Category: Digital Advocate

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.

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James R. Bennetts

James R. Bennetts is a graduate of the University of Idaho College of Law. James lives in Challis.

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Fred Kennedy

Fred Kennedy is a graduate of George Washington University Law School. Fred lives in Garden City.

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Robert L. Magnuson

Robert L. Magnuson is a graduate of George Washington University Law School. Robert and his wife, Elinor, live in Spokane, Washington.

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Craig B. Marcus

When Craig Marcus was a little boy in Idaho City, he says the old courthouse was like a second home. His father, Claude Marcus, served several terms there as Prosecuting Attorney. Craig knew its every nook and cranny.

Governor Hawley died in the 1930s. His son and law partner, Jesse Sr., who tried many cases in Idaho City invited Claude, whose reputation as an excellent litigator and attorney was rapidly spreading, to move to Boise and go into partnership. He accepted.

Later, near the end of the 1940s, Mr. Hawley’s sons Jesse Jr., and Jack joined the firm. Craig recalls that by then it was one of the most robust in the state with a clientele whose interests touched nearly every aspect of life in Idaho. Offices were on the top floor of the Eastman building. In those pre-air conditioning days, windows were open to the summer breezes. Mr. Hawley had a majestic office befitting the legal fiant he was in his era, just as Claude, Jesse Jr., and Jack became in their era.

During the years Claude was president of the bar, the annual convention was in Sun Valley. Of course they were there. Then Bar members were bound by a common thread of love and respect for the law. Friendship permeated the air.

In the 1950s after Mr. Hawley’s death, Claude, Jesse Jr., and Jack amicably split the practice. Jesse Jr. and Jack had a vision for the mega firm it is today. Claude had a vision for a smaller firm, one his teenage sons Craig and Barry could easily step into without the financial demands of a larger enterprise. Craig remembers both his father and mother as persistent encouragers. There was no question that Craig and Barry would become lawyers.

Among the clients Claude took were mining interests, ranching and other natural resources, business and insurance. One liability insurance client for which Craig tried many cases generated substantial litigation, in part because of its policy of not settling after the case was referred to defense counsel. That company was dominant in Idaho. Its policy eventually played a major role in Idaho replacing contributory negligence with comparative negligence.

Craig practiced with his father for 40 years. Claude tried over one hundred cases. Craig does not believe he ever lost. Claude’s reputation is exemplified by a case where all of the public utilities, who owned property in Idaho chose one lawyer to represent all of them in litigation against the state. They chose Claude. He won. (91 Id. 425).

Craig himself has litigated to verdict several hundred jury trials, mostly insurance defense, in nearly every courthouse in Idaho, and twice that number of nonjury trials. His book, “Divorce in Idaho,” published in 2019 has its roots in the 1960 days of Saturday court in Judge Scoggins Gooding courtroom when Idaho was a divorce mecca.

Craig’s practice has been diversified with most legal matters Idaho attorneys have worked on in the last six decades. Both he and Barry handled a substantial volume of legal work generated by Claude when, after hard fought litigation, he won for his own company, Intermountain Gas, jointly owned with Red Lessinger and Nat Campbell, the exclusive right to sell natural gas in southern Idaho. (77 Id. 188).

When a vacancy on the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals occurred, Claude declined an effort by Idaho’s congressional delegation to have President Eisenhower appoint him Craig says. Craig’s father was Governor Smilie’s treasurer and close friends with the people involved. Claude was grateful but believed he would have to move to San Francisco. His focus was on creating a firm in Boise for Craig and Barry. Such was his unselfish nature.

Craig and Barry have balanced practicing law with developing land in Idaho. That too was an extension of Claude’s varied interests. He owned a farm where West Boise Industrial Park is today.

Craig and Lynne, who died last year, met as students in Mexico City and married in 1960. They have a daughter Shawn Moak, a son, Boise attorney Trent Marcus, Brian who is deceased, six grand-children including Boise attorney Christian Moak and four great grand children. Before becoming an attorney Craig fought range fires. He and Lynne enjoyed all the activities Idaho offers. They provided a home for 25 years for a pet 2,000 lb. black angus steer who lived alongside an assortment of other wild and domestic critters.

Like Claude, Craig has had a hand in politics. In younger years he was President of the Lincoln Day Banquet Association and Chairman of Congressional and Judicial campaigns. Lynne was a long time chief judge in their precinct. Both are Christians and have been active in their church, Cole Community Churt, Bible Study Fellowship and Foundations in Genesis, Idaho. Craig was an officer in the Fourth District Bar Association and served on various Bar Committees including peer review.

He says that for him the keys to successfully practicing law are to work diligently as though God is the client and never forget that ambiguity is the mother of strife.

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W. Anthony (“Tony”) Park

W. Anthony (“Tony”) Park received his J.D. degree from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1963 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September of that year.  Tony had earlier graduated from the University of Idaho in 1958 with an undergraduate degree in political science.

Having grown up in Boise, it was an easy decision to begin his law practice there.  He was a sole practitioner in Boise for several years.  Following a brief partnership in 1969 with Clarence D. Suiter, he ran for and was elected as Idaho’s Attorney General in 1970, serving from 1971 to 1975.  He campaigned as “Idaho Lawyer for the People” and prides himself on living up to that standard.  He established Idaho’s first Consumer Protection Agency which still thrives successfully within the Idaho Attorney General’s office today.

Tony returned to private practice in Boise in 1975 as a civil litigator. He spent the last 15 years of his practice primarily as a mediator and arbitrator.  He enjoyed alternative dispute resolution work immensely and had a very busy practice.

Tony was a well-known amateur actor in the Boise area and participated in major roles in “A Man for All Seasons” (The Duke of Norfolk), “Camelot” (Merlyn), “Inherit the Wind” (Matthew Harrison Brady), along with several others.

Tony retired from practice in 2018.  He has three children: Susan Park (J.D. 1990, U. of I.), Adam Park, and Patricia Park.  He is married to Gail Chaloupka, who shares his love of government and politics.  She is a Boise native and had a successful human resources consulting practice for many years. She continues to be the light of his life.  They have traveled worldwide together and continue to do so in their joint retirement.

Tony is also the author of a political memoir, “An Idaho Democrat – A Political Memoir of a Political Life” in 2022 (Ridenbaugh Press Publisher).

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Hon. Jesse R. Walters, Jr.

Justice Walters was born in Rexburg, Idaho, on December 26, 1938, and graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1957. He attended Ricks College for one year, and then transferred to the University of Idaho, receiving a B.A. in 1961, an L.L.B. in 1963, and later a Juris Doctor degree. He received an L.L.M. degree from the University of Virginia in 1990.  In the course of his legal and judicial education, Justice Walters also attended courses at the University of Washington Law School, New York University Law School, the University of Kansas School of Law, and the National Judicial College at Reno, Nevada.

Justice Walters was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1963, the United States District Court of the District of Idaho, and the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals. He served as a law clerk to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court from 1963 to 1964, and as an attorney for the Idaho Senate during the legislative session in 1965.

He was engaged in the private practice of law in Boise from 1964 until 1977, when Governor John Evans appointed him to the position of District Judge of the Fourth Judicial District. Judge Walters served in that capacity from 1977 to 1982 and served as Administrative District Judge of the Fourth Judicial District from 1981 to 1982.

When the Idaho Court of Appeals was created in 1981, Governor Evans named Judge Walters as one of the three original members. He was selected by the Chief Justice of the Idaho Supreme Court to serve as Chief Judge of the Idaho Court of Appeals and was reappointed to that position for seven, two-year terms, from 1982 to 1997.

In 1997, he was appointed by Governor Phillip Batt as the 50^th Justice to serve on the Idaho Supreme Court. He was elected in May 1998 to a six-year term on the Court. He retired from the Court in July 2003, but continued to work for many years as a senior justice.

Justice Walters was a member of the American Bar Association for over 25 years and served on the board of directors of the American Judicature Society and of the Idaho Law Foundation.  He served as an officer and president of the Council of Chief Judges of the State Intermediate Courts of Appeals and during his tenure developed life-long friendships among judges at the trial court and appellate court levels throughout the United States.  He chaired the Idaho Supreme Court’s Criminal Rules Committee, the Jury Reform Committee, and the pattern Criminal Jury Instructions Committee.  He was active in many community affairs, served as President of the Vista Lions and of the Boise Jaycees, and was an instructor in numerous continuing legal and judicial education programs with the Idaho State Bar and at the University of Idaho College of Law.  After retirement, he served for 10 years as a trustee with the Idaho State Historical Society, volunteered as a tour guide at the Old Idaho Penitentiary, and volunteered as a docent at the Idaho State Historical Museum. For his interest and efforts with regard to Idaho history and education, he was a recipient of the Idaho Historical Society’s Esto Perpetua Award in 2018.  For over 20 years both before and after retirement he served as a visiting judge for the International Law and Technology Moot Court competition each fall at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, Illinois.

During his tenure on the Idaho Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and the district court, Justice Walters participated in over 4,200 appeals.  At the time of his retirement, he had been the author of 1,372 appellate opinions.  Following his retirement in 2003, Justice Walters continued to serve in the judiciary as a Senior Judge, sitting as judge pro tem with the Idaho Supreme Court and the Idaho Court of Appeals, continuing to write opinions for both courts, and serving as an Appellate Settlement Conference mediator, arbitrator, and Idaho State Bar discipline investigator for over 18 years.  In 2015, he received the prestigious George G. Granata, Jr., professionalism award from the Idaho Judiciary for his contributions and service as a motivating and inspirational role model to his colleagues on the bench.   He received the Idaho State Bar Distinguished Jurist award in 2019.

