the Seattle district after passing the Washington State and Idaho State bar exams in the summer of 1973. Following his IRS tenure, his practice has been solely focused on sophisticated estate and tax planning matters for high-net-worth individuals and significant privately held companies. In the 1980s, he had a brief four-year stint where he had an honest job and served as the Chief Financial Officer and General Counsel for a telecommunications company in Seattle. During his time there, they completed joint ventures with a number of companies including Pacific Bell and Korean Gold Star. Following the sale of the company, David returned to practice as a partner with several large regional law firms. Fortunately, in the early 1990s, he was able to return to Boise to start his own firm, which has now grown to eight tax attorneys specializing in advanced estate and tax strategies and tax controversy.
David served as lead counsel on three significant tax cases in the Ninth Circuit that are currently the legal benchmarks for the valuation of closely held corporations and family partnerships. He also served as Chairman of four American Bar Association committees focused on advanced estate and tax planning issues and has also served on 20 nationally recognized CLE panels focused on advanced tax planning.
He and his wife, Vikki, have been married for over 40 years and are fortunate to have four amazing children and four superior grandchildren. Fortunately, most of them live in Boise which gives them the opportunity to spend a great deal of time attending sporting events and spending time together. The family frequently visits their home in La Quinta during the winter.
One of the most rewarding aspects of his professional career is the opportunity to have participated on numerous charitable boards including the Boys and Girls Club, Eastside Catholic Highschool, Bishop Kelly High School, St. Luke’s Planned Giving Board, the College of Idaho Foundation, and the Boise Symphony. David also established the foundations that raised funds for Eastside Catholic Highschool in Bellevue, Washington and Bishop Kelly in Boise, Idaho. He also received recognition as an outstanding alumnus at the University of Idaho.
Ron J. Twilegar
Ron Twilegar grew up in Boise, graduated from Boise High School in 1962, and received a business degree from the University of Idaho. Mr. Twilegar spent two years in Vietnam before receiving his law degree from George Washington University in 1971. He served as staff member for then-Rep. Jim McClure. He also owned a statewide polling organization.
Most people know Ron Twilegar as a Boise city councilman, or perhaps remember his days as a Boise legislator and state Senate minority leader. While Mr. Twilegar’s passion remains in politics, he puts his considerable energy into a variety of interests. For instance, he once led his family and 22 others on a group assault of Idaho’s highest peak, Mount Borah. He climbed Mount Hood in Oregon, fished for salmon off Alaska, and ran in a Paris Marathon.
Ron won election to the statehouse from Boise’s North End in 1974, the first democrat elected from Ada County in 38 years. Two years later, he moved to the state Senate and served as minority leader from 1980 to 1982. In 1983, with downtown redevelopment mired in controversy, Ron ran for Boise City Council and received the highest percentage ever in a multicandidate field. He let the fight to redevelop downtown with a mix of uses.
In addition, Mr. Twilegar co-founded the Capitol Classic children’s footrace. Ron has five children: three biological and two adopted. He will jump around from his homes in Boise, San Francisco, the cabin in the woods of the Idaho Mountains, somewhere near Hood Rives, Portland, or the coast. He enjoys traveling and is intrigued by curious thoughts by others. “When your life comes to a fork in the road…take it” – Yogi Berra
John W. Walker
John Walker began his legal career in October 1973 in Moscow, Idaho with Felton, Bielenberg and Anderson. He continues to practice law with Michael J. Pattinson in Moscow. John has been admitted to practice law before the Idaho, Washington, and Oregon Supreme Courts. He is admitted to appear before the Ninth Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of the United States of America. In January 1977, John argued a felony murder case before the Supreme Court of the United States of America with Moscow attorney Allen V. Bowles. Over the last 50 years his areas of emphasis include criminal, civil litigation, personal injury, wills, probates, and estates.
Over the years, John has practiced with and against many of Idaho’s finest lawyers and appeared before many excellent judges. John is a recipient of the Idaho State Bar Professionalism Award. He continues membership in the American Association for Justice (AAJ, aka ATLA) and the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (“ITLA”). He served on the ITLA Board of Directors. John is AV Preeminent Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell.
John has enjoyed his long-standing association with the University of Idaho. He is a member of Vandal Boosters. John served on the University of Idaho Alumni Board of Directors and was President of the Board in 2001. He instructed “Practice Court and Procedure” with Professor Craig Lewis at the University of Idaho College of Law for 10 years.
John has enjoyed many recreational activities including bird hunting, fishing, golfing, and piloting his jet boat on the beautiful Snake, Salmon, and Clearwater Rivers. He has had the privilege and pleasure of fishing with friends and family at a variety of locations including Idaho, Montana, Washington, Oregon, Alaska, Canada, Florida, and Cabo San Lucas. John resides in Moscow with his faithful English Springer Spaniel, Ozzie.
Glen E. Wegner
Glen E. Wegner is a graduate of American University, Washington College of Law. Glen and his wife, Lynn, live in Boston, Massachusetts.
Lucinda Weiss
Lucinda Weiss was born in 1950 in Akron, Ohio. She attended school in Akron and graduated from Old Trail School. Thereafter, Weiss attended the College of Wooster, in Wooster, Ohio, where she originally studied chemistry. Weiss relocated after finishing her sophomore year at Wooster to Moscow, Idaho and enrolled in summer school at the University of Idaho to keep herself occupied. During the summer of 1969, Weiss interviewed at the College of Law “for practice.” She reversed her transfer to the University of Idaho that August, however, once she learned that she had enough credits to be a senior at Wooster, but only a junior at the University of Idaho. Weiss returned for her third and final year at Wooster, changing her course of study from chemistry to political science and French culture.
In 1970, Weiss began her studies at the University of Idaho College of Law. Weiss excelled academically in the law school and served on the Idaho Law Review. In 1972, she became the first woman at the University of Idaho to participate in Boise Cascade’s law internship program – intentionally or not, setting her on a corporate career path. Weiss graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1973 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that fall. Her first job as a lawyer was with the small general practice firm of Bandelin & Featherstone (later Bandelin & Associates) in Sandpoint. Then, in 1974, at the age of 24, Weiss was elected prosecuting attorney for Bonner County – making her one of the youngest prosecutors in the nation and only one of three women elected to such a position nationwide that year.
Weiss joined the legal department of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company in 1976, making her the first woman attorney in the tire industry. That began a more than 25-year career in law and management at the world-renowned tire company, which now conducts business in more than 60 countries and on six continents. Outside of her regular work, Weiss has had a passion for the professional and educational development of others. She co-founded and was the first president of the Women’s Initiatives in Leadership, Goodyear’s mentoring and leadership development group.
Lucinda lives in St. Augustine, Florida.
Hon. William H. Woodland
Hon. William H. Woodland is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. William lives in Pocatello.
Lawrence J. Young
Lawrence J. Young is a graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Law. Lawrence lives in Hailey.
60-Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1963
These acknowledgments honor members of the Idaho State Bar who have been admitted for 60 years. Thank you to all who submitted material to be included in this portion of our awards.
James R. Bennetts
James R. Bennetts is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. James lives in Challis.
Fred Kennedy
Fred Kennedy is a graduate of George Washington University Law School. Fred lives in Garden City.
Robert L. Magnuson
Robert L. Magnuson is a graduate of George Washington University Law School. Robert and his wife, Elinor, live in Spokane, Washington.
Craig B. Marcus
When Craig Marcus was a little boy in Idaho City, he says the old courthouse was like a second home. His father, Claude Marcus, served several terms there as Prosecuting Attorney. Craig knew its every nook and cranny.
Governor Hawley died in the 1930s. His son and law partner, Jesse Sr., who tried many cases in Idaho City invited Claude, whose reputation as an excellent litigator and attorney was rapidly spreading, to move to Boise and go into partnership. He accepted.
