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Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer Fry Holds Unique Seminar

As an experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer with 50 years’ experience, Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr., has no shortage of legal perspective.

That said, the accomplished and experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer continues to embrace and seek out new opportunities to consult with individuals about the dynamics of family law.

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

Fry’s newest endeavor landed him in his church of over 50 years – First United Methodist Church – for a three-part seminar on the true cost of divorce titled “Put Me Out of Business.”

The concept for the series, which ran Jan. 11, 18 and 25 at FUMC’s The Culture Lab, stemmed from the first part of Fry’s decades-old philosophy on divorce which focuses on exploring mediation and resolution first.

Fry collaborated with former counselor Hal McBride on the seminar content, and the three-part “Put Me Out of Business” series was the subject of a feature story by Ralph Schaefer in the Feb. 22 edition of the Tulsa Business & Legal News.

“There are many people who might feel like that is hot air coming from a family law attorney, but I ask every prospective client who comes to my office if they have explored all options of resolution first,” Fry said. “A lot of people who make it to my desk have not completely factored in all that divorce entails.  I want them to be aware of what is at stake not just financially but also emotionally.”

Unconventional Approach Nothing New for Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

That Fry chose to conduct a three-part seminar series seeking to educate young adults and college-age youths on the trials and tribulations of divorce may, on the surface, seem odd. But upon further review of Fry’s storied legal career, it really is not that out of character.

Fry has been a trailblazer of sorts in Oklahoma family law throughout his career. He helped pioneer the efforts of fathers being granted child custody when the “norm” was for the mother to typically gain custody of the child. He was then proactive in embracing and advancing the changes in child support guidelines in the 1980s, presenting CLE seminars on the changes to the Tulsa County Bar Association.

Still, even by his standards, his recent “Put Me Out of Business” seminar series was a little unconventional.

“My firm and myself have helped a lot of people get out of some very toxic relationships and bad situations over the years so I will always believe in the services and help that we are able to provide,” Fry said. “We do a lot of very good work that is needed. But I also want to see relationships last and probably even more so today because of where I am at in life and at this stage of my career. There is an enduring legacy that comes with divorce. You don’t have to make it to my desk.”

Part 1 of the series focused on the legal and financial side of divorce, as well as the emotional toll divorce can have on someone. Part 2 focused on how to build and have a lasting relationship. And Part 3 was a roundtable in which two married couples of 20+ and 50+ years answered questions about their respective marriages.

“I think it really went well, especially considering it was the first time we have held a seminar like this,” said FUMC College and Youth Adult Minister Rebekah Bled. “It was really good for some of our church’s younger members to be exposed to these discussions. The perspective and wisdom provided by Mr. Fry and others is invaluable.  We had one older couple come in to film one of the seminars for their daughter. That really surprised me.”

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer

Experienced Tulsa Divorce Lawyer at Home at First United Methodist Church

As comfortable as Fry is inside a courtroom, he is even more at home at his church – specifically with his Sunday school class, the Builder’s Class.

“They’re just wonderful people, who have taught me a lot and have helped me get through a lot over the years,” said Fry, who has been with the class for over 40 years. “We are there for each other through the good and the bad. We are each other’s support system.”

In addition to being actively involved in the Builder’s Class, Fry has served as an usher for a number of years and has volunteered in many other capacities for the church.

When Bled came calling for some of the church’s older and more experienced members from a variety of professions to take part in a series of adulting classes for FUMC’s college and youth members, the minister said Fry did not hesitate to commit.

“He told me he had been signing a volunteer sheet for a number of years, but no one ever called him,” Bled said. “He was excited, and I was excited to have him on board.”

It later donned on Bled that she never asked Fry what he did for a living. After the two talked for a bit, she finally got around to asking Fry what line of work he was in. Needless to say, upon learning that Fry was an experienced Tulsa divorce lawyer of 50 years, Bled was a little taken aback.

“I was shocked,” Bled said. “I think he just kind of thought everyone knew what he did, but I didn’t. When he told me, I couldn’t help but think how incredible it is for him to be taking a stand like this when his business is the opposite. Just really impactful to say the least.”

While Fry won’t be leaving his Fry & Elder Maple Ridge office at 1616 S. Main Street anytime soon, he is also not planning to vacate his newfound role at FUMC. Fry said he plans on holding another seminar series this spring at FUMC’s The Culture Lab.