He and his wife, Harriet, have three children: Craig, Robyn, and Scott, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, expecting another in September 2023.

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.

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William A. Parsons

William Parsons was born in Twin Falls, Idaho in the winter of 1932. He graduated from Burley High School in 1950 and went on to the University of Idaho, where he earned a degree in business administration. While at University of Idaho, he was Student Body President in 1953. He graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1957 and was soon admitted to practice in Idaho and the Federal Courts. William founded a law firm with Dick Smith, which is now Parsons, Smith, Stone, Loveland & Shirley in 1962.

Parsons said while in the Boy Scouts he was influenced to become a lawyer by a Burley lawyer who was involved with the organization. “The lawyer was well respected in the legal profession and was looked up to by the citizens of Burley,” and “I thought that law might be a good idea.”

Later, at the University of Idaho, he met Bev on a blind date and upon graduation he and Bev were married in 1954. Bev got a job working for the Navy ROTC when he entered law school. Bill and Bev have one daughter, Karen Walker.

Bill and Bev returned to Burley as the city was ready for a new young lawyer. Later, as the Burley City Attorney, he faced the challenges of municipal law. “It was invigorating, new and it placed me in contact with many outstanding people with diversified interests.”

Parsons said he “believes his success comes from the support of Bev and treating people honestly, having respect for other lawyers, and getting your work done. Do your very best. Never try to cut corners.” Parsons is very appreciative of his partners, Dick, Randy, Lance, and Dave. Dick Smith and Bill have been partners since 1962.

Parsons has served in numerous professional and public service organizations. He is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers, for which he served two terms on the State Committee, one of which was Chairman. He served as a member of the Idaho Judicial Council for six years. He is a member of Theron Ward Inns of Court. Parsons was on the Advisory Committee for the University of Idaho College of Law from 2003 to 2009. He is a member of the American Bar Association.

He also served as a member of the Idaho State Bar Professional Conduct Board for two terms. He was awarded the Fifth District Bar Association’s Professionalism Award in 1996. He is a member of the Burley Masonic Lodge and El Korah Shrine as well as the Burley Lions Club. While in the Burley Lions Club, he served as president, earned the Melvin Jones Award in 2007, and earned a 50-year membership award in 2009. From 1997 to 2003, Parsons served on the Board of the College of Southern Idaho Foundation. He was named Businessman of the Year in 1999 for Mini Cassia.

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Richard K. “Dick” Smith

Richard “Dick” Smith graduated from the University of Idaho and was soon after accepted by the National Student Association to work in France on an international student project. When he returned, he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War. After being honorably discharged from the Army as a second lieutenant, he returned to the University of Idaho as a law student on the GI Bill. It was at this time in 1954 that he married his wife, Jan Morgan. He was both smitten with Jan and the lure of dreams of travel and adventure abroad. They moved to California where Jan taught school and he enrolled in a graduate program in economics at California Berkely. Dick received his master’s degree but after much soul searching decided to finish law school at the University of Idaho College of Law. After passing the bar exam in 1958, Dick and Jan settled in Burley, Idaho. He joined Bill Parsons and Pete Snow as partners in a firm. As time passed, they added more attorneys.

Dick practiced general law and was a prosecuting attorney for Cassia County for six years. During these years Dick and Jan had two children, Nancy, and Rick. Through the years there has been joy and sorrow as Dick has now lost Jan and Rick.

Photo caption: Dick and his wife, Miriam Smith. Photo courtesy of Dick Smith.

The late Denise O’Donnell Day, and namesake of this award, was a titan of pro bono service to underrepresented Idahoans. Her legacy of service, dedication to her community, and overall standard of professionalism in practice are pillars for any member of the Idaho State Bar to aspire to. Each year, we honor Denise’s legacy by awarding attorneys in each judicial district with the Denise O’Donnell Day Pro Bono Award, recognizing their admirable decisions to prioritize pro bono service in their practices. In addition to providing biographical information, this year’s recipients were asked the following two questions:

Why is pro bono work important to you?

What would you say to encourage other attorneys to do more pro bono work?

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Jamila D. Holmes
First District

Why pro Bono: “Pro bono work helps ensure access to justice; and it is very rewarding to be able to help others.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The impact a couple hours of your time can have is powerful.” 

Jamila Holmes is a deputy prosecuting attorney with the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Civil Division.  She is a graduate of Boise State University and the University of Idaho College of Law and served as law clerk to the Honorable John T. Mitchell.  Jamila is a graduate of the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers and is a member of the Idaho Law Foundation’s CLE Committee.  She is admitted to practice in Idaho and Washington.

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Jennifer M. Tengono
Second District

Why Pro Bono: “Pro bono work is important to me because I grew up in a low-income household, and I understand firsthand what it is like living paycheck to paycheck. It fuels my desire to use my skills and resources to make a positive impact in the lives of others, particularly by providing much-needed assistance and support without people having to worry about how to pay for those services. I strongly believe in the power of giving back and view it as a privilege rather than a duty. By engaging in pro bono and other volunteer work, I have the opportunity to contribute to my community and aid others in need.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The greatest thing about pro bono work is that it can be tailored to your ability and expertise. Engaging in pro bono work can be as simple as participating in a phone clinic, offering assistance in document drafting, or providing guidance on legal matters by answering a few questions. While organizing a clinic or undertaking a complex legal case are excellent options, even dedicating a single hour of your time can make a significant impact in support of a worthy cause. Every act of pro bono service, regardless of its scale or complexity, is invaluable and greatly needed in our communities.”

Jennifer is a U.S. Army veteran who earned her law degree from the University of Idaho College of law in 2020 with a dual emphasis in Native American law and natural resources and environmental law. Since graduating from law school and being admitted to the Idaho State Bar in October 2020, Jennifer has primarily worked in private practice for sole practitioner Susan R. Wilson, focusing on real estate matters, small business formation, estate planning and probate, adult guardianships and conservatorships, and municipal law. Jennifer also provided legal representation to several municipalities, including the cities of Troy and Deary, as a contract City Attorney. In November 2022, Jennifer left private practice and began working as the Civil Assistant City Attorney for the City of Lewiston, joining a wonderful team of attorneys who serve the City of Lewiston.

Jennifer has also been the Treasurer of the Second District Bar Association since March 2020 and she has been on the University of Idaho’s Military and Veterans Advisory Committee since September 2020.

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Debra L. Raymer
Third District

Why Pro Bono: “When I applied to law school, I wrote, “Rural populations deserve Harvard Lawyers.” Then I proceeded to work 35 years in downtown Chicago. I feel like pro bono is the fulfillment of that promise I made 40 years ago.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “When you retire, it will be great to not have to deal with clients. For about a year. Then you will miss the chance to use the knowledge you gained over the last 40 years. In addition, you will be dealing with a group of clients that really appreciate your efforts.”

Debra graduated from Harvard Law School in 1981. She was admitted to the Illinois Bar the same year. Debra worked in the Estate Planning Department at McDermott, Will & Emery and Bank of America as Assistant General Counsel. Debra retired in 2017. Debra’s family had been coming out to Tamarack for 15 years to ski and they eventually realized summers in Idaho are terrific too. Debra moved to Idaho in 2021 and soon thereafter applied to become licensed as an Emeritus Attorney to provide pro bono legal services.

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Erin N. Fuller
Fourth District

Why Pro Bono: “I chose to practice law because I wanted to help others. There are many people in our community who need representation but lack the financial means. I believe pro bono work is important because financial barriers should never inhibit one’s ability to obtain said representation.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “Some of your most rewarding clients and cases will be the ones you represent pro bono. Remember what made you choose to pursue law in the first place. If you’re anything like me, it was to help others and be of service to your community. There is no greater feeling than helping those who would have no representation if not for attorneys who are willing to offer their services pro bono.” 

Erin earned her bachelor’s degree from Boise State University in political science with an emphasis in public law and political philosophy in 2015 and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 2018. She began her career practicing Oil and Gas Mineral Title Law in Texas before moving back to Idaho and being admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 2020. Erin has been practicing family law at Leavitt Ryan since December of 2020.

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Shannon N. Romero
Fourth District

Why Pro Bono: “I love volunteering at clinics like Interfaith because they serve individuals who do not otherwise have access to legal services. People with limited financial means are routinely denied access to legal services and remedies because of their financial status but are disproportionately subject to the burdens of the legal system. Most days, I can help someone just by referring him or her to another agency or another attorney who can help with their specific problem. Often, people just want to have their stories heard and their concerns validated. Even if I can’t help someone because their problems have no legal solution or remedy, I can provide a sympathetic ear.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “The unmet legal needs in our community far exceed existing resources. While there are good organizations providing legal assistance to individuals who can’t afford an attorney, they are limited by the types of cases and clients they can help. IVLP is a great place to volunteer because IVLP does not deny services to anyone based on the legal problem or issue involved. IVLP attorneys get to help clients with issues that run the gamut from family law to social security benefits to the reduction of criminal charges. I can help a client with on-the-spot advice if the problem is simple, provide the client with a referral, or take on a more significant role. And when I meet with a client who has a legal problem outside my expertise, IVLP gives me access to skilled and knowledgeable attorneys who provide me with the information and guidance I need to help address the client’s problem. In addition, IVLP clinics are offered at various locations and days so I can always find a clinic that works with my schedule. And I can’t say enough about IVLP staff. They are amazing and do a great job of ensuring clients are matched with the right attorney at each clinic.”

