50 Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1974

Posted on July 17, 2024 | updated: July 17, 2024

These acknowledgments honor members of the Idaho State Bar who have been admitted for 50 years. Thank you to all who submitted material to be included in this portion of our awards.

Kenneth P. Adler

Kenneth Adler is a graduate of Drake University Law School.

Stephen M. Ayers

Stephen Ayers is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Stephen and his wife, Mary, reside in Coeur d’Alene.

Paul T. Baird

Paul Baird graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law. Upon graduation, he joined the Boise law firm of Clemons, Cosho, and Humphrey. He started out working primarily on the Sunshine Mine fire litigation and some other product liability litigation, but gradually shifted to estate planning, pension and profit sharing, and other commercial work. In May 1981, Paul accepted an offer to serve as Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and assistant professor at O.W. Coburn School of Law in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He taught primarily commercial law courses.

After two years there, Paul was invited to join the Reagan Administration at the Department of the Interior, serving one year as Associate Solicitor for Indian Affairs and four and a half years as Director of the Office of Hearings and Appeals. At the conclusion of the Reagan presidency, Paul became a Special Master in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims hearing cases filed under the Childhood Vaccine Compensation Act. In 1993, Paul was placed on the U.S. Administrative Law Judge register. In early 1994, he was appointed to a Social Security administrative law judge position in Atlanta, Georgia, where he served until his retirement in 2007. After spending 11½ years on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Paul and his wife, Linda, moved to their current home in Oceanside, California in November 2018.

Linda and Paul will be celebrating their 58^th anniversary in June. They have two sons and seven grandchildren, two of whom were adopted from Ukraine.

Alfred E. Barrus

Alfred Barrus is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Alfred and his wife, Kathy, reside in Burley.

Michael L. Beatty

Michael Beatty is a graduate of Harvard Law School. Michael and his wife, Kathleen, reside in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

James A. Bevis

James Bevis is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. James and his wife, Dianne, reside in Boise.

Greg H. Bower

Greg Bower is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. Greg and his wife, Linda, reside in Boise.

Stephen C. Brown

Stephen Brown is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Stephen and his wife, Anne, reside in Boise.

Hon. Roger S. Burdick

Hon. Roger Burdick is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Roger resides in Boise.

Dennis L. Cain

Dennis Cain, along with his peers, can’t believe that it has been 50 years since they were somehow able to pass the bar exam and receive their license from the Idaho State Bar. Dennis graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and was able to practice in Boise for 40 years in a two-man firm with his high school and college buddy, Steve Beer. For some time, he had planned to retire after 40 years at the end of 2013. That decision was reinforced when Dennis appeared on more than one occasion to learn that the opposing counsel was the son or daughter of a law school classmate.

In general, Dennis enjoyed the practice of law and was fortunate enough to work for some clients who were good and interesting people. He made a point of dealing with the process with civility and some humor and maintained his intention to have a respectful relationship with opposing counsel and members of the judiciary.

Dennis was blessed with a wonderful family. He and his wife, Nita, have been married for 42 years. They have two daughters, four grandsons, and a pair of great-sons-in-laws who fortunately all live in Boise. They happily spend a great deal of time, and more in the future, trying to figure out how to get from one sporting event to the next.

The retirement years have been great for Dennis, and he always thought that his golf handicap would come down after retirement but has been proven wrong. Dennis has been on some memorable travel adventures, reads a fair number of books, and enjoys the time spent with his friends and family.

Alan J. Coffel

Alan Coffel is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Alan and his wife, Elena, reside in Nampa.

Bruce J. Collier

Bruce Collier is a graduate of the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law. Bruce and his wife, Paula, reside in Ketchum.

Gregory L. Crockett

Gregory Crockett is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Gregory and his wife, Trish, reside in Boise.

Walter J. Donovan, Jr.

Walter Donovan, 90, Brig. Gen. USMC (Ret.) was born in Brooklyn, New York. Commissioned in 1956, he commanded three units, earning his law degree on active duty, at night, after returning from the Vietnam War where he served from 1967 to 1968. Admitted to the California Bar in 1974, he was chief defense counsel, 1^st Marine Division, then Deputy staff judge advocate 3^rd Marine Division and first Military magistrate on Okinawa, implementing the U.S. Supreme Court decision of Gerstein v. Pugh. A distinguished graduate of the Naval War College, he served as Navy JAG Investigations Deputy, then as a judge on the Navy-Marine Corps Court of Military Review. Assigned as the SJA, 1^st Marine Division, he was later promoted Brig. Gen. serving in Washington, D.C. as senior lawyer in the Corps. He established the Chief Defense Counsel of the Marine Corps position. On retirement, he was a Deputy D.A. San Diego County for 11 plus years. Moving to Boise in 1996, he failed his second retirement, passed the Idaho Bar Exam at age 64 and was briefly an Ada County DepPA. He helped grade the Idaho Bar Exam for 10 years. He met his wife of 65 years, Rita, a Navy Nurse and graduate of Filer High School and St. Al’s Nursing School, while visiting a sick Marine in Hawaii, a few months before statehood. Their three sons are Paul in Denver, Colorado, Mike in Medford, Oregon, and Tom in Boise.

Curtis H. Eaton

Curtis Eaton graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and was thankful for that as a springboard to several careers for him. Certainly, one of the most significant facets of the law school years was developing friendships that have endured, and grown, for over 50 years – hence, the GNBA shirt he is pictured in. Several of Curtis’ classmates formed the “Greater Non Bar Association” as a social club. It was very exclusive: a member was expected to enjoy life in the company of friends outside of the demands of the law. It was a bit of a stick in the eye of stodginess. Curtis is thankful to have been associated with the GNBA gang all of these years.

As an attorney, Curtis was in the Attorney General’s office under Tony Park, a Democrat, and Wayne Kidwell, a Republican. Curtis was a private attorney under the guidance of two outstanding lawyers, Bob Stephan and Dan Slavin. Subsequently, his career path veered toward banking, first with the independent Twin Falls Bank and Trust Company (President), then with the regional First Security Bank (area President), and finally, for a short time, with Wells Fargo (area President).

The law background was helpful in Curtis’ career as a community college administrator. At the College of Southern Idaho, he served as Executive Director of the Foundation, Vice President of Student Services and Grant Funding, and for a time, Interim President. During those work years, he was on the board of a public company that was taken private and of a private company that was taken public.

For several years, he was on the Board of the Salt Lake Branch of the Federal Reserve. Governor Cecil Andrus, a Democrat, appointed Curtis to the Idaho State Board of Education where he was President for a year. He was re-appointed to the State Board by Republican Governor Phil Batt and has served on the University of Idaho Law Advisory Council and numerous non-profit organizations.

Curtis’ greatest satisfaction is a marriage of 55 years. He and Mardo met during undergraduate college years and have survived, and thrived, the changes in life they have chosen and the changes that have chosen them. She worked as a clinical Registered Nurse in Idaho and at the National Institutes of Health and was a nursing instructor at Boise State University after receiving an M.S. in psychology from the University of Idaho. Together, he and his wife are extremely proud of their son, Dylan (an attorney), daughter-in-law, Whitney (an attorney), and their three bright, energetic, and delightful kids.

David M. Edson

David Edson is a graduate of Willamette University College of Law. David and his wife, Debby, reside in Portland, Oregon.

Melvin C. Edwards

Melvin Edwards is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Melvin and his wife, Joan, reside in Garden City.

David G. Gadda

It was late August 1973 when David Gadda arrived in Boise with his new bride of two years. David and Cece came from Berkeley, where he went to law school and Cece’s hometown, in response to a job offer from Boise Cascade. There was a good deal of culture shock. About the only thing the two towns had in common in 1973 was the first letter of their names. They stayed for 50 years and raised three children who left for college and now have successful careers in major cities.

For the first 40 years in Boise, David practiced law in the Legal Department of Boise Cascade, ultimately serving as its General Counsel before his retirement. David’s practice was general corporate counseling with an emphasis on environmental law and corporate finance, including mergers and acquisitions and large, complex financing transactions. Given his principal client’s size and geographic dispersion, much of David’s practice was outside of Idaho. As issues came up, he could find himself in New York City or Washington, D.C., or, at the other extreme, in a small town in rural Louisiana or northern Minnesota. During the mid-1990s, David spent two years commuting on a weekly basis to Toronto, Canada where he worked as CFO and Administrative VP for a newsprint company Boise Cascade partially divested in an IPO. Following that company’s sale, David spent two years at Hawley Troxell before returning to Boise Cascade.

Relatively early in his career, David served for nine years as a member of the Board of Directors of the Idaho Law Foundation and as its President for one year. One of David’s major accomplishments in that period was serving on the joint Bar and Foundation committee that hired Diane Minnich as the Bar/Foundation’s Executive Director. Certainly, one of the best hires he has ever made.

Since retirement, David and his wife have downsized to a small house in Boise’s North End, where they live comfortably when not at their cabin in McCall or traveling to visit their six grandchildren.

Michael S. Gilmore

After graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law, Michael Gilmore clerked for Justice Bakes of the Idaho Supreme Court. He then joined the Idaho Attorney General’s Office, where he worked for 40 years and a day. For 15 years Michael worked in utility regulation, then transferred to general civil litigation, where his cases addressed issues including whether the system of public education in Idaho was consistent with the thoroughness requirement of the Idaho Constitution and whether tobacco companies had improperly withheld payments to the States under the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement that paid the States for the public health costs of smoking.

After retiring from the Attorney General’s Office, Michael challenged the Legislature’s attempt to restrict the right of initiative and referendum on his own behalf as a private citizen. He has also taught as an adjunct faculty at the University of Idaho College of Law.

Michael was blessed by the opportunities that he was afforded through the Attorney General’s office. He worked for six different attorneys general. The cases to which Michael was assigned allowed him to argue before the Supreme Court of the United States once, to be in double figures for arguments before the United States Courts of Appeals (the Second and Ninth), and to argue before the Idaho Supreme Court about 40 or 50 times. He also had the chance to appear in Idaho State District Courts in all seven Idaho Judicial Districts and in Federal District Courts in the Districts of Idaho and the Southern District of New York (among other things, to protect the Idaho Potato Certification Mark).

He married and raised a family in Idaho. He enjoyed Idaho’s outdoors doing things like hiking, rafting rivers, cross country skiing, and riding horses in the back country. He had the privilege of enjoying the company of friends and family during all those years. He has been very fortunate.

Raymond “Ray” C. Givens

Ray Givens graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law then went to work at Idaho Legal Aid in Caldwell and Coeur d’Alene through the 1970s. Ray worked in general practice in Coeur d’Alene then from the 1990s until retirement he worked to represent Indian tribes and native people, both as a sole practitioner and in a small firm in the Coeur d’Alene and Seattle areas. Throughout his career, he was admitted and practiced in state and federal Idaho and Washington courts, various tribal courts, in five Federal Courts of Appeal, and in the United States Supreme Court.

Some notable achievements from Ray’s career include him representing clients financially unable to afford legal representation, establishing an Idaho Legal Aid Office in Coeur d’Alene, and many reported decisions from courts with successful results. In the 1990s and 2000s, he had success with tribal representation of Lake Coeur d’Alene Ownership and represented tribes during the establishment of Indian Gaming. Ray also was Tribal Representation at Hanford Nuclear Superfund Cleanup and Portland Harbor Superfund Cleanup and represented Inupiat family’s damage claim against the U.S. and major oil companies with successful results.

Ray has been married to Jeanne Givens for 46 years. Jeanne has been an active Coeur d’Alene Tribal Member, Idaho State Representative, teacher, and mother. Ray has raised two children in Coeur d’Alene and Western Washington and has spent many summers at a cabin on Priest Lake.

Richard F. Goodson

Richard Goodson is a graduate of Gonzaga University School of Law. Richard and his wife, Jackie, reside in Boise.

John F. Greenfield

John Greenfield is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. John and his wife, Laurie, reside in Boise.

Roger M. Hanlon

Roger Hanlon is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Roger and his wife, Cindy, reside in Sandpoint.

Jim C. Harris

Jim Harris and his family moved from Portland, Oregon to Boise when he was six years old. Jim attended Franklin and Koelsch Grade Schools and later attended West Jr. High and Borah High School. He received an A.A. degree with honors from Boise State University and a B.A. degree with honors from the University of Idaho.

Jim was admitted to the Willamette University College of Law in 1971. It was at the end of his second year that the Boise Draft Board decided that they needed cannon fodder more than a JAG officer with a law degree (which made little, if any, sense as one might expect). In July of 1971, Jim reported for basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where the heat was between 100 and 110 degrees. It only took two months of basic training in that heat for him to lose 30 pounds of body weight. He was able to avoid Vietnam and spent nearly two years at Fort Ord, California, in the Personnel Office.

In 1973, he returned to Willamette University College of Law as Corporal Jim and graduated with honors. After passing the bar exam on Jim’s return to Boise, he was offered a position with the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office. His friend from the University of Idaho, Senator Jim Risch, was leaving the job to join the Idaho State Senate. Another friend, Dave LeRoy, was elected as the prosecuting attorney, and Jim soon became the chief deputy. After Dave’s two-terms were up, Jim served two-terms as the elected prosecuting attorney of Ada County.

During his tenure with the Prosecutor’s Office, Jim tried several jury trials, including five murder cases, all to conviction. In 1982, Jim ran for Attorney General and lost by approximately 1% of the vote, he decided to leave local politics and formed the firm Harris and Sutton in Boise.

Jim was an active member of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association and served for two decades on its Board of Directors. He served as President from 1990-1991 and in 2009 was honored as the Trial Lawyer’s Lawyer of the Association.

While in private practice, Jim tried many cases, but there is one that stands out because it has proven to be impossible to forget. Robinson v. State Farm Insurance Co. was the result of the plaintiff’s disputes with the often used “paper review” scam used by several insurance companies, which were produced by independent “experts,” to undercut the opinions of treating physicians as to the cause and extent of the injuries suffered by the insured. This cookie cutter-based system was often used to determine injuries and was a violation of the duty that the insurance company had to its insurers.

An Ada County jury found that this practice was in fact fraudulent and awarded the sum of $9,000,000 to the plaintiff. Not long after, the case was noticed by national media entities, including NBC, which produced two nationwide, two-hour long, programs attacking the practices of State Farm. The case was later settled, and the “paper review” system was abolished.

In 1999, Jim opened a one-man, one secretary firm. Five years later, Jim took on an “of counsel” position for a while working from home.

Jim’s favorite activity, other than the law, has always been in politics. He was always a Republican, and at the age of 17, Jim and a friend managed to become “Honorable Sargent at Arms” at the 1964 National “Goldwater Convention” held at the Cow Palace in San Francisco. And, in 1980, he was a delegate at the GOP Convention in Detroit where Ronald Reagan was the GOP nominee.

Jim is now retired but remains active in his belief in free speech and will continue to voice his concerns and opinions for as long as he can. Jim is married to Sukaluk (Kacc) who was born in North Thailand. He has three daughters and two granddaughters.

Dennis P. Harwick

Dennis Harwick was born and raised in Idaho and has lived in small towns like Council and Arco before moving to Pocatello for junior high and high school. He then spent seven years at the University of Idaho for undergraduate and law school.

After graduating law school, he was asked to create the in-house legal department for Idaho Bank & Trust (now Key Bank). In 1985, the Executive Director of the Idaho Bankers Association stopped by his office and casually told him that the Idaho State Bar was looking for a new Executive Director. Dennis immediately realized that this was something that utilized both his legal background and natural inclination for administration. Somehow, Dennis convinced the Idaho State Bar Board of Commissioners to hire him. Two weeks after he started, he made one of the best decisions of his life – hiring Diane Minnich!

Five years later, Dennis received a letter from the Washington State Bar Association informing him that it was looking for a new Executive Director/CEO and that he had been recommended as a candidate. After conferring with then Chief Justice Bob Bakes, Dennis decided a weekend in Seattle couldn’t hurt. About 10 minutes into the interview, he realized they were going to offer him the job. With considerable trepidation, Dennis decided to accept and spent the next seven years straightening out the Washington State Bar Association.

At that point, Dennis intended to come back to Idaho and practice, but then the Kansas Bar Association approached him, and he became a state “bartender” for the third time. In 2004, Dennis left the Kansas Bar Association and started his life over. In 2005, he became the President of the Captive Insurance Companies Association (an international insurance association for “member only” insurance companies like ALPS) where he served through his retirement in 2019. To his knowledge, Dennis is the only person who ever served as the Executive Director of three state bar associations. He also managed to have a career in every U.S. continental time zone!

For the last 16 years, Dennis and his partner have traveled extensively both domestically and internationally and he now lives on the beach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Micheel J. Hildebrand

Micheel Hildebrand is a graduate of the University of Wyoming College of Law. Micheel and his wife, Sara, reside in Morgantown, West Virginia.