“It’s going to be even better,” Fry said. “I got some really good ideas and learned a lot this first time around. I think the older you get the more some of the assumptions you once held onto fall by the wayside. I enjoy working with young people and am excited to be able to give back to the church in this capacity.”

Oklahoma Alimony Support No Longer a Tax Deduction in 2019

Changes to Oklahoma alimony support are on the horizon.

Oklahoma alimony support

Under the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act signed into law by President Donald Trump, alimony (also known at spousal support) will no longer be deductible by the payor and count as income by the recipient. The provisions will not affect divorce decrees and separation agreements entered before Dec. 31, 2018, but those signed after would be impacted.

The Oklahoma alimony support lawyers of Fry & Elder are well aware that ending the 76-year old deduction could drastically impact many divorce settlement negotiations and agreements and are taking a proactive approach in preparing for the imminent changes set to come to Oklahoma alimony support.

“The change in tax treatment will have obvious effects on settlement agreements, as the tax deduction is often an important consideration when crafting a settlement agreement that includes support alimony,” local attorney Amy Page said in an email directed to Fry & Elder attorneys. “We are aware of these effects and are and will continue to be prepared to educate our clients about them as well.”

Oklahoma Alimony Support Defined

Alimony in Oklahoma and most other states is financial support paid by one spouse to another after divorce. Oklahoma alimony terms can be agreed upon by the parties involved or a judge can decide. Spousal support payments typically come in monthly installments but also can be paid in one large lump sum.

Unlike child support, there is no set formula to determine spousal support in Oklahoma. There also is no set time frame on how long a spouse can expect to pay or receive alimony. When determining the amount of spousal support to be paid, the following components often apply:

  • The length of the marriage
  • The health and age of each spouse
  • The mode of living to which each spouse has become accustomed during the marriage
  • Evidence of a spouse’s own income-producing capacity and the time necessary to make the transition for self-support
  • Demonstrated need during the post-matrimonial economic readjustment period
  • The parties’ station in life
  • The earning ability and education of each spouse
  • The parties’ physical condition and financial means

The Potential Impact of the Tax Provisions to Oklahoma Alimony Support

As Fry & Elder’s teams of attorneys alluded to, changes to the tax treatment of spousal support could be far reaching, particularly at the negotiation table where the ability to use alimony deduction was often a powerful bargaining chip.

With only one year remaining for alimony to be claimed as a deduction, it has been reported that some family law attorneys are advising couples considering divorce to file this year – before the deduction is eliminated.

Politico quoted former American Bar Association Family Law Section Chair Mary Vidas as saying: “Now’s not the time to wait. If you’re going to get a divorce, get it now.”

The reasoning behind Vidas’ recommendation may stem from the fact that with alimony being wiped out as a deduction, more disputes could emerge between the two parties and what they deem as a fair number for spousal support.

“The deduction substantially reduces the cost of alimony payments – for people in the highest income-tax bracket, it means every dollar they spend to support a former spouse really costs them a little more than 60 cents.”

Added Pittsburgh family law attorney Brian Vertz:

“The repeal reduces the bargaining power of vulnerable spouses, mostly women, in achieving financial stability after a divorce.”

Though alimony was historically awarded to the wife, this is not the case anymore. Gender is now irrelevant when determining Oklahoma alimony support, meaning either the husband or wife can receive alimony.

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr.’s divorce philosophy to “always seek mediation and resolution first, but when a compromise can’t be made to shoot all the bullets you have and throw the empty gun at them” has long been a hallmark of the firm. That said, Fry & Elder has remained proactive in staying up to date with Oklahoma family law practices, including spousal support.

The firm has been named to the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014 and Is comprised of an experienced team of family law attorneys which include:

Should you have any additional questions in regards to Oklahoma alimony support or any other family law matter, we encourage you to contact Fry & Elder Tulsa today to set up a personal consultation with a proven family law attorney.

Accomplished Tulsa Divorce Attorney Fry Embraces 50th Year

Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. found himself in an awkward situation last summer in Ireland. Turns out, driving on the opposite side of the road requires a bit of getting used to – not that the acclaimed Tulsa divorce attorney had difficulty adjusting to the other side of the road.

No, Fry did just fine. He successfully navigated his way along the picturesque country’s Eastern coast and through the Ring of Kerry. Successful navigation, though, has been a hallmark of Fry’s legal career since its inception in 1968.

Tulsa divorce attorney Robert G "Hap" Fry Jr.