Shannon earned her law degree from the University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law and was admitted to practice law in Idaho in 1998.  Shannon was a trial public defender for the Salt Lake Legal Defender Association in Salt Lake City for seven years before clerking for Judge Alan Schwartzman at the Idaho Court of Appeals. She has been with the Idaho State Appellate Public Defender’s Office since 2007 and is currently chief of the capital litigation unit.

In her free time, Shannon can be found enjoying the Boise foothills with her husband, John, and their rescued Great Pyrenees, Kevin.

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Patricia M. Migliuri
Fifth District

Why Pro Bono: “People need help, especially in stressful, complex situations. The law is difficult and without pro bono work, many folks would be completely adrift. It’s important to me to be able to help people navigate their complex legal situations.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “Pro bono work can be as rewarding as you want it to be. You can volunteer as little or as much as you are able – there are so many opportunities to volunteer time and knowledge. We got into this profession to provide a service to our community; pro bono work is a great way to provide that service to people who would otherwise never have access to our knowledge and experience in the law.”

Patricia went to Gonzaga University for her undergraduate degree (go Zags!), and then graduated from Willamette University College of Law in Salem, Oregon. After graduating from law school, Patricia moved to Idaho and clerked for Judge John K. Butler in Jerome. Patricia entered into private practice after her clerkship and has been practicing primarily in family law since. Patricia is a partner at Migliuri & Rodriguez PLLC in Twin Falls and enjoys providing legal counsel in a variety of matters, including family law, guardianships, criminal defense, and general estate planning. Patricia has served on the board for the local chapter of the Inns of Court for years and is a past president of the Fifth District Bar Association. When Patricia is not out working on the farm, she enjoys the great outdoors hiking, hunting, fishing, and backpacking with her children.

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John D. (“JD”) Oborn
Sixth District

Why Pro Bono: “Engaging in pro bono work allows me to feel connected to my community. I enjoy working with people and addressing issues that are not part of my regular professional practice. As well, it allows me to represent people that may not otherwise have access to the legal system or to effectively have their voice heard because of economic and procedural barriers.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “I would particularly encourage new lawyers to engage in pro bono work because it usually gets you into a courtroom early in your career and gives you opportunities to interact with attorneys and judges in person. It also stretches you to practice outside your usual area of practice and to learn new skills.” 

JD Oborn was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho. He joined the Idaho National Guard in 2003 and served a tour in Iraq. He then attended Hamline University School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, graduating cum laude in 2013. While in law school, JD worked as a certified student attorney for the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office child support enforcement division, where he handled over 500 child support establishment, paternity, and divorce proceedings. After graduation and upon returning to Pocatello, JD clerked for the Honorable David C. Nye in the Sixth Judicial District. JD now has the privilege of working at Cooper & Larsen, Chtd., where he has learned how to practice law from, as JD puts it, two of the finest attorneys in the state: Gary Cooper and Reed Larsen. John currently serves as the vice president of the Sixth District Bar Association, and he sits on the Board of the Idaho Association of Defense Counsel.

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Camiliana Wood
Seventh District

Why Pro Bono: “Pro bono is important to me because the law serves everyone, and everyone should have access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. For many years, I have worked with marginalized, at risk, and vulnerable populations in a variety of capacities. The individuals in these populations often need the most legal assistance, but often cannot afford to hire an attorney or seek legal counsel. Pro bono work is one way I can ensure justice serves those who need it most.”

Encouraging Other Attorneys: “I do not think anyone achieves success without the help of others. I often think about where I am now, and all the mentors, family members, professors, and others who sacrificed their time, talent, and energy to help me succeed. There is no possible way I could repay them for all they have done, but I can pass it on. So, I encourage other attorneys to give back for all that has been given to them by doing a little pro bono work. If that is not enough of a reason (or it seems too sappy), here are a few more reasons: it helps develop your legal and interpersonal skills, it gives you experience in a variety of legal areas, you can network, and it just feels good to help others. Still not enough? Then here is a guilt trip – How much time do you spend on social media, watching TV/movies, or playing video/phone games? You could probably take an hour from one of these important activities to help someone else.”

Camiliana Wood is a deputy prosecutor for Bingham County. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, graduating in sociology with an emphasis in behavior analysis, socio- and psycho-pathologies, deviancy, and delinquency. She then graduated from the J. Reuben Clark Law School, focusing on alternative dispute resolution and criminal law. Camiliana obtained a certificate in Global Arbitration Law and Practice from Queen Mary, University of London. Camiliana passed the Idaho Bar Exam in February of 2022.

Camiliana dropped out of high school and left home at the age of 16 and as a result, she encourages others to succeed by volunteering in and coordinating programs and activities that promote education and lifelong learning. Over the last 30 years, Camiliana has been heavily involved with a variety of community organizations and worked extensively with an array of programs for local libraries, local schools, and other local groups.

Camiliana continues to, and loves studying social law issues, socio- and psycho-pathology, behavior, and addictions. Most importantly, Camiliana loves spending time with her husband and three sons, two daughters in-law, and two grandchildren.

The individuals selected for this year’s Service Awards include attorneys and non-attorneys alike who have committed their time and expertise to the service of the legal profession. Whether it is serving in leadership or in a more intimate setting, these individuals are dedicated to the betterment of the profession. In addition to providing biographic information, the recipients were asked to answer the following two questions:

Why is serving your community, personally or professionally, a priority to you?

What advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?

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Mia M. Bautista
Moscow

Why Service: “I’ve always wanted to live my life in a way where I was contributing to the greater good. I believe service through the career I’ve chosen and service through the volunteer work I’ve engaged in are small acts that could have big impacts. I believe helping lift others up has a positive impact on the community. My favorite quote that best describes why I feel serving my community is a priority comes from Martin Luther King, who said, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.’”

Advice: “Find a mentor who will understand the work-life challenges you will face depending on your circumstances to help you navigate finding the right work-life balance. Balance is important for your professional and personal life. It’s important to not lose yourself while trying to find yourself as a new lawyer.”

Mia grew up in Minnesota but considers Idaho her home. She attended the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 2003. During law school she interned with the Nez Perce Tribe and with the Latah County Prosecutor’s Office. Upon graduation, her first job was with the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office. She then worked for the Latah County Prosecutor’s Office. After about 18 years working in a Prosecutor’s Office, she was ready for a change. In 2018, she was appointed City Attorney for Moscow. She has volunteered throughout her legal career. She serves as a member of the Idaho State Bar’s Character and Fitness Committee, on the board for the Idaho Municipal Attorney’s Association, and as the Idaho representative for the International Municipal Lawyers Association. Previously, she served on the Idaho Council on Domestic Violence and Victim Assistance, served on the board for the Ray McNichols American Inns of Court, and volunteered as an Instructor for the FBI’s Digital Evidence Moot Court Program.

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Howard D. Burnett
Pocatello

Why Service: “Before I went to law school, I spent four years as a member of a very successful collegiate rowing team – an experience that instilled in me an abiding understanding that genuine success inevitably requires collaboration.  Accordingly, a willingness to serve diligently with others in devoting time and energy to community endeavors, local governing boards, volunteer groups, service organizations, and professional associations not only advances worthy causes benefiting our fellow citizens, but also affords a sense of fulfillment far greater than self.”

Advice: “The advice I would have given to my younger self as I began my career would simply be to recognize from the outset what I’ve come to learn over the course of my 45-year career.  The lawyers who are most admired are those who demonstrably and consistently dedicate themselves to achieving a just and fair result – whether in transactional negotiations, in litigation proceedings, or in any other context – without bombast, pretense, or sharp practices, but instead with conscientious preparation and respectful, principled advocacy.  That kind of approach not only serves the best interests of clients, but simultaneously fulfills the highest aspirations of our noble profession’s calling.”

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in Philadelphia, Howard spent seven enjoyable years with Sullivan & Cromwell in New York City. In 1985, after years of commuting between Hastings-on-Hudson in Westchester County and Wall Street for at least an additional three hours a day to work long hours at the tip of Manhattan (thus often depriving him of seeing his young children awake from Monday morning until Friday evening), it became clear to him that it was time to go home to Idaho.  After passing the Idaho Bar Exam, he had the very good fortune of being part of the original opening in 1985 of Hawley Troxell’s office in his hometown of Pocatello. He has been a proud member of Hawley Troxell ever since – and his commute never exceeds eight minutes.

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Debbie Dudley
Boise

Why Service: “Serving the community as a volunteer has been a very rewarding experience, especially when utilizing my professional training to help organizations needing assistance. I’ve also been fortunate to share volunteer experiences with my daughters.”

Advice: “As a CPA, I often worked long hours and struggled to find that perfect work/life balance. Therefore, my advice would be to select a career opportunity that provides a work/life balance that fits your lifestyle.  It isn’t always about the paycheck.  Choose a career path that is challenging and that you enjoy.  And build relationships with your colleagues as you will work with many of them throughout your career.”