Charles A. Homer

Charles Homer graduated cum laude from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1974 with a Juris Doctor degree. He has been a member of Holden, Kidwell, Hahn & Crapo, PLLC from 1974 to the present. He served as managing partner for Holden, Kidwell, Hahn & Crapo, PLLC for over 25 years and his practice focused on real estate transactions, commercial transactions, commercial litigation, commercial lending, creditor’s and debtor’s rights, and business law.

Some notable achievements from Charles’s career include being a member of the University of Idaho advisory council for several terms and serving as chairperson of the advisory council for two terms. He was on Board of Directors for the Idaho Law Foundation for several terms and served two terms as President of Idaho Law Foundation Board of Directors. He also served as the chairperson of the Real Property Section of Idaho State Bar.

Charles has received the Richard C. Fields Civility Award, Idaho State Bar/Idaho Law Foundation Service Award, Idaho State Bar/Idaho Law Foundation Professionalism Award, and a Professionalism Award from the Eagle Rock Chapter Inns of Court.

Charles has been married for 53 years to Marci Homer. He has four children and nine grandchildren. He spends the winter months in Sun City West, Arizona and the summer months in Island Park, Idaho. He continues to practice law several hours per week, primarily via remote access.

Jeffrey G. Howe

Jeffrey Howe is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Jeffrey and his wife, Susan, reside in New Meadows.

John Insinger

John Insinger spent the first year out of the University of Idaho College of Law as a private practitioner in Idaho Falls, before serving in Boise as a Deputy Ada County Prosecuting Attorney for a year and a half handling misdemeanor and felony cases, with approximately 60 jury and court cases tried to conclusion.

For nearly 40 years thereafter, he was back in private practice as partner in Risch, Goss and Insinger with a general practice that evolved into a plaintiff litigation practice focusing primarily on first-party insurance bad faith cases, with multiple financially large verdicts and settlements. John was generally retired by 2016, then began a new career in 2019 as Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Jim Risch, one of his former law partners. John still works for the U.S. Senate and currently lives in Boise and Ketchum with Susan, his wife of 55 years.

Their son, Rob, and daughter, Tina, live in Denver with their four grandchildren. They often all get together in Colorado and Idaho.

Kenneth T. Jacobsen

Ken Jacobsen received his J.D. in 1974 from Gonzaga University School of Law and became a member of Idaho’s First District Bar that same year. He and his wife, Wendy, moved to Coeur d’Alene after law school, and he joined Phillip Dolan in the practice of law.

Ken’s practice evolved from a general practice including workman’s compensation, property, and family law to mostly estate and real property law. He also represented the city of Dalton Gardens and a local title company for over 30 years of his career.eHe

Ken and Wendy have been married for 54 years and have two sons, Garth who is an M.D. and Professor of Surgery in Southern California and Justin (“J.T.”) who is part owner and President of a local title company. They also have three grandsons.

He and his wife live on Coeur d’Alene Lake and enjoy boating on the lake and traveling to see grandkids.

Dean W. Kaplan

Dean Kaplan is a graduate of Loyola Law School. Dean resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.

James F. Kile

James (“Jim”) Kile had quite a leap from working in the orchards in Yakima, Washington to the University of Idaho College of Law (“U of I”). U of I prided itself in providing a basic “nuts and bolts” legal education without any “space age law.” At graduation, his class had the impression that they could compete at any level and be successful against even the glamorous big city guys. It was certainly true in Jim’s legal experience.

It all started during his last two years of law school as the legal intern for the prosecuting attorney in Lewiston, Idaho. What an education it was with seven murder trials in that short span, involving one case of research back to English law of the 1800s. Thereafter, Jim had the pleasure of six challenging and exciting career opportunities during his 50 years as an Idaho attorney.

Jim’s adventure started as the law clerk for the Chief Judge of the federal courts in the State of Washington. He was front and center on many complex cases. Returning to Idaho, his career brought him to the State Attorney General’s Office in the criminal division, giving him 30 appeals to the State Supreme Court and other court trials, with one being a vehicular manslaughter case. Next came four years of solo private practice and all the “excitement” of leaving a secure job with no clients and only a belief that somehow a client would find Jim and come to his office.

No doubt a huge break came his way when hired into the J.R. Simplot Company legal department. With only four of them initially, they had the whole country to cover. Jim had all the cattle operations and food plants as a starter. As a young buck, it was a thrill to work at the highest levels of this company for 15 years.

The Governor then appointed Jim to the Idaho Industrial Commission as the attorney commissioner. Besides managing the workers’ compensation industry in Idaho, this job included administering a functioning agency for unemployment appeals, crime victims, worker rehab services, and employment issues.

Jim finished his legal career as the manager of the Idaho Industrial Special Indemnity Fund for claims by workers injured and wanting to qualify for lifetime benefits. Thankfully, he had eight well-qualified and specialized attorneys working for him on the cases with the Industrial Commission.

Jim and his classmates learned in law school that “the law” is a “jealous mistress.” Thus, his spare time was spent on the golf course keeping his “mistress” at bay for many years and still to this day.

Along the way, Jim had exceptional mentors, both as attorneys and public officials. Just as rewarding were the many clients, associates, fellow attorneys, and golfing buddies that thankfully overlooked his flaws and idiosyncrasies to remain friends throughout this time. Jim notes that he has been truly blessed with an incredible legal career and is thankful to all who have made it possible.

Edward Kingsford

Edward Kingsford is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Edward and his wife, Betty Jo, reside in Syracuse, Utah.

Royce B. Lee

After graduation from the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, Royce Lee began law practice as a young deputy prosecuting attorney in Bonneville County for three years. That time provided immediate immersion in the courtroom and with judges, which made trial work much more comfortable for him. Royce then moved on to a general civil practice which covered many different areas of law. His primary fields were family law, estate planning, personal injury, and criminal law. He found that representing clients during the divorce phase of their lives was challenging but rewarding as one could help each client learn to move forward in that transition time and begin the rebuilding process.

His family life was busy, as he and his wife, Annette, raised four children, born within five years. That time was filled with all the joys and challenges of parenting, and many hours coaching and watching their children’s sports games, school activities, homework, and vacations. His favorite activities were spending time at their cabin in Island Park and backpacking in the Tetons, the Sawtooths, and the Wind River Range in Wyoming. Royce climbed the Grand Teton three times and Mt. Borah twice.

During the last years of law practice and during retirement, Annette and Royce have discovered the joy of traveling to many places they never dreamed of seeing. He enjoyed every day of law practice and especially treasured the relationship built with other attorneys who were working diligently to represent their clients’ interests, while also acting professionally and civilly with each other.

Dale L. Luplow

Dale Luplow is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. Dale resides in Grangeville.

Robert M. Magyar

Bob Magyar graduated from Valparaiso High School in Valparaiso, Indiana in 1967, from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois in 1971, and from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1974. Knowing that he wanted to move “out West,” he settled in Moscow and passed the Idaho State Bar in 1974.

Bob started his Moscow general practice in October 1974, and continued until 2006 when Greg Rauch became a partner. Now, Magyar, Rauch & Associates also includes partner Lawrence Moran, and associates Laurene Sorensen, Payden Ard, and Alex Gluszczak.

Bob has served as a hearing officer for the Idaho Transportation Department, on the Vandal Booster Board, as the Governor of the Moscow Moose Lodge, and as a Commissioner for Moose International.

Bob married Jill, also from Valparaiso, on New Year’s Eve 1999. They share three children and four grandchildren. Easing into retirement, Bob now works part time, looking forward to improving on his effort to completely retire in the near future. Bob and Jill enjoy spending time with their family and friends throughout the country, and especially traveling to Indiana, Oregon, California, Maui, and Alaska.

Soon they will embark on a new adventure, living full time at their home on lake Coeur d’Alene. Bob’s advice to young attorneys: Respect the law, judges, fellow attorneys, and especially your clients; always remain true to yourself; and practice law like a profession, not a job. When you look back 50 years, you’ll have no regrets.

Gary L. McClendon

Gary McClendon is a graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Law. Gary and his wife, Peggy, reside in Boise.

Stephen B. McCrea

Steve McCrea graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law. He worked at Idaho Legal Aid Services for a year, then moved to Coeur d’Alene and had a partnership with Mike Powers. In 1977, Steve joined the Kootenai County Public Defender’s Office for three years, after which he went onto private practice.

Over the years Steve has shared office space with Ray Givens, John Luster, and Harvey Richman. Shortly before retiring in 2017, Steve joined Lake City Law. His course of practice included bankruptcy, contracts, real estate, wills, and probate.

Steve received the Idaho State Bar Commercial Law & Bankruptcy Section’s Professionalism Award and in 2014, the Idaho State Bar Professionalism Award. He was elected to the Coeur d’Alene City Council in 1981 and served three terms, ending in 1994.

Steve has been married to Tere Porcarelli since 1982 and she has patiently put up with him since that time. They have two sons of whom they are proud, one who lives in Sweden and one who lives in Las Vegas. Steve enjoyed the practice of law and being associated with men and women with great minds and solid character.

William A. McCurdy

Bill McCurdy’s career began after graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law and he started an internship with Jerry Smith in Lewiston, followed by a clerkship with Justice Donaldson, and a year working for David Leroy at the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office. Bill started at Quane, Smith, Howard and Hull. When he left 17 years later, Quane Smith was Idaho’s largest law firm, with 50 lawyers devoted exclusively to civil litigation.

Trials were common then and he tried cases in all districts and many of the counties in Idaho. Early in his career, Bill was privileged to represent clients in trials against or with some of Idaho’s best lawyers, including John Hepworth, Joe Imhoff, Richard Eismann, Lloyd Webb, Richard Smith, Walt Bithell, Carl Burnham, Richard Kading, Richard Greener, Mike McNichols, Jerry Smith, Craig Meadows, Tony Cantrill, Jack Gjording, and many others. He learned a lot from those trials.

Supporting the activities of the Idaho State Bar is important to Bill. He was on the The Advocate Editorial Advisory Board for years, graded and occasionally wrote questions for the Idaho Bar Exam many times, and presented at several CLE programs.

The highlight of Bill’s Bar activities was serving as a Commissioner and President in 1990. After years of turmoil at the Bar, a good friend and law school classmate Dennis Harwick had been appointed as Idaho State Bar Executive Director. He assembled the finely tuned organization it continues to be today. His staff at that time included Diane Minnich and Michael Oths. Mark Nye, another of Bill’s law school classmates, was also a Commissioner at the time and working with him was a joy.

Justice Bakes honored Bill by including him for several years on his Idaho Supreme Court Civil Rules Advisory Committee. He had many interesting discussions with John Hepworth about discovery issues. Collegiality is important in our profession, and Bill enjoyed the opportunity to help establish the Inns of Court chapter in Boise. Years later, Larry Westberg and he helped Judge Hart establish the Inn in Twin Falls.

Just as Bill learned from senior attorneys, the contrast of Jerry Smith and Jerry Quane comes to mind. He tried to work with younger litigators in a helpful way and worked with, among others, Rob Anderson, Rob Lewis, Nick Crawford, Mary York, Tammy Zokan, and Kara Barton.

Occasionally Bill would be associated with other practitioners on litigated matters and especially enjoyed working with Susan Buxton and Kail Seibert – both excellent lawyers and good friends.

With the invaluable understanding and support of his wife, Kathleen, and the patience (usually) of his sons, Will and Christopher, Bill has enjoyed a very active and diverse litigation practice.

Kathleen and Bill have been married for 53 years and appreciate that their sons and their families live in Boise. They get to spend lots of time with them, including attending the multiple activities of their three “practically perfect” grandchildren. They travel when the mood hits.

Michael R. McMahon

Michael McMahon is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Michael and his wife, Glenda Tanette, reside in Seattle, Washington.

Richard Curtis Mellon, Jr.

Ric Mellon grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, and upon graduation from high school in 1962, enrolled at the University of Mississippi. He majored in history and graduated from Ole Miss in January 1966. Upon graduation, Ric was commissioned as a 2^nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps and served a tour of duty as an infantry officer in the Republic of Vietnam from 1966-1967. After his military service, Ric attended the University of Tennessee College of Law from 1969-1972. He was on the staff of the College’s Law Review and was captain of the University of Tennessee’s Rugby Football Club from 1970-1971.

After a clerkship with the federal district court in Chattanooga, to pursue his interests in backpacking and kayaking, he moved to Idaho in August 1973 and began a two-year clerkship for Chief Justice Allan Shepard. Along with Jim LaRue and Bob Tyler, he joined the Boise firm of Elam, Burke, Jeppesen, Evans and Boyd in 1975. During his 19 years there, he had the opportunity and the privilege to work for and with Carl Burke, Peter Boyd, Allyn Dingel, John Simko, Jack Gjording, and John Magel; each a diligent, accomplished, and memorable lawyer of the highest integrity and intelligence. Judges whom Ric particularly admire, in addition to Chief Justice Shepard, are Justice Robert Bakes and District Judge J. Ray Durtschi; and, on the federal bench, Ray McNichols. Some of the other attorneys whom he worked with or sometimes against, and, having done so, hold in the highest regard, are John Doerr, Jack Barrett, Bill Mauk, John Hohnhorst, Wes Merrill, Mike McLaughlin, Nicole Hancock, Chris Graham, Jeff Thomson, and Susan Buxton.

By 1994, Ric had burned himself out on trial and appellate work, so he went to work as in-house counsel for the State Farm Insurance Companies. He spent almost 17 good years there. After retiring from State Farm in 2010, he returned to private practice with Andy Brassey and Nick Crawford, where he happily remains to this day, focusing on insurance coverage questions.

In 2011, Ric married a thoroughly engaging woman from Louisiana, Elaine Young Guillory, whom he met while working with State Farm. She is a constellation of energy, good sense, and fitness. They mountain bike uncertainly, golf feebly, play pickleball enthusiastically, and travel occasionally. Their most recent journey together was to Iceland, but apparently that was too warm for her as she has now arranged for a voyage to Antarctica in 2025.

Donald Mitchell

Donald Mitchell is a graduate of the University of California, Hastings College of Law. Donald resides in Boise.

Robert E. Onnen

Rob Onnen graduated from the University of Iowa Law School in 1973. He was the first student law clerk for a U.S. District Court Judge during his last year. After passing the Iowa Bar Exam, he moved to Boise in the fall of 1973.

Rob worked as a VISTA attorney for Idaho Legal Aid. He then began a 20-year career as a bank attorney and lobbyist for the Idaho Bankers Association. In 1993, Bill was hired by Pioneer Title Company as Vice President and General Counsel. He started the Pioneer 1031 Company and still represents them as an Independent Contractor. He retired as President and moved to Port Angeles, Washington, in 2002. Rob served as Parish Counsel for St. Luke’s Episcopal Church until recently as he and his wife have decided to move back to Idaho to be with their son and two grandsons.

Rob has served on numerous non-profit organizations, including the Boise Zoo, Boise Better Business Bureau, Habitat for Humanity of Clallam County, Washington, and the Port Angeles Business Association. He and his wife, Dianne, were married in Boise and celebrate their 50^th anniversary in July 2024.

Owen H. Orndorff

Owen Orndorff grew up in the Chicago, Illinois northern suburbs. He graduated from Lake Forest Academy and received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University. He graduated from Northwestern Law School in 1974 with an intermission for three years as an Army officer.

Owen became a member of the Illinois Bar and then started with Boise Cascade in March 1974. He went into private practice in January 1980. Owen currently focuses on estate and probate practice together with business relationships. He remains active in the independent power practice in the northwest.

Owen married Janet Findlay on August 31, 1968. He has three children and 10 grandchildren. All three children graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law. Janet passed away in March 2013 and Owen remarried Stephanie Martinez. He currently has two stepdaughters in eighth grade and an older stepdaughter. Besides practicing law, he owns a cattle ranch in Owyhee County and interests in two power plants in Montana plus two businesses.

Jacob W. Peterson

Jake Peterson graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law then began his law practice at the Attorney General’s Office when Tony Park was the attorney general. He worked under the guidance of J.D. Williams, representing the State before the Supreme Court on criminal appeals.

After Tony Park lost his election to Wayne Kidwell, private practice beckoned, and Jake’s practice gravitated to filing bankruptcies for individuals. Over the years Jake was in practice, he filed over 13,000 Chapter 7 bankruptcies and Chapter 13 Wage Earner Plans.

About 30 years ago, Jake purchased a house in Boise and converted it to an office where he practiced law. He contacted Kathy McCallister, the Chapter 13 Trustee, to see if there was an attorney she could recommend as an associate. She only had one name, Hyrum Zeyer. After a few years of working in Jake’s office, Hyrum purchased the practice and the office. Jake’s name is still on the office door but he has been retired for six years.