Accomplished Tulsa Divorce Attorney Fry Still Going Strong at 50

The elite Tulsa divorce and child custody attorney recently celebrated a birthday on Dec. 19 to signify the beginning of his 50th year practicing law.

When it comes to Oklahoma family law, there is not much Fry has not achieved. He is one of only 19 attorneys in the state to be a Fellow of the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, is an eight-time Best Lawyers® selection and is an 11-time Super Lawyers honoree.

Fry also was named the Best Lawyers® Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Oklahoma 2016 and this past summer – shortly before his drive along the Irish coastline – joined the likes of John Wayne, Brad Pitt and David Letterman as a Significant Sig Award winner.

While there might not be much left for him to achieve professionally, Fry embarks on his 50th year still going strong and anticipating another busy and very productive year.

“I feel great,” Fry said. “I understand that I might not have the same energy I had 20 years ago, but I feel very good and I am a whole lot wiser at this stage of my career. I don’t think many people enter their respective profession thinking they will work in it for 50 years, and I didn’t either. I realize I am extremely fortunate to be in this position. Practicing law is something I continue to find very rewarding and challenging each day.

“Our firm has grown so much these past couple of years which has been a lot of fun to be a part of and observe. We’ve really got an incredible staff together that’s just been a joy to work with and has kept me feeling young and energetic. I am very blessed and there is much to look forward to here at Fry & Elder.”

Tulsa divorce attorney Robert G "Hap" Fry Jr. and Badger

Fry & Elder, Fry Jr. Continue to Grow

As the accomplished Tulsa divorce attorney alluded to, Fry & Elder has experienced immense growth in the past two years. The renowned Oklahoma law firm’s accomplished team of attorneys has increased from 5 to its current roster of 12 since 2015. The firm also offers immigration law, criminal defense and personal injury law services to compliment its highly-regarded family law services.

Fry & Elder has been named to the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List every year since 2014, and the firm’s lineup of trial lawyers includes the following:

Though the firm has grown exponentially the past few years, Fry & Elder’s trial lawyers continue to seek out Fry for wisdom and perspective.

“He’s a legend,” said Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry, who joined Fry in Best Lawyers this year. “To have the longevity that he has had is remarkable, but even more remarkable is the fact that he has operated at such a high level throughout his career. It really is incredible. Our attorneys and myself have learned and continue to learn so much from him.”

Premier Tulsa Divorce Lawyer Reflects on Changes in Family Law

As a high-level practicing Tulsa divorce lawyer for 50 years, there is not much Fry has not seen or encountered in the realm of family law. He was proactive in embracing and advancing the changes in child support guidelines in the 1980s, presenting CLE seminars on the changes to the Tulsa County Bar Association.

“The guidelines were needed,” Fry said. “Child support comes before car payments, mortgages and other expenses.”

Fry also championed the efforts of fathers being granted child custody when the “norm” was for the mother to typically gain custody of the child.

Through it all, Fry has been a trailblazer of sorts in Oklahoma family law, but he has always been guided by two constants which he learned while clerking for Judge Robert D. Simms in 1966 and 1967 and he conveyed in a 2016 article by the Tulsa Business & Legal News. The first is to “always be prepared.”

The second:

“I deal with other lawyers every day and tell them what I am going to do,” Fry said. “I deal in trust and letters follow on the more complicated cases. Your word is your bond.”

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with Fry or one of the firm’s many other accomplished Tulsa divorce attorneys.

United Kingdom’s Divorce Day Reinforces Seasonal Divorce Claim

“Divorce Day” is upon us.

Well, not exactly but Divorce Day is a legitimate calendar day in the United Kingdom where the first working Monday in January following the holiday is designated as Divorce Day.

Divorce Day

The reasoning?

According to an article published in the U.S. News & World Report: The “London-based divorce support service Amicable reports that more than 40,500 people in the U.K. are expected to search ‘divorce’ online in January – a rate that is nearly 25 percent higher than the usual traffic generated by the term.”

Amicable founder Kate Daly did qualify that report by stating that the sensation really is “more of a ‘divorce month’ than a divorce day, as people find private time at different points in their post-holiday schedules.”

The data backs up Daly’s claim. Divorce rates increased 5.8 percent between 2015 and 2016 in England and Wales according to the Office for National Statistics.

The United States Can Relate to Divorce Day

While there is no set and defined “Divorce Day” in the U.S., there has long been a prevailing belief by many that seasonal divorce spikes do indeed occur.

