Chase McBride has been appointed to serve as an Associate Bar Examiner for Judicial District No. 1 of State of Oklahoma by the Oklahoma Supreme Court. His term shall begin January 1, 2024.
The Board of Bar Examiners is charged with creating rules and procedure for the administration and grading of the Oklahoma Bar Exam and with recommending applicants for admission to the practice of law in the State of Oklahoma.
Chase McBride was selected to be interviewed by The Legal Odyssey regarding his work on Grandparent Visitation cases in Oklahoma. The Legal Odyssey is a podcast that interviews attorney across the country to learn more about areas of law from those who have excelled in it.
Congratulations to Chase McBride and Hunter Siex of our firm for being selected by Super Lawyers as Rising Stars for Oklahoma for 2023!
The selection was determined by peers for outstanding work and commitment to the spirit of the legal profession, knowledge of the law, professional work ethic, and advocacy on behalf of clients that allows them to stand out among other attorneys in the field. This is an exclusive list recognizing no more than 2.5% of the attorneys in the State of Oklahoma. In a world driven by complex transactions and intricate agreements, the necessity of documentation cannot be overstated. Contracts serve as the bedrock of the legal and business landscape, establishing clear expectations, obligations, and rights for all parties involved. While verbal agreements might seem convenient in the moment, the inherent risks and uncertainties they pose underscore the vital importance of putting all contracts in writing.
Legal Clarity and Precision: The foremost benefit of written contracts lies in their ability to provide legal clarity and precision. Unlike verbal agreements, written contracts outline the terms, conditions, and provisions in explicit detail, leaving no room for misinterpretation or ambiguity. Clarity in contractual terms ensures that all parties involved fully comprehend their rights and obligations, thereby minimizing the potential for disputes and legal conflicts. Evidential Support: In the event of a dispute or disagreement, written contracts serve as concrete evidence of the agreed-upon terms and conditions. They provide a reliable reference point for resolving conflicts and enable impartial third parties, such as courts or arbitrators, to objectively assess the validity of each party's claims. The documented nature of these contracts can significantly strengthen a party's position when seeking legal redress, enhancing the overall enforceability of the contract. Risk Mitigation: By documenting the details of a transaction, written contracts effectively mitigate risks that may arise during the course of the agreement. They anticipate potential scenarios, outlining measures for risk allocation and establishing procedures for dispute resolution, thereby safeguarding the interests of all parties involved. A well-drafted contract can account for contingencies and unforeseen circumstances, providing a structured framework for addressing potential risks and liabilities. Memorializing the Agreement: Written contracts serve as a memorialization of the agreement, capturing the intentions of all parties at the time of the contract's formation. This memorialization not only solidifies the commitments made but also serves as a reference point for future interactions and relationships. It helps prevent misunderstandings that may arise due to the imperfect recollection of verbal agreements, ensuring that the original understanding remains intact throughout the duration of the contract. Legal Compliance: In various jurisdictions, certain agreements are legally required to be in writing to be enforceable. Statutory laws and regulations often mandate written contracts for specific types of transactions, such as real estate deals, leases, and large-scale commercial transactions. Adhering to these legal requirements not only ensures the validity of the contract but also protects the parties from potential legal repercussions stemming from non-compliance with the law. Professionalism and Trust: The act of drafting a written contract reflects a level of professionalism and commitment to the agreement, fostering a sense of trust and reliability among the parties involved. It demonstrates a dedication to upholding the terms of the agreement and adhering to ethical business practices, thereby cultivating a positive working relationship based on transparency and accountability. Ultimately, the decision to formalize an agreement through a written contract is an investment in the long-term stability and integrity of any business relationship. It establishes a solid foundation built on legal clarity, evidential support, risk mitigation, and a commitment to professionalism and trust. Embracing the practice of putting all contracts in writing is not only a prudent business strategy but also an essential safeguard against potential disputes and legal entanglements. In the realm of legal disputes, small claims court provides a streamlined and accessible process for individuals and businesses to resolve minor civil matters. In the state of Oklahoma, the small claims procedure offers a cost-effective and efficient means for resolving disputes involving relatively modest sums of money. Here is an in-depth look at the small claims process in Oklahoma and how it benefits its residents.
Filing a Claim: The first step in the Oklahoma small claims process involves filing a claim in the small claims court of the appropriate jurisdiction. Typically, the claimant must file the claim in the county where the defendant resides or where the incident leading to the dispute occurred. The claim form must include specific details about the nature of the dispute and the amount being claimed. Service of Process: After filing the claim, the court will issue a summons to the defendant, notifying them of the lawsuit and the date of the hearing. In Oklahoma, service of process can be achieved through various methods, including personal service, certified mail, or even by a court-appointed process server. Court Appearance: Both the plaintiff and the defendant are required to appear in court on the designated date. During the hearing, both parties have the opportunity to present their cases, provide evidence, and call witnesses if necessary. The judge will carefully consider the arguments and evidence presented and will make a decision based on the merits of the case and applicable Oklahoma law. Judgment and Enforcement: If the judge rules in favor of the plaintiff, a judgment will be issued, outlining the amount of money the defendant is required to pay. In Oklahoma, the losing party has 30 days to appeal the decision. If no appeal is made, the judgment becomes final, and the prevailing party can take steps to enforce it, such as through wage garnishment, property liens, or bank account levies, to collect the awarded amount. Limits and Exclusions: It is essential to note that small claims courts in Oklahoma have specific limits on the maximum amount that can be claimed. As of 2023, the maximum claimable amount is $10,000.00 Certain types of cases, such as those involving divorce, libel, and slander, are not eligible for resolution in small claims court and must be pursued through other legal avenues. Legal Representation: In Oklahoma small claims court, legal representation is not mandatory. Parties can represent themselves or choose to have an attorney present. However, having legal guidance can be beneficial, especially in complex cases where legal expertise is crucial for presenting a strong argument and navigating the intricacies of the legal system. Overall, the small claims procedure in Oklahoma serves as an accessible and effective method for resolving disputes without the need for lengthy and costly litigation. By understanding the process and adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by the state, individuals and businesses can seek fair resolutions to their minor civil matters in a timely and efficient manner. |
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