Jake has five grown children: two dentists, a caregiver, a nurse, and a beautician; and 13 grandchildren. Unfortunately, Jake’s wife has Alzheimer’s, but he copes with her disease, and she is living at home with caregivers. Jake is thankful for his life and is content.

Bradley B. Poole

Bradley Poole is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Bradley and his wife, Christine, reside in Boise.

Michael E. Powers

Mike Powers graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and has been fortunate to miraculously pass the bar exam then to have represented criminal defendants, plaintiffs, and defendants in civil cases, and claimants and sureties in worker compensation cases.

Mike’s 20-year stint as a referee/mediator at the Idaho Industrial Commission was the highlight of his career and by far the most challenging and satisfying.

Since his retirement, Mike has lived in Boise and enjoys his walks on the greenbelt and playing pool with his son (who almost always wins).

Frederick L. Ramey

Frederick Ramey graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law. Frederick and his wife, Jennifer, live in Boise.

Michael F. Reuling

Michael Reuling is a graduate of the University of Michigan Law School. Michael and his wife, Marianne, live in Boise.

Lawerence M. Richards

Lawrence Richards is a graduate of Golden Gate University School of Law. Lawrence and his wife, Lydia, live in Boise.

Steven K. Ricks

Steven K. Ricks is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law.

Kenneth D. Roberts

Kenneth Roberts is a graduate of Willamette University College of Law.

Jay D. Rubenstein

Jay Rubenstein is a graduate of Rutgers University School of Law, Newark. Jay and his wife, Gena, live in New Jersey.

Edwin G. Schiller

Ed Schiller graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and then started practicing law with his father, James E. Schiller. His younger brother, James A. Schiller, joined them in 1982. In 1994, his father died, and his brother became a Magistrate Judge. For the next 26 years, Ed practiced as a sole practitioner. For 46 years his office was in the same location in Nampa. At the end of 2020, Ed closed his office and retired and became a Senior member of the Idaho State Bar. He currently volunteers at the Nampa Train Depot Museum.

Ed has been a member of the Nampa Elks for 55 years and a member of Kiwanis for 47 years. He served on the Nampa library board from 1998-2006. For about eight years, Ed served on the National Board of the Vandal Scholarship Fund. From 2002 through 2019, he was an active member of the Payette Lakes Ski Patrol. For 10 years, Ed was on the board and was treasurer of Nampa Business Improvement District.

The first year Ed practiced was in the old Canyon County Courthouse. Every time a train came by, they would have to pause court because of the noise from the rattling of the windows. When he first started out, they did not have a public defender. They were appointed to cases on a rotating basis. After that, his practice was mainly civil law.

Edwin has three children, five grandchildren, and his life partner, Marge Fender. They reside in Nampa.

Talbot “Tony” Shelton (dec.)

Tony graduated from the Washington and Lee University School of Law and after graduation he opened his law practice in 1975 in the small rural community of Bonners Ferry. He worked in criminal and civil law handling a diverse range of cases. He advised and represented many clients and found it rewarding helping people find successful resolution. He served as a prosecutor from 1979-1980 and was also the public defender.

Tony has three daughters, Zena, Sadie, and Ellia, and one son, Nikolas. Tony’s wife, Lisa, still lives in Bonners Ferry.

Fredrick V. Shoemaker

Fred Shoemaker is a graduate of the University of Nebraska College of Law. Thanks to the broad experience gained as Webb, Johnson, Greener & Tway’s only associate, Fred learned how to try cases, first as a criminal defense lawyer, later converting that experience to civil work. He also practiced before the PUC, the Industrial Commission, and served a stint as a registered lobbyist. Ultimately, he gravitated to concentrating in real estate, both litigating and “desk work,” areas which he enjoyed sharing with younger lawyers.

He helped save the Egyptian Theatre from the wrecking ball, obtained a jury verdict of $3.5 million against the Idaho Transportation Department (then the highest condemnation award in Idaho), assisted in writing and passing Idaho’s Land Use Planning Act, and assisted Boise Housing Corporation and other non-profits in developing or converting over 4,000 affordable housing units. He was also the former chair, Board of Directors, Endowment Trustees of the Treasure Valley YMCA.

Fred has been very happily married to Wendy for 24 years, having shared countless outings to the hills and on the waters of Idaho, notably from the Shoemaker Cabin in McCall. And thus far, successful co-parents of daughter, Emily, and stepson, Daine. Fred has owned and worn out six bicycles, including one built for two.

Ursula I. Spilger

Ursula Spilger is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Ursula resides in Texas.

Newal Squyres

Newal Squyres graduated from Texas Tech University Law School in 1972 and clerked with Judge Ingraham of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit Court for two years before moving to Idaho with his wife, Linda. At this time the Eleventh Circuit Court did not exist, and the Fifth bore no resemblance to what it is today. He interviewed several firms in Boise and eventually found the right fit with Eberle Berlin. This started Newal’s never ending process of learning to be a trial lawyer.

One of Newal’s early mentors was Fifth Circuit Judge Griffin Bell, who was appointed Attorney General by President Carter. This gave them an unexpected and life altering experience. From 1977-1979 he worked on Judge Bell’s personal staff in the Office of Legal Counsel and was among six to eight lawyers who met daily for breakfast with the Attorney General. He was also a part of a small team dealing almost exclusively with national security and counterintelligence matters, including passage and implementation of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (“FISA”). Judge Bell’s lasting example was to make the tough daily decisions by being a problem solver with the rule of law as the bedrock from which to act.

For the past 34 years Newal has been a partner at the wonderful firm of Holland & Hart, providing the opportunity to work on all sort of cases, both as plaintiff and defense counsel. Some of his most satisfying cases have been pro bono for the ACLU and Planned Parenthood.

Thanks to encouragement from Fred Hoopes, Newal had the privilege of serving as a Bar Commissioner, meeting and working with lawyers from all over Idaho. He learned firsthand the vital role Diane Minnich has played in keeping our Bar on track; and Maureen Laughlin for inviting him to be a trainer in the University of Idaho Trial Advocacy Clinic for many years. Another humbling high point of Newal’s career was being a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Newal’s family is what keeps him going. His wife, Linda, led the way to Idaho, and he’s been trying to keep up with her ever since. She is fun, kind, nice, and beautiful; an outstanding mother and grandmother. His family includes Isaac, a partner in a major communication consulting firm, and granddaughter, Sophie, who just finished her first year of college. Ruby is practicing for a Seattle firm while living in Missoula with her family, Jeff, Elise, and Sylvia. Newall and Linda thoroughly enjoy many road trips there, where he sometimes must Zoom mediate from the basement office.

He is proud and feels very fortunate to have been an Idaho lawyer for 50 years and plans to keep at it for a little longer. Newal also notes Volume 96 of the Idaho Reports lists the lawyers admitted in 1974. He says it’s a formidable list of fine lawyers and human beings.

Kristie K. Stafford

Kris Stafford started out as a part-time deputy, part-time prosecutor in Moscow, Idaho, and a full-time private attorney. She “retired” as a deputy after 11 years and maintained her private practice in Moscow until 1989.

In 1989, Kris and her husband “escaped” Moscow and moved to Columbia, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. She worked for the Justice Department in the U.S. Parole Commission as an attorney dealing with federal prisoner lawsuits, mostly habeas corpus and suits over denial of parole, for four years. After leaving the U.S. Parole Commission, Kris represented the University of Maryland Foundation as in-house counsel and was director of its real estate gifting program until 1999.

In 1999, the couple moved to Denver for further adventures. Kris was the attorney for an internet company that did not survive the internet “crash” of 2000-2001. Since 2002, she has been the attorney for a specialized escrow company in Denver, doing all its legal work.

In 2011, they moved to Manhattan, Kansas, where she did not take the Kansas Bar Exam as taking the previous three states exams were more than enough. She was still the attorney for the escrow company through the magic of the internet and cell phones.

From being an attorney who dealt with all kinds of problems for her clients, she is now strictly a transactional attorney, which is much less stressful – most of the time. Kris maintains her Idaho and Colorado Bar memberships but let Maryland and the District of Columbia go inactive.

For fun, relaxation, and enjoyment, where they lived, they explored, were tourists, searched out great places to eat, and took advantage of what each place offered. Surprisingly, Kansas is not nearly as flat as she thought it would be. There are, however, no mountains. They have taken thousands of photographs of everywhere they have been, especially since 2000, when digital cameras came out. They plan on continuing to do so in the future.

Myrna A.I. Stahman

Myrna Stahman got her B.A. with distinction from the University of Minnesota, and married Robert Stahman in 1967. She was a caseworker in Washington from 1967-1968 and a Peace Corps Volunteer teacher in rural Liberia, West Africa from 1968-1970, then got her J.D. from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1974. She was in the Army JAGC, Third Armored Division Headquarters, Frankfurt, West Germany from 1974-1977 and was an attorney with the Idaho Attorney General’s office from 1977-2004.

Myrna is one of the first 50 women licensed to practice law in Idaho. She was one of the first 25 female Army JAGC attorneys and the only female commissioned officer at the Third Armored Division Headquarters.

Upon returning to Idaho in 1977, Myrna began in the Consumer Protection Division of the Idaho Attorney General’s office. In 1981, she transferred to the Criminal Division Appellate Unit. During Myrna’s 24 years in the Appellate Unit, she argued more cases before the Idaho Supreme Court and the Idaho Court of Appeals than any other attorney during that time, receiving published opinions in over 580 cases and unpublished opinions in hundreds of cases. Myrna enjoyed working with many law school interns in the Appellate Unit, supervising the writing of appellate briefs, and sitting at counsel table when interns argued cases before the Idaho Court of Appeals.

Myrna worked with the Idaho Prosecuting Attorneys Association, teaching criminal law classes at their bi-annual meetings and providing advice and assistance to individual prosecutors and their deputies throughout the years. She taught at the annual judicial education training of district and magistrate judges.

Myrna was a member of the American Association of Appellate Attorneys. In 1996 she served as a Fellow with the National Association of Attorneys General in Washington, D.C. assisting attorneys preparing for oral argument before the U.S. Supreme Court. Myrna authored the petition for certiorari on an Idaho Supreme Court criminal decision. Upon the grant of certiorari, she assisted and sat at counsel table when the case was argued by Idaho Attorney General Jim Jones.

Myrna has been a long-time advocate for young people and women. She was active in Girl Scouts, school volunteering, school literacy programs, the Boise Zonta Club, the Women’s and Children’s Alliance, and law related education. She is a steadfast friend to many people. Her unwavering support has helped many individuals through the hard times of their lives.

Myrna and Bob have two children and four grandchildren. Their daughter, Kayla, a graduate of Stanford Law School, is an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Seattle. Their son, Jeff, received a degree in golf course management from Kansas State University after spending time at Massey University in New Zealand. He is the owner of Turf Mend, headquartered in Newberg, Indiana.

Myrna, who learned to knit as a child, has been involved in the world-wide knitting community for many years. She has taught knitting throughout the U.S., New Zealand, Australia, the Orkney Islands, Italy, and on knitting cruises. In 2000 she authored and published Stahman’s Shawls and Scarves – Lace Faroese-Shaped Shawls from the Top Down and Seamen’s Scarves, referred to as a classic.

Myrna and Bob enjoy spending time at a lake home in Minnesota near where they both grew up, and traveling throughout the world, often to places where fiber-producing animals are raised, including South Africa, New Zealand, Shetland, Iceland, and the British Isles.

Delbert W. Steiner

Delbert Steiner is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Delbert and his wife, Ellen, reside in Lewiston.

Robin J. Stoker

Robin Stoker is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Robin and his wife, Rosemary, reside in Arizona.

Ronald L. Swafford

Ron Swafford grew up in Cooper Basin, Idaho, 52 miles southwest of Mackay in a powerless and unplumbed home which was only accessible by a dirt road. His youth assisted him in preparation for the practice of law as he became adjusted to curves, roadblocks, bogs, mud holes, rocks, and surprises around every corner.

He was originally a schoolteacher which came to a screeching halt when he spent time as a student teacher. He quickly realized that the adversarial process against lawyers and judges was less stressful than facing a swarm of teenagers in a classroom.

Ron graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and began practicing law in Idaho Falls in 1974. He remembers the early anxious days feeling excitement when someone came in the door, only to learn it was the mail man. The practice of law changed dramatically since he first started. Initially documents were prepared on a typewriter, with four carbons between pages. Mail and hand delivery were exclusive. He incessantly learned by trial and error and vividly remembers his first jury trial because of his ill-prepared cross-examination questions which invariably bolstered the opponent’s case.

During the first few decades of practice, Ron’s gladiator ego led him to track wins and losses. Over time he realized that a preferrable goal was to work toward a fair result. During the early years of his practice, attorneys were called on a rotating basis to present individuals charged with crimes. He recalls the look of terror in estate planning attorneys’ eyes when they got assigned to serious felony cases.

In 1977, Ron and Harlow McNamara approached the Bonneville County Commissioners with a proposal to establish the first public defender contract. They were successful and spent days in court and nights locked in old jail cells interviewing clients. He often ate dinner in the jail cell with the inmates burning his lips on the hot metal coffee cups. They did this for the term of the contract for the grand sum of $750 per month. He stopped his work as a public defender after about 10 years.

Ron’s experiences encompass a full spectrum of cases, criminal and civil. From axe murders to medical malpractice. His experiences against his legal adversaries generated a deep respect and admiration for many of his colleagues, some of whom have passed on. These extremely skilled warriors honed their skills and while shredding your cases in a perpetually respectful and courteous manner. The mark of true professionals.

He continues to practice with his partner, albeit in a selective manner. Only accepting cases for which they have strong feelings toward. Ron wants to thank the many members of the Bar and Judiciary who have been his friends over the years. He goes on to say that it was an interesting, intriguing, and frustrating trip he will never regret.

Richard W. Sweney

Richard W. Sweney obtained a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in physics in 1968 from Drexel Institute of Technology. While in undergrad and after graduation he worked at a Naval laboratory based in Maryland. He continued his studies to the graduate level in mathematics part time at the University of Maryland. Subsequently he enrolled in the University of Maryland, Francis King, Carey School of Law and obtained his J.D. in 1974. He sat for the Idaho Bar Exam later that summer and was admitted in October of the same year.

After admission Richard worked with Scott Reed, an environmental law specialist in Coeur d’Alene, as he intended to specialize in that area. He was familiar with North Idaho because he had done some experimental work at the Naval test facility at Bayview. In Richard’s early practice he obtained some environmental law experience representing the Kootenai County Planning Commission and the Panhandle Health District. He provided legal representation to several small municipalities in Shoshone County as well and did a stint as a deputy prosecutor in that county in the late 1970s. He was in a partnership from 1979 to 1987 with Ed Anson, now deceased. Richard joined the law firm of Lukins & Annis, PS in 1987 and remained with the firm until he left active practice in December 2019.

Richard was one of the organizers of the Idaho State Bar Commercial Law & Bankruptcy Section in the early 1980s. He served on the Section governing board for several years and was the chairman from 1986-1987, received the Section’s Professionalism Award, and the Idaho State Bar Distinguished Lawyer Award. He made several seminar presentations and published several articles on bankruptcy law, commercial law, and litigation. Mr. Sweney assisted the organization of and then served as general counsel for Mountain West Bank for 25 years.

Richard has been married to his wife, Fay, for 50 years. Fay was a high school English teacher in Coeur d’Alene and retired in 2011. They have a son, Rover, an engineer and the Vice President of Battery Engineering for Lithos Energy, Inc. in Hayward, California. Rob and his wife, Parmita (also an engineer), have a young daughter, Anika.

Richard says the practice of law is very demanding and labor intensive. Every accomplished, successful lawyer he knew during his career worked hard, there were no exceptions. While it was a rewarding career with quality work and clients, there is much else to experience and explore in life. Since leaving active practice, Richard has been studying and learning about developments in mathematics and science, subjects that he set aside during his legal career and now has time to focus on again.

Bruce L. Thomas

Bruce Thomas is a graduate of the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. Bruce and his wife, Victoria, live in Garden City.

Richard S. Udell

Bruce Udell is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. Richard and his wife, Paige, live in Montana.

William L. Vasconcellos

After graduating from Stanford University with departmental honors in 1967, Bill Vasconcellos received his law degree in April of 1971 from the University of California at Berkeley School of Law, Boalt Hall.

Bill’s first job out of law school was a position as law clerk for Idaho Supreme Court Justice Charles Donaldson. Since his employment did not begin until September of 1971, Bill and his wife, Jena, picked up a car in Germany and drove all around Europe for four months, including venturing into Hungary and down the entire coast of what was then Yugoslavia – truly the trip of a lifetime.