Originally from Las Vegas, Debbie graduated from the University of Idaho with an accounting degree.  Her professional career was spent in Boise working in public accounting and more recently as the Controller for the Idaho State Bar.  Debbie served as the Controller for the Idaho State Bar and Idaho Law Foundation for 15 years. She retired in 2022. In 2023, the new Controller resigned because her husband was transferred. Debbie graciously stepped in to assist in the transition and to train a new controller.

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C. Clayton Gill
Boise

Why Service: “My personal philosophies are to pay it forward and try and leave this place better than how I found it.  Many people have mentored me along the way and provided me with incredible personal and professional opportunities. To honor their legacy, I have an obligation to pay it forward. Watching others succeed because of some small part I played in their lives is the biggest reward I can ever receive.”

Advice: “Take risks and get out of your comfort zone as much as you can.  The best way to learn is through TRIAL and error.  Taking a case to trial teaches you what’s important and what’s not.  Try as many cases as you can when you are a young lawyer because it’s the best way to hone your legal skills.”

Clay graduated from Tulane Law School and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1994.  He’s been a commercial litigator for most of his career, the first 24 years in private practice and the last five years as in-house counsel.  Currently, he manages Simplot’s litigation, employment law, and labor law matters. His core professional philosophies are integrity, simplicity, and hard work, while constantly striving to improve the legal services that his team (including outside counsel) delivers to Simplot. He’s passionate about the practice of law because of the opportunity it gives him to make a difference in his clients’ lives, businesses, and industries. Clay is a consistent volunteer for bar and foundation programs and activities.

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Emily A. MacMaster
Boise

Why Service: “We have much to do to help all Idahoans. The political climate today is separating our communities into ‘we’ and ‘them’ instead of just ‘us.’ My commitment is to enhance respect for each other and build community, and I try to do that on a daily basis.”

Advice:  “Get six years of good, solid legal training and then go out and start a firm. Find your tribe and hold onto them.  When you surround yourself with good people, you can do anything.”

Today, Emily serves on the Board of Directors for Idaho Women Lawyers, where she is working to enhance diversity in Idaho’s judiciary and to strengthen bridges between law school students and practicing attorneys. She is a Bencher in Inns of Court, a member of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association, and a member of two Idaho State Bar sections. For fun, Emily enjoys any free time she can get to spend with family and their dogs, or to garden, paint and travel.

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William H. McAdam, Jr.
Sandpoint

Why Service: “I am fortunate to be able to devote much of my time to volunteer organizations. I presently serve as a volunteer for Rubicon, the Idaho State Bar Professional Conduct Board, and as a Volunteer firefighter in Idaho.”

Advice: “Interview for a variety of possible job opportunities, even though you may think you have already decided. Do not overlook interviewing with the military and government organizations.”

William attended Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, graduating in 1966. He is presently a member of the State Bar of California and the Idaho State Bar. He has practiced law in the State of California and the State of Idaho. Recently, he retired as a Superior Court judge in San Diego, California.  During the Vietnam war, William served as a captain in the United States Marine Corps. In 1968, he was a company commander of an infantry company in Vietnam. He also served as a legal officer.

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Casey Simmons
Coeur d’Alene

Why Service: “I learned from an early age the importance of community because my parents modeled it for me through their many various volunteer engagements.  I witnessed firsthand the good those opportunities provided to everyone.  From family and friends to professions and community organizations, communities, much like the way to serve them, come in a myriad of forms.  But more specifically, the opportunity to be involved and help shape them for the benefit of all is essential.  It continues to be a priority because this is where I live, this is the profession I am proud to be a part of, and this is the world in which I am raising my children.   I have been blessed to receive a lot of help and support from various sources on my journey and it is important to me to give back.”

Advice: “Find the opportunity to learn and grow in every situation, both professional and personal.  Find good mentors, seek out advice and feedback, try new things, and take the opportunity to be involved in the Bar, whether locally or statewide.  The time you provide will be well spent in terms of knowledge gained, experiences enjoyed, and connections made.  You will meet some amazing people who will help and support you throughout your career and your life will be all the richer for it.”

Casey attended the University of Idaho College of Law, graduating in 2012. She was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that fall and began her legal career clerking for the Honorable John T. Mitchell in the First Judicial District.  She then worked at the Kootenai County Prosecutor’s Office from 2013 until 2019. That year, she jumped into private practice at Winston & Cashatt. Her practice includes civil litigation, trust and estate litigation, personal injury, and criminal defense.  She has been involved in Bar activities throughout her career, including as a John P. Bench Bar Forum board member, bar exam grader, and First District Bar Association officer, currently serving as Past-President.

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Brent T. Wilson
Salt Lake City

Why Service: “For me it has been a good way to stay connected to my roots as an Idaho lawyer and to help promote something that is personally important.”

Advice: “There are so many things, but two things in particular come to mind: (1) figure out what you’re best at based on your natural, inherent skills and abilities and find a way to maximize those things in your work (i.e., focus on your strengths); and (2) identify a niche or a specialty in the law and become the best at doing that work.”

Brent attended the Willamette University School of Law, graduating in 2002. He moved to Boise and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar that same year. He started his law career clerking for the Honorable Wayne L. Kidwell at the Idaho Supreme Court. After clerking, he worked in private practice in Boise, first with Hall Farley and then with Evans Keane. After almost a decade in private practice, he transitioned into health care compliance, starting as a Compliance and Risk Manager at the Elks Rehabilitation System and then as the Integrity and Compliance Director at Saint Alphonsus Health System. In 2019, he accepted an offer to be the Chief Compliance Officer at University of Utah Health in Salt Lake City. He continues to participate as a volunteer for Idaho State Bar programs and activities.

This year’s Professionalism Award recipients have devoted their careers to the practice of law in a way that upholds the highest standards of civility and professionalism. Each of these individuals embodies a reputation of mutual respect and camaraderie with their colleagues. In addition to submitting biographical information, each recipient was asked to respond to the following questions:

What ideals or values do you let guide your professional life?

What advice would you give your younger self as you entered your law practice or began your career?

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Peter J. Smith IV
First District

Values: “I firmly believe that lawyers should serve as a force of justice for the world. Now, we are all lawyers – serving for justice should be a given. However, in my purview, being a force for justice means intentionally applying skills and expertise to achieve a result that benefits our clients and our communities. In our system, justice is achieved through gritty and strategic determination. When we work to achieve justice, we can change the world for the better because – by the very nature of our priorities – our team is focusing on it. This does not mean fighting for the sake of fighting or being difficult simply to wear out an opponent. It means viewing each matter as the opportunity to reach the just result. When we do this, we make the world a better place. Arguments that matter are arguments where we have the opportunity to make our workplaces and communities better places to live, work, and play. Impact (for the good) is essential.”

Advice: “There are three things I would tell my younger self as I entered into law practice (not coincidentally, these are the three things I tell any new hire at Smith + Malek).First, maintain the balance between the work we do and the lives we live. Work when it is time to work and hold a boundary to step fully away from the desk/email and be present in the world that exists outside of the office. When work and life overlap regularly, neither is done well.

Second, respect oneself, respect others, and take responsibility. There is no purpose in being a jerk and dodging responsibility. Act with integrity.

Third, our calling is to make the world a better place by bringing clarity to difficult situations, and sometimes when people are facing the biggest challenges they’ve ever seen. No matter the legal issue or task, our focus should be on making tomorrow better than today for our clients.”

Peter is licensed to practice law in Idaho, Washington, the Ninth Circuit, and the Court of Federal Claims. He was born and raised in Sandpoint, Idaho. He attended Walla Walla University, graduating with a degree in international business. He attended Pepperdine University School of Law and graduated in 2004.

He started his firm, Smith + Malek, alongside Luke Malek in 2015. He practices in the areas of business, real estate, litigation, and appeals. He’s argued cases before the Idaho Supreme Court and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and has tried numerous bench and jury trials.

In 2021, Governor Little appointed him to the Idaho Lottery Commission. He also served as the Vice Chairman of the Post Falls Urban Renewal Commission and an at-large member of the Idaho State Bar Real Property Law Section and Indian Law Section. In his spare time, he enjoys running, mountain biking, skiing, and golfing with his wife and children.

His personal mission is to change the world for the better through the work he does. He finds great accomplishment in helping people by reducing conflict and providing clarity. This can mean helping people resolve disputes through litigation or working to avoid ambiguity that could lead to disputes in transactions. As an attorney, he believes he has a unique responsibility to help create a better world, better communities, and better workplaces for the next generation of Idahoans.

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Jana B. Gomez
Second District

Values: “Faith, kindness, and integrity, among others. As to faith, I constantly remind myself of the eternal picture and my true purpose in life; doing so makes the day-to-day challenges and stresses seem less significant. I strive to treat everyone with kindness. I believe legal disputes should focus on legal arguments and not involve personal attacks. Regarding integrity, I’ve always lived by the motto of doing the right thing, even (especially) when no one is watching. Grit, grace, and gratitude are other values high on my list.”

Advice: “Believe in yourself; you are intelligent and can do this! I’d like to go back and tell my younger self to have more confidence and not worry so much because it all works out.”