Later, near the end of the 1940s, Mr. Hawley’s sons Jesse Jr., and Jack joined the firm. Craig recalls that by then it was one of the most robust in the state with a clientele whose interests touched nearly every aspect of life in Idaho. Offices were on the top floor of the Eastman building. In those pre-air conditioning days, windows were open to the summer breezes. Mr. Hawley had a majestic office befitting the legal fiant he was in his era, just as Claude, Jesse Jr., and Jack became in their era.
During the years Claude was president of the bar, the annual convention was in Sun Valley. Of course they were there. Then Bar members were bound by a common thread of love and respect for the law. Friendship permeated the air.
In the 1950s after Mr. Hawley’s death, Claude, Jesse Jr., and Jack amicably split the practice. Jesse Jr. and Jack had a vision for the mega firm it is today. Claude had a vision for a smaller firm, one his teenage sons Craig and Barry could easily step into without the financial demands of a larger enterprise. Craig remembers both his father and mother as persistent encouragers. There was no question that Craig and Barry would become lawyers.
Among the clients Claude took were mining interests, ranching and other natural resources, business and insurance. One liability insurance client for which Craig tried many cases generated substantial litigation, in part because of its policy of not settling after the case was referred to defense counsel. That company was dominant in Idaho. Its policy eventually played a major role in Idaho replacing contributory negligence with comparative negligence.
Craig practiced with his father for 40 years. Claude tried over one hundred cases. Craig does not believe he ever lost. Claude’s reputation is exemplified by a case where all of the public utilities, who owned property in Idaho chose one lawyer to represent all of them in litigation against the state. They chose Claude. He won. (91 Id. 425).
Craig himself has litigated to verdict several hundred jury trials, mostly insurance defense, in nearly every courthouse in Idaho, and twice that number of nonjury trials. His book, “Divorce in Idaho,” published in 2019 has its roots in the 1960 days of Saturday court in Judge Scoggins Gooding courtroom when Idaho was a divorce mecca.
Craig’s practice has been diversified with most legal matters Idaho attorneys have worked on in the last six decades. Both he and Barry handled a substantial volume of legal work generated by Claude when, after hard fought litigation, he won for his own company, Intermountain Gas, jointly owned with Red Lessinger and Nat Campbell, the exclusive right to sell natural gas in southern Idaho. (77 Id. 188).
When a vacancy on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals occurred, Claude declined an effort by Idaho’s congressional delegation to have President Eisenhower appoint him Craig says. Craig’s father was Governor Smilie’s treasurer and close friends with the people involved. Claude was grateful but believed he would have to move to San Francisco. His focus was on creating a firm in Boise for Craig and Barry. Such was his unselfish nature.
Craig and Barry have balanced practicing law with developing land in Idaho. That too was an extension of Claude’s varied interests. He owned a farm where West Boise Industrial Park is today.
Craig and Lynne, who died last year, met as students in Mexico City and married in 1960. They have a daughter Shawn Moak, a son, Boise attorney Trent Marcus, Brian who is deceased, six grand-children including Boise attorney Christian Moak and four great grand children. Before becoming an attorney Craig fought range fires. He and Lynne enjoyed all the activities Idaho offers. They provided a home for 25 years for a pet 2,000 lb. black angus steer who lived alongside an assortment of other wild and domestic critters.
Like Claude, Craig has had a hand in politics. In younger years he was President of the Lincoln Day Banquet Association and Chairman of Congressional and Judicial campaigns. Lynne was a long time chief judge in their precinct. Both are Christians and have been active in their church, Cole Community Churt, Bible Study Fellowship and Foundations in Genesis, Idaho. Craig was an officer in the Fourth District Bar Association and served on various Bar Committees including peer review.
He says that for him the keys to successfully practicing law are to work diligently as though God is the client and never forget that ambiguity is the mother of strife.
W. Anthony (“Tony”) Park
W. Anthony (“Tony”) Park received his J.D. degree from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1963 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September of that year. Tony had earlier graduated from the University of Idaho in 1958 with an undergraduate degree in political science.
Having grown up in Boise, it was an easy decision to begin his law practice there. He was a sole practitioner in Boise for several years. Following a brief partnership in 1969 with Clarence D. Suiter, he ran for and was elected as Idaho’s Attorney General in 1970, serving from 1971 to 1975. He campaigned as “Idaho Lawyer for the People” and prides himself on living up to that standard. He established Idaho’s first Consumer Protection Agency which still thrives successfully within the Idaho Attorney General’s office today.
Tony returned to private practice in Boise in 1975 as a civil litigator. He spent the last 15 years of his practice primarily as a mediator and arbitrator. He enjoyed alternative dispute resolution work immensely and had a very busy practice.
Tony was a well-known amateur actor in the Boise area and participated in major roles in “A Man for All Seasons” (The Duke of Norfolk), “Camelot” (Merlyn), “Inherit the Wind” (Matthew Harrison Brady), along with several others.
Tony retired from practice in 2018. He has three children: Susan Park (J.D. 1990, U. of I.), Adam Park, and Patricia Park. He is married to Gail Chaloupka, who shares his love of government and politics. She is a Boise native and had a successful human resources consulting practice for many years. She continues to be the light of his life. They have traveled worldwide together and continue to do so in their joint retirement.
Tony is also the author of a political memoir, “An Idaho Democrat – A Political Memoir of a Political Life” in 2022 (Ridenbaugh Press Publisher).
Hon. Jesse R. Walters, Jr.
Justice Walters was born in Rexburg, Idaho, on December 26, 1938, and graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1957. He attended Ricks College for one year, and then transferred to the University of Idaho, receiving a B.A. in 1961, an L.L.B. in 1963, and later a Juris Doctor degree. He received an L.L.M. degree from the University of Virginia in 1990. In the course of his legal and judicial education, Justice Walters also attended courses at the University of Washington Law School, New York University Law School, the University of Kansas School of Law, and the National Judicial College at Reno, Nevada.
Justice Walters was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1963, the United States District Court of the District of Idaho, and the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals. He served as a law clerk to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from 1963 to 1964, and as an attorney for the Idaho Senate during the legislative session in 1965.
He was engaged in the private practice of law in Boise from 1964 until 1977, when Governor John Evans appointed him to the position of District Judge of the Fourth Judicial District. Judge Walters served in that capacity from 1977 to 1982 and served as Administrative District Judge of the Fourth Judicial District from 1981 to 1982.
When the Idaho Court of Appeals was created in 1981, Governor Evans named Judge Walters as one of the three original members. He was selected by the Chief Justice of the Idaho Supreme Court to serve as Chief Judge of the Idaho Court of Appeals and was reappointed to that position for seven, two-year terms, from 1982 to 1997.
In 1997, he was appointed by Governor Phillip Batt as the 50th Justice to serve on the Idaho Supreme Court. He was elected in May 1998 to a six-year term on the Court. He retired from the Court in July 2003, but continued to work for many years as a senior justice.
Justice Walters was a member of the American Bar Association for over 25 years and served on the board of directors of the American Judicature Society and of the Idaho Law Foundation. He served as an officer and president of the Council of Chief Judges of the State Intermediate Courts of Appeals and during his tenure developed life-long friendships among judges at the trial court and appellate court levels throughout the United States. He chaired the Idaho Supreme Court’s Criminal Rules Committee, the Jury Reform Committee, and the pattern Criminal Jury Instructions Committee. He was active in many community affairs, served as President of the Vista Lions and of the Boise Jaycees, and was an instructor in numerous continuing legal and judicial education programs with the Idaho State Bar and at the University of Idaho College of Law. After retirement, he served for 10 years as a trustee with the Idaho State Historical Society, volunteered as a tour guide at the Old Idaho Penitentiary, and volunteered as a docent at the Idaho State Historical Museum. For his interest and efforts with regard to Idaho history and education, he was a recipient of the Idaho Historical Society’s Esto Perpetua Award in 2018. For over 20 years both before and after retirement he served as a visiting judge for the International Law and Technology Moot Court competition each fall at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois.