Bill and Jena moved to Boise in September of 1971, motivated in part by the fact Bogus Basin was only 16 miles away. During his time at the Supreme Court, Bill and Judge Donaldson could often be seen playing tennis during the noon hour.

It was in 1971 that the U.S. Supreme Court decided Reed v. Reed, which for the first time since the Fourteenth Amendment had gone into effect in 1868, ruled that the Equal Protection Clause prohibited arbitrary discrimination against women. Bill remembers that Justice Donaldson was very proud of the fact that as a District Court judge hearing this case, he had reached the same conclusion!

After moving to Reno for a year, where Bill worked for the County District Attorney’s office, heading up their newly created consumer protection division, Bill and Jena decided they missed Idaho and moved back to Boise.

In 1976 Bill was hired as an associate attorney at Eberle & Berlin, where Bill’s practice centered on real estate. In September of 1988, Bill sent a short memo to his law partners, saying that, “I have decided to make my avocation my vocation” – and specifically, that he had decided to accept a position as a financial advisor at Merrill Lynch in Boise.

After 20 years as an advisor with Merrill Lynch, Bill transitioned over to UBS Financial Services (the world’s largest wealth manager), where he has been a Wealth Management Advisor, based in Boise, for the past 15 years. Professionally, Bill has held the Certified Investment Management Analyst designation since 2001 and the Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor designation since 2007. Bill is also a Member of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group.

Over the years, Bill has served on the Board of Directors for a number of local community organizations, including 12 years on the Board of the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce and nine years on the Board for the Bogus Basin Recreational Association. While Bill was on the Bogus Basin Board, the Board decided to hire Mike Shirley, who came up with the idea of offering a low-priced season pass ($195 initially) – an idea that was not only very successful for Bogus Basin, but which also set a trend for ski areas around the country.

Skiing has always been a passion for the Vasconcellos family, with the “kids” (Brett and Marisa) becoming expert skiers, and with Bill and Jena’s two granddaughters continuing that tradition. In recent years, Bill and Jena have enjoyed skiing in Italy (at Cortina d’Ampezzo) and in France (at Val d’Isere and Les 3 Vallées – the world’s largest interconnected ski area). And these days, Bill still enjoys having a season pass at Idaho’s Sun Valley Resort.

Finally, Bill has been serving on the Boise Airport Commission since the Mayor appointed him to the Commission in 2014. And he is currently serving as Chair of the Community Advisory Board for Boise State Public Radio.

Jerry L. Wegman

Jerry Wegman is a graduate of Columbia University School of Law. Jerry and his wife, Ronne, live in Moscow.

Robert E. Williams

After growing up in Jerome and serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in New Zealand Robert received his B.A. from Brigham Young University in 1971. That same year he married Susan Thompson. One week after they moved to Chicago, Illinois where he graduated with a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law in 1974. After surveying employment opportunities, they decided to return to Idaho to raise a family. His career started with Frank Rettig and Gene Fredricksen in Jerome in 1974 and the firm of Rettig, Fredricksen, and Williams was formed two years later. Robert says it was a special delight to witness his son, Briand, and daughter-in-law, Kim, join the firm, become parents, and grow in the practice of law.

Robert handled everything that came in the door in the early years of his practice and did part-time prosecuting work. In the late 1970s and 1980s, the great transition of the Magic Valley agricultural economy into a vertically integrated behemoth based on dairy farming began to unfold. Jerome was the geographic center of this sea-change and Robert became heavily involved. Most of his practice since has involved agriculture and commercial transaction, entity formation, which was all satisfying work. He also did some estate planning and probate, often for families he has represented for decades.

Robert served as administrator of the Theron Ward Inn of Court for many years, received the Idaho State Bar Professionalism Award in 2011, and the Idaho State Bar Distinguished Lawyer Award in 2016. He served as Jerome City Attorney for 33 years. Robert was the Trustee of the Jerome School district for seven years, and a founding member of the Jerome School District Foundation where he continues to serve. From 2017-2019 he returned to New Zealand with his wife where he served as Associate Area Legal Counsel in the Pacific Area Office of the LDS church. Susan was his assistant. They retain the greatest affection for the wonderful country, region, and people. He also served as an officer, director, or committee member in a host of other non-profit organizations, and in church callings.

Robert says it has been a privilege to practice law with partners and associates of the highest integrity. His staff members are wonderfully talented and loyal. Several have worked for him for decades, and more like family than employees.

Robert and Susan have been many hours in most every gym, football field, track, and dance recital facility in southern Idaho supporting their seven children and now 21 grandchildren. Their family group chat averages more than 100 notifications a day. Nothing has brought them more happiness than witnessing their family members love and serve each other and become responsible citizens.

It has been a great life. The legal profession, as once observed by Abraham Lincoln, is a useful one. It can be a noble one, and he has witnessed nobility in the conduct of many of his colleagues in the law. The practice of law has enabled Robert to raise and educate his family and to contribute (hopefully) to the betterment of the community and a very small piece of the world. He is grateful for this.

Andrew G. Wilson II

At the time of Andrew’s admission to the Idaho State Bar he was working for the U.S. Veterans Administration. In 1975 he became a public defender for Ada County. Then he entered private practice in Boise. In 1980 he was appointed by Cecil Andrus, Secretary of the Interior, as an Assistant Attorney General for the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands headquartered on the Island of Saipan in the Northern Marianas Islands. He was admitted to the Trust Territory Bar in 1981. Passed the Commonwealth of the Northern Marians Islands Bar in 1982. This group established judicial systems for the new island governments. Andrew was admitted to the Federated States of Micronesia Bar and the Republic of the Marshall Island Bar.

He returned to the U.S. in 1985 and was admitted the New York Bar. In 1986 he moved to Virigina and was admitted to that Bar and then moved again to Annapolis in 1992 where he was admitted to the Maryland Bar as well. Andrew retired in 2012. In his 38 years of practice, he was a government agency lawyer, a public defender, had a general private practice, an Assistant U.S. Attorney General, and spent the last 20 years doing debtor bankruptcy work specializing in mortgage lender fraud.

Andrew was the director of all atomic radiation issues stemming from the atmospheric testing program on Bikini and Enewetak Atolls. His notable achievements include multiple visits to testify before congress and as an accredited delegate to the United Nations Trusteeship Counsel testifying at the U.N. about the U.S. efforts to clean up the radioactive contamination in those areas and the return for the indigenous population.

Andrew has been married to Roberta Wilson for 46 years. They enjoy traveling and have been to many parts of the world. His true passion in life is sailing and sailboat racing. Living in Annapolis, Roberta and Andrew have competed in sailing events from Block Island, Rhode Island to Key West, Florida. They have taken two, one-year time-outs to sail the Bahamas and Caribbean. They still own and race sailboats.

Jeffrey M. Wilson

Jeffrey Wilson is a graduate of the University of Denver and Ohio Northern University-Claude W. Pettit College of Law. He has been in private practice since the fall of 1974. He served on the Idaho State Bar Board of Commissioners from 1992-1995 and was the President of the Idaho State Bar in 1995. Jeffrey also served as the Chancellor of the Jackrabbit Bar Association in 1995.

Jeff’s wife of 42 years, Brenda, and his children, Darcy, Renee, and Jeff, have all at one time or another worked in Jeff’s office. At the time of his swearing-in Jeff was an unemployed newcomer who didn’t know a single lawyer or judge in the state. Over the course of his career Jeff has been fortunate to have practiced with many skilled and capable attorneys and was mentored by many others. Jeff will leave it to others to determine who they were. Idaho and the Idaho State Bar have been very good to Jeff. He and Brenda split time between their homes in Boise and New Meadows. Jeff wants to congratulate all the other Milestone Honorees.

Donald R. Workman

Donald Workman is a graduate of the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law. Donald and his wife, Laura, reside in Arizona.

Ben Yamagata

Ben Yamagata is a graduate of George Washington University Law School. Ben lives in Washington, D.C.

Benito T. Ysursa

Benito Ysursa is a graduate of Saint Louis University School of Law. Benito and his wife, Penny, live in Garden City.

60 Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1964

Posted on July 17, 2024 | updated: July 17, 2024

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.

Merlyn W. Clark

Merlyn W. Clark’s legal practice began with his graduation from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1964. Upon graduation and admission to the Idaho State Bar, Merlyn joined Blake Givens & Feeney in Lewiston, Idaho where he learned the general practice of law. He served as the Nez Perce County Prosecuting Attorney from 1973 to 1977. From 1977 to 1979, Merlyn served as the Bar Commissioner for the Second Judicial District, where he met Jack Hawley. Jack invited Merlyn to join his firm in Boise. In 1979, Merlyn moved to Boise and joined the firm of Hawley Troxell Ennis & Hawley, LLP. Merlyn was admitted as a partner in Hawley Troxell in 1980. In January of 2024, he stepped down as an Income Partner and assumed the position of an Of Counsel Partner at Hawley Troxell.

Merlyn’s legal practice focuses on complex civil litigation and alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration. Probably the most significant civil case he litigated involved an action in Nez Perce County to recover damages from three individuals who drove a jet boat at night in the winter of 1974 from the Asotin County boat launch ramp at Heller Bar. The defendants burned down the main lodge, two sleeping cabins, and the power building. The case was filed in Nez Perce County because the property was located in Idaho. It took 10 years of investigation to prepare a case to present to the jury. Merlyn and his team settled with one defendant’s insurer which provided a war-chest to fund the litigation. After two months of trial against the other two defendants, the jury awarded compensatory and punitive damages in the amount of $219,200 and costs of $45,444 to his client. It then took another 10 years, which included two appeals to the Idaho Supreme Court, to collect the judgment.

In his dispute resolution practice, Merlyn has mediated more than 900 civil disputes and served as the arbitrator in more than 100 cases. He continues to maintain an active civil litigation practice, an arbitration and mediation practice, and serves as an expert witness on issues of legal malpractice, ethics, attorney fees, negotiation, evidence, and civil procedure.

Some notable achievements of Merlyn’s career were serving as Chairman and Reporter of the Idaho State Bar Evidence Rules Committee from 1978 to 1985 when the Report of the Idaho State Bar Evidence Committee and the Idaho Rules of Evidence were adopted and implemented by the Idaho Supreme Court. He also is the co-author of: “Practical Trial Evidence for the New Judge Orientation,” Idaho State Judiciary (Annually, 1998-2017); co-author, “Trial Evidence for Judges: Management of a Trial,” author of “Witnesses and Testimony of Witnesses,” “Exhibits, Demonstrative Evidence, and Illustrative Aids, Tests, Analyses, and Experiments,” “The Exclusionary Rules,” and “The Hearsay Rules,” The Bench Guide.

Merlyn was born in Grand Forks, B.C., Canada in 1937. His parents moved to northern Idaho in 1938 when he was about five months old. His dad worked for Hecla Mining Company as a mechanic. He was told they first lived in a small house on the hillside in Gem, Idaho, which is just down the road from Burke and was also told that the only toilet was an outdoor toilet that sat on stilts located over Burke Canyon Creek. Apparently, his mother was not happy with that situation and made his dad move to Wallace to an apartment that had indoor plumbing.

In 1939, the immigration authorities contacted his parents and made them take Merlyn back to Canada to enter the United States legally. His parents brought him to the United States without a Visa. His mom told him that although he was born in Canada, he was actually born an American citizen because her father was an American citizen. Merlyn never understood how those circumstances made him a foreign-born American citizen and does not think the immigration authorities did either because they issued him Visa so he could return to Idaho.

Kent Jolley

Kent Jolley was born in Rexburg on December 30, 1933. He attended school there through high school. Working after school and on Saturdays, Kent learned the trade of a meat cutter. He then filled his military obligation by serving for five years in the Idaho National Guard and achieved the rank of Sergeant. At age 20 he commenced serving a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Argentina. Upon his return from Argentina, he enrolled at Ricks College in Rexburg (now Brigham Young University-Idaho), then enrolled at George Washington University in Washington, D.C.

While at Ricks, Kent met Jill Leishman, and was married to her following a 10-month courtship. This year they celebrate their 67^th anniversary. They have seven children, 20 grandchildren, and 42 great-grandchildren.

Following receipt of a Bachelor of Arts degree from George Washington University, Kent enrolled in the George Washington University Law School and received a Juris Doctorate degree. All his law classes were in the evening, as during the day he worked for the Navy Department as a contracts negotiator to meet living and school expenses. He took and passed the Idaho State Bar Exam in April of 1964. He moved back to Rexburg that fall and successfully won the bid for the office of Madison County Prosecuting Attorney. He then commenced an eight-year stint working for the county as prosecutor. After four terms (eight years), he commenced practicing private law as a solo practitioner and continued doing so for the next 22 years. Kent’s practice as a solo practitioner included nearly every aspect of the law, including defense and trial work, as was common in those days. The part he enjoyed most about his law practice was helping people with their needs and problems and not having to worry about “billable hours.”

At age 57 he was asked by his church to go to South Texas for three years to supervise the proselyting labors of 200 young missionaries. Following that assignment, he returned to his law practice for three more years, then was asked to go to Brazil and then the Eastern Seaboard to administrate for a few years. His wife accompanied him on all those church assignments away from Rexburg. She was asked by the church to be at Kent’s side and help with all the assignments mentioned.

Kent was 73 years old when he finished his full-time service in the church. He had been away from the practice of law for eight years and decided not to return to an active practice of law at that age. However, he was anxious to continue his membership and association with the Idaho State Bar and has always been a proud member of the Idaho State Bar. While practicing law, he had purchased a small cattle ranch located on the Snake River, eight miles west of Rexburg. He spent the next five years raising purebred Angus cattle and then retired from that at age 78 and decided it was time to throw in the towel. To keep busy, Kent and his wife work at the Rexburg Temple, play a little golf, work in the yard and garden, and try to keep up with their posterity.

Frederick C. Lyon

Frederick D. Lyon received his juris doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law and joined his father’s law firm in Salmon immediately thereafter. He was elected prosecuting attorney in Salmon and worked in various other legal positions before joining the Idaho Supreme Court as Clerk of the Court in 1982. He began right around the inception of the Idaho Court of Appeals. Fred served in this capacity for 22 years before retiring at the end of 2004. He and his wife, Diana, reside in Pocatello.

Lloyd K. McDonald

Lloyd McDonald is a graduate of the University of Wyoming College of Law. Lloyd and his wife, Dianne, reside in St. George, Utah.

Gary C. Randall

Gary grew up in Wallace, Idaho and attended the University of Idaho College of Law with a great group of friends. He graduated in the Spring of 1964. He was a member of the Washington State Bar as well as Idaho.

Gary practiced federal tax law and taught tax law at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. He also taught numerous CLEs in Idaho. He was one of the founding editors of the University of Idaho Law Review in 1964.

Gary has been married to Sharon Randall since 1975. They have two children, Joseph and Margaret. Gary and Sharon also have three grandchildren, Maxwell, Carmen, and Alexandra.

Duff McKee

Hon. D. Duff McKee is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. He served as a District Judge in Ada County for over 30 years. Judge McKee received the Idaho State Bar’s Professionalism Award in 2011 and is the author of “Mediation Mechanisms: Distributive Negotiation in Litigation,” released by Ridenbaugh Press in 2017. He and his wife, Judy, live in Boise.

Glen G. Utzman

Glen Utzman graduated from Washington State University with a master’s in business administration then graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law. After law school, Glen joined a local CPA firm as a partner practicing public accounting. Then after five years, he joined the faculty of the University of Idaho College of Business and Economics. Glen is still teaching in the College Department of Accounting and MIS. He also taught for two years at the University of Idaho College of Law. His teaching area is tax. During this period, he also maintained a part-time law practice.

Some career achievements for Glen include being an elected member of the Moscow, Idaho City Council, receiving the First Interstate Bank Student Excellence Award in the College of Business and Economics for Excellence in Teaching, and several Alumni Association Awards for Excellence (in teaching).

Glen and wife, Gloria, will be celebrating their 65^th wedding anniversary this year. They have three children: Catherine E. Hocutt, an elementary teacher in Thousand Oaks, California; Glen Howard, a member of the Idaho and Washington Bars practicing tax, business law, estate, and elder planning in Pullman, Washington; and Richard, a licensed civil and structural engineer with TD&H Engineering, Lewiston, Idaho office. They have eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Glen and his son, Glen Howard, made history in the mid-nineties by both attending New York University School of Law together, both graduating with a LL.M in tax. It was the first time in the history of the school a father and son had attended together.

Jon N. Wyman

Jon Wyman is a graduate of the University of Washington School of Law. Jon and his wife, Mardee, live in Boise.

65 Year Milestone Attorneys: Admitted in 1959

Posted on July 17, 2024 | updated: July 17, 2024

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.