This myth was validated to a degree by researchers at the University of Washington, who unveiled a 2016 study at the American Sociological Association’s annual meeting which revealed that seasonal divorce spikes exist in the months of March and August – “the periods following the winter and summer holidays.”

The study produced by sociology professor Julie Brines and then doctoral candidate Brian Serafini is believed to be the “first quantitative evidence of a seasonal, biannual pattern of filings for divorce.” It took place from 2001 through 2015 and documented every divorce filing in Washington state during those 15 years.

Why Divorce Rates Spike During Certain Times

There likely are many contributing factors that contribute to an increase in divorce filings during certain time frames. As Brines and Serafini concluded in their research: “troubled couples may see the holidays as a time to mend relationships and start anew: We’ll have a happy Christmas together as a family or take the kids for a nice camping trip, the thinking goes, and things will be better.” However, when things fail to improve, the foundation has been laid for action to take place which often comes in the form of a divorce or separation.

Fry & Elder partner and experienced divorce attorney M. Shane Henry believes action can take place during any time of the year, but said he is not surprised that evidence indicates that seasonal divorce is in fact a legitimate phenomenon.

“The holidays are often a stressful time for many couples,” Henry said. “That time period can often serve as the catalyst for someone to take action and remove themselves from an unsatisfying or toxic relationship.”

Experience the Fry & Elder Difference

While Fry & Elder and its team of attorneys hopes everyone enjoyed the holiday season, if you or someone close to you has decided to take action and remove themselves from an unsavory relationship, we encourage you to set up a consultation with a proven and experienced divorce attorney.

Fry & Elder has been named to the acclaimed U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List each of the past five years and includes the following lineup of attorneys:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with an accomplished Tulsa divorce attorney.

Oklahoma Law Firm Enjoys Memorable 2017, Excited For 2018

Happy New Year!

Not that the prestigious Oklahoma law firm Fry & Elder is all that sad to see 2017 go.

By all accounts, 2017 was one for the ages for Fry & Elder and its talented team of attorneys and legal personnel. While the firm’s roots date back to 1932, C. Lawrence Elder, Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr., James R. Elder and M. Shane Henry would be hard-pressed to identify a more memorable or significant year in Fry & Elder’s storied history.

“It was an incredible year for this firm,” Fry said. “We have grown exponentially and the firm’s future could not be brighter. We enjoyed a tremendous 2017 and are looking forward to an even bigger 2018.”

The Headquarters Building Becomes Fry & Elder’s New Tulsa Home

Of all the memorable events for Fry & Elder in 2017, none may have been bigger than when the notable Oklahoma law firm moved into its new state-of-the-art Tulsa office – The Headquarters Building – this past October. The 11,200 square-foot facility features 19 offices, four conference rooms, a large training room with full kitchen, a gym and shower facilities.

The Maple Ridge office facility, located at 1616 S. Main Street, is expected to be the firm’s Tulsa home for many years to come.

“It’s a game changer,” Henry said back in October. “We’re proud of it …. We hope it’s our home for many years to come.”

Western Expansion: Fry & Elder Oklahoma City Opens

Fry & Elder Oklahoma City technically opened its offices late in 2016, but the firm waited until early 2017 to publicly announce that is was actively accepting cases and inquires in the realms of Oklahoma City family law, criminal defense, immigration law and personal injury law

Allyson Dow spearheads Fry & Elder Oklahoma City’s team of attorneys, which also includes T. Luke Barteaux, Aaron D. Bundy and Henry.

Dow, who is Henry’s younger sister, became the third Fry & Elder attorney in the past four years to serve as the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section Chair in 2017. She was also named to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars for a third consecutive year.

Fry & Elder Bolsters Staff with Page, Calvillo

Perhaps the biggest indicator as to the growth Fry & Elder experienced in 2017 were the key additions of family law attorney Amy Page and immigration law attorney Ruth Calvillo.

Page joined Fry & Elder in March of 2017 after a successful 17-year tenure with the Department of Human Services (DHS). Much of Page’s practice focuses on child support and enforcement.

Calvillo, meanwhile, joined Lorena Rivas’ talented immigration law team in April of 2017. She completed the OBA FLS Trial Advocacy Institute and also gave a passionate speech to the University of Tulsa College of Law’s incoming class of law students this past August.