Jana graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law in 2009. After law school, she clerked for the Honorable Thomas G. Nelson of the United States District Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. In the spring of 2010, she began working for Ada County as a Civil Deputy Prosecutor. In 2014, she moved back home to Lewiston and worked as the Civil Deputy Prosecutor for Latah County. She was the City Attorney for the City of Lewiston from 2015 to 2022. She joined Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. as Senior Corporate Counsel in the Fall of 2022. Her focus is contract law and contract negotiations.

She was a member of the Steering Committee for the Idaho Academy of Leadership for Lawyers from 2020 to 2023, a Board member of the Idaho Municipal Attorneys from 2021 to 2022, and served on the University of Idaho Law Advisory Council from 2015 to 2021. She has served on the Lewis-Clark State College Legal Support Program Advisory Board since 2016. She has also been a mentor for the University of Idaho College of Law Professionalism and Ethics program since 2013.

She was awarded the Idaho Municipal Attorneys Rising Star Award in 2016. Also in 2016, she received the City of Lewiston P.R.I.D.E. award for Integrity. She was selected as the Idaho State Bar Outstanding Young Lawyer in 2014.

She’s been married to her husband, Omar Gómez, for 15 years. They have a 13-year-old daughter, Mia. They enjoy camping, boating, and traveling.

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Timothy L. Fleming
Third District

This award is presented posthumously – Tim Fleming died on November 12, 2022. Tim was nominated for this award by colleagues and friends. Their comments indicate why Tim deserves this award. If there were a check box for professionalism, Tim Fleming checked them all.

Tim embodied professionalism during his life and career. He never wavered from his dedication to being a professional attorney with members of the bench, bar, pro se litigants, clients, and the community. Tim had a talent for listening, advocated for the just and lawful treatment of others, and tirelessly promoted a community grounded in care and respect. Tim had the rare ability to make sure everyone was included in a compassionate way. From his work as a prosecutor to his civic leadership roles that translated into significant benefits to others, Tim’s life demonstrated that he worked tirelessly to be of service to others.

One of Tim’s favorite quotes was of Chief Joseph who said, “Treat all people alike. Give them the same law. Give them an even chance to grow.” Tim embodied this quote in his day-to-day life and work.

Tim was raised in Buhl, Idaho. He interned for both Congressman Richard Stallings and Vice-President Dan Quayle. He graduated from the College of Idaho in 1994, and from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1997. He served as the Caldwell City Prosecuting Attorney, the Chief Deputy Gem County prosecutor, and the elected Gem County Prosecuting Attorney. He entered private practice in 2011, working with his twin brothers Todd and Ted, and attorney Jacob Welsh. He served many legal and community organizations. He is survived by his wife who he met in law school, Lori, and daughter, Emily.

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Nicholas G. Miller
Fourth District

Values: “The best guiding principle I’ve found for professional responsibilities and service in my law firm is four simple words: ‘It’s not about you.’ In professional practice, that is of course pretty easy because it’s right in the Rules of Professional Responsibility, but it’s good to remember that lawyers serve their clients, not themselves.

More broadly speaking, I’ve found ‘not about you’ to be a guiding principle in law firm practice. As Managing Partner, my ‘elevator speech’ when asked what I do was to reply, ‘My job is to help others succeed. Staying outwardly focused on the needs of others enabled me to preach and manifest tolerance for a diversity of views, personalities, opinions, and practice styles.”

Advice: “I really try not to look back, and I also think one’s career is directed more by opportunities or challenges that come your way and how you respond to them than a conscious game plan. Given what I was presented with, I don’t think I would do anything differently. Still, I like the words of Warren Buffett when asked by a graduate school of business student about ‘advice to us who are just starting out.’ Buffett said, ‘There are three things: marry the right person, do something you really like to do, and work for someone you really admire.’ Even though I didn’t hear those words until later in life, they resonated as something I had largely done, and good advice to others.”

Nick’s enthusiasm for the practice of law and the profession in general serves him well, as Nick led Hawley Troxell’s strategic efforts for seven years while managing partner and served over a decade on the firm’s Board of Partners. His leadership in this role was critical to the successful acquisition and integration of another, significant 20-attorney law firm.

Nick’s commitment to being a part of a better educated tomorrow continues to have significant impact statewide on communities and students. His expansive legal representation also includes the drafting of school bond legislative reforms, forming general pledge bond systems for Idaho universities, and creating innovative financing to combine municipal systems.

Nick helps students advance their education in expanded, modern school facilities. He’s helped multiple school districts, colleges, and universities throughout the State of Idaho achieve 150 bond issuances. This funding resulted in numerous new school buildings for K-12 students, the expansion of college campuses, and the development of entirely new colleges.

Nick’s dedication to the legal profession and the communities he serves has not gone unnoticed. He has been recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Bond Counsel, Best Lawyers in America Corporate Law (since 1995), Public Finance Law and Securities, Capital Markets Law, and Lawyer of the Year Corporate Law (2009 and 2013), Martindale-Hubbell’s 20-year Award for maintaining an AV® Preeminent™ Lawyer Rating, and Chambers & Partners ranked Band I-Corporate/Commercial attorney. In 2022, Nick was honored with the Idaho Business Review’s Leaders in Law Lifetime Achievement Award.

Nick’s extensive community and civic involvement includes current or past commitments with the Idaho Business for Education Council, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce Intermountain Venture Forum (Past Chair) and Executive Committee, Boise Valley Economic Partnership (Past Chair), Idaho Shakespeare Festival Board of Trustees (Past President), Idaho Public Television Board of Trustees (Past President), and the Idaho Board of Corrections (Past Board Chairman).

Nick received his J.D. from Stanford University in 1976 and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September 1983.

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Dennis S. Voorhees
Fifth District

Values: “I let honesty, humility, and determination guide my professional life. My word is my bond. The slightest deceit to a judge, client, or colleague irreparably crushes reputation. Humility is a better guide than ego. Determination is essential because good lawyering is a long game.”

Advice: “Cultivate an impulse to stay positive and happy – as the forces inherent in lawyering tend toward negativity. Compete continuously with yourself, not others; good lawyering is a work in progress. Treat court clerks, staff, and counsel as kindly as possible. Work hard on problems, not on people. Build confidence early on by mastering critical skills: the rules of procedure and evidence, trial advocacy, writing, and research. Take advantage of mentoring opportunities with people you admire – both inside and outside of the law. Choose public service commitments wisely and then give them your best effort. Know that in the end, the esteem of colleagues will never be as important as that of your spouse and your children. The dreams and aspirations of your staff are every bit as important as your own – make sure they know that and support them in their journey. Be as quick to forgive yourself as you are quick to forgive others for the inevitable misunderstandings and dustups that arise in the course of lawyering; we are our own toughest critics.”

Dennis graduated from the University of Idaho College of Law and was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in 1978. He is a  Fellow of The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel and a certified elder law attorney (National Elder Law Foundation) since 2000. He served as a Commissioner of the Idaho State Bar (2014-2017) and as President in 2016. He practiced elder law, estate planning, and special needs planning for persons with disabilities. He also served as a Trustee for the Twin Falls Public Library (1986-2001).

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Carole I. Wesenberg
Sixth District

Values: “My Finnish mother taught me to face every challenge with sisu. Sisu literally means ‘guts’ or ‘intestines,’ but it embodies all the values to succeed in life. It’s courage, integrity, dignity, and adaptability; it’s a mindset; and it’s personal responsibility. The essence of sisu lies in embracing discomfort and adversity as opportunities for personal growth.”

Advice: “Your time is your most valuable resource, and you’ll never regret the time you spend outside of work. Take time for yourself. Take time to visit friends and family. Give back to your community. Help others. Finding a work-life balance will make you happier in your life.”

Carole is currently the Career Law Clerk for the Honorable N. Randy Smith with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. She is also an Instructor for the Paralegal Studies program at Idaho State University.

Prior to her current employment, she served as an associate with Quane Smith, LLP in Idaho Falls, Idaho, focusing on insurance defense law. She started her career as a law clerk to the Honorable N. Randy Smith with the Sixth Judicial District of Idaho.

She received her Bachelor of Science degree in geography from Montana State University in 1994, and her Master of Science in environmental science from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania in 1997. She received her Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University in 2000. She was admitted to the Idaho State Bar in September 2000.

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William R. Forsberg, Jr.
Seventh District

Values: “I believe in working hard, being honest, and respecting others.”

Advice: “Be prepared to work harder than you might think necessary. You will make mistakes but determine that you will learn from them when they occur.”

William (“Bill”) was born and raised in Wenatchee, Washington, He came to Rexburg, Idaho to attend Ricks College in 1970. Bill graduated from Washington State University with a degree in business administration in 1974. In 1978, he graduated with honors from the J. Reuben Clark Law School.

Bill is admitted to practice before all courts of the State of Idaho, the Federal District Court for the District of Idaho, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, the United States Court of Federal Claims, and the United States Tax Court. He has also served as a Marine Corps Judge Advocate.

While at Ricks he met and married his wife, Colleen. Bill and Colleen have six daughters and 14 grandchildren.