Howard L. Armstrong

Hon. Howard L. Armstrong first earned his undergraduate degree in history and then went on to finish law school at Brigham Young University. Judge Armstrong had a general practice as a sole practitioner for about 20 years. He then joined the bench as a District Judge in Bannock County for 20 years before becoming a senior judge and retiring. He enjoyed all aspects of practicing law but mostly the idea of helping people. Judge Armstrong and his wife, Marilyn, have eight children, approximately 50 grandchildren, and a “whole bunch” of great-grandchildren.

Robert C. Huntley

Hon. Robert C. Huntley, Jr. received his undergraduate degree in political science and public administration from the University of Idaho, his juris doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law, and later his Master of Laws in Judicial Process from the University of Virginia. He has served on the Pocatello City Council, as a State Representative from Bannock County, as an Idaho State Bar Commissioner, and as a member of the Idaho Law Foundation’s Board of Directors. He received the Idaho State Bar Pro Bono Award and the ATLA Trial Lawyer of the Year Award in 2017. Judge Huntley served on the Idaho Supreme Court from 1982 through 1989. He and his wife, Elfriede, have two sons and one grandson.

Hon. Robert G. Newhouse

Hon. Robert G. Newhouse studied accounting at the University of Idaho, later graduating with his law degree from the University of Idaho College of Law. After graduation, he practiced in Fairfield as a prosecuting attorney for 11 years before becoming a District Judge. He and his wife, Gretchen, are retired in Nevada.

2024 Denise O’Donnell Day Pro Bono Awards

Posted on July 15, 2024 | updated: July 16, 2024

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? And, what encouragement would you give fellow attorneys to participate in pro bono work?

Ryan S. Hunter – First District

Why Pro Bono? “Pro bono work is important to me because it reminds me of the main reason I decided to join the legal profession; I not only wanted to help people with their legal issues, but I also wanted to educate them on the law and how it functions to better equip them to know when and where and how to get the help they need. For many people facing a legal issue, especially for the first time and especially for those with limited means, they don’t even know where to begin to address that issue. Pro bono work through advice and counsel clinics and proactive information efforts is an incredibly effective and efficient way to help address this front-line problem. It’s also an excellent way to promote more positive public sentiment towards the legal profession and its practitioners. We rely so deeply on our personal reputations that we sometimes forget to help promote and support the legal profession as a whole; pro bono work is a meaningful way to do that while helping real people with real needs.”

Encouragement: “My main advice and encouragement for other attorneys is to smash your excuses for not doing pro bono work. No matter who you are, who your client is, or what area of law you practice in, there are pro bono opportunities available to you if you are willing to look for them and try to make them work. As a municipal attorney, I learned this firsthand. I had long assumed that there was no real way for me to do pro bono work while representing government entities, so I didn’t bother looking for pro bono opportunities. But an Advocate article last spring about the Lawyer in the Library program reminded me of how much I enjoyed volunteering for the Street Law clinics in Boise a decade ago. So, I smashed my excuses and sent an email of interest to the Bar about starting a Lawyer in the Library clinic in North Idaho, had a frank and earnest discussion with my superiors to overcome the unique obstacles I faced in my position, and found a way to participate in some really meaningful pro bono work that was consistent with my duties as a government attorney. In short, there’s always a way to do some form of pro bono work if we’re willing to look for it, and trust me, it’s worth the effort to do so.”

Ryan S. Hunter is Chief Deputy City Attorney for the City of Coeur d’Alene, which is a role he assumed in April 2024 upon the retirement of the former Chief Deputy, Wes Somerton. Ryan is originally from Pocatello, Idaho, and graduated from Idaho State University (Go Bengals!) in 2008 with undergraduate degrees in political science and international studies. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Idaho College of Law (Go Vandals!) in 2013, after which he clerked for the Hon. John Melanson (ret.) of the Idaho Court of Appeals until 2015. Following a two-year stint at a private civil firm in Boise, Ryan returned to public service and made the jump to criminal prosecution by joining the Payette County Prosecutor’s Office in 2017. He spent four years prosecuting all manner of misdemeanor and felony crimes and assisting with a myriad of civil matters before moving up North in June 2021 to join the Coeur d’Alene City Attorney’s Office. Ryan currently lives in Spokane Valley, Washington, with his wife, Aisha, and their three boys, Liam (10), Bennett (8), and Macks (3); however, he hopes to move back into Idaho in the near(?) future. He enjoys cooking, gardening, learning DIY skills at Youtube University, and taking advantage of all of the outdoor activities available in the Pacific Northwest. The poor guy also suffers from an irrational devotion to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Kari E. Miller – Second District

Why Pro Bono? “I strongly believe that small steps can lead to big results. While my pro bono work might not change the world, it can bring a bit more fairness to a system that tends to favor those who cannot afford it. Most of us have felt powerless at one point or another and know how frustrating it can be when we can’t control what’s happening in our own lives. This feeling is all too common for my pro bono clients, who are often overlooked and underestimated. When faced with legal challenges, it’s important for someone to stand with them and give them a voice during these inherently difficult times.”

Encouragement: “To everything there is a season. If this isn’t your season to take on pro bono clients directly, maybe consider mentoring an attorney who can but lacks experience in your specific area. I am so grateful for the attorneys who willingly took the time to walk me through my first pro bono divorce case. These attorneys shared documents, answered legal questions, and helped with case management. They gave what they could – whether that was five minutes to answer a panicked text or email, or an hour for an in-office consult. While my pro bono work has been officially recognized this year, it was this generosity of time and knowledge that enabled me to work more effectively and assist more clients.

Kari Miller graduated summa cum laude from the University of Idaho College of Law in 2022. She was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that fall and to the Washington State Bar in 2023. She initially started with juvenile public defense, but recently shifted exclusively to family law.

Aaron L. Seable – Third District

Why Pro Bono? “The easiest thing to do is to support great causes, sign stirring petitions, endorse grand philosophies. The hardest thing to do – and it is getting harder all the time – is to be a good husband or wife, a strong father or mother, an honorable friend and neighbor […] The truly good deeds are the small, everyday actions of ordinary life. The employee who gives an honest day’s work; the employer who rewards loyalty and service; the stranger who stops to help someone in need; the craftsman who builds each house as if he were going to live in it himself[…].” John Q. Wilson, “The Moral Life,” BYU, April 21, 1994.

“Pro bono service gives an attorney meaningful opportunities to perform ‘small, everyday actions’ that may mean the world to his or her clients.”

Encouragement: “Winston Churchill said, ‘We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.’ Helping to resolve someone’s legal problem or fulfill a desperate legal need is rewarding. Service, generally, adds meaning and purpose to life. I believe every attorney has both the time and a duty to provide pro bono service, even if it comes with some measure of sacrifice. If that motivation is not enough, we should remember that each of us subscribed to a solemn oath that we would ‘contribute time and resources to public service,’ and ‘never reject, for any consideration personal to [ourselves], the cause of the defenseless or oppressed.’”

Aaron was born and raised in Caldwell, Idaho. As a young man, Aaron served a two-year mission for his church in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and speaks Spanish. He received his B.A. in international studies from Brigham Young University in 2002 and graduated cum laude from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at BYU in 2005. After completing a judicial clerkship, Aaron joined Hamilton, Michaelson & Hilty, LLP in 2006 (now Hilty, Bower, Haws & Seable, PLLC), where his practice focuses primarily on estate planning and probate. Aaron spends most of his spare time with his lovely wife, Marcia, are their five children.

Donald Jageman – Fourth District

Why Pro Bono? “1) It provides a challenge in using my knowledge, experience and judgment;
2) It provides opportunities for meeting clients, attorneys, and expanding skills in court hearings; and
3) As an older person, mostly retired, it gives me the chance to exercise some of the brain.”

Encouragement: “The efforts of pro bono attorneys for people who have limited means to pay for representation improves the public’s opinion of attorneys; increases the chance that the case presented on behalf of the pro bono client will receive a full and fair outcome; allows the attorney to gain experience in new areas of the law; furthers their experience in legal research; and helps people who need legal advice.”

Donald Jageman received his B.A. in economics from San Francisco State University, then obtained his teaching credential from Hayward State University. He received his J.D. from Armstrong College of Law. Donald practices insurance defense, real property, family law, and landlord-tenant law. He was admitted to the California Bar in 1982 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar with an emeritus license in 2023. Donald was a teacher in a school district in California for a little more than 10 years. During the last four years of teaching, he went to law school classes in the evening. His law practice was in California from 1982 to 2015 when his wife and he moved to Oregon. Their move to Idaho occurred in April of 2018.
Donald now keeps busy with the pro bono work, volunteering (Board Treasurer) for a non-profit that assists the blind and vision impaired, playing golf, and loving Idaho.

Zachary J. McCraney – Fourth District

Why Pro Bono? “Pro bono work helps promote justice and equality by ensuring that legal work transcends economic barriers. Many individuals and organizations cannot afford legal representation, and many people cannot advocate on behalf of themselves. By providing pro bono services, attorneys can help those with limited financial resources assert their rights and navigate complex legal systems, which leads to a more compassionate and equitable society.”

Encouragement: “Pro bono work is one of the most rewarding parts of practicing law. It offers us a unique opportunity to make a real difference in individuals’ lives and our communities. It provides us with invaluable professional development opportunities. And it allows us to fulfill our ethical obligations. Overall, pro bono work will positively reinforce your sense of purpose as a legal practitioner while allowing you to make a difference in our community.”

Zachary McCraney grew up in Boise and attended Boise State University. After graduation, he joined the military, where he spent five years travelling throughout the country as an explosive ordnance disposal technician. Although he enjoyed this experience, he knew he wanted to return home. So, after graduating from Notre Dame Law School in 2021, Zachary came back to Boise and started his legal career at Holland & Hart. Since then, he has been afforded the opportunity to work on a variety of complex business disputes, while at the same time engaging in important pro bono matters.

Ian K. Frost – Fourth District

Why Pro Bono? “I became a lawyer because I wanted to do good. I have found that the legal clinics put on by the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program is an opportunity to do just that. We all encounter people who are faced with problems that they feel ill-equipped to handle. I have found that most of the people who come to the clinic are on the right track and just need encouragement. Therefore, pro bono work is important to me because it is an outlet to empower folks to improve their own situation.”

Encouragement: “Most of what we learned in law school goes unutilized because we get pigeon-holed into a narrow practice of law. The pro bono work I do with the Lawyer in the Library program gives me exposure to a host of matters I would simply never engage with otherwise, and I enjoy the variety. If that sounds interesting to you, I encourage you to reach out to IVLP and sign up for the clinic.”

Ian K. Frost studied rhetoric and British literature at Brigham Young University before attending the University of San Diego School of Law. After law school, he worked at Mundell, Odlum & Haws, a civil litigation firm located in San Bernardino, California, whose practice includes education law, business and corporate law, and employment and labor law. He was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in May 2021.
For the past two years, Ian has worked as corporate counsel for The L&R Group, a midsized company regulated by the Idaho Department Of Environmental Quality. As the entire legal department, he is kept busy managing all compliance and policy matters for the company.

Anja R. Rodriguez – Fifth District

Why Pro Bono? “There is a huge legal need throughout Idaho for attorney assistance in legal matters. To help meet this need, I volunteer regularly at local legal clinics to assist individuals who need guidance and advice, but do not have the means to hire or consult with an attorney. These legal clinics help provide better access to justice and the courts. I believe it is a great privilege to be able to help those in need and provide a service for people going through incredibly challenging life experiences, as navigating the court systems can be complicated, intimidating, and sometimes impossible without attorney guidance.”

Encouragement: “I would encourage every attorney to participate in pro bono work because there are many ways you can give back to your communities and it doesn’t always have to be time-consuming – every bit counts! You can spend an hour or two volunteering at a legal clinic, which impacts and assists many people in the community.”

Anja Rodriguez was born and raised in Idaho. She received her B.A. in Spanish at Boise State University in 2011, graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 2016, and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that year. Anja loves to travel and completed study abroad programs in Costa Rica and Spain during college and law school. After law school, she joined her family’s law firm, Migliuri & Rodriguez PLLC, in Twin Falls, Idaho, practicing primarily in the areas of family law and criminal defense. Anja is also active in volunteering for the local legal community. She has served as a Fifth District Bar Officer since 2021 and also as Fifth District Bar President for the 2023-2024 term. Additionally, Anja is the representative for the Idaho Women Lawyers – Fifth District chapter. In her free time, Anja loves exploring new places, spending time with her family, skiing, and hiking (she even summited Borah, Idaho’s tallest peak!).

Jason D. Stanley – Sixth District

Why Pro Bono? “The practice of law is really about people. Since I work for the government, I’m limited in how I can volunteer my time, in an official capacity at least. Pro bono work, especially for Idaho’s veterans and underprivileged community, is especially rewarding because it gives me a chance to interact with my community on a more personal level.”

Encouragement: “Seek out a group of people you’re passionate about, for me it’s Idaho’s veteran community. Next, just look for ways to volunteer and participate in that community. In time, you’ll learn the needs of that group of people and see ways to help out, from a legal perspective. I don’t go into my pro bono service always looking for a way to provide legal advice. Rather, I just jump in and start to be as helpful as possible. The more people trust you, the more they’ll be open about their needs, legally speaking.”

Jason Stanley is a military veteran who spent 17 years in the service split between the Marine Corps and the Army. He attended Concordia Law School in Boise, Idaho, graduating in 2017. He didn’t sit for the UBE for two years after graduating from law school but took the February 2019 bar exam and was admitted to practice law in April of 2019. In January of 2020, Jason was hired by Bannock County, where he currently works. He’s had a number of jobs while working in Bannock County’s legal department including Deputy Public Defender, Deputy Prosecutor, and Senior Deputy Prosecutor.

Paul B. Rippel – Seventh District

Why Pro Bono? “There are people who either cannot fathom the legal process or simply do not have the money to pay for help. Some of them need a simple guiding hand and others need someone to speak in court for them. These are real people who have the same rights under the law and need the same help as people with enough money to pay for legal counsel. The professional satisfaction in pro bono representation is its true reward.”

Encouragement: “I hope that every lawyer will realize the blessing we have received with the license giving us the privilege to practice, whether paid or unpaid. However, most pro bono clients express their gratitude for your help when others often figure their payment is enough.”

Paul B. Rippel was raised in Idaho most of his life and graduated from Skyline High School in Idaho Falls – Go Grizz. After a few spurts, he graduated from the University of Idaho. Eventually, he had to choose between a Ph.D. program or law school, and got his J.D. at the University of Idaho College of Law. Paul was honored to work under Arnold T. Beebe, D.J. as a law clerk who taught him – the law is the most important part of what we do as lawyers. Paul then was lucky enough to get a job with Hopkins French Crockett Springer & Hoopes in Idaho Falls, where he has been for 42 years. His areas of practice have varied along the way with the needs of the public and the firm. He has no immediate plans to retire as he continues to enjoy helping people who have legal and practical problems.

Endnotes

2024 Service Awards

Posted on July 15, 2024 | updated: July 16, 2024

The individuals selected for this year’s Service Awards include attorneys an a non-attorney 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? And, what advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?

Hon. Joseph W. Borton

Why Service: “Live in gratitude! When you are thankful for all you have (and are willing to learn from the tough times), when you are grateful for the people you meet, and for the privilege to practice law in Idaho, you can’t help but want to share that for others to feel the same way.”

Advice: “Kindness is not weakness.”

Judge Borton graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1997 and spent 27 years in private practice as a trial attorney handling both civil and criminal matters, and state and federal matters, with other 100 trials completed. He served 14 years as an elected Meridian City Councilman. He was admitted before the United States Supreme Court in 2019. Judge Borton has been married for 30 years with two adult sons, one golden retriever, and a lazy cat. He is average at pickleball, golf, and curling but is working on each! He was appointed by Governor Little to serve as a District Judge in 2024 and is grateful for all of it; even the cat.

Hon. Robyn M. Brody

Why Service: “From time to time I need something or someone to remind me why I chose to become a lawyer. Serving other people reminds me that the education and skills I have are a gift that can make a difference in people’s lives.”

Advice: “Do every job you are given to the best of your ability and treat your workplace like your home and your coworkers like your family. Shovel the walk when you’re the first one to arrive and stock the fridge with Diet Coke when you take the last one.”

Justice Robyn M. Brody has been a member of the Idaho State Bar for nearly 27 years. She serves as the vice chief of the Idaho Supreme Court. She chairs the Pro Bono Commission and the Language Access Committee. She is also the Court’s liaison to the Child Protection Committee, the Child Support Guidelines Committee, and the Children and Families in the Courts Committee. She spends time volunteering to strengthen Idaho’s legal community by participating in numerous continuing legal education seminars. One of her favorite parts of being a Supreme Court Justice is having the privilege of giving tours of the Supreme Court to many of Idaho’s fifth graders.