Continuing Legal Education and Professional Development Emphasized

Fry & Elder attorneys’ commitment to CLE went above and beyond in 2017. Nowhere might that commitment be better signified than when Bundy and Henry received the illustrious Earl Sneed Award for their significant and outstanding continuing legal education contributions during the 2017 OBA Annual Meeting.

“Continuing legal education is something Shane and I strongly believe in, as well as the rest of the trial lawyer here at Fry & Elder,” Bundy said. “We’ve been fortunate to have been able to present and attend some really outstanding and thought-provoking seminars, which, we truly believe, has only made us better advocates for our clients.”

Fry & Elder attorney Melissa Fell traveled across the Atlantic Ocean – to London – for a professional development opportunity, while Rivas visited our nation’s capital to take part in the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s National Day of Action. Other firm attorneys traveled to the following locales for CLE seminars and conferences.

Barteaux Makes Fry & Elder History with Appointment

While Fry & Elder has had many notable achievements during its impressive tenure, the firm had never had an attorney appointed to judge until Barteaux was confirmed as Cherokee Nation District Court Judge on May 15, 2017.

Shortly after being appointed, Barteaux stated:

“I feel deeply honored to be appointed as District Judge, by Bill John Baker, Chief of the Cherokee Nation. My Native American heritage is very significant and sacred to me. To be able to assist and serve the Cherokee Nation in this type of capacity is quite an honor and a big responsibility.”

Media Continues to Cast Spotlight on Elite Oklahoma Law Firm

Barteaux’s confirmation as a Cherokee District Court Judge was just one of many feats by the firm the Oklahoma media chose to spotlight.

All total, Fry & Elder and its attorneys were the subject of a staggering 11 different articles and feature stories in 2017 by some of the largest and most prestigious outlets in the state.

Oklahoma Law Firm Continues to Receive Honors, Accolades and Awards

For the fifth consecutive year, Fry & Elder was named to the elite U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List. The honor was one of many highlights during an autumn week in which the firm moved to its new Tulsa office location and Bundy and Henry received the Earl Sneed Award.

Best Lawyers® also named Fry Jr. and Henry to its 24th Edition of The Best Lawyers in America©. It was Fry Jr.’s eighth consecutive year to be selected and Henry’s first year to be honored.

Other notable accolades Fry & Elder and its attorneys garnered in 2017 include:

Yes, by all accounts 2017 was a banner year for Fry & Elder and its attorneys. With that said, the firm is happy to usher in 2018 and is excited for what the prospects of the new year hold for the Oklahoma law firm.

“No doubt about it, we had a great year in 2017,” Henry said, “But we’re expecting even bigger things to happen in 2018. The firm is growing and our future is bright. We only want to do bigger and better things here at Fry & Elder. We’re a team.”

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a distinguished Oklahoma trial lawyer.

How To Successfully Navigate Through A Holiday Divorce

Contrary to popular belief, the holidays aren’t the “most wonderful time of the year” for everyone. While Thanksgiving, Hanukkah Christmas and New Year’s serve as rallying points and reasons for many families and friends to celebrate, for those going through a holiday divorce, the holidays might not be embraced with the same delight as they previously were. Feelings of depression, anger, anxiety and regret may set in or intensify during the holiday season.

It’s understandable.

Holiday divorce

Fry & Elder’s accomplished and decorated team of Tulsa divorce lawyers realize how difficult going through a holiday divorce can be for many people.  The holidays are stressful enough for many without having to go through a divorce.

Though there is no magical formula to transform oneself into the life of the holiday party, there are numerous coping mechanisms one can incorporate to better navigate through the holiday season and a holiday divorce.

TIP 1: Put the Focus on Others

Whether you are going through a divorce, grieving the loss of someone close to you or are dealing with a challenging personal matter, putting the focus on others is always a good policy to implement especially if you have children. Even if you don’t think you are capable of achieving this type of attitude at the present time, you very well could surprise yourself and any attempt to do so will be warmly received and respected by others.

One thing to remember, particularly during the holiday season, is to be grateful for what you have and not what you don’t have at the moment. Remember that the holidays are about spreading cheer and being thankful.

TIP 2: Think of New Beginnings Not of Things Ending

You don’t have to choose to dwell on the ending of a relationship with divorce. You can look at it as the start of a new beginning for you. Incorporating new traditions into the holiday season is a great way to begin enacting this mindset. New traditions could include volunteering at a shelter or bringing dinner to someone else in need. Taking up a new hobby or joining a gym are also good ways to embrace a new start. If you have children, the holiday season is in ideal time to begin anew.