By Lindsey M. Welfley

For someone who swore she’d never be a family law practitioner, Ashley Marelius sure set herself apart as an extraordinary young Idaho lawyer practicing exclusively that. Ashley was born and raised in Olympia, Washington, and for as long as she can remember, being an attorney was career goal number one. Ashley completed her undergraduate degree at Central Washington University with a major in law/justice and sociology with a minor in psychology. She moved to Boise for law school and graduated from Concordia University School of Law in 2016, being admitted to the Idaho State Bar that same year.

Law school was far from easy for Ashley as it was extremely difficult balancing the workload and the necessity to work to support herself. She is, perhaps surprisingly, proud of the fact that she actually failed out of her first term. Ashley promised the four women who sat on the appeal panel – Cathy Silak, Tenielle Fordyce-Ruff, Jodi Nafzger, and Anne Comstock – that if reaccepted, she would make them proud. With support from Rebecca Nickell and their weekly meetings, Ashley survived law school. Ashley remains forever grateful to these women for believing in her.

While still in law school, Ashley participated in the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association (“ITLA”) Street Law Clinic and met Sean Breen during a pro bono opportunity on which they collaborated. After the case concluded, Ashley joked with Sean that if he were ever looking to hire an associate, she’d be interested. Much to her delight, she received a call two weeks later from Sean asking her to come in for an interview and to meet with the other partners in the firm. Ashley was hired in 2014 and has been with the firm ever since.

Ashley practices exclusively family law since being admitted to the Bar in 2016, handling mostly divorces and child custody with an emphasis on working with victims of domestic violence. Two years ago, she replaced two outgoing partners, Mark Manweiler, and Gary Davis, making her the newest partner of the firm now known as Breen, Ball & Marelius, PLLC. Since then, Ashley has been acting as Managing Partner, handling all the ins and outs of the firm’s business operations. When reminiscing on those early years, Ashley says she is forever indebted to both the past and current partners at her firm for being willing to take a chance on her – “I don’t know where I would be otherwise.”

In addition to her busy professional life, Ashley is heavily involved in several community programs. Since 2011, she has worked with the Boise Bully Breed Rescue as their Foster and Adoption Coordinator and board member. Ashley spends a great deal of time finding suitable, loving homes for these otherwise neglected animals. She continues to work with the ITLA Street Law Clinic and with the Court Appointed Special Advocate (“CASA”) program, representing guardians ad litem in child protection proceedings. Ashley and her partner, Matt, are also licensed foster parents and have assisted in several child placements over the last several years.

Ashley has had several individuals to whom she’s looked for guidance, support, and encouragement throughout her life. In her personal life, she names her sister, Dena, at the top of the list. After the loss of both parents as a teenager, Dena assumed the caretaker role of Ashley. “I was a very difficult teenager and other than Dena, I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today.”

In her professional life, Ashley again mentions how grateful she is for the past (Mark Manweiler and Gary Davis) and present partners (Sean Breen and Jim Ball) in her firm for being so supportive of her law career. She also names the women at Bjorkman, Dempsey, Foster LLC – particularly Alyson Foster and Jennifer Dempsey. Ashley is thankful for the support of strong female voices in this profession. She notes that these women have treated her with kindness and generosity, matched with zero judgment.

Ashley is also so thankful for her rockstar right hand, Ruby, for all the support, laughs, and eye rolls, her partner, Matt, for showing her what a supportive relationship should be like, her girlfriends, Lyndsey, Paige, and Hannah who have supported her through schooling and beyond, and the family law judges for all the guidance and kindness. Finally, she is thankful for the people who do not practice the motto of “being kind” and still throw difficult curve balls toward young attorneys. Though it is hard for her to thank them, she thinks it is important for young attorneys to learn first-hand how they don’t want to practice and how small acts can have big impacts.

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By Lindsey M. Welfley

Marvin M. Smith (“Marv”) is another of Idaho’s premier trial lawyers, having practiced in Eastern Idaho for the majority of his career. Marv was born and raised in Lehi, Utah. After graduating high school, he attended Utah State University, where he graduated magna cum laude with his Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science (two majors and three minors). After his undergraduate education, he continued on to law school at Brigham Young University, J. Reuben Clark Law School, graduating cum laude with his juris doctorate in 1977.

Immediately after graduating law school, passing the bar exam, and being admitted to practice in both Utah and Idaho, Marv migrated to Idaho where he took his first job in Twin Falls with the late Lloyd Webb’s firm. There, he learned a great deal of the law with the likes of Lloyd Webb, the Honorable Monte Carlson (dec.), and Judge Theron Ward.

During his decision-making process for what to do after law school, Marv went through a series of offers before making his decision to stay on the civil side of things – upon graduation he was sifting through job offers from the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office, the federal chambers in Boise for a clerkship, a firm in Utah, and Lloyd Webb’s firm. Ultimately deciding to move out to Twin Falls, Marv recounts that this decision afforded him several opportunities to improve his lawyering skills and was overall an incredibly good experience. In this capacity, he had the opportunity to act as a Special Prosecutor on two occasions; these instances further solidified his confidence in the decision to stay with the civil side of the law.

After working with the Webb firm for five years, Marv moved his family to Idaho Falls to take a job with Buck Hiller in 1981. While with the Hiller firm, he practiced insurance defense and medical malpractice defense, with a small amount of plaintiffs’ work mixed in.

Marv was appointed to the bench in 1988. He served as a Magistrate Judge in Bonneville County from 1988 to 1990, after which he was elected to the district bench. He subsequently served as District Judge for the Seventh Judicial District from 1990 to 1996. After leaving the bench, he went to work at Sharp Anderson Hall & Smith, where he stayed for 13 years. His next endeavor was to go out on his own, then later merged with Hawley Troxell. He has remained in practice with Hawley Troxell in their Idaho Falls office since 2015.

The majority of his work has been focused on medical malpractice defense and he has worked with physicians and hospitals for the better part of four decades. Since 1990, Marv has acted as a mediator.

When asked about any cases or moments that stick out as being particularly memorable, Marv mentions two important ones. First, during his tenure on the district bench, Marv presided over a six- and half-month-long trial regarding a crop loss dispute. Second, Marv recounts that he will never forget the first jury trial he tried and won, stating that “it is a high point for any young lawyer.”

Throughout his career, Marv has looked to several individuals as both role models and mentors. He cites both Lloyd Webb and Monte Carlson as his early inspirations as far as the practice of law and adds that he learned a great deal from Buck Hiller. “All three of these men were consummate professionals and fantastic in-court lawyers, each with their own style.” In a more contemporary base, Marv states, “I knew if I could ever be as prepared for trial as Curt Thomsen or Gary Cooper, I’d be okay.”

In addition to time spent on his career, Marv dedicates much of his time to community service and volunteer work. He coached junior league basketball for many years. He served as a trustee for the Museum of Idaho for 10 years; he recalls how rewarding it was to see that museum transform from a local community museum to somewhat of a state or regional attraction. Maintaining his humility, Marv states, “I didn’t have anything to do with that, I just enjoyed being along for the ride.” Marv is a committed member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and donates a lot of his time to the church. He has also helped build two houses through the Habitat for Humanity initiative.

Marv and his wife, Janet, have four daughters and one son. His son, also Marvin Smith, has carried on the legacy and is an attorney practicing with his father in the Hawley Troxell Idaho Falls office. The majority of Marv’s family resides in the Eastern Idaho area, with the exception of one daughter who lives in Guam with her husband. With 13 grandchildren, Marv enjoys his time with family and catching as many of his grandchildren’s recitals and sports games as possible. Reminiscing on the good ole days, Marv is quick to note that he used to play a lot of basketball with a “former” respectable vertical leap of 35 inches – “the wheels have fallen off and now I trip over a dime!”

In the midst of such a distinguished career as his, Marv holds that he is truly fortunate to be in this profession. “I am incredibly lucky to have the mentors that I’ve had who took the time to show me how to do it, I think, the right way. As well as some contemporaries along the way who, even when we were on the opposite side, could always remain cordial and respectful.” In all his experience, Marv speaks highly of Idaho’s bar and expresses the lasting hope that collegiality can be retained as we move forward.

In addition to his mentors, Marv would offer thanks to his current and former partners and assistants for their patience in working with him and for the assistance they gave him in his career.

Lastly, Marv would like to thank his family, especially his wife, Janet, for allowing him to take the necessary long hours and missing the occasional birthday party; and his son for making sure he goes to the right office in the morning.

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By Lindsey M. Welfley

With a robust legal career and impeccable reputation for civility and professionalism, Larry C. Hunter is certainly a name well-known among the Idaho State Bar.

Larry was born in Northern Utah while his dad was attending Utah State University, but was raised in Twin Falls, Idaho from first grade on – “I consider myself a native Idahoan.” After graduating from Twin Falls High School, Larry moved to Massachusetts to complete his undergraduate education at Harvard University. He graduated cum laude in 1968 and received the Harvard Service Award. While at Harvard he recalls one of his most interesting classes was one called “Law in Society,” which was taught by a Harvard law professor. It focused on the myriad ways the law impacts our daily lives. Larry says this kindled his interest in pursuing a legal career. After graduation, Larry served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Chile. After his return, he enrolled in the Master’s Program in Latin American Studies at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. While there, he met and, after a long pursuit, married his wife, Iris, in 1971.

Larry’s first job after college and his time in South America was with the Bank of America as an International Banker in the Latin American Division. He and his family moved to San Francisco, where they lived until his decision to go to law school in 1973. Larry chose Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago and again they relocated. During their time in Chicago, Larry and his family were asked to attend a Spanish-speaking congregation where Larry served as Branch President.