During his tenure on the Idaho Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and the district court, Justice Walters participated in over 4,200 appeals. At the time of his retirement, he had been the author of 1,372 appellate opinions. Following his retirement in 2003, Justice Walters continued to serve in the judiciary as a Senior Judge, sitting as judge pro tem with the Idaho Supreme Court and the Idaho Court of Appeals, continuing to write opinions for both courts, and serving as an Appellate Settlement Conference mediator, arbitrator, and Idaho State Bar discipline investigator for over 18 years. In 2015, he received the prestigious George G. Granata, Jr., professionalism award from the Idaho Judiciary for his contributions and service as a motivating and inspirational role model to his colleagues on the bench. He received the Idaho State Bar Distinguished Jurist award in 2019.
He and his wife, Harriet, have three children: Craig, Robyn, and Scott, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, expecting another in September 2023.
65-Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1958
These acknowledgments honor members of the Idaho State Bar who have been admitted for 65 years. Thank you to all who submitted material to be included in this portion of our awards.
William A. Parsons
William Parsons was born in Twin Falls, Idaho in the winter of 1932. He graduated from Burley High School in 1950 and went on to the University of Idaho, where he earned a degree in business administration. While at University of Idaho, he was Student Body President in 1953. He graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1957 and was soon admitted to practice in Idaho and the Federal Courts. William founded a law firm with Dick Smith, which is now Parsons, Smith, Stone, Loveland & Shirley in 1962.
Parsons said while in the Boy Scouts he was influenced to become a lawyer by a Burley lawyer who was involved with the organization. “The lawyer was well respected in the legal profession and was looked up to by the citizens of Burley,” and “I thought that law might be a good idea.”
Later, at the University of Idaho, he met Bev on a blind date and upon graduation he and Bev were married in 1954. Bev got a job working for the Navy ROTC when he entered law school. Bill and Bev have one daughter, Karen Walker.
Bill and Bev returned to Burley as the city was ready for a new young lawyer. Later, as the Burley City Attorney, he faced the challenges of municipal law. “It was invigorating, new and it placed me in contact with many outstanding people with diversified interests.”
Parsons said he “believes his success comes from the support of Bev and treating people honestly, having respect for other lawyers, and getting your work done. Do your very best. Never try to cut corners.” Parsons is very appreciative of his partners, Dick, Randy, Lance, and Dave. Dick Smith and Bill have been partners since 1962.
Parsons has served in numerous professional and public service organizations. He is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers, for which he served two terms on the State Committee, one of which was Chairman. He served as a member of the Idaho Judicial Council for six years. He is a member of Theron Ward Inns of Court. Parsons was on the Advisory Committee for the University of Idaho College of Law from 2003 to 2009. He is a member of the American Bar Association.
He also served as a member of the Idaho State Bar Professional Conduct Board for two terms. He was awarded the Fifth District Bar Association’s Professionalism Award in 1996. He is a member of the Burley Masonic Lodge and El Korah Shrine as well as the Burley Lions Club. While in the Burley Lions Club, he served as president, earned the Melvin Jones Award in 2007, and earned a 50-year membership award in 2009. From 1997 to 2003, Parsons served on the Board of the College of Southern Idaho Foundation. He was named Businessman of the Year in 1999 for Mini Cassia.
Richard K. “Dick” Smith
Richard “Dick” Smith graduated from the University of Idaho and was soon after accepted by the National Student Association to work in France on an international student project. When he returned, he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. After being honorably discharged from the Army as a second lieutenant, he returned to the University of Idaho as a law student on the GI Bill. It was at this time in 1954 that he married his wife, Jan Morgan. He was both smitten with Jan and the lure of dreams of travel and adventure abroad. They moved to California where Jan taught school and he enrolled in a graduate program in economics at California Berkely. Dick received his master’s degree but after much soul searching decided to finish law school at the University of Idaho College of Law. After passing the bar exam in 1958, Dick and Jan settled in Burley, Idaho. He joined Bill Parsons and Pete Snow as partners in a firm. As time passed, they added more attorneys.
Dick practiced general law and was a prosecuting attorney for Cassia County for six years. During these years Dick and Jan had two children, Nancy, and Rick. Through the years there has been joy and sorrow as Dick has now lost Jan and Rick.
Photo caption: Dick and his wife, Miriam Smith. Photo courtesy of Dick Smith.
Idaho Young Lawyer Delegate to the ABA House of Delegates – Deadline 8/30
The Idaho State Bar Board of Commissioners invites applications from individuals interested in serving as the Idaho Young Lawyer Delegate to the ABA House of Delegates. Qualified individuals must be an ABA member in good standing or will become an active dues paying member upon appointment. The term is effective at the close of the 2023 ABA Annual Meeting and will expire when the 2025 ABA Annual Meeting concludes.
Individuals will have been admitted into his or her first bar within the past five years OR is less than 36 years old at the beginning of his or her term. Some financial assistance will be provided for traveling expenses; however, individuals will be responsible for a portion of costs associated with attendance at meetings of the ABA House of Delegates.
Letters of interest should be submitted by August 30, to dminnich@isb.idaho.gov.
2023 Denise O’Donnell Day Pro Bono Awards
The late Denise O’Donnell Day, and namesake of this award, was a titan of pro bono service to underrepresented Idahoans. Her legacy of service, dedication to her community, and overall standard of professionalism in practice are pillars for any member of the Idaho State Bar to aspire to. Each year, we honor Denise’s legacy by awarding attorneys in each judicial district with the Denise O’Donnell Day Pro Bono Award, recognizing their admirable decisions to prioritize pro bono service in their practices. In addition to providing biographical information, this year’s recipients were asked the following two questions:
Why is pro bono work important to you?
What would you say to encourage other attorneys to do more pro bono work?
Jamila D. Holmes
First District
Why pro Bono: “Pro bono work helps ensure access to justice; and it is very rewarding to be able to help others.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The impact a couple hours of your time can have is powerful.”
Jamila Holmes is a deputy prosecuting attorney with the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Civil Division. She is a graduate of Boise State University and the University of Idaho College of Law and served as law clerk to the Honorable John T. Mitchell. Jamila is a graduate of the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers and is a member of the Idaho Law Foundation’s CLE Committee. She is admitted to practice in Idaho and Washington.
Jennifer M. Tengono
Second District
Why Pro Bono: “Pro bono work is important to me because I grew up in a low-income household, and I understand firsthand what it is like living paycheck to paycheck. It fuels my desire to use my skills and resources to make a positive impact in the lives of others, particularly by providing much-needed assistance and support without people having to worry about how to pay for those services. I strongly believe in the power of giving back and view it as a privilege rather than a duty. By engaging in pro bono and other volunteer work, I have the opportunity to contribute to my community and aid others in need.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The greatest thing about pro bono work is that it can be tailored to your ability and expertise. Engaging in pro bono work can be as simple as participating in a phone clinic, offering assistance in document drafting, or providing guidance on legal matters by answering a few questions. While organizing a clinic or undertaking a complex legal case are excellent options, even dedicating a single hour of your time can make a significant impact in support of a worthy cause. Every act of pro bono service, regardless of its scale or complexity, is invaluable and greatly needed in our communities.”
Jennifer is a U.S. Army veteran who earned her law degree from the University of Idaho College of law in 2020 with a dual emphasis in Native American law and natural resources and environmental law. Since graduating from law school and being admitted to the Idaho State Bar in October 2020, Jennifer has primarily worked in private practice for sole practitioner Susan R. Wilson, focusing on real estate matters, small business formation, estate planning and probate, adult guardianships and conservatorships, and municipal law. Jennifer also provided legal representation to several municipalities, including the cities of Troy and Deary, as a contract City Attorney. In November 2022, Jennifer left private practice and began working as the Civil Assistant City Attorney for the City of Lewiston, joining a wonderful team of attorneys who serve the City of Lewiston.