TIP 3: Don’t Deny Yourself Happiness

No, going through a holiday divorce might not be ideal, but it is an opportunity for you to distance yourself from a toxic relationship and reclaim yourself which is worth its weight in gold. Above all, don’t lose sight of that this holiday season.

Holiday divorce

Why Experience the Fry & Elder Difference?

For nearly 50 years, Fry & Elder has been identified as a premier and elite Oklahoma family law firm. Robert G “Hap” Fry Jr. is one of only 19 attorneys in Oklahoma to be a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and also has been named  Lawyer of the Year for Family Law in Tulsa for 2016 by Best Lawyers®. 

Fellow Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry was named the 2016 Oklahoma Family Law Attorney of the Year by the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section. Fry and Henry are both listed by Best Lawyers® for their excellence in family law for 2018. The two distinguished divorce attorneys have helped Fry & Elder be named to the prestigious U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms List from 2014-2018.

The firm’s vaunted lineup of attorneys also includes:

If you or someone you care about are going through a holiday divorce and are in need of legal assistance, contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with a proven Oklahoma divorce lawyer.

Media Casts Spotlight On 2017 Earl Sneed Award Winners

Shane Henry and Aaron D. Bundy are in high demand these days.

The two Fry & Elder trial lawyers and partners were presented with the 2017 Earl Sneed Award for their significant and outstanding continuing legal education contributions during Friday’s general assembly at the OBA Annual Meeting in Tulsa.

Earl Sneed Award winners

If that weren’t enough, Henry and Bundy were spotlighted in Friday’s Tulsa Business & Legal News in a feature written by long-time legal writer Ralph Schaefer. CLICK HERE to read the article.

“It’s always nice to have your accomplishments recognized by the media,” Bundy said. “Ralph (Schaefer) and the Tulsa Business & Legal News have done such a great job of providing legal coverage throughout our Tulsa legal community over the years.”

The article provided insight into what drove Henry and Bundy to be active in CLE and how they emerged from students to teachers. Both AV-Rated attorneys discussed how early setbacks and a burning desire to improve in the courtroom fueled their drive to attend various CLE seminars many led by acclaimed trial lawyer Roger Dodd.

As Bundy stated in the article,

“We work from a lot of our material that has come from our failures. But we are torn. We don’t want to sound like failures, although we talk about it at the beginning. We are saying that we are not perfect and that we do things perfectly. We want people to learn from our mistakes instead of going through some of the same things we have.”

Henry and Bundy offer an extensive and diverse portfolio of CLE presentations that include the following:

  • Starting Your Trial Off Right: Winning in the Beginning
  • Evidence at Trial
  • Using Social Media Evidence
  • Advanced Cross Examination
  • Dealing with Speaking Objections at Trial
  • Advanced Trial Techniques
  • Hostile Witness & Cross Examination
  • Connecting in the Courtroom
  • Marriage, Murder and Molestation

Earl Sneed Award Winners

The two experienced trial lawyers presented one of their newest presentations: “Marriage, Murder and Molestation” during Wednesday’s CLE section on the Crossroads Between Family Law and Criminal Law just two days before receiving the Earl Sneed Award.

Media Exposure Second to None

Fry & Elder has been no stranger to media coverage over the past few years. Friday’s article in the Tulsa Business & Legal News was just the latest installation. All total, the renowned Oklahoma law firm has been spotlighted a staggering 27 times since 2014 by many of the state’s largest and most prestigious media outlets. Below is a comprehensive list of Fry & Elder stories published by the media since 2014 on the firm and its attorneys’ accomplishments.

Earl Sneed Award Winners

Capping Off a Memorable Week

The presentation of the 2017 Earl Sneed Award by OBA President Linda Thomas on Friday capped off what can only be described as one of the most memorable weeks in Fry & Elder history which dates back to 1932.

The firm began the week by moving into its new state-of-the-art Tulsa Maple Ridge office – The Headquarters Building – on Monday. That was followed up Wednesday with news that the U.S. News & World Report had selected the firm to its prestigious Best Law Firms List for a 5th consecutive year.

“It’s been an amazing week,” Henry said. “There is just a lot of excitement surrounding the firm and all that we’re doing at Fry & Elder. I’m so grateful to be a part of the Fry & Elder team.”

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with an elite Oklahoma trial lawyer.

Elite Oklahoma Law Firm Receives National Honor

Five is indeed alive for Fry & Elder.