Justice Brody and her husband have bee married for nearly 29 years, and the couple has two active boys, ages 16 and 18. She enjoys spending time with her boys in numerous sports and activities, including football, skiing, speech and debate, and drama.

Jim Cook

Why Service: “I’ve always felt that life is short and that I need to pursue a career that has meaning to me. Helping others and society as a lawyer makes me feel like I am using my life well.”

Advice: “Stick to your beliefs and live according to your moral compass. Network and explore the many opportunities of being a lawyer in Idaho. Give back to the profession. Protect the third branch of government.”

Jim Cook is the Executive Director of Idaho Legal Aid Services (“ILAS”), a statewide non-profit law firm serving low income Idahoans. He is a double Vandal, graduating from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1995. He spent his first three years as an attorney at a private firm focused on litigation. Jim joined ILAS in 1999 as a staff attorney, moved to the position of Deputy Director in 2005, and became Executive Director in 2013. He has worked for years to make it so that ILAS can get the maximum client benefit from every dollar received.

Jim believes that ILAS attorneys need to be active contributors to the Idaho State Bar, the legal profession, and our communities. He recently stepped down as the President of the Fourth District Bar Association, has served as an officer with the Idaho State Bar’s Diversity Section, is a 2012 graduate from the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers, and is a long time member of the Treasure Valley Inns of Court Chapter. He has practiced in various organizations such as the Idaho Assistive Technology Project Advisory Council and served on the board of Hodia Idaho Diabetes Youth Programs (a camp for children with diabetes).

Anne H. Haws

Why Service: “My life has been enriched and made better by the service of many people. Volunteering is a way to thank others for their service – to pay it forward.”

Advice: “I would encourage my younger self to do two things. First, to ask more questions more often. Second, to take the tie to follow up on persistent thoughts – the nagging questions mark or (seemingly) stray idea in the margin of my notes.”

Anne Haws attended the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Bar in 2017. Before beginning her private practice career, she clerked for the Hon. Candy W. Dale and the Hon. B. Lynn Winmill at the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho.

Anne has a commercial litigation practice at Holland & Hart, LLP. She works on cases for clients that involve a broad array of state and federal claims.

Anne currently serves in various volunteer capacities, including for the Bar on the Access to Justice FUND Run and Leadership Committees, for Idaho Women Lawyers as Chair of its Judicial Committee, as a member of the U.S. District Court, District of Idaho Local Rules Committee, and as the State Membership Chair for the American Bar Association. She is a member of Inns of Court, No. 130, and serves as a Fellow to the American Bar Foundation. She has also enjoyed teaching courses at the College of Law as a visiting lecturer.

Bron M. Rammell

Why Service: ”I am ultimately an optimist. I believe that people are inherently good and are sometimes in need of help beyond their ability to acquire on their own. I believe that we have the opportunity to sometimes be that person who can help others who need it. Muhammad Ali once famously said, ‘The service you do for others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.’ I also believe that service to others is the great paradox: only in giving do we receive. I have been fortunate to have served and been served by many. I consider myself richly rewarded as a result.”

Advice: “Realize that your opponent in a case is working with an imperfect person as his opponent. Always assume good intent, even if you disagree with someone, rather than assume malice. It will make the practice more tolerable. That is especially true when many clients expect their attorney to be uncharitable, intolerant, and unyielding.”

Bron Rammell received his J.D. from Willamette University in 1991. He had the privilege of acting as a pro tem municipal judge in the Dalles, Oregon from his third year of law school, while working for the primary judge’s practice in the Dalles. Bron took the Idaho Bar Exam in 1992 and was admitted. He started practice at Dial, Looze, and May; now May, Rammell & Wells. He became a partner in 1995. He notes that John Looze, Tom Dial, and Greg May have all retired, but were great examples.

Bron remains a partner in the firm with excellent partners Peter Wells and Kyle May. He has been blessed with the opportunity to have an extremely diverse practice. He has tried a number of serious criminal cases successfully to juries and has obtained a $1+ million civil jury verdict for a client. Bron has represented and continues to represent numerous individuals in complicated civil rights cases. The constitutional issues in those cases are always challenging and not always rewarding. Bron is honored to serve as Chair of the Idaho Client Assistance Fund with some great people and attorneys. He is a Fellow of the American Bar Association. Bron is on the Board of Directors of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association, is a delegate for the American Association for Justice, and a member of the National Employment Lawyer’s Association. He chairs medical malpractice pre-litigation proceedings. He and his wife, Pam, have six children; all who have left the nest and are his greatest achievements.

Jeremy C. Rausch

Why Service: “Serving others who have served is a priority to me because of my own experiences with family and friends who have served in the military. Veterans are a special part of our community who protect the Constitution and laws; by giving back through legal services they are able to reap the benefits of their commitment.”

Advice: “Take chances and do not be afraid to explore all that your skills have to offer. Whether that is in a traditional legal role or in another industry.”

Jeremy began his legal education at Concordia University before transferring to his undergraduate alma mater, the University of Idaho, in 2020. He was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in May 2022. From 2022 to 2023, Jeremy service in Southwest Asia as an Engineer Officer with the 2-116th Combined Arms Battalion.

Jeremy’s career path has been diverse. He completed his Bachelor of Science in wildlife resources and was commissioned into the Idaho Army National Guard in 2013. Growing up on construction sites, he developed extensive experience in construction management before transitioning to full-time law studies in January 2020.

Today, Jeremy successfully balances his military and legal careers, supported by his wife, two boys, and a close-knit network of family and friends.

Benjamin C. Ritchie

Why Service: “I learned from my first mentors inside and outside the law of the importance of personal and professional service. Justice Ginsburg is often quoted as saying, ‘If you want to be a true professional, do something outside yourself.’ I believe any lawyer engaged in personal, public, professional, community, religious, or any other kind of service can bring a lot to the table and can be an influence for good.”

Advice: “I think I would give the following pieces of advice: 1) The practice of law is a lot about relationships. Work on relationships with mentors, clients, opposing counsel, and judges; 2) Own the case and try to see the beginning through the end; and 3) Learn as much as you can about the business and practice of law from experienced lawyers.”

Ben Ritchie was born and raised in Idaho Falls. He graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 2005. After graduation, he clerked for District Judge Richard St. Clair and then has practiced in the eastern Idaho offices of Moffatt Thomas and Hawley Troxell. He practices primarily in the areas of insurance defense and coverage, employment law, and general litigation. Ben has been involved in the Idaho State Bar Litigation Section, the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers, and the Reasonable Accommodation Committee for the Idaho Bar Exam. In industry, he has been involved in the Idaho Trucking Association, the Idaho Association of Defense Counsel, and SHRM. In his community, he has been involved in Habitat for Humanity, CASA, and the Idaho Crisis and Suicide Hotline. Ben has been married to his wife, Holli, for 24 years and they have three children.

Tyrie J. Strong

Why Service: “My life is enriched by the people who shared themselves and their expertise with me. It is satisfying and fulfilling to give back and pay it forward. I love that I can provide free legal services to those who would otherwise have no help. Taking on extra duties adds variety and richness to my weeks.”

Advice: “There will be tough times, but you’ll get through it, learn from it, and it will be worth it. You can’t control your clients; own the process, not the outcome. Choose your cases carefully – you can’t take them all, and none when at capacity! Many volunteer positions are available merely by asking or volunteering for them, so be bold and ask.”

Tyrie Strong worked at Intel as a Software Engineer before attending Gonzaga University School of Law. She graduated magna cum laude with her J.D. and was admitted to the Bar in April 2022. She now helps survivors of domestic violence through her work at Idaho Legal Aid Service, Inc. in Coeur d’Alene, where she is also family law practice group lead. She serves on the Board of Directors for Safe Passage, a domestic violence agency in Coeur d’Alene, and is an At-Large Member of the board of the Idaho State Bar Family Law Section.

Hon. Mayli A. Walsh

Why Service: “The judiciary has a responsibility to assist the public in understanding what it is that judges do and how important it is to protect the rule of law. I believe this is accomplished by working collaboratively with the local bar to regularly engage in civic education related activities.”

Advice: “Hard work is the great equalizer.”

Judge Mayli Walsh is a magistrate judge in Kootenai County, Idaho. She is a general jurisdiction judge, meaning she presides over every type of matter assigned to the magistrate’s division: probate, child protection, juvenile, criminal, divorce/custody, guardianship/conservatorship, etc. Judge Walsh was selected to serve as magistrate judge in Jue 2016. She obtained her law degree from the University of Idaho College of Law in Moscow, Idaho and, prior to taking the bench, spent the majority of her career working under the supervision of John Adams at the Kootenai County Office of the Public Defender. Judge Walsh is married to attorney Sean Walsh and together they have five children.

Gordon Holland

Why Service: “Service changes individuals, groups, and communities for the better.”

Advice: “Listen more, talk less.”

Gordon Holland serves as a Senior Human Resource Professional at Idaho Power and is in his fourth year as a non-lawyer member of the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers steering committee. During his time on the committee, he has continued to expand the depth of the subject matter taught by the academy and has helped develop the other committee members’ training and expertise when teaching new subject matter and topics. Gordon has brought his extensive experience of more than 20 years in executive leadership to bear in helping evolve and teach the class curriculum. Additionally, he has utilized his vast connections in the executive leadership arena to allow the class to hear from a variety of other organizations. He has taught many topics during each of the classes including the SCARF model on human social experiences, a course on the book Crucial Conversations, and various components of the curriculum. He is passionate about helping create a culture and work environment in the Idaho State Bar and the community that enables every person to shine, find joy, and develop to their fullest potential.

Endnotes

2024 Professionalism Awards

Posted on July 15, 2024 | updated: July 16, 2024

Each year the Idaho State Bar presents the Professionalism to recipients who 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? And, what advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?

Benjamin (“Ben”) J. Allen – First District

Values: “My goal is to end each day hoping that I used the tools I have been given to make the world around me a better place. Reinvesting in our communities in which we live is a vital function of our social sustainability. When we fight our innate desires to be inner-focused and replace selfishness with empathy, we unlock our potential to facilitate positive change in the world. Even in a profession which is adversarial at its core, we often accomplish the most for our clients when we approach our colleagues and our cases with equal respect, ensuring that we never compromise our integrity in an effort to gain an advantage.”

Advice: “As legal professionals, time is a premium and sacrifice is a common thread within our profession. Oftentimes, things such as family, faith, and fellowship are competing with the demands of the law firm, which can have a tendency to pit career advancement against those things which ground us. Being cognizant of this can enable attorneys to prioritize their dedication of time to those things that might have the most meaningful impact. As attorneys, I believe at various points in our careers there is a time to push and a time to pace. Differentiating which stages in life require what approach can enable young attorneys to successfully develop while still maintaining mental health and striking a work-life balance that is tailored to each chapter of our professional careers.”

Growing up on a farm in rural North Idaho, Ben learned early in life how difficult it can be for rural communities to obtain professional services, motivating him to pursue a legal career that could be used to fill this void in rural parts of the state. He obtained his Juris Doctorate from Gonzaga University where he graduated with Pro Bono Distinction and CALI Awards while serving on the University’s Honor Council. During his time there, he had the opportunity to complete internships with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lemhi County Prosecutor’s Office, Wither’s Law, and clerk for Magistrate Judge Stephen Clark in the Seventh Judicial District.

In 2014, Ben contracted with Shoshone County to perform legal research and writing functions for a first-degree murder case. His relationship with Shoshone County would soon after blossom into full time employment as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney and in 2018, he was promoted to Chief Deputy where he served underneath (now) Judge Keisha Oxendine for four additional years. In 2022, Ben was appointed to the position of Prosecuting Attorney before running for election to retain his office. When not engulfed in prosecution work, Ben’s private firm, Silver Valley Law, provides legal services to small/rural municipalities and other public entities, while also offering basic civil practice needs in areas such as estates and probates for local residents where there are minimal legal resources.

Over the years Ben has been actively involved in various wildlife and conservation-related organizations, including founding the Gonzaga Rod & Gun Club and serving as a state Hunter’s Education instructor. In addition to his passion for the outdoors, Ben shares an equivalent interest in providing opportunities for youth in his community, leading him to serve on the Board of the North Idaho Official’s Association, the President for both the Rotary and Kiwanis clubs in the Silver Valley, and the District 1 Chair for the Idaho Association of Counties.

April A. Smith – Second District

Values: “Serving the public and victims of crime with respect and empathy has guided me throughout my career. It is important for everyone to feel they have a voice and are being heard. It is equally as important to hear all different perspectives in a respectful and thoughtful way. Being professional and courteous when speaking with judges, court personnel, and opposing counsel is essential. I have tried to prioritize maintaining good relationships, even when we do not agree. The practice of law is stressful enough without interacting with others in an environment that is overly contentious.”

Advice: “Don’t take the bait. During my career I have learned this valuable lesson – just because someone is trying to attack you, put you down, or get an emotional reaction out, do not go to their level. Your integrity and ability to stay above it are far more important.”

April is the Chief Deputy Prosecutor for Nez Perce County. She attended law school at the University of Idaho and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 2004. April went to law school with the goal of becoming a prosecutor and her focus has been crimes involving victims. She has one daughter, Avery, who is a sophomore at the University of Idaho.

Elisa G. Massoth – Third District

Values: “I feel so lucky to have found a career that I love. I strive to be the most prepared person in the room, whether it’s for a meeting or a court hearing, because what I may lack in experience, I can make up for in preparation. No client wants to be sitting next to a lawyer who is shooting from the hip. I have always and still do take advantage of any opportunity to be mentored. I would not be the person I am today without really talented attorneys who showed me how to practice law. I hold the privilege of representing my clients in my heart and on my shoulders, trying always to see the humanity in every single one of them.”

Advice: “You have picked the right career. Stay the course; the areas of law that you end up practicing will find you. When you have children, don’t feel guilty about building a career while being a mom. Your daughters will grow up to be wonderful and loved. Let go of worrying about work/life balance and just live. When your gut tells you not to take a case or a client, always follow your gut.”

Elisa’s current practice, 27 years in, is primarily capital murder and serious federal criminal defense. This allows her to practice all over the state and in front of many different judges. As a solo practitioner in the small town of Payette, Elisa does some estate planning and business advising. All of it fascinates her. To get here, she had the great opportunity to clerk for Justice Joel Horton and Judge Michael McGlaughlin, to manage a team of attorneys and prosecute for the City of Boise, to work as an associate attorney at Moffatt, Thomas, Barrett, Rock and Field’s, and partner with Dartanyon Burrows before he became a magistrate.

One of Elisa’s most favorite times in her career was in the firm of Ketlinksi, Massoth, Rebholtz, and Soper, working side by side some of her very best friends and truly brilliant legal minds. Together they created and operated a firm in Caldwell, buying secondhand furniture (that she found at the Idaho Youth Ranch) and top of the line computers and software (that Ty Ketlinksi set up). They all built up a clientele that several of them have to this day and they had so much fun.

The University of Idaho College of Law is Elisa’s alma mater as a 1997 graduate. Time has flown. When she is not working, Elisa spends time with her two beautiful daughters, Josafina and Addie, who are now 23 and 21, and her very supportive husband of 25 years, Dave. They enjoy skiing, hiking, mountain biking, traveling, and eating good food.

Leslie M.G. Hayes – Fourth District

Values: “I try to be my authentic self in everything that I do and through that, I hope the people I deal with see someone who tries to make the right decision, is honest in her endeavors, and is kind to everyone that I encounter.”

Advice: “Try new things, explore new opportunities, and volunteer to help where needed.”

Leslie Hayes joined the Office of Administrative Hearings (“OAH”) on November 15, 2022. Prior to coming to the OAH, she spent 10 years with the Office of the Attorney General in the Civil Litigation Division. During her time with the Office, she has handled administrative appeals in front of the Idaho Personnel Commission, the Idaho Board of Veterinary Medicine, the Idaho Lottery Commission, the Idaho Charter Commission, and many more. Prior to joining the Attorney General’s Office, Ms. Hayes worked in private practice in insurance defense and clerked for the Idaho Supreme Court. Ms. Hayes has represented clients in all Idaho state courts, the United States District Court for the District of Idaho, the Western District of Washington, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.

Ms. Hayes attended the University of Portland and Gonzaga University School of Law, graduating cum laude. She is active in the Bar, volunteering to grade bar exams and serving as a member of the Appellate Practice and Litigation Sections’ Governing Councils. She also sits on the Board of Directors for Idaho Women Lawyers, currently serving as the President of the Board. Ms. Hayes is the recipient of the Idaho State Bar’s Service Award and Idaho Business Review’s Women of the Year and Leaders in the Law Award.