Jennifer has also been the Treasurer of the Second District Bar Association since March 2020 and she has been on the University of Idaho’s Military and Veterans Advisory Committee since September 2020.
Debra L. Raymer
Third District
Why Pro Bono: “When I applied to law school, I wrote, “Rural populations deserve Harvard Lawyers.” Then I proceeded to work 35 years in downtown Chicago. I feel like pro bono is the fulfillment of that promise I made 40 years ago.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “When you retire, it will be great to not have to deal with clients. For about a year. Then you will miss the chance to use the knowledge you gained over the last 40 years. In addition, you will be dealing with a group of clients that really appreciate your efforts.”
Debra graduated from Harvard Law School in 1981. She was admitted to the Illinois Bar the same year. Debra worked in the Estate Planning Department at McDermott, Will & Emery and Bank of America as Assistant General Counsel. Debra retired in 2017. Debra’s family had been coming out to Tamarack for 15 years to ski and they eventually realized summers in Idaho are terrific too. Debra moved to Idaho in 2021 and soon thereafter applied to become licensed as an Emeritus Attorney to provide pro bono legal services.
Erin N. Fuller
Fourth District
Why Pro Bono: “I chose to practice law because I wanted to help others. There are many people in our community who need representation but lack the financial means. I believe pro bono work is important because financial barriers should never inhibit one’s ability to obtain said representation.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “Some of your most rewarding clients and cases will be the ones you represent pro bono. Remember what made you choose to pursue law in the first place. If you’re anything like me, it was to help others and be of service to your community. There is no greater feeling than helping those who would have no representation if not for attorneys who are willing to offer their services pro bono.”
Erin earned her bachelor’s degree from Boise State University in political science with an emphasis in public law and political philosophy in 2015 and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2018. She began her career practicing Oil and Gas Mineral Title Law in Texas before moving back to Idaho and being admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 2020. Erin has been practicing family law at Leavitt Ryan since December of 2020.
Shannon N. Romero
Fourth District
Why Pro Bono: “I love volunteering at clinics like Interfaith because they serve individuals who do not otherwise have access to legal services. People with limited financial means are routinely denied access to legal services and remedies because of their financial status but are disproportionately subject to the burdens of the legal system. Most days, I can help someone just by referring him or her to another agency or another attorney who can help with their specific problem. Often, people just want to have their stories heard and their concerns validated. Even if I can’t help someone because their problems have no legal solution or remedy, I can provide a sympathetic ear.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The unmet legal needs in our community far exceed existing resources. While there are good organizations providing legal assistance to individuals who can’t afford an attorney, they are limited by the types of cases and clients they can help. IVLP is a great place to volunteer because IVLP does not deny services to anyone based on the legal problem or issue involved. IVLP attorneys get to help clients with issues that run the gamut from family law to social security benefits to the reduction of criminal charges. I can help a client with on-the-spot advice if the problem is simple, provide the client with a referral, or take on a more significant role. And when I meet with a client who has a legal problem outside my expertise, IVLP gives me access to skilled and knowledgeable attorneys who provide me with the information and guidance I need to help address the client’s problem. In addition, IVLP clinics are offered at various locations and days so I can always find a clinic that works with my schedule. And I can’t say enough about IVLP staff. They are amazing and do a great job of ensuring clients are matched with the right attorney at each clinic.”
Shannon earned her law degree from the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and was admitted to practice law in Idaho in 1998. Shannon was a trial public defender for the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association in Salt Lake City for seven years before clerking for Judge Alan Schwartzman at the Idaho Court of Appeals. She has been with the Idaho State Appellate Public Defender’s Office since 2007 and is currently chief of the capital litigation unit.
In her free time, Shannon can be found enjoying the Boise foothills with her husband, John, and their rescued Great Pyrenees, Kevin.
Patricia M. Migliuri
Fifth District
Why Pro Bono: “People need help, especially in stressful, complex situations. The law is difficult and without pro bono work, many folks would be completely adrift. It’s important to me to be able to help people navigate their complex legal situations.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “Pro bono work can be as rewarding as you want it to be. You can volunteer as little or as much as you are able – there are so many opportunities to volunteer time and knowledge. We got into this profession to provide a service to our community; pro bono work is a great way to provide that service to people who would otherwise never have access to our knowledge and experience in the law.”
Patricia went to Gonzaga University for her undergraduate degree (go Zags!), and then graduated from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon. After graduating from law school, Patricia moved to Idaho and clerked for Judge John K. Butler in Jerome. Patricia entered into private practice after her clerkship and has been practicing primarily in family law since. Patricia is a partner at Migliuri & Rodriguez PLLC in Twin Falls and enjoys providing legal counsel in a variety of matters, including family law, guardianships, criminal defense, and general estate planning. Patricia has served on the board for the local chapter of the Inns of Court for years and is a past president of the Fifth District Bar Association. When Patricia is not out working on the farm, she enjoys the great outdoors hiking, hunting, fishing, and backpacking with her children.
John D. (“JD”) Oborn
Sixth District
Why Pro Bono: “Engaging in pro bono work allows me to feel connected to my community. I enjoy working with people and addressing issues that are not part of my regular professional practice. As well, it allows me to represent people that may not otherwise have access to the legal system or to effectively have their voice heard because of economic and procedural barriers.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “I would particularly encourage new lawyers to engage in pro bono work because it usually gets you into a courtroom early in your career and gives you opportunities to interact with attorneys and judges in person. It also stretches you to practice outside your usual area of practice and to learn new skills.”
JD Oborn was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho. He joined the Idaho National Guard in 2003 and served a tour in Iraq. He then attended Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, graduating cum laude in 2013. While in law school, JD worked as a certified student attorney for the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office child support enforcement division, where he handled over 500 child support establishment, paternity, and divorce proceedings. After graduation and upon returning to Pocatello, JD clerked for the Honorable David C. Nye in the Sixth Judicial District. JD now has the privilege of working at Cooper & Larsen, Chtd., where he has learned how to practice law from, as JD puts it, two of the finest attorneys in the state: Gary Cooper and Reed Larsen. John currently serves as the vice president of the Sixth District Bar Association, and he sits on the Board of the Idaho Association of Defense Counsel.
Camiliana Wood
Seventh District
Why Pro Bono: “Pro bono is important to me because the law serves everyone, and everyone should have access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. For many years, I have worked with marginalized, at risk, and vulnerable populations in a variety of capacities. The individuals in these populations often need the most legal assistance, but often cannot afford to hire an attorney or seek legal counsel. Pro bono work is one way I can ensure justice serves those who need it most.”
Encouraging Other Attorneys: “I do not think anyone achieves success without the help of others. I often think about where I am now, and all the mentors, family members, professors, and others who sacrificed their time, talent, and energy to help me succeed. There is no possible way I could repay them for all they have done, but I can pass it on. So, I encourage other attorneys to give back for all that has been given to them by doing a little pro bono work. If that is not enough of a reason (or it seems too sappy), here are a few more reasons: it helps develop your legal and interpersonal skills, it gives you experience in a variety of legal areas, you can network, and it just feels good to help others. Still not enough? Then here is a guilt trip – How much time do you spend on social media, watching TV/movies, or playing video/phone games? You could probably take an hour from one of these important activities to help someone else.”
Camiliana Wood is a deputy prosecutor for Bingham County. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, graduating in sociology with an emphasis in behavior analysis, socio- and psycho-pathologies, deviancy, and delinquency. She then graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School, focusing on alternative dispute resolution and criminal law. Camiliana obtained a certificate in Global Arbitration Law and Practice from Queen Mary, University of London. Camiliana passed the Idaho Bar Exam in February of 2022.