In what is turning out to be quite the memorable week for the elite Oklahoma law firm, Fry & Elder learned it has been named to the esteemed Best Law Firms list published annually by the U.S. News & World Report for a fifth consecutive year.

Elite Oklahoma law firm

As fate would have it, the highly-regarded media publication unveiled its rankings on Nov. 1 – the same day the Oklahoma Bar Association kicked off its annual meeting and two days after the elite Oklahoma law firm moved into its new prime Maple Ridge Tulsa office – The Headquarters Building – at 1616 S. Main Street.  

Fry & Elder’s M. Shane Henry and Aaron D. Bundy will present at the OBA Annual Meeting on the Crossroads Between Family Law and Criminal Law and receive the 2017 Earl Sneed Award for outstanding continuing legal education contributions on Friday, while Amy Page will be announced as the 2018 Tulsa County Bar Association Family Law Section Chair and as the OBA FLS CLE Chair later this week.

“It’ been a great week, and it’s only Wednesday,” Robert G “Hap” Fry said. “There are a lot of big things happening right now with the firm and all them are very positive. Making the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Law Firms list for a fifth consecutive year is very significant to us. It is a great honor to say the least. It’s just a tremendous tribute to our firm and the things we are doing here at Fry & Elder to be mentioned in the same breath with all these other great firms that also are listed.”

Long known for its prowess in Tulsa family law, including its work in high-conflict divorce and child custody cases, Fry & Elder was once again spotlighted for its excellence in family law.

To be eligible to make the Best Law Firms list, the firm must have “at least one lawyer who is included in Best Lawyers® in that particular practice area and metro.” This year, Fry & Elder features two attorneys who fit the bill. Both Fry and Henry are listed by Best Lawyers for 2018. Fry is listed for an eighth consecutive year, while 2018 will be Henry’s first appearance.

The U.S. News & World Report, which has long been an authority figure in ranking and “evaluating key institutions in society—from colleges to hospitals,” researched and evaluated close to 14,000 firms throughout the United States across 75 practice areas. Of the 13,745 law firms evaluated, only 1,911 made the prestigious list.

“It’s a very big deal to make this list,” Henry said. “We’re a team here at Fry & Elder. Honors like this truly reflect the team-like culture we embody here at Fry & Elder.”

Elite Oklahoma law firm

In addition to being named to the Best Law Firms list, the elite Oklahoma law firm also had five of its attorneys recently recognized by Super Lawyers®. The firm’s roster of attorneys are some of the most decorated in the state and feature:

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with an experienced trial lawyer nationally-recognized and elite Oklahoma law firm.

Spotlight Set To Shine On Bundy, Henry At OBA Annual Meeting

Whether it is in Claremore at the Rogers County Bar Association Annual August Meeting or Las Vegas for the Seminole County Bar Association’s Annual Las Vegas CLE , Fry & Elder partners Aaron D. Bundy and M. Shane Henry have little trouble drawing a crowd and rave reviews with their engaging and informative CLE presentations.

OBA Annual Meeting

The two decorated Oklahoma trial lawyers have developed quite a following over the past few years – so much so that a crowd of just under 75 flocked to the Oklahoma Bar Association Family Law Section’s annual monthly meeting in October to hear Bundy and Henry’s presentation titled: “Dealing with Speaking Objections at Trial.”

“It was the second most attended meeting we had all year,” said OBA FLS Chair Allyson Dow. “They always do such a great job and are very well prepared.”

If Dow comes across a little biased, it’s OK. She not only is a trial lawyer at Fry & Elder, Dow is Henry’s younger sister. Still, Dow is hardly the only member of Bundy and Henry’s CLE fan club. The duo will receive the 2017 Earl Sneed Award for their outstanding continuing legal education contributions during this year’s OBA Annual Meeting, which runs Wednesday through Friday in Tulsa.

“It’s a huge honor for us,” Bundy said. “It’s very humbling to think of some of the people who have come before us and won this award. Shane and I are always trying to learn more and improve as trial lawyers, and a big part of the improvement we have been able to make over the years has come through are active involvement in continuing legal education and professional improvement opportunities.”

In addition to Las Vegas, Bundy and Henry have traveled this year to Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Kansas City, New Orleans and San Diego, among other locales, for CLE opportunities to participate and present. They also credit famed attorney Roger Dodd as being a big influence in their commitment to CLE.

