2012 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Transcription

1 2012 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS

2 firm philosophy The Firm s philosophy is to understand and meet client needs and expectations while adhering to, and enhancing, the highest and best traditions of the practice of law. Hutchison & Steffen s attorneys pride themselves on their ability to provide effective, judicious representation at a cost-effective rate and it is with the values of honesty, integrity, and professionalism that the Firm approaches every legal matter. The 2012 Firm Accomplishments document is intended to share information about the Law Firm of Hutchison & Steffen, a Professional LLC. This document outlines examples of Firm accomplishments our attorneys have attained for clients in particular legal matters. For each case, the results were dependent upon case-specific facts. The attorneys of Hutchison & Steffen are not represented herein as specialists or experts in any particular area of the law. In addition, specific examples of matters outlined herein should not be construed to represent, guarantee, or predict similar results for future legal matters handled by the Firm. table of contents Firm Philosophy 2 Firm Growth/Partner Announcements 3-7 Firm Accomplishments/Firm Members in the Spotlight 8-22 Additional Client Resources 23 Community Involvement Campaign/Marketing 34 Attorneys/Personnel 35 Representative Clients 35 Areas of Practice Hutchison & Steffen, a Professional LLC a full-service, av-rated law firm peccole cole professional park west alta drive, suite 200, las vegas, nevada fax [email protected] hutchlegal.com las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix

3 HUTCHISON & STEFFEN IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE CHRISTINA M. ALEXANDER AS PARTNER FIRM GROWTH / PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS Hutchison & Steffen managing partner John T. Steffen announced that Christina M. Alexander had been named a partner with the Firm. Alexander, who joined the Firm in 2007, practices primarily in medical malpractice and represents and counsels medical providers in defense of claims of malpractice. As an attorney for medical and dental providers, Alexander works on behalf of doctors, dentists, physicians-assistants, nurses, and their related medical practices in all areas of law involving patient care. This includes claims made regarding treatment by a patient, matters before licensing boards, and the general operation of medical and dental practices. We are pleased to have Christina join our ranks as a partner, Steffen said. She has been an invaluable part of the Firm since her arrival and is highly respected in her practice of defending medical providers in medical malpractice litigation. She is a great asset for our clients, who trust her professional skills and judgment. A native Floridian, Alexander has degrees in business administration and political science from the University of West Florida. She attended Emory University School of Law, later graduating from Pepperdine University School of Law after relocating to California. After beginning her practice of law in Los Angeles, Alexander joined the national law firm of Lewis, Brisbois, Bisgaard, and Smith in Los Angeles, where she began her practice defending medical providers. Alexander is admitted to practice before all state and federal courts in Nevada and California. She has litigated matters before courts in both states, as well as before the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. CHRISTINA M. ALEXANDER H&S 3

4 HUTCHISON & STEFFEN EXPANDS LAS VEGAS OFFICE AND PRESENCE IN RENO AND SALT LAKE CITY FIRM GROWTH / PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS Over the past few years, Nevada residents have had front-row seats to view the repercussions of a troubled economy. In a state with one of the highest foreclosure and unemployment rates, Nevadans are used to hearing about failing businesses closing their doors for good. The Las Vegas Valley has been hit especially hard by the down economy, and although showing sparks of improvement, the area still has a lot of growing to do in order to reach its utmost potential. Throughout the economic downturn, the Firm has worked hard to maintain and build its client base by continuing to provide exceptional legal services, allowing the Firm to grow and prosper despite the general business climate. Hutchison & Steffen continued to grow during 2012, with eight additional attorneys joining the Firm. Each of the attorneys has a strong background, whether in school or in practice, and were hand-selected for their legal skill, knowledge of the law, and demonstration of stellar customer service and support. Hutchison & Steffen has the utmost respect for our clients and the trust they have in our team. We take pride in selecting attorneys who will put our clients first, says John T. Steffen, managing partner. This year s growth will have a continued positive impact on our Firm and our clients. Six of these attorneys are practicing in the Firm s Las Vegas office: Benjamin J. Comin is an associate in the Firm s corporate and commercial law department, practicing primarily in the areas of corporate, commercial, real estate, and technology related law. He received a Bachelor s Degree in Political Science from Brigham Young University, while working as a legislative aid in the Utah House of Representatives. Comin earned his Juris Doctor from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, where he was recognized as a Dean s Merritt Scholar. While in law school, Comin served as Managing Editor of the Entrepreneurial Business Law Journal and participated in the school s Law and Leadership Program. Since graduating from law school, Comin has been involved in business as both an advisor and owner, and has represented clients in a variety of business transactions and partnership disputes. BENJAMIN J. COMIN NANCY J. HEIMERLE Nancy J. Heimerle is an associate at the Firm, practicing primarily in business litigation and family law. She received her Bachelor s Degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. She then earned a Juris Doctor from the William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. After graduating from law school, Heimerle became a staff attorney for the Children s Attorneys Project of Clark County Legal Services, where she practiced for years in civil litigation.