Kevin J. Scanlan – Fourth District

Values: “The values that guide my professional life are integrity in my communications, civility in my interactions, and quality in my work. I believe these principles should be applied to all our professional activities whether with clients, colleagues, opposing counsel and parties, or the court. You can’t go wrong being honest, treating people with respect and courtesy, and doing a good job.”

Advice: “I would tell me to recognize the value of relationships early. Develop and nurture relationships with colleagues, with clients, with others in the profession, and importantly with people outside of it; over time, many of those relationships are likely to blend from one group to another, but they will always fall into the category of friends. Also, listen to the people around you, as the folks who have been at this for a while may know some things that can really help you in your practice, your business, and the other parts of your life. Finally, find a mentor and be a mentor; learn and model behavior that fits with your values (see above).”

Kevin obtained his undergraduate degree in finance from Carroll College (’92) and went to Seattle University for law school (’96), where he served as an editor of the Seattle University Law Review and graduated with honors. He was admitted to the Bar in 1996. His practice has focused on litigation and trial work in a broad range of cases including professional liability, trucking law, insurance coverage/bad faith, products liability, and various other personal injury claims and commercial disputes.

Kevin is a founder of Scanlan Griffiths + Aldridge, and is a member of the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel, a Senior Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, and a member of the Idaho Association of Defense Counsel. He is AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review rated in Martindale Hubbell and has been repeatedly recognized by Mountain States Super Lawyers (civil litigation – defense) and Best Lawyers in America (personal injury – defense; medical malpractice law – defense). Kevin has also twice received Best Lawyer’s Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants “Lawyer of the Year” award for Boise.

Steven M. Parry – Fourth District

Values: “You can never over prepare. This goal helped in the late 1970s when I had my first Supreme Court argument outside of Boise. I had a late morning argument in Lewiston and was booked on an early morning Hughes Air West flight. I arrived in Lewiston but my briefcase with all my files and preparation were on a plane to Pocatello. Right before oral argument I was able to borrow copies of the briefs and transcript and made it through the argument on adrenaline due to my preparation. Afterwards, I was told that the truly kind Supreme Court clerk had forewarned the Justices of my predicament.

Always be kind and respectful to the Court staff and your support staff. A court reporter, much like your secretary, can transform a barely intelligible question into perfect English in the transcript.

At my retirement luncheon one of my adversaries said that my word was the same as my signature. To represent a client effectively you need to be credible. Credibility starts with being totally honest.

When representing an organization, you need to know the governing documents and policies better than the client, but it is the client that makes all of the decisions. Sometimes you must advise the client to amend the policy or governing document if they wish to take a certain course of action.”

Advice: “As an attorney you do not win or lose cases. You represent a client to the best of your ability. The best way to represent a client is to know the facts better than anyone else and keep the client fully informed. Always treat other attorneys as you would like them to treat you. You will win more cases being civil to opposing counsel. A settlement with the client’s approval is better than leaving the resolution to the trier of fact. The client needs to hear unfavorable news from you directly and immediately.”

Steven graduated from Gonzaga University in 1974 and received his law degree from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1977. He worked for more than 32 years for the Idaho Attorney General. In September of 1977, Attorney General Wayne Kidwell hired him as an Assistant Attorney General doing general civil litigation.

In 1980, Steven transferred to the Department of Administration, spending most of his time representing the Division of Public Works in construction litigation and in 1986 he began representing the Idaho Transportation Department. Steven was part of the Transportation Department’s legal team for 24 years and retired in 2010 upon qualifying for full retirement.

At the Transportation Department, Steven field pleadings in all 44 counties and by his best count appeared in 24 different county courthouses. Eminent Domain, defense of environmental violations, and resolving highway construction disputes were his major areas of practice. He represented the Department in acquiring some of the final pieces of right of way for the original construction of Interstate Highways 90 and 84. Steven became the de facto expert in “Stock Drives.”

Steven’s favorite area of practice was the resolution of highway construction disputes with the contractor. These were handled through arbitration and typically involved multiple week hearings. Usually, it involved describing to a group of arbitrators how a highway was designed, how it was constructed, and why the contractor is not entitled to additional compensation.

Jennifer K. Brizee – Fifth District

Values: “I value our justice system and believe as attorneys we have an obligation to foster an environment of nurturing and furthering our justice system. I value the rules that are the foundation of our justice system. I strive to follow these rules and value other attorneys who also strive to follow the rules. As attorneys, we are held to a high standard of ethics in order for our system of justice to meet its goals. I strive to practice law with integrity. I value the relationships I have built over my career with clients and with other attorneys. These relationships are built on trust, which has been earned over time. I strive to honor the trust my clients and other attorneys have placed in me by being honest and professional in my communications and interactions.”

Advice: “The best advice I would give to my younger self at the beginning of my legal career is the advice my mentor, Steve Tolman, gave me, which is to remember that once you lose your credibility with other attorneys, it will be very, very difficult to earn it back. We all work with many different attorneys, be it as opposing counsel or as counsel for co-defendants. We can be honest, candid, and fair in our interactions and communications with other attorneys, while still being zealous advocates for our clients.

Jennifer graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1994, and was admitted into the Idaho State Bar in August 1994. She has practiced law continuously since then, based in Twin Falls. Her practice has always focused on personal injury defense, including medical malpractice defense. She has represented numerous hospitals and physicians, automobile and truck drivers, and business entities such as general contractors, construction subcontractors, dairy operations, farming operations, and individuals. Jennifer has tried numerous cases to jury verdict and has argued many an appeal to Idaho’s appellate courts and the Ninth Circuit. She had the honor of serving on the Idaho Supreme Court’s Civil Rules Advisory Committee for many years and has recently joined the University of Idaho College of Law Advisory Council.

John David (“JD”) Oborn – Sixth District

Values: “In my professional life, I strive to practice law and represent clients with integrity. I firmly believe in zealous advocacy for each and every client. However, I believe that can be accomplished while operating from a strong ethical foundation. The best argument should win the day. Those arguments should be presented with candor and without deceit. I hope that I practice this profession in a way that other attorneys and judges will trust me even if they disagree with me. I also think it is important to be adaptable and creative in representing clients and resolving conflicts. Finally, there is nothing that can replace hard work. It is not easy being a lawyer. Each new case requires a new commitment and dedication to explore the details of the case and the applicable legal arguments. That has to be done over and over again.”

Advice: “I still remember the best advice I received when I was a new lawyer. I was working on a complex case with Gary Cooper. The facts and law were difficult and convoluted. At one point, personal attacks started entering some of the briefing that was being presented to the Court. As a young lawyer, I was responsible for the initial draft of all the briefs that were being filed. I was full of righteous indignation and was not going to let a single personal attack go without a pithy rejoinder. After reviewing a brief that had several retorts directed at opposing counsel instead of the facts or legal arguments, Gary told me to edit those out. He explained that my reputation as an attorney was more important than scoring a personal point in a brief. That reputation would be established by the quality of legal arguments and how I conducted myself as a lawyer. It would be diminished by unnecessary attacks on the character or intentions of opposing counsel.”

JD Oborn is a native of Pocatello, Idaho and an Iraq War veteran who served with HHB 1/148th Battalion of the Idaho National Guard. He graduated summa cum laude from Weber State University with a B.A. in political science. He attended Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota and graduated cum laude in 2013. After graduating and returning to Pocatello, JD clerked for the Honorable David C. Nye in the Sixth Judicial District. Judge Nye was JD’s first mentor in the legal profession. He learned invaluable lessons from Judge Nye’s dedication and commitment to justice and the individuals whose lives are indelibly impacted by the legal system. JD joined the firm of Cooper & Larsen Chartered in 2014 where he has had the privilege of learning to practice law from Gary Cooper. Gary is the attorney JD aspires to be and JD is grateful for Gary’s guidance and friendship.

Steven R. Parry – Seventh District

Values: “Fairness. The legal profession is at its best when producing fair results.”

Advice: “Under normal circumstances, whether you enjoy the practice of law will be your choice. Abraham Lincoln rightly said that ‘most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.’ Perhaps I am the only one, but on occasion I have not enjoyed the practice of law. Fortunately, about 20 years ago I came across a quote attributed to Edmund Burke that it was more important to enjoy what you do than to do what you enjoy. I kept that quote handy for some time. Given a climate that emphasizes making choices based upon what society may perceive as bringing happiness, it may seem incongruous to focus more on changing one’s own attitude rather than always seeking greener pastures. The exercise was very valuable for me, and for the most part I have not only enjoyed the practice of law but have savored many moments in my practice that have made a difference for good in the lives of others.”

After graduating from Idaho Falls High School in 1977, Steven Parry spent a couple of years in Taiwan speaking Mandarin and then graduated from Brigham Young University with a Bachelors in accounting in 1983, and with a Master of Accountancy in tax and a Juris Doctor in 1987, taking four months out to intern with Senator James A. McClure in Washington D.C. After working four years at a firm in Salt Lake, Steven returned to Idaho Falls in 1991 and has been with Nelson Hall Parry Tucker, PLLC or its predecessor since 1995.

Steven married Sharon Hasting in 1982 and they have three children and eight grandchildren, each of whom is a delight. Sharon has been very active in the community, including three terms on the school board and two terms on the City council. Together they have spent much time whitewater rafting. Any spare time Steven has left has been spent in supporting church and youth activities, and various wonderful community causes, with a favorite pass-time of being a member of “The Not Brothers,” a “cowboy comedy” quartet which has been a great stress reliever.

Endnotes

Outstanding Young Lawyer: Hannah M. Andazola

Posted on July 11, 2024 | updated: July 16, 2024

By Lindsey M. Welfley

Background

This year’s Outstanding Young Lawyer, Hannah Andazola, is continuing her family legacy in the legal profession as a fourth-generation attorney. Hannah was born in Seattle, but raised in Boise, her mother’s hometown. Both her mother and father attended law school at the University of Washington, then practiced law in Seattle, until relocating back to Boise when Hannah was three years old. Hannah graduated from Boise High School and continued to Gonzaga University to get her bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations before returning to Boise for a graduate program at Boise State University. She graduated with her master’s in health science with an emphasis in health services leadership.

In addition to Hannah’s parents, her maternal grandfather and great-grandfather were both attorneys. Considering her family’s history, a career as an attorney had always been on Hannah’s radar and she felt her graduate studies would pair well with a law degree. She attended the University of Idaho College of Law, graduating in 2018, and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar later that fall.

Career

After law school, Hannah was hired at a firm where she practiced medical malpractice defense. She quickly realized that she much preferred to be on the proactive side healthcare matters and didn’t find the courtroom to be a natural fit. She notes, “I think there are some people who just are natural litigators, and others who aren’t. I wasn’t in that group and that’s okay with me.”

Hannah enjoying the outdoors with her husband,
Tyler, and one-year-old son. Photo courtesy of
Hannah Andazola.

Ready to make a pivot, Hannah heard about Smith + Malek from her dad and he encouraged her to consider joining their growing healthcare practice. Hannah started with Smith + Malek in January 2019, where she has been ever since. She started with a general civil and business litigation practice, but by 2020 had transitioned to working in the firm’s healthcare team full time.

Role Models

Throughout her life, Hannah has looked to her parents as roles models, especially after having her first child. She comments, “They showed me how to juggle being a good lawyer and an involved parent.”

In this same line of thought, Hannah expresses her appreciation for her colleagues at Smith + Malek. She highlighted that everyone she works with is supportive of the culture of balancing work and family. Hannah looks to those around her at work and can see colleagues living the example of healthy work-life balance. She emphasizes the encouragement she finds when she can observe her colleagues and think to herself, “You are doing so well at both of these things [maintaining a practice and being a mom], it is totally possible.”

Family Life & Hobbies

Hannah and her husband, Tyler, have a one-year-old son. With that major life change, Hannah lightheartedly jokes that her family is her whole focus outside of work right now. She spends much of her time with her family, including her parents and siblings. Hannah enjoys traveling during the summers and spending all her after-hours and weekend time with her husband and son. She happily states, “Thankfully I don’t actually feel like I’m missing out on hobbies at the moment!”

Endnotes

[i] John A. Bailey Bio. Hawley Troxell. https://hawleytroxell.com/the-firm/people/john-a-bailey/.

Distinguished Lawyer: Sharon E. Anne Solomon

Posted on July 11, 2024 | updated: July 11, 2024

By Lindsey M. Welfley

Background

Sharon E. Anne Solomon (“Anne”) has been a small-town Idaho gal her whole life, remembering these small-town roots wherever she ended up. Born in Sandpoint, Anne is the fifth of seven siblings. She and her siblings were raised without much money but with farm animals surrounding their North Idaho home. Early on she developed a sense of the importance of giving back to her community, specifically to children who are vulnerable or otherwise unable to speak for themselves.

Anne was a quiet kid who loved reading; never an athlete, she found her outlet as a debater on her high school’s Lincoln Douglas team. Having moved to Coeur d’Alene with her family upon entering high school, it was here that she conquered her fear of public speaking and blossomed as a skilled debater. Anne and her team represented Idaho at National debate competitions two years in a row. Her next academic endeavor was to participate in Girls State, a national program geared toward teaching responsible citizenship and leadership among young women. Anne went on to represent Idaho as President of Girls Nation, which allowed for even more travel.

Anne attributes much of her later success in the trajectory of her career to these formative high school years and even more formative opportunities afforded her. She traveled to New Orleans for a political convention, attended inauguration celebrations in Washington, D.C., and participated in a United Nations Youth Pilgrimage to New York City. It was in these adventures and leadership roles that she found her niche.

Anne recalls an encounter that would go on to shape her decisions toward college and beyond – in Washington, D.C. at one of the inauguration parties, Anne met a woman who started talking about college. Though the next steps of her education were far from her mind, Anne was encouraged to head back home and immediately apply to Stanford University. She did as she was instructed and landed a full-ride scholarship to attend Stanford that coming Fall Semester.

Anne graduated from Stanford University with her B.S. in political science and economics in 1973. She then spent some time continuing her travels and working on various accounting projects. At that time, Anne and her eldest sister, Sue Flammia, both made a point to realize their shared passion to help those who cannot help themselves by attending law school with the end-goal of working together some day. Anne began her studies at the University of Idaho College of Law and Sue went on to Gonzaga University School of Law. They both graduated one day apart, with their ailing father able to witness both graduations prior to his passing.

"Anne and her eldest sister, Sue Flammia, both made a point to realize their shared passion to help those who cannot help themselves by attending law school with the end-goal of working together some day."

Early Career & Family Ties

After graduating with her juris doctorate, Anne spent some time in San Jose, California working in business law before returning to Coeur d’Alene in 1980 to form Flammia & Solomon with her sister. Their end-goal met, Anne and Sue shared a fulfilling practice together for 35 years, until Sue’s passing in 2015. Those three decades were marked by the incredible opportunity to practice with one’s family, knowing they’d always have each other’s backs; whether that was so Anne could take Friday’s off to spend time with her children, or so Sue could travel to Italy with her husband. Anne notes her incredible gratitude for this time in her career.

In addition to the sibling ties, Anne has also had the privilege of practicing with her son, Beck Roan, for the past four years. Beck clerked for two terms with Judge Huskey at the Idaho Court of Appeals before moving from Boise to Coeur d’Alene in 2020. Anne notes that Beck was incredibly lucky to work with Judge Huskey, as she fostered his skills in legal writing and analysis which now serve him well in his work at Flammia & Solomon.

Anne has been married to her beloved husband, Charlie, for 39 years and they have two children. Beck is the youngest of the two; her daughter, Erin, is an occupational therapist with children in the local school district up in Coeur d’Alene. Additionally, Anne’s niece, Jacinda, works in her firm as their paralegal. Overall, Anne mentions that these close family ties, first with her sister and now with her family’s next generation, have likely been the reason why she’s hung in there for as long as she has.

"Throughout her life, Anne has been guided by the principle of giving back – to her community, to those in need, or to those who are unable to do for themselves what she may be able to provide."

Service & Important Projects

Throughout her life, Anne has been guided by the principle of giving back – to her community, to those in need, or to those who are unable to do for themselves what she may be able to provide. She notes just how much of a difference individuals can make in small towns like Coeur d’Alene, even when the towns don’t feel like they’re particularly “small” anymore.

Anne served on the Magistrate’s Commission, the Idaho Judicial Council, the Idaho Personnel Commission in the 1980s, the Kootenai County CASA Board, the Idaho Legal Aid Service Board, the Women’s Center Board, the Park Foundation Board, and the Coeur d’Alene Charter Academy Board.

Despite her very long resume of service to the community and the legal profession, several of Anne’s most notable achievements have been in memory of her late sister, Sue. While she was practicing, Sue Flammia, alongside fellow Coeur d’Alene attorneys Janell Burke and Heidi Fisher, worked to put together a “mediation week” in the mid-1980s during which they would train attorney mediators and focus the week on trying to get cases resolved. Out of this work came the Conflict Resolution Center, a 501(c)3 that would bring in a national speaker annually to discuss child development, the latest research, conflict resolution, the real-life effects of domestic violence, and much more. In Sue’s memory, Anne has continued this work and currently serves on the Center’s Board of Directors.