“We learn so much at those conferences and seminars and are able to pick the brains of so many talented legal minds,” Henry said. “We’re always going to promote continuing legal education here at Fry & Elder. It’s a big part of our culture.”

OBA Annual Meeting

Bundy and Henry will receive the prestigious award, named after the former dean of the University of Oklahoma College of Law, during Friday’s general assembly at the OBA Annual Meeting.

For Henry, the award will come one year after he was recognized as the 2016 Oklahoma Family Law Attorney of the Year by the OBA FLS. For Fry & Elder, the award will come four days after the firm moved into its new luxurious Tulsa office – The Headquarters Building. For good measure, Bundy and Henry will present during the OBA Annual Meeting at Wednesday morning’s CLE session on the Crossroads Between Family Law and Criminal Law. Their presentation is titled: “Marriage, Murder and Molestation.”

Bundy and Henry’s other CLE presentations are the following:

  • Starting Your Trial Off Right: Winning in the Beginning
  • Evidence at Trial
  • Using Social Media Evidence
  • Advanced Cross Examination
  • Dealing with Speaking Objections at Trial
  • Advanced Trial Techniques
  • Hostile Witness & Cross Examination
  • Connecting in the Courtroom

Visit Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City to learn more about Bundy and Henry’s engaging CLE presentations or contact Allison Smith at 918-585 1107 or Allison@FryElder.com.

 

Fry & Elder Moves Into New Digs At The Headquarters Building

Growth and expansion forced Fry & Elder to move out of its long-time 906 S. Cheyenne downtown Tulsa office in 2015 and into the Robert G. Fry Jr. Center for Trial Studies.

Less than two years later, growth and expansion has again forced the acclaimed Oklahoma law firm into a new office location. The firm moved out of the Robert G Fry Jr. Center for Trial Studies and into its new bustling Maple Ridge office location at 1616 S. Main Street today.

The Headquarters Building

Aptly named The Headquarters Building, the state-of-the-art 11,200 square-foot facility features 19 offices, four conference rooms, a large training room with full kitchen, a gym and shower facilities. To put it mildly, Fry & Elder has come a long way since its days at 906 S. Cheyenne where the firm resided for 30 years.

“This is our home now, and we hope it’s our home for many years to come” Fry & Elder partner M. Shane Henry said. “It’s a building that offers a lot of space and great amenities, which is something we needed with our growing staff and for our clients. Everybody with the firm feels that The Headquarters Building is a game changer. We’re proud of it.”

As Henry alluded to, Fry & Elder has experienced unprecedented growth since Henry joined the firm in 2010. In the past two years alone, Fry & Elder’s staff has grown from five lawyers to its current roster of 13 attorneys, which are among the most decorated in the state. They include:

Oklahoma immigration law attorney

Further Growth and Expansion, Accolades on the Horizon

Fry & Elder also opened offices in Oklahoma City late last year and is continuing to look to expand and grow its name, which has been synonymous with Oklahoma family law for close to 50 years. The firm has designs on growing into Texas and in Arkansas. Henry, a 2018 Best Lawyers® selection, is also licensed to practice in Texas, while immigration law attorney Lorena Rivas regularly tries her cases in Texas.

It is only fitting that the vaunted firm chose to usher in a new era at this time. This week is a big one for Fry & Elder and many other firms and attorneys throughout Oklahoma. The U.S. News & World Report will unveil its 2018 Best Law Firms List on Nov. 1 and Fry & Elder is vying to make the esteemed list for a fifth consecutive year.

The Oklahoma Bar Association will also be holding its Annual Meetings from Nov. 1-3 in Tulsa and Fry & Elder’s presence will be strong. Aaron D. Bundy and Henry will receive the Earl Sneed Award for their contributions in Continuing Legal Education, while Fry & Elder’s Amy Page will be announced as the 2018 Tulsa County Bar Association Family Law Section Chair and as the OBA FLS CLE Chair.

Though the firm was only at the Robert G Fry Jr. Center for Trial Studies for two years, the office served as a necessary spring board for future growth, which helped pave the way for the firm to move into the The Headquarters Building.

“We felt like we would be at that location a while longer, but we have continued to grow and get bigger,” Henry said. “We definitely didn’t want to impede growth. We’re excited about this new office and what the future holds for Fry & Elder.”

Contact Fry & Elder Tulsa or Fry & Elder Oklahoma City today to set up a personal consultation with an elite Oklahoma trial lawyer.

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