Camiliana dropped out of high school and left home at the age of 16 and as a result, she encourages others to succeed by volunteering in and coordinating programs and activities that promote education and lifelong learning. Over the last 30 years, Camiliana has been heavily involved with a variety of community organizations and worked extensively with an array of programs for local libraries, local schools, and other local groups.
Camiliana continues to, and loves studying social law issues, socio- and psycho-pathology, behavior, and addictions. Most importantly, Camiliana loves spending time with her husband and three sons, two daughters in-law, and two grandchildren.
2023 Service Awards
The individuals selected for this year’s Service Awards include attorneys and non-attorneys alike who have committed their time and expertise to the service of the legal profession. Whether it is serving in leadership or in a more intimate setting, these individuals are dedicated to the betterment of the profession. In addition to providing biographic information, the recipients were asked to answer the following two questions:
Why is serving your community, personally or professionally, a priority to you?
What advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?
Mia M. Bautista
Moscow
Why Service: “I’ve always wanted to live my life in a way where I was contributing to the greater good. I believe service through the career I’ve chosen and service through the volunteer work I’ve engaged in are small acts that could have big impacts. I believe helping lift others up has a positive impact on the community. My favorite quote that best describes why I feel serving my community is a priority comes from Martin Luther King, who said, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.’”
Advice: “Find a mentor who will understand the work-life challenges you will face depending on your circumstances to help you navigate finding the right work-life balance. Balance is important for your professional and personal life. It’s important to not lose yourself while trying to find yourself as a new lawyer.”
Mia grew up in Minnesota but considers Idaho her home. She attended the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 2003. During law school she interned with the Nez Perce Tribe and with the Latah County Prosecutor’s Office. Upon graduation, her first job was with the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office. She then worked for the Latah County Prosecutor’s Office. After about 18 years working in a Prosecutor’s Office, she was ready for a change. In 2018, she was appointed City Attorney for Moscow. She has volunteered throughout her legal career. She serves as a member of the Idaho State Bar’s Character and Fitness Committee, on the board for the Idaho Municipal Attorney’s Association, and as the Idaho representative for the International Municipal Lawyers Association. Previously, she served on the Idaho Council on Domestic Violence and Victim Assistance, served on the board for the Ray McNichols American Inns of Court, and volunteered as an Instructor for the FBI’s Digital Evidence Moot Court Program.
Howard D. Burnett
Pocatello
Why Service: “Before I went to law school, I spent four years as a member of a very successful collegiate rowing team – an experience that instilled in me an abiding understanding that genuine success inevitably requires collaboration. Accordingly, a willingness to serve diligently with others in devoting time and energy to community endeavors, local governing boards, volunteer groups, service organizations, and professional associations not only advances worthy causes benefiting our fellow citizens, but also affords a sense of fulfillment far greater than self.”
Advice: “The advice I would have given to my younger self as I began my career would simply be to recognize from the outset what I’ve come to learn over the course of my 45-year career. The lawyers who are most admired are those who demonstrably and consistently dedicate themselves to achieving a just and fair result – whether in transactional negotiations, in litigation proceedings, or in any other context – without bombast, pretense, or sharp practices, but instead with conscientious preparation and respectful, principled advocacy. That kind of approach not only serves the best interests of clients, but simultaneously fulfills the highest aspirations of our noble profession’s calling.”
After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in Philadelphia, Howard spent seven enjoyable years with Sullivan & Cromwell in New York City. In 1985, after years of commuting between Hastings-on-Hudson in Westchester County and Wall Street for at least an additional three hours a day to work long hours at the tip of Manhattan (thus often depriving him of seeing his young children awake from Monday morning until Friday evening), it became clear to him that it was time to go home to Idaho. After passing the Idaho Bar Exam, he had the very good fortune of being part of the original opening in 1985 of Hawley Troxell’s office in his hometown of Pocatello. He has been a proud member of Hawley Troxell ever since – and his commute never exceeds eight minutes.
Debbie Dudley
Boise
Why Service: “Serving the community as a volunteer has been a very rewarding experience, especially when utilizing my professional training to help organizations needing assistance. I’ve also been fortunate to share volunteer experiences with my daughters.”
Advice: “As a CPA, I often worked long hours and struggled to find that perfect work/life balance. Therefore, my advice would be to select a career opportunity that provides a work/life balance that fits your lifestyle. It isn’t always about the paycheck. Choose a career path that is challenging and that you enjoy. And build relationships with your colleagues as you will work with many of them throughout your career.”
Originally from Las Vegas, Debbie graduated from the University of Idaho with an accounting degree. Her professional career was spent in Boise working in public accounting and more recently as the Controller for the Idaho State Bar. Debbie served as the Controller for the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Law Foundation for 15 years. She retired in 2022. In 2023, the new Controller resigned because her husband was transferred. Debbie graciously stepped in to assist in the transition and to train a new controller.
C. Clayton Gill
Boise
Why Service: “My personal philosophies are to pay it forward and try and leave this place better than how I found it. Many people have mentored me along the way and provided me with incredible personal and professional opportunities. To honor their legacy, I have an obligation to pay it forward. Watching others succeed because of some small part I played in their lives is the biggest reward I can ever receive.”
Advice: “Take risks and get out of your comfort zone as much as you can. The best way to learn is through TRIAL and error. Taking a case to trial teaches you what’s important and what’s not. Try as many cases as you can when you are a young lawyer because it’s the best way to hone your legal skills.”
Clay graduated from Tulane Law School and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1994. He’s been a commercial litigator for most of his career, the first 24 years in private practice and the last five years as in-house counsel. Currently, he manages Simplot’s litigation, employment law, and labor law matters. His core professional philosophies are integrity, simplicity, and hard work, while constantly striving to improve the legal services that his team (including outside counsel) delivers to Simplot. He’s passionate about the practice of law because of the opportunity it gives him to make a difference in his clients’ lives, businesses, and industries. Clay is a consistent volunteer for bar and foundation programs and activities.
Emily A. MacMaster
Boise
Why Service: “We have much to do to help all Idahoans. The political climate today is separating our communities into ‘we’ and ‘them’ instead of just ‘us.’ My commitment is to enhance respect for each other and build community, and I try to do that on a daily basis.”
Advice: “Get six years of good, solid legal training and then go out and start a firm. Find your tribe and hold onto them. When you surround yourself with good people, you can do anything.”
Today, Emily serves on the Board of Directors for Idaho Women Lawyers, where she is working to enhance diversity in Idaho’s judiciary and to strengthen bridges between law school students and practicing attorneys. She is a Bencher in Inns of Court, a member of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association, and a member of two Idaho State Bar sections. For fun, Emily enjoys any free time she can get to spend with family and their dogs, or to garden, paint and travel.
William H. McAdam, Jr.
Sandpoint
Why Service: “I am fortunate to be able to devote much of my time to volunteer organizations. I presently serve as a volunteer for Rubicon, the Idaho State Bar Professional Conduct Board, and as a Volunteer firefighter in Idaho.”
Advice: “Interview for a variety of possible job opportunities, even though you may think you have already decided. Do not overlook interviewing with the military and government organizations.”
William attended Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, graduating in 1966. He is presently a member of the State Bar of California and the Idaho State Bar. He has practiced law in the State of California and the State of Idaho. Recently, he retired as a Superior Court judge in San Diego, California. During the Vietnam war, William served as a captain in the United States Marine Corps. In 1968, he was a company commander of an infantry company in Vietnam. He also served as a legal officer.
Casey Simmons
Coeur d’Alene
Why Service: “I learned from an early age the importance of community because my parents modeled it for me through their many various volunteer engagements. I witnessed firsthand the good those opportunities provided to everyone. From family and friends to professions and community organizations, communities, much like the way to serve them, come in a myriad of forms. But more specifically, the opportunity to be involved and help shape them for the benefit of all is essential. It continues to be a priority because this is where I live, this is the profession I am proud to be a part of, and this is the world in which I am raising my children. I have been blessed to receive a lot of help and support from various sources on my journey and it is important to me to give back.”