Once in law school, Larry and Iris knew he had made the right decision. While he had never known a lawyer or even that much about the practice of law, he had always gravitated more toward an area where he could be of benefit to society. Besides being a husband, father, and lay minister, Larry worked part-time all three years of law school for a corporate law department and in a law firm.

By the time he graduated from law school, he and Iris had three young children, the third of whom was delivered on the day of a final exam in his third year. Larry graduated with his law degree in 1976 and began looking for work back in Idaho. Larry accepted a job with Moffatt Thomas and remained there for the entirety of his 45-year legal career (the firm later merged with Hawley Troxell).

Larry recalls the day he and his family pulled into Boise. It was the same Saturday in June 1976 that the Teton Dam burst, flooding the upper Snake River Valley and causing major loss of property and minor loss of life. When Larry walked into work on Monday, the Teton Dam case was the first on his desk. Unbeknownst to him, this early litigation experience would catalyze a career-long love for trial work.

In the early years of his practice, Larry worked briefly on business work as a transactional lawyer, because he had experience in the banking industry. He focused on real estate transactions and banking law. Soon he got into litigation and that is where he found his home. As Moffatt Thomas was a civil law defense-oriented firm, Larry mostly practiced defense litigation in a variety of settings: agricultural products and chemicals, aviation litigation, and automotive design cases. His defense work, as he states, could really be summed up as a products liability practice.

After practicing in these areas for approximately 35 years, Larry also began working as a mediator and arbitrator while maintaining his litigation practice. (Iris says helping raise six children contributed to his success as a mediator.) Overall, he maintained a truly diverse practice, working also in administrative law and serving as the attorney for the Idaho State Board of Accountancy for over 10 years. On occasion, he did a little domestic relations work and had a couple of criminal law cases. One of the more interesting things that Larry did in the practice of law was in South America. From 2014 to 2016, Larry was the Associate Area Legal Counsel for his Church in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Chile as a volunteer missionary. He represented the Church in a variety of legal scenarios.

Larry has served the profession and his community well over the past four decades, taking his retirement in 2020. Throughout his six children’s school years, he volunteered in various PTO capacities, coached a variety of youth sports teams, and served on various committees of the Boise School District. He remembers, after coaching his eldest daughter, Risa’s, soccer team for two years, telling the rest of his children that he would coach their teams as well for as long as he had coached her. This put him on track for 12+ years of coaching youth sports. He also chaperoned for his children’s music competition trips. Larry and Iris continued to work with the Spanish-speaking community of their Church after moving to Boise as well as filling other significant volunteer positions in the Church.

Larry consistently dedicates himself to giving back to his community as well as his profession. He has been a member of the local Boise and Eagle chapters of the Kiwanis International service club since 1978. He served on its Board of Directors and as President from 2010 to 2011. Additionally, he served as Lieutenant Governor of the Utah-Idaho District of Kiwanis from 2016 to 2018, and then as Governor from 2018 to 2019.

While he claims not to have a musical bone in his body, Hunter enjoys music very much and joined the Boise Philharmonic Board of Directors in 2000. He served as Board President from 2007 to 2008 and has been a member of the Boise Philharmonic Foundation since 2008. He now serves at the Governor’s appointment as the public member of the Idaho State Board of Accountancy. Even before his retirement, Larry and Iris served as poll workers on election days.

In service to the profession, Larry Hunter has been committed to a long history of volunteer initiatives since the late 1990s. He recounts, notably, his time as an Idaho State Bar Commissioner from 2001 to 2004, stating that it was “truly a highlight of my legal career, being able to serve in that capacity.”   Additionally, Larry served as Idaho’s delegate to the American Bar Association House of Delegates during various terms spanning from 2004 to his retirement in 2020. His work on two specific ABA committees during that time frame was of significant importance to him:  first, serving on the ABA Standing Committee on Paralegals from 2005 to 2009 (Chair from 2008 to 2009); and second, serving on the ABA Commission on Lawyer Assistance Program from 2016 to 2019. Larry has also served as a Bar Exam grader for the past several years; it is a method of giving back to the profession that he continues to enjoy. Another opportunity for service in the profession that was particularly fulfilling was his work with the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program Soundstart initiative at the Idaho Women’s Prison, the Salvation Army, St. Michael’s, and more working with new mothers, expectant mothers, and families regarding child custody issues. In addition, he has worked on the Anti-Harassment, Anti-Discrimination Subcommittee of the Idaho State Bar’s Professionalism & Ethics Section.

Throughout both his professional and personal life, Larry names several individuals as having an important influence on him. During his time at Harvard, Larry fondly remembers those he met during his Church experience, as well as those he met and lived with. Once he made it to Boise, Larry recalls the first person who interviewed him at Moffatt Thomas, the late Ron Rock, a litigator at the firm, as having influenced his early career. Later, Larry would go on to model the work of the late Richard “Dick” Fields, eventually following him on to the Board of the Boise Philharmonic. Dick showed Larry the importance of serving the community and the profession. Both men showed him the importance of ethics and civility in the practice of law.

When asked about any specific achievements or accomplishments that stick out to him, Larry exercises quite a level of humility despite his long resume and outstanding reputation. He says he will always remember being sworn into the bar; a day that held a deep importance to him, after he had made the decision to change professions, weathered a challenging law school experience, passed the bar exam, lost his father to cancer just before the ceremony, then to be in sworn in. “That was a big deal and a big highlight, but I don’t want it to sound like it’s all been downhill from there because it hasn’t.” Larry also remembers in 2003 when he and Iris had the opportunity to host in their home a Russian Supreme Court Judge – “That several-day experience was enlightening on both sides.”

Throughout the course of his career, Larry has always worked to ensure that the Rule of Law is upheld. He passionately writes, “The practice of law is meant to safeguard the Rule of Law in our society. It is our responsibility as attorneys to assure the rule of Law is upheld.” His career is a testament to that. He adds, “Civility is essential to a beneficial practice of law. That does not imply a milk toast approach to advocacy, but it does eliminate, or at least reduce, disrespect and unnecessary contention.”  His reputation is a testament to that.

Larry and Iris have six children and 22 grandchildren. They enjoy traveling, family time, reading, golfing, kayaking, and several other fun pastimes. Larry would like to mention the deep appreciation he has for the support his wife, Iris, has always given him. Anything he has accomplished is due to that support. His children are all productive members of society, and he thanks them for their patience, good humor, love, and support through the years. Larry would also like to thank his associates at Moffatt Thomas and later Hawley Troxell for what they taught him and how they gave him fellowship and a solid platform for his practice for almost 45 years. Also, friends and extended family have been important in providing him with a positive environment throughout his time in Boise.

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By Lindsey M. Welfley

Justice Burdick was the first member of the bench I met when I started with the Bar a little over eight years ago. I had only been on the job for a month when I was ushered away to the Annual Meeting in Sun Valley (also my first work trip). I was fresh out of college and had stepped into the coolest world I could have imagined at the time.

After the Distinguished Lawyer & Jurist Award Dinner on the first night of the Annual Meeting, my boss at the time, Mahmood Sheikh, told me that if I’d like he’d introduce me to “all the right people to know.” After shaking several hands and perfecting how to introduce myself in a professional manner, I found myself getting ready to meet one of the justices of the Idaho Supreme Court. I had never been more intimidated in my life. Mahmood introduced me to Justice Roger S. Burdick after which we all had the most hilarious, lively, authentic conversation – with Justice Burdick feverishly inviting anyone within earshot to come join us at the table. Mahmood was correct; Justice Burdick was certainly the right person to know. I remember thinking to myself later that night, if these are the types of people who serve on our judiciary then we are truly in the best of hands.

That is a sentiment I still hold to be true here in Idaho. Year after year I get to interview members of the bench for the Distinguished Jurist Award and my confidence in our judiciary is renewed with each conversation – Justice Burdick is no exception.

Born in Boulder, Colorado but moving to Boise in his youth, Justice Roger S. Burdick has had the unique tenure of living out four separate legal careers – seven years in legal practice, 12 years as a Magistrate Judge in Jerome County, 10 years as a District Judge in the Fifth Judicial District, and 18 years as a Justice on the Idaho Supreme Court.

After graduating from Boise High School, Burdick returned to Boulder to attend the University of Colorado during the “golden years of the ‘60s.” He received his Bachelor of Science in finance with a minor in geology and marketing in 1970. Upon graduation, Burdick made his way back to Boise for a job with the State of Idaho’s Department of Finance as a bank examiner. His decision to go to law school came about through a series of unconventional circumstances – disillusioned with the banking industry after observing some questionable conduct by management, Burdick was told he had 30 days to find a new job. Now with a wife, child, and no job, Burdick remembered he had recently taken the LSAT. His score came back high enough to make applications to law school. And so, he did.

Justice Burdick attended the University of Idaho College of Law in Moscow for what were “the most fun three years of [his] life. The friends you make in law school stay with you forever.” During his senior year, Burdick recalls listening to the late Lloyd Webb give a lecture that was so captivating he had to speak to the man. After following Webb to the snack area and introducing himself, Burdick praised the lecture as the best speech he had ever heard and asked to work with him. Burdick told Webb, “I’ll come down for an interview and if it doesn’t work out, I can at least get you a bid to paint your office.” Burdick graduated with his juris doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1974, interviewed for and got the job with Webb, Pike, Burton & Carlson, and moved to Twin Falls with his wife and first son.