Anne recounts the only thing her sister asked of her prior to her death – to keep the Art on the Green (formally named the Citizens Council for the Arts) financially healthy. Currently in its 56^th year, this annual festival brings over 120 artists, mostly from the Pacific Northwest region to Coeur d’Alene for a weekend to showcase their work and celebrate artistic endeavors. Anne sits on the Board of Directors and serves as Treasurer, working primarily on the administrative side of the event and handling all of the logistics. Anne’s whole family helps with this endeavor in Sue’s memory.

Mentors & Role Models

When they both began their practices, Sue and Anne looked to the late Scott Reed as a mentor and guide for anything particularly technical or complex. Anne remembers Scott as an incredibly intelligent, kind, and funny force in her life, and keeps in touch with his widow, Mary Lou, who is still in Coeur d’Alene and is as lively as ever.

Anne notes that she would be remiss not to mention the high caliber of Idaho’s judges. “We have an amazing group of judges. I don’t know how they get all the work done; they listen to some crazy arguments that we bring them and the worst of the worst.” After practicing for the majority of her career in the four northern-most Idaho counties, Anne has become uniquely acquainted with how things operate in Idaho’s Courts. “We are really lucky for the work they do, especially considering how little they are paid. I don’t think I could practice without our judges.”

In this same theme, Anne continues by highlighting the unique opportunity we have in Idaho to truly interact with our judiciary unlike anywhere else. She recalls the annual visits to Coeur d’Alene by the Idaho Supreme Court Justices, during which they answer questions, talk to the members, and discuss what’s happening within Idaho’s Court system. “It is so meaningful. And that’s Idaho. The best it can be is what we have right here.”

Reflections

When she first ventured into the legal profession, Anne sought to put her best foot forward as a force of positive change in her community. “To me, the most important thing in the end is, What did I do to help someone? Sometimes it’s hard and you feel like an utter failure. We can’t solve it all, but we can try.” Despite considering herself not particularly unique or special, Anne has crafted a decades-long career to meet that goal of helping those around her. The clients, community members, and families she has no doubt impacted along the way are a testament to a career well-spent.

In light of this successful career, Anne is quick to answer the question of “most important achievement” with this: “The most important thing I’ve ever done is raise two amazing kids. It’s the best part of anything I’ve ever done in my life. They truly ground me.” Anne is a stellar example of how to meld family life with a fulfilling career.

Anne would like to express her gratitude for the love and support of her family, friends, and colleagues through all these years.

Endnotes

[i] John A. Bailey Bio. Hawley Troxell. https://hawleytroxell.com/the-firm/people/john-a-bailey/.

Distinguished Lawyer: John A. Bailey, Jr.

Posted on July 11, 2024 | updated: July 11, 2024

By Lindsey M. Welfley

Background & Education

John A. Bailey, Jr. was born and raised in Pocatello – for the majority of his life, Eastern Idaho has been his home base. With all that Eastern Idaho has to offer, John’s affinity for skiing kept him around perhaps longer than he intended. After graduating high school, John attended Idaho State University (“ISU”) where he received multiple degrees because he “didn’t want to quit skiing.” From ISU he received his degrees in political science and economics in 1977.

When asked about his decision to go to law school and make his way into the legal profession, John candidly says, “The truth is, I just didn’t how what I wanted to do but I didn’t want to go straight to work.” John stayed an extra year at Idaho State University for the skiing but still wasn’t entirely sure where he’d end up next. At the time, several of his friends were preparing to take the LSAT for law school admittance and John decided he’d follow along. He did well enough to get into law school and he made his way to Moscow to attend the University of Idaho College of Law. John graduated with his juris doctorate in 1980 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar later that year.

After law school, John was given an opportunity to head back to his home base. He moved back to Pocatello to work with Lou Racine, Bill Olson, Gary Cooper, and Bob Huntley at Racine Olson, where he stayed for the next 30-some years. John remembers this time as a great career run. During his time at the firm, John worked with fellow award recipient Judge Mitch Brown as he began his own practice. John and Judge Brown have been longtime colleagues, and it is great serendipity that they are both receiving similar honors this year.

John’s next endeavor was to venture into the small firm world. John, alongside two of his colleagues at Racine Olson, F.J. Hahn and Carol Jarman, started the firm Bailey, Hahn & Jarman in 2017. They were later acquired by Hawley Troxell in 2018 and John has worked out of Hawley Troxell’s Pocatello office as a partner for the past seven years.

Throughout all this time in practice, most of John’s expertise has been focused on civil defense trial work, agricultural law cases, insurance defense, and construction defect cases, with a fair amount of plaintiff’s work when he was still with Racine Olson. John also notes that he has worked on a great deal of employment law cases nowadays – “it is a blossoming part of the practice.” In his current role with Hawley Troxell, John is the sole panel counsel in Idaho for the Officers and Directors Liability group of a major carrier in Idaho and has represented Dow Agro Science, General Motors, DuPont, and several insurance companies.[i]

"Rather than dwelling on his individual accomplishments, John focuses instead on the unforgettable moments that come up when telling “old war stories” with his friends and colleagues."

Notable Moments & Career Accomplishments

When asked about their life’s most notable moments or career accomplishments, most recipients of these awards get a bit stumped, as our members tend to be incredibly humble despite having plenty of accomplishments of which to tell. When asked this question, John wittily remarked, “Other than passing the Bar or getting married? I have to include both of those.” Rather than dwelling on his individual accomplishments, John focuses instead on the unforgettable moments that come up when telling “old war stories” with his friends and colleagues.

Among these are two cases in particular. First, John reminisces on the Walker v. American Cyanmid Co. case. Dwight Baker talked John and outgoing Idaho State Bar President, Gary Cooper, into tackling this one and it ended up holding the record as the longest (or perhaps now the second longest) trial in Idaho, at just shy of six months. Walker Farms, a large family-operated potato farm in Eastern Idaho lost much of their crops after the use of an herbicide. John notes the monumental effort required by this case and the positive outcome in the end.

Second of these notable cases was another crop loss defense case, this time for Dow Chemicals (Dow Agro Science). Dow had produced a new herbicide and after spending quite a bit of money on the development of their product, they found themselves in a lawsuit on a crop loss claim. John helped defend them in this case, resulting in a favorable outcome for his client. After his successful defense, John received an award from Dow Agro Science in honor of his work on the case. He recalls, “They had a special ceremony and presented me with the award. It was a big deal to them, but I’ve never had that happen before! To be awarded something by a client.”

In addition to his notable contributions to case work, John also noted his induction into the American College of Trial Lawyers as something his has always been really proud of. He was inducted in 2018.

“One of the cool things about this job is meeting and getting to know these farmers and contractors in Idaho.”

Role Models & Reflections

There are three main colleagues John calls to mind as heavy hitters of positive influence throughout his career – Lou Racine, Bill Olson, and Gary Cooper. Each of these colleagues were individuals who impacted and guided how John structured his own approach to the practice of law, and who were also influential in John’s personal life. John even notes his running household joke, “What would Bill do?”

When reflecting on his time practicing in Eastern Idaho, John states, “One of the cool things about this job is meeting and getting to know these farmers and contractors in Idaho.” John has spent decades developing long and positive relationships with the farmers who he calls “the salt of the earth.”

Family Life & Hobbies

John and his wife, Christine, have one daughter, Becky, and she is one of John’s paralegals. John tells the story of helping Becky get a job fighting fires in the Caribou Targee Forest: “My wife never appreciated that experience or the test on her nerves, so I had to get Becky a different job.”

John spent much of his younger years coaching football and women’s soccer. He jokes that he’s not entirely sure how he had the time to do it, but he must have found a way! In addition to spending time with family, John enjoys riding anything on two wheels – particularly his mountain bikes, road bikes, and motorcycle – and golfing, though he notes that he’d never let his golf game get in the way of a nice walk through the country.

John would like to thank his family, his partners, and the Board of Commissioners.

Endnotes

[i] John A. Bailey Bio. Hawley Troxell. https://hawleytroxell.com/the-firm/people/john-a-bailey/.

Distinguished Jurist: Hon. Mitchell W. Brown

Posted on July 8, 2024 | updated: July 11, 2024

Background & Education

Judge Mitchell W. Brown, Mitch to most, has been a small-town kind of guy since the very beginning. He was born in Afton, Wyoming, about an hour and a half south of Jackson Hole. As a young child, his parents moved the family to Salt Lake City so his father could attend law school at the University of Utah; Judge Brown spent his elementary years in Salt Lake while his dad practiced law and his mom taught English at Lincoln Junior High School. In his seventh-grade year, his parents made the decision to move back to their hometown in Star Valley, Wyoming. Judge Brown continued his education, completing both junior high and high school in his hometown. He graduated from Star Valley High School in 1979.

Despite their move, Judge Brown’s father continued his law practice in the city and would commute every weekend to be home with the family while maintaining a residence in Salt Lake during the workweek. Judge Brown and his family spent the summers with their dad in Salt Lake. Judge Brown has fond memories of their midday basketball routine, where they’d go play basketball during lunch, then accompany his dad to court in the afternoons. He remembers, “I would sit around a lot of afternoons in the Third District Court, jumping from courtroom to courtroom.” Judge Brown’s interest in the legal profession began during these formative years.

While in high school, Judge Brown’s uncle on his father’s side, also a practicing attorney and sitting lower-court judge for several years, was appointed to sit on the Wyoming Supreme Court. Judge Brown had already been given the opportunity to observe his uncle preside in rural courtrooms across western Wyoming and his uncle’s appointment to the state Supreme Court gave Judge Brown a broader view of the profession that he would soon become quite fond of. Judge Brown recounts, “These two individuals, in their practices and professional lives, instilled in me the desire to be involved in the law. It was the trigger to get me to apply for and go to law school.”

Judge Brown attended the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Wyoming for two years. He took a short hiatus to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Northern California and upon returning he attended the University of Utah for two semesters before finishing his undergraduate studies at Utah State University in Logan, Utah. He graduated with a B.S. in political science from Utah State University in 1997. While in Logan for his undergraduate studies, Judge Brown met and married his wife, Tricia. Shortly thereafter they relocated to Moscow, Idaho so Judge Brown could attend the University of Idaho College of Law. He graduated with his law degree in May 1990 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar later that fall.

After graduation, Judge Brown accepted a job in Pocatello with Racine Olson (at the time called Racine, Olson, Nye, Cooper, Budge & Bailey). He worked a general practice at the start of his career, focusing on anything that would get him in the courtroom. He took a federal public defense contract, completed a lot of family law work, supported the work of the partners, and always kept his eye toward trial work. In the latter part of his tenure with the firm, he focused on insurance defense and civil litigation. This became his niche and where he’d end up focusing much of his practice prior to his appointment to the bench. Judge Brown worked as an associate for eight years, becoming partner in 1998 and continuing his work with the firm for another ten years.

In 2008 the opportunity came to apply for a judgeship when Judge Harding announced his retirement from the Sixth District bench. The jurisdiction held chambers in Caribou County and was just over the mountains from where Judge Brown grew up. Having always aspired to be a judge, this was a natural next step. Governor Otter appointed Judge Brown as Sixth District Judge, responsible for Caribou, Bear Lake, Franklin, and Bannock counties. He served as a sitting district judge from 2008 until September 2023, when he retired after 15 years of service to the profession. Judge Brown is currently acting as a Plan B Senior Judge since his retirement.

Career Accomplishments & Notable Moments

During his time as a practicing attorney, Judge Brown took as many opportunities as he could to get into court, try cases, and hone his skills. In doing so, he completed a lot of pro bono work, and his firm was generous enough to allow him to do so. He received the Idaho State Bar’s Denise O’Donnell Day Pro Bono Award in 2002 and states, “That is an award I have always been proud of. I continue to try to give back to the community through pro bono work.” Judge Brown also served in all leadership capacities for the Sixth District Bar Association.

As his career transitioned and he became more of a specialist in insurance defense, Judge Brown was invited to serve on the Idaho Association of Defense Counsel Board of Directors. He served through that leadership rotation for three of the four years, as Secretary, Treasurer, and Vice-President, but never had the opportunity to sit as president due to his appointment to the bench.

When recounting career moments that were particularly meaningful to him, Judge Brown mentions one case in particular that has stood out over the years. During his time at Racine Olson, he was tasked with representing two young men in a lawsuit brought against the Boy Scouts of America involving sexual assault by a scout leader at a local scout camp. Judge Brown did not shy away from this case, despite it being a difficult case to wrestle with on a personal level – at that time Judge Brown had spent many years serving in a variety of leadership roles with the Boy Scouts of America and the Grand Teton Council. He and a colleague tackled the case and brought to light the rampant abuses and problems in leadership that were ever prevalent within the Boy Scouts. Ultimately the case never went to trial and was settled instead, but it received a lot of publicity. Judge Brown notes his pride in the work they were able to get done and the abuses they were able to bring to light during a time when this was just beginning to be uncovered. “A lot of changes started happening after that; not just from our case, but the litigation in general that was occurring during that time.”

"Judge Brown emphatically highlights the deep honor it has been to serve as a trial court judge in the state of Idaho."

When considering his accomplishments on the bench, Judge Brown emphatically highlights the deep honor it has been to serve as a trial court judge in the State of Idaho. “Working with the Bar in the State of Idaho has been one of the best privileges I have. I get to see the quality of attorneys we have and to know that we practice law the right way. It has been a privilege to preside over cases here for the last 15 years.”

As an extension of his capacity in this regard, Judge Brown had the opportunity to serve as Administrative District Judge for the Sixth Judicial District for three years. He remarks, “I’ll be honest, I didn’t love it. But to see firsthand the innerworkings of the Administrative Office of the Courts and the Idaho Supreme Court, and their responsibilities of overseeing the operation of the Courts throughout the state was eye opening.” Though he doesn’t categorize himself as an administrative type, Judge Brown remarks with gratitude for the experience.

Family Life, Hobbies, & Volunteer Work

Tricia and Judge Brown have four children. Their eldest son, Taylor, is a cybersecurity specialist at the Idaho National Laboratory; he has two children, a son and a daughter. The middle son, Jordan, is a former marine, having served for 10 years, and currently works in security, also at the Idaho National Laboratory; he has two boys. Their daughter, Raegan, is a nurse; she is married to a former Naval officer who now also works in cybersecurity for Google, and they have three children, two girls and one boy.

During their time in Pocatello, Tricia worked as a social worker and got them involved in being foster parents. Over the years they had a number of kids in and out of their home, the last of whom they were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to adopt. Skyler is their youngest child; he graduated from Soda Springs High School last year and is attending Utah State University.

With family close and seven grandchildren in the mix, Judge Brown enjoys spending his time with family and has taken up golf in recent years. Though he claims to not be very good at it, he golfs with his son and son in law quite a bit. As mentioned previously, Judge Brown is also an active member of the LDS Church. He has served with the Boy Scouts of America for several years and has been an active member of the Lions Club.

Role Models & Influences

When asked about those who may have served as role models or important influences, Judge Brown states, “there’s a very long list.” Harkening back to his childhood, Judge Brown mentions that his father and uncle were “instrumental in getting me going in the right direction.” Additionally, he remarks that he “always looked to, admired, and was fascinated by the law and their respective roles in the profession.”

He also cites four colleagues at Racine Olson who had a significant impact on his career. “I watched, admired, and tried to implement the things they did in their professions and in the courtroom.” The late Lou Racine, one of the founders of the firm, was phasing out just as Judge Brown was entering the practice, but he still had the opportunity to watch him in the last few years of his practice. Mark Nye and Bill Olson, also founding partners of the firm, were two additional formative influences. And fellow award recipient this year for the Distinguished Lawyer Award, John Bailey; John was one of the attorneys most responsible for overseeing Judge Brown’s practice toward the beginning. “I’m very excited for John to be getting this recognition.”

Prior to ascending to the bench, Judge Brown had spent many years practicing in front of Judge Randy Smith. He notes, “I always thought the world of him, both professionally and personally. He is someone I always wanted to pattern my judicial demeanor after, and my approach to being a judge.”

Judge Brown would also like to extend a heartfelt thanks to each of his law clerk’s/staff attorneys who have been so instrumental his work on the bench. Over the years he has had thirteen law clerks/staff attorneys who he has so enjoyed working with, getting to know and watching them develop and grow in their professional lives. Finally, a shout out to all of his legal assistants and judicial assistants over the years. “Their knowledge, expertise, patience, and organizational skills contributed greatly to whatever success I had as a judge and the administration of justice in the courtrooms I presided in.”