Advice: “Find the opportunity to learn and grow in every situation, both professional and personal. Find good mentors, seek out advice and feedback, try new things, and take the opportunity to be involved in the Bar, whether locally or statewide. The time you provide will be well spent in terms of knowledge gained, experiences enjoyed, and connections made. You will meet some amazing people who will help and support you throughout your career and your life will be all the richer for it.”
Casey attended the University of Idaho College of Law, graduating in 2012. She was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that fall and began her legal career clerking for the Honorable John T. Mitchell in the First Judicial District. She then worked at the Kootenai County Prosecutor’s Office from 2013 until 2019. That year, she jumped into private practice at Winston & Cashatt. Her practice includes civil litigation, trust and estate litigation, personal injury, and criminal defense. She has been involved in Bar activities throughout her career, including as a John P. Bench Bar Forum board member, bar exam grader, and First District Bar Association officer, currently serving as Past-President.
Brent T. Wilson
Salt Lake City
Why Service: “For me it has been a good way to stay connected to my roots as an Idaho lawyer and to help promote something that is personally important.”
Advice: “There are so many things, but two things in particular come to mind: (1) figure out what you’re best at based on your natural, inherent skills and abilities and find a way to maximize those things in your work (i.e., focus on your strengths); and (2) identify a niche or a specialty in the law and become the best at doing that work.”
Brent attended the Willamette University School of Law, graduating in 2002. He moved to Boise and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that same year. He started his law career clerking for the Honorable Wayne L. Kidwell at the Idaho Supreme Court. After clerking, he worked in private practice in Boise, first with Hall Farley and then with Evans Keane. After almost a decade in private practice, he transitioned into health care compliance, starting as a Compliance and Risk Manager at the Elks Rehabilitation System and then as the Integrity and Compliance Director at Saint Alphonsus Health System. In 2019, he accepted an offer to be the Chief Compliance Officer at University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City. He continues to participate as a volunteer for Idaho State Bar programs and activities.
2023 Professionalism Awards
This year’s Professionalism Award recipients have devoted their careers to the practice of law in a way that upholds the highest standards of civility and professionalism. Each of these individuals embodies a reputation of mutual respect and camaraderie with their colleagues. In addition to submitting biographical information, each recipient was asked to respond to the following questions:
What ideals or values do you let guide your professional life?
What advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?
Peter J. Smith IV
First District
Values: “I firmly believe that lawyers should serve as a force of justice for the world. Now, we are all lawyers – serving for justice should be a given. However, in my purview, being a force for justice means intentionally applying skills and expertise to achieve a result that benefits our clients and our communities. In our system, justice is achieved through gritty and strategic determination. When we work to achieve justice, we can change the world for the better because – by the very nature of our priorities – our team is focusing on it. This does not mean fighting for the sake of fighting or being difficult simply to wear out an opponent. It means viewing each matter as the opportunity to reach the just result. When we do this, we make the world a better place. Arguments that matter are arguments where we have the opportunity to make our workplaces and communities better places to live, work, and play. Impact (for the good) is essential.”
Advice: “There are three things I would tell my younger self as I entered into law practice (not coincidentally, these are the three things I tell any new hire at Smith + Malek).First, maintain the balance between the work we do and the lives we live. Work when it is time to work and hold a boundary to step fully away from the desk/email and be present in the world that exists outside of the office. When work and life overlap regularly, neither is done well.
Second, respect oneself, respect others, and take responsibility. There is no purpose in being a jerk and dodging responsibility. Act with integrity.
Third, our calling is to make the world a better place by bringing clarity to difficult situations, and sometimes when people are facing the biggest challenges they’ve ever seen. No matter the legal issue or task, our focus should be on making tomorrow better than today for our clients.”
Peter is licensed to practice law in Idaho, Washington, the Ninth Circuit, and the Court of Federal Claims. He was born and raised in Sandpoint, Idaho. He attended Walla Walla University, graduating with a degree in international business. He attended Pepperdine University School of Law and graduated in 2004.
He started his firm, Smith + Malek, alongside Luke Malek in 2015. He practices in the areas of business, real estate, litigation, and appeals. He’s argued cases before the Idaho Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and has tried numerous bench and jury trials.
In 2021, Governor Little appointed him to the Idaho Lottery Commission. He also served as the Vice Chairman of the Post Falls Urban Renewal Commission and an at-large member of the Idaho State Bar Real Property Law Section and Indian Law Section. In his spare time, he enjoys running, mountain biking, skiing, and golfing with his wife and children.
His personal mission is to change the world for the better through the work he does. He finds great accomplishment in helping people by reducing conflict and providing clarity. This can mean helping people resolve disputes through litigation or working to avoid ambiguity that could lead to disputes in transactions. As an attorney, he believes he has a unique responsibility to help create a better world, better communities, and better workplaces for the next generation of Idahoans.
Jana B. Gomez
Second District
Values: “Faith, kindness, and integrity, among others. As to faith, I constantly remind myself of the eternal picture and my true purpose in life; doing so makes the day-to-day challenges and stresses seem less significant. I strive to treat everyone with kindness. I believe legal disputes should focus on legal arguments and not involve personal attacks. Regarding integrity, I’ve always lived by the motto of doing the right thing, even (especially) when no one is watching. Grit, grace, and gratitude are other values high on my list.”
Advice: “Believe in yourself; you are intelligent and can do this! I’d like to go back and tell my younger self to have more confidence and not worry so much because it all works out.”
Jana graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 2009. After law school, she clerked for the Honorable Thomas G. Nelson of the United States District Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. In the spring of 2010, she began working for Ada County as a Civil Deputy Prosecutor. In 2014, she moved back home to Lewiston and worked as the Civil Deputy Prosecutor for Latah County. She was the City Attorney for the City of Lewiston from 2015 to 2022. She joined Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. as Senior Corporate Counsel in the Fall of 2022. Her focus is contract law and contract negotiations.
She was a member of the Steering Committee for the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers from 2020 to 2023, a Board member of the Idaho Municipal Attorneys from 2021 to 2022, and served on the University of Idaho Law Advisory Council from 2015 to 2021. She has served on the Lewis-Clark State College Legal Support Program Advisory Board since 2016. She has also been a mentor for the University of Idaho College of Law Professionalism and Ethics program since 2013.
She was awarded the Idaho Municipal Attorneys Rising Star Award in 2016. Also in 2016, she received the City of Lewiston P.R.I.D.E. award for Integrity. She was selected as the Idaho State Bar Outstanding Young Lawyer in 2014.
She’s been married to her husband, Omar Gómez, for 15 years. They have a 13-year-old daughter, Mia. They enjoy camping, boating, and traveling.
Timothy L. Fleming
Third District
This award is presented posthumously – Tim Fleming died on November 12, 2022. Tim was nominated for this award by colleagues and friends. Their comments indicate why Tim deserves this award. If there were a check box for professionalism, Tim Fleming checked them all.
Tim embodied professionalism during his life and career. He never wavered from his dedication to being a professional attorney with members of the bench, bar, pro se litigants, clients, and the community. Tim had a talent for listening, advocated for the just and lawful treatment of others, and tirelessly promoted a community grounded in care and respect. Tim had the rare ability to make sure everyone was included in a compassionate way. From his work as a prosecutor to his civic leadership roles that translated into significant benefits to others, Tim’s life demonstrated that he worked tirelessly to be of service to others.
One of Tim’s favorite quotes was of Chief Joseph who said, “Treat all people alike. Give them the same law. Give them an even chance to grow.” Tim embodied this quote in his day-to-day life and work.
Tim was raised in Buhl, Idaho. He interned for both Congressman Richard Stallings and Vice-President Dan Quayle. He graduated from the College of Idaho in 1994, and from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1997. He served as the Caldwell City Prosecuting Attorney, the Chief Deputy Gem County prosecutor, and the elected Gem County Prosecuting Attorney. He entered private practice in 2011, working with his twin brothers Todd and Ted, and attorney Jacob Welsh. He served many legal and community organizations. He is survived by his wife who he met in law school, Lori, and daughter, Emily.