Burdick loved every minute of his time in Lloyd Webb’s firm – right up until he got fired, for reasons he’s still not certain. This put him again back to square one, with a wife, child, and no job. After a call to Bill McCurdy who worked for Dave Leroy at the time, Burdick secured a job in Boise as a deputy prosecuting attorney for the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. “This was where I finally learned how to be a lawyer.” During this time, Burdick served as the Chief trial lawyer in charge of narcotics prosecutions.

After his stint in Ada County, Burdick again relocated to the Magic Valley to take a job in Jerome. He got a call from Bill Hart to come work on a public defense contract for Jerome, Camas, Gooding, and Lincoln counties. From 1977 to 1980, Burdick did this public defense work while also holding a general practice. In 1980, Burdick was elected Prosecuting Attorney for Jerome County while continuing his general practice. One year later, in 1981, Burdick was appointed to the bench as a Magistrate Judge for Jerome County, where he served until 1993. Justice Burdick remembers his first day as a magistrate judge being one of deep significance. He kept a quote on his desk that said, “I want to feel today like I did the first day I felt in this job.” He recalls the wonder and importance of it being his guiding lights.

Justice Burdick’s presidency of the Magistrates Association from 1989 to 1991 aligned with a turning point for the judiciary; salaries were due for an increase and until then no magistrates had been welcomed onto the Judicial Council or the Administrative Conference. Justice Burdick and his colleagues on the Magistrates Association championed access to both of those avenues. From 1991 to 1993 Burdick served as the first magistrate judge on the Judicial Council and as an ex officio member for magistrate discipline. He distinctly remembers only being allowed to participate during certain portions of the meetings, sitting in the hallway and waiting to be called in. Burdick made sure that all his future replacements would have an unrestricted seat at the table.

Burdick considers his time spent on the Judicial Council his most important act of service to the profession. During this time, Burdick helped to amend the Judicial Code of Conduct twice and implement the first Idaho Judicial Council Rules of Civil Procedure. These procedural rules were a significant improvement for judges who have issues before the council. Before then the process was a bit informal.

Burdick kept his guiding lights – the wonder and importance of judicial service – at the top of his mind during his later appointment to the district bench in 1993. Burdick served as a Fifth District Judge, chambered in Twin Falls, from 1993 to 2003 – subsequently serving as Administrative Judge for the Fifth Judicial District from 2001 to 2003 and as Presiding Judge of the Snake River Basin Adjudication from 2000 to 2003.

Burdick recalls his time presiding over the Snake River Basin Adjudication (“SRBA”) as some of his most rewarding work. Prior to taking the caseload, Burdick had a deep interest in the matter and regularly attended all the seminars. When Justice Linda Trout called him to see if he’d take it, he happily obliged despite being told by nearly everyone that it would ruin his career. Burdick gave the best retort: “It’s easy to ride a draft horse, but it’s the wild ponies that build character.” This was a principle he held as truth throughout his tenure as a District Judge; whatever case nobody else wanted, he would take.

In 2003, Justice Burdick received his final judicial appointment as the 53^rd Justice of the Idaho Supreme Court. During his time on the Supreme Court, Burdick chaired numerous committees and has been involved in a variety of court-related initiatives. He served two four-year terms as Chief Justice, as elected by his peers, from 2007 to 2011 and again from 2017 to 2021. During both terms as Chief Justice, he served as a delegate to the Conference of Chief Justices. Burdick oversaw the adoption of the new Idaho Judicial Council Rules of Civil Procedure and the revised Idaho Code of Judicial Conduct, both approved in 2016. He has also spent the majority of his career on the bench serving as chair for the Idaho Criminal Rules Committee.

Justice Burdick says he’ll never forget walking into the Supreme Court building for the first time as a justice – “I still get goosebumps every time I talk about it.” He reminisces on the last 18 years fondly, stating, “I am still so touched that I had that opportunity. The outpouring of gratitude for being on the bench as a justice has just been overwhelming.”

Burdick, now retired, still serves as a senior justice, taking a minimal caseload as needed. When he is not donning the robe, he and his wife, Rachel, enjoy a lot of gardening, fishing for salmon (but certainly not fly fishing), deer hunting, and reading – though Burdick jokes, “Never for content. I’ve been reading for content for decades and I’m tired of it.” He used to be an avid triathlete, competing in several triathlons during his younger years. Burdick has two sons; Phillip, who lives in Sitka, Alaska, has worked in the education system for the majority of his career, and Benjamin, who lives in Boise, runs the Boise Contemporary Theatre. Between them, Rachel and Roger have eight grandchildren spanning ages 21 to six, who keep them busy.

Burdick states, “I have had a career I could have never dreamed of. I would have never had it without the support of others. Professionally, thank you to the overworked, underpaid clerks of the Court who are the scaffolding all judges depend upon. They are too numerous to mention, but never forgotten. I would have never accomplished my work on the district or appellate court without my brilliant, hard-working law clerks who enriched my legal work, but more importantly my personal life.” “And lastly, but always first, my family. I gathered and still get inspiration from my boys as I watch how hard they have worked to succeed in their many endeavors and now in fatherhood. Nothing would have gotten done without the support of my Jerome family and now Rachel. Thanks to all.”

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Jennifer M. Schindele

In the last year, the Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program received over 4,000 applications for legal assistance.[i]

The Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program (“IVLP”) is a program of the Idaho Law Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a mission to increase access to legal services and enhance public understanding of the law. IVLP provides a safety net for low-income individuals and families in Idaho who require civil legal services and cannot afford to pay for them.

IVLP delivers services to individuals in different ways; one way is through managing community legal clinics. Advice and counsel legal clinics allow pro bono attorneys to provide and review legal documents, answer legal questions, and make recommendations on the best course of action, including, where necessary, referral of applicants to further legal services through IVLP or partner agencies.

In 2021, as IVLP endeavored to return to some pre-pandemic routine, it landed at the Garden City Public Library in Garden City, Idaho. While many of the prior clinic venues were still prohibiting in person meetings, the Garden City Library welcomed lawyers back in.

As it turns out, libraries are ideal for legal clinics. Libraries are a reliable and trusted source of information and resources for many community members. Libraries are often a first point of contact for individuals seeking legal information or to determine if their problem could be resolved with the law. In addition to typically being in centralized locations, libraries provide access to technology to populations less likely to have a broadband connection to the internet or free printing capability.  

Most legal clinics are walk-in or first-come-first-serve and advice is received only if an attorney happens to be available. In part due to pandemic fall out, in October of 2021 when IVLP initiated its first Lawyer in the Library Legal Clinic in Garden City, it quickly realized registration and scheduling for the clinic would be necessary to manage the number of patrons seeking legal assistance and the number of volunteer attorneys utilizing meeting space to provide that assistance. The pre-clinic preparation was helpful, and it was clear that a need was being met as the clinic registrations were full each week, often with a waiting list.

More than a year later, IVLP has multiple Lawyer in the Library Clinics in the Treasure Valley up and running and ongoing discussions with additional libraries to expand even more. Offering an initial advice and counsel session can often confirm that the participants’ situation could have a legal remedy and suggest a course of action on self-help forms and filing. There are times when the participant’s issue does not have a legal solution, or the advice they receive is that they would benefit from hiring an attorney to represent them. In those cases, the participant may not leave the clinic with resolution or course of action, but they are always relieved to hear the perspective and advice of an expert.

Amanda Berardinelli, Programs and Outreach Librarian at the Garden City Library, has received positive feedback from participants who have received advice on issues ranging from will writing, adoption, rental agreements, and parental rights. “Navigating the legal system, finding the correct forms to fill out, and figuring out the next steps can be intimidating for many people. Having professionals in the library to refer our patrons to has been a great resource,” said Berardinelli. “We hope to continue this partnership far into the future.”

Volunteering for IVLP’s Lawyer in the Library Clinics also provides opportunity to the attorneys. Requiring that the participants pre-register for the clinics, the volunteers know ahead of time the type of legal issues they will be hearing. It’s an opportunity to gain experience outside of their current area of law and work alongside other attorneys with different expertise and experience. Clinic volunteer, Ian Frost, had been looking for volunteer opportunities when he heard about the clinics. Not having a lot of experience, he was apprehensive at first, but has enjoyed volunteering his time. “I like the variety of issues and the people that I have encountered. I wanted to become a lawyer so that I could do some good, and it has been gratifying to help people navigate their legal issues.”

Contact Jennifer Schindele at jschindele@isb.idaho.gov or Jenni Jordan at jjordan@isb.idaho.gov to find out more information on how to get involved with the Lawyer in the Library Clinics.

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Current Lawyer in the Library Clinics Offered:

Downtown Boise Public Library: 1^st Tuesday of the month from Noon to 2pm

Garden City Public Library: 3^rd Thursday of the month from 4pm to 6pm

Nampa Public Library: 4^th Thursday every other month from Noon to 2pm (Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct, Dec)

Meridian Library-Cherry Lane: 4^th Tuesday every other month from 5pm to 7pm (Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct., Dec)

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[i] From March 2022 until March of 2023.