The Oklahoma Bar Journal February 2025

contents February 2025 • Vol. 96 • No. 2

THEME: M ilitary & V eterans Editor: Roy Tucker

ON THE COVER: The Oklahoma Veterans Memorial is located just north of the Oklahoma Judicial Center on Lincoln Boulevard in Oklahoma City. Initially installed in 1986, the memorial was built to honor Oklahoma service members killed in action. Flags were at half-staff to honor 39th U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Photo by Lori Rasmussen.

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

PLUS 2025 OBA Officers and New Board Members Sworn In 2024 OBA Leadership Academy Concludes New OBA Member Benefit: Free Smokeball Trust Accounting and Billing Software Applicants for February 2025 Oklahoma Bar Exam 6 Accredited Representatives and the Veterans’ Benefits Claim Process B y D oris L. G runtmeir 12 Defending Those Who Defend America: Military Justice for the Civilian Lawyer B y R obert D on G ifford II When Johnny Comes Marching Home: Employment Protection for the Citizen-Soldier B y R obert D on G ifford II A Home for the Brave in the Land of the Free: A Discussion About Unique Housing Challenges and Resolutions for Service Members and Veterans B y T eressa L. W ebster Peace of Mind With Involuntary Commitment for Veterans B y M atthew R. P rice 20 26 32 42 44 46 38

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From the President

52 56 60 62 66 68 70 75 80

From the Executive Director

Law Practice Tips

Board of Governors Actions Oklahoma Bar Foundation News

For Your Information Bench & Bar Briefs

In Memoriam

Editorial Calendar

The Back Page

PAGE 38 – 2025 OBA Officers and New Board Members Sworn In