Nicholas G. Miller
Fourth District
Values: “The best guiding principle I’ve found for professional responsibilities and service in my law firm is four simple words: ‘It’s not about you.’ In professional practice, that is of course pretty easy because it’s right in the Rules of Professional Responsibility, but it’s good to remember that lawyers serve their clients, not themselves.
More broadly speaking, I’ve found ‘not about you’ to be a guiding principle in law firm practice. As Managing Partner, my ‘elevator speech’ when asked what I do was to reply, ‘My job is to help others succeed. Staying outwardly focused on the needs of others enabled me to preach and manifest tolerance for a diversity of views, personalities, opinions, and practice styles.”
Advice: “I really try not to look back, and I also think one’s career is directed more by opportunities or challenges that come your way and how you respond to them than a conscious game plan. Given what I was presented with, I don’t think I would do anything differently. Still, I like the words of Warren Buffett when asked by a graduate school of business student about ‘advice to us who are just starting out.’ Buffett said, ‘There are three things: marry the right person, do something you really like to do, and work for someone you really admire.’ Even though I didn’t hear those words until later in life, they resonated as something I had largely done, and good advice to others.”
Nick’s enthusiasm for the practice of law and the profession in general serves him well, as Nick led Hawley Troxell’s strategic efforts for seven years while managing partner and served over a decade on the firm’s Board of Partners. His leadership in this role was critical to the successful acquisition and integration of another, significant 20-attorney law firm.
Nick’s commitment to being a part of a better educated tomorrow continues to have significant impact statewide on communities and students. His expansive legal representation also includes the drafting of school bond legislative reforms, forming general pledge bond systems for Idaho universities, and creating innovative financing to combine municipal systems.
Nick helps students advance their education in expanded, modern school facilities. He’s helped multiple school districts, colleges, and universities throughout the State of Idaho achieve 150 bond issuances. This funding resulted in numerous new school buildings for K-12 students, the expansion of college campuses, and the development of entirely new colleges.
Nick’s dedication to the legal profession and the communities he serves has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Bond Counsel, Best Lawyers in America Corporate Law (since 1995), Public Finance Law and Securities, Capital Markets Law, and Lawyer of the Year Corporate Law (2009 and 2013), Martindale-Hubbell’s 20-year Award for maintaining an AV® Preeminent™ Lawyer Rating, and Chambers & Partners ranked Band I-Corporate/Commercial attorney. In 2022, Nick was honored with the Idaho Business Review’s Leaders in Law Lifetime Achievement Award.
Nick’s extensive community and civic involvement includes current or past commitments with the Idaho Business for Education Council, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce Intermountain Venture Forum (Past Chair) and Executive Committee, Boise Valley Economic Partnership (Past Chair), Idaho Shakespeare Festival Board of Trustees (Past President), Idaho Public Television Board of Trustees (Past President), and the Idaho Board of Corrections (Past Board Chairman).
Nick received his J.D. from Stanford University in 1976 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September 1983.
Dennis S. Voorhees
Fifth District
Values: “I let honesty, humility, and determination guide my professional life. My word is my bond. The slightest deceit to a judge, client, or colleague irreparably crushes reputation. Humility is a better guide than ego. Determination is essential because good lawyering is a long game.”
Advice: “Cultivate an impulse to stay positive and happy – as the forces inherent in lawyering tend toward negativity. Compete continuously with yourself, not others; good lawyering is a work in progress. Treat court clerks, staff, and counsel as kindly as possible. Work hard on problems, not on people. Build confidence early on by mastering critical skills: the rules of procedure and evidence, trial advocacy, writing, and research. Take advantage of mentoring opportunities with people you admire – both inside and outside of the law. Choose public service commitments wisely and then give them your best effort. Know that in the end, the esteem of colleagues will never be as important as that of your spouse and your children. The dreams and aspirations of your staff are every bit as important as your own – make sure they know that and support them in their journey. Be as quick to forgive yourself as you are quick to forgive others for the inevitable misunderstandings and dustups that arise in the course of lawyering; we are our own toughest critics.”
Dennis graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1978. He is a Fellow of The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel and a certified elder law attorney (National Elder Law Foundation) since 2000. He served as a Commissioner of the Idaho State Bar (2014-2017) and as President in 2016. He practiced elder law, estate planning, and special needs planning for persons with disabilities. He also served as a Trustee for the Twin Falls Public Library (1986-2001).
Carole I. Wesenberg
Sixth District
Values: “My Finnish mother taught me to face every challenge with sisu. Sisu literally means ‘guts’ or ‘intestines,’ but it embodies all the values to succeed in life. It’s courage, integrity, dignity, and adaptability; it’s a mindset; and it’s personal responsibility. The essence of sisu lies in embracing discomfort and adversity as opportunities for personal growth.”
Advice: “Your time is your most valuable resource, and you’ll never regret the time you spend outside of work. Take time for yourself. Take time to visit friends and family. Give back to your community. Help others. Finding a work-life balance will make you happier in your life.”
Carole is currently the Career Law Clerk for the Honorable N. Randy Smith with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. She is also an Instructor for the Paralegal Studies program at Idaho State University.
Prior to her current employment, she served as an associate with Quane Smith, LLP in Idaho Falls, Idaho, focusing on insurance defense law. She started her career as a law clerk to the Honorable N. Randy Smith with the Sixth Judicial District of Idaho.
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in geography from Montana State University in 1994, and her Master of Science in environmental science from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania in 1997. She received her Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University in 2000. She was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September 2000.
William R. Forsberg, Jr.
Seventh District
Values: “I believe in working hard, being honest, and respecting others.”
Advice: “Be prepared to work harder than you might think necessary. You will make mistakes but determine that you will learn from them when they occur.”
William (“Bill”) was born and raised in Wenatchee, Washington, He came to Rexburg, Idaho to attend Ricks College in 1970. Bill graduated from Washington State University with a degree in business administration in 1974. In 1978, he graduated with honors from the J. Reuben Clark Law School.
Bill is admitted to practice before all courts of the State of Idaho, the Federal District Court for the District of Idaho, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the United States Court of Federal Claims, and the United States Tax Court. He has also served as a Marine Corps Judge Advocate.
While at Ricks he met and married his wife, Colleen. Bill and Colleen have six daughters and 14 grandchildren.
Outstanding Young Lawyer: Ashley R. Marelius
By Lindsey M. Welfley
For someone who swore she’d never be a family law practitioner, Ashley Marelius sure set herself apart as an extraordinary young Idaho lawyer practicing exclusively that. Ashley was born and raised in Olympia, Washington, and for as long as she can remember, being an attorney was career goal number one. Ashley completed her undergraduate degree at Central Washington University with a major in law/justice and sociology with a minor in psychology. She moved to Boise for law school and graduated from Concordia University School of Law in 2016, being admitted to the Idaho State Bar that same year.
Law school was far from easy for Ashley as it was extremely difficult balancing the workload and the necessity to work to support herself. She is, perhaps surprisingly, proud of the fact that she actually failed out of her first term. Ashley promised the four women who sat on the appeal panel – Cathy Silak, Tenielle Fordyce-Ruff, Jodi Nafzger, and Anne Comstock – that if reaccepted, she would make them proud. With support from Rebecca Nickell and their weekly meetings, Ashley survived law school. Ashley remains forever grateful to these women for believing in her.
While still in law school, Ashley participated in the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (“ITLA”) Street Law Clinic and met Sean Breen during a pro bono opportunity on which they collaborated. After the case concluded, Ashley joked with Sean that if he were ever looking to hire an associate, she’d be interested. Much to her delight, she received a call two weeks later from Sean asking her to come in for an interview and to meet with the other partners in the firm. Ashley was hired in 2014 and has been with the firm ever since.
Ashley practices exclusively family law since being admitted to the Bar in 2016, handling mostly divorces and child custody with an emphasis on working with victims of domestic violence. Two years ago, she replaced two outgoing partners, Mark Manweiler, and Gary Davis, making her the newest partner of the firm now known as Breen, Ball & Marelius, PLLC. Since then, Ashley has been acting as Managing Partner, handling all the ins and outs of the firm’s business operations. When reminiscing on those early years, Ashley says she is forever indebted to both the past and current partners at her firm for being willing to take a chance on her – “I don’t know where I would be otherwise.”
In addition to her busy professional life, Ashley is heavily involved in several community programs. Since 2011, she has worked with the Boise Bully Breed Rescue as their Foster and Adoption Coordinator and board member. Ashley spends a great deal of time finding suitable, loving homes for these otherwise neglected animals. She continues to work with the ITLA Street Law Clinic and with the Court Appointed Special Advocate (“CASA”) program, representing guardians ad litem in child protection proceedings. Ashley and her partner, Matt, are also licensed foster parents and have assisted in several child placements over the last several years.
Ashley has had several individuals to whom she’s looked for guidance, support, and encouragement throughout her life. In her personal life, she names her sister, Dena, at the top of the list. After the loss of both parents as a teenager, Dena assumed the caretaker role of Ashley. “I was a very difficult teenager and other than Dena, I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today.”
In her professional life, Ashley again mentions how grateful she is for the past (Mark Manweiler and Gary Davis) and present partners (Sean Breen and Jim Ball) in her firm for being so supportive of her law career. She also names the women at Bjorkman, Dempsey, Foster LLC – particularly Alyson Foster and Jennifer Dempsey. Ashley is thankful for the support of strong female voices in this profession. She notes that these women have treated her with kindness and generosity, matched with zero judgment.
Ashley is also so thankful for her rockstar right hand, Ruby, for all the support, laughs, and eye rolls, her partner, Matt, for showing her what a supportive relationship should be like, her girlfriends, Lyndsey, Paige, and Hannah who have supported her through schooling and beyond, and the family law judges for all the guidance and kindness. Finally, she is thankful for the people who do not practice the motto of “being kind” and still throw difficult curve balls toward young attorneys. Though it is hard for her to thank them, she thinks it is important for young attorneys to learn first-hand how they don’t want to practice and how small acts can have big impacts.
Lindsey M. Welfley is the Communications Director of the Idaho State Bar, overseeing all communications-related initiatives of both the Idaho State Bar and the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. She graduated from Grand Canyon University with her undergraduate degree in history in 2015 and has been employed with the Idaho State Bar ever since. Lindsey has been the Communications Director since March 2019.
Distinguished Lawyer: Marvin M. Smith
By Lindsey M. Welfley
Marvin M. Smith (“Marv”) is another of Idaho’s premier trial lawyers, having practiced in Eastern Idaho for the majority of his career. Marv was born and raised in Lehi, Utah. After graduating high school, he attended Utah State University, where he graduated magna cum laude with his Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science (two majors and three minors). After his undergraduate education, he continued on to law school at Brigham Young University, J. Reuben Clark Law School, graduating cum laude with his juris doctorate in 1977.
Immediately after graduating law school, passing the bar exam, and being admitted to practice in both Utah and Idaho, Marv migrated to Idaho where he took his first job in Twin Falls with the late Lloyd Webb’s firm. There, he learned a great deal of the law with the likes of Lloyd Webb, the Honorable Monte Carlson (dec.), and Judge Theron Ward.
During his decision-making process for what to do after law school, Marv went through a series of offers before making his decision to stay on the civil side of things – upon graduation he was sifting through job offers from the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office, the federal chambers in Boise for a clerkship, a firm in Utah, and Lloyd Webb’s firm. Ultimately deciding to move out to Twin Falls, Marv recounts that this decision afforded him several opportunities to improve his lawyering skills and was overall an incredibly good experience. In this capacity, he had the opportunity to act as a Special Prosecutor on two occasions; these instances further solidified his confidence in the decision to stay with the civil side of the law.
After working with the Webb firm for five years, Marv moved his family to Idaho Falls to take a job with Buck Hiller in 1981. While with the Hiller firm, he practiced insurance defense and medical malpractice defense, with a small amount of plaintiffs’ work mixed in.
Marv was appointed to the bench in 1988. He served as a Magistrate Judge in Bonneville County from 1988 to 1990, after which he was elected to the district bench. He subsequently served as District Judge for the Seventh Judicial District from 1990 to 1996. After leaving the bench, he went to work at Sharp Anderson Hall & Smith, where he stayed for 13 years. His next endeavor was to go out on his own, then later merged with Hawley Troxell. He has remained in practice with Hawley Troxell in their Idaho Falls office since 2015.
The majority of his work has been focused on medical malpractice defense and he has worked with physicians and hospitals for the better part of four decades. Since 1990, Marv has acted as a mediator.
When asked about any cases or moments that stick out as being particularly memorable, Marv mentions two important ones. First, during his tenure on the district bench, Marv presided over a six- and half-month-long trial regarding a crop loss dispute. Second, Marv recounts that he will never forget the first jury trial he tried and won, stating that “it is a high point for any young lawyer.”
Throughout his career, Marv has looked to several individuals as both role models and mentors. He cites both Lloyd Webb and Monte Carlson as his early inspirations as far as the practice of law and adds that he learned a great deal from Buck Hiller. “All three of these men were consummate professionals and fantastic in-court lawyers, each with their own style.” In a more contemporary base, Marv states, “I knew if I could ever be as prepared for trial as Curt Thomsen or Gary Cooper, I’d be okay.”
In addition to time spent on his career, Marv dedicates much of his time to community service and volunteer work. He coached junior league basketball for many years. He served as a trustee for the Museum of Idaho for 10 years; he recalls how rewarding it was to see that museum transform from a local community museum to somewhat of a state or regional attraction. Maintaining his humility, Marv states, “I didn’t have anything to do with that, I just enjoyed being along for the ride.” Marv is a committed member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and donates a lot of his time to the church. He has also helped build two houses through the Habitat for Humanity initiative.
Marv and his wife, Janet, have four daughters and one son. His son, also Marvin Smith, has carried on the legacy and is an attorney practicing with his father in the Hawley Troxell Idaho Falls office. The majority of Marv’s family resides in the Eastern Idaho area, with the exception of one daughter who lives in Guam with her husband. With 13 grandchildren, Marv enjoys his time with family and catching as many of his grandchildren’s recitals and sports games as possible. Reminiscing on the good ole days, Marv is quick to note that he used to play a lot of basketball with a “former” respectable vertical leap of 35 inches – “the wheels have fallen off and now I trip over a dime!”
In the midst of such a distinguished career as his, Marv holds that he is truly fortunate to be in this profession. “I am incredibly lucky to have the mentors that I’ve had who took the time to show me how to do it, I think, the right way. As well as some contemporaries along the way who, even when we were on the opposite side, could always remain cordial and respectful.” In all his experience, Marv speaks highly of Idaho’s bar and expresses the lasting hope that collegiality can be retained as we move forward.
In addition to his mentors, Marv would offer thanks to his current and former partners and assistants for their patience in working with him and for the assistance they gave him in his career.
Lastly, Marv would like to thank his family, especially his wife, Janet, for allowing him to take the necessary long hours and missing the occasional birthday party; and his son for making sure he goes to the right office in the morning.
Lindsey M. Welfley is the Communications Director of the Idaho State Bar, overseeing all communications-related initiatives of both the Idaho State Bar and the Idaho Law Foundation, Inc. She graduated from Grand Canyon University with her undergraduate degree in history in 2015 and has been employed with the Idaho State Bar ever since. Lindsey has been the Communications Director since March 2019.