5 AVA M. BESSEL Ava M. Bessel is an associate at the Firm, practicing primarily in business and commercial litigation and family law. She attended Bates College in Maine and received a Bachelor s Degree in Rhetoric, magna cum laude and with departmental honors. She then earned her Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law, where she served as articles editor for the Journal of Science and Technology Law and received a Dean s Award in Alternative Dispute Resolution. FIRM GROWTH / PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS Seth D. Oxborrow is an associate at the Firm, practicing primarily in the areas of commercial litigation, insurance defense, construction defect, and real estate. He attended Brigham Young University, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Construction Management. During his time as an undergraduate, he represented his school at national construction competitions, placing in the top three of each event. Oxborrow then pursued a Juris Doctor at the J. Ruben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University. He graduated magna cum laude and was a member of the Moot Court Team. SETH D. OXBORROW RUSSEL J. GEIST Russel J. Geist is an associate in the Firm s trust and probate litigation department, handling cases concerning will, trust, and probate disputes. Geist earned a Bachelor s Degree in Psychology from the University of Nebraska Lincoln. After moving to Las Vegas, he earned his Juris Doctor from the William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Geist continued his legal education by obtaining his Master of Laws Degree in Taxation from the Dedman School of Law at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Telia U. Williams is an associate in the litigation department, practicing primarily in business and commercial litigation, consumer rights, and trust and probate litigation. She received her Bachelor s Degree in English Literature from Yale University, and a Master s Degree in Theater Studies from Brown University. She attended Harvard Law School and earned her Juris Doctor in In law school, she served as the Articles Editor for the Harvard Negotiation Law Review. After law school, she clerked for the Honorable Jay S. Bybee of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. She is also a part-time, pro tem judge in the Small Claims Department of Las Vegas Justice Court. TELIA U. WILLIAMS H&S 5

6 TIMOTHY T. HEATON JOINS THE FIRM S SALT LAKE CITY OFFICE Timothy T. Heaton joined the Firm as an associate attorney in the Hutchison & Steffen Salt Lake City, Utah, office. He practices in multiple areas of the law, including general business litigation and criminal defense. FIRM GROWTH / PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS Tim is a great addition to the Firm. We re pleased to expand our Salt Lake City presence, and Tim s diverse experience in multiple practice areas is a great fit for our clients, explained Firm managing partner John T. Steffen. Originally from Las Vegas, Heaton received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Brigham Young University. He then earned his Juris Doctor in 2003 from Brigham Young University s J. Reuben Clark Law School, where he was a top performer in trial advocacy competitions, representing the school nationally. While there, Heaton also served as teaching assistant to Michael Goldsmith, well known for his work in criminal law. After passing the bars in Nevada and Utah, he spent all his professional time in court over the next two years for criminal and other matters. Resuming his academic pursuits, he then studied several ancient and modern languages at the University of Utah. From there, Heaton attended Harvard University where he earned a Master s Degree in Theology in 2011 while studying his ninth language. Since re-entering law practice, Heaton has represented individuals and corporate clients in litigation and negotiation for business, employment, criminal, and other matters. TIMOTHY T. HEATON

7 GLADE L. HALL JOINS THE FIRM S RENO OFFICE Glade L. Hall joined the Firm as of counsel in the Reno office. His years of experience in business and commercial litigation, eminent domain, and administrative law add considerable value to the Firm s practice in Reno. He has practiced law in Northern Nevada for more than 35 years. FIRM GROWTH / PARTNER ANNOUNCEMENTS Glade is a tremendous addition to the Firm, explained managing partner John T. Steffen. He brings unparalleled experience across a wide range of legal areas, and we welcome him to our team. Hall served as Deputy Attorney General for the Nevada Public Service Commission before entering private practice. He also served on the Board of Litigation for the Mountain States Legal Foundation. Hall has been admitted to practice in all state courts in Nevada, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals, the United States Court of Claims, and the United States Supreme Court. Hall has successfully handled numerous jury trials in his career in various Nevada district courts as well as Federal District Court. He has also argued numerous cases before the Nevada Supreme Court and the U.S. Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals. Hall received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from Brigham Young University in He then earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Washington School of Law in When away from the office, Hall enjoys spending time with his wife and grandchildren. Hall is also an avid outdoorsman. He loves fishing, running, and hiking. In his past, Hall ran marathons competitively and at one time held the course record for the St. George Marathon in the Masters division. He has also climbed Mount McKinley, Mount Aconcagua, and Mount Kilimanjaro. These days, he enjoys leisurely hikes with his grandchildren and an afternoon of fishing for cutthroat trout in Pyramid Lake. GLADE L. HALL H&S 7

8 KUMEN L. TAYLOR WINS FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT At Hutchison & Steffen, earning a win for the client is the most important measure of a job well done. The Firm s attorneys know how to win for clients by producing first-rate legal work and aggressively pursuing clients interests. The attorneys work diligently to provide not only superior service to clients, but also carefully constructed and knowledgeable case strategy and compelling legal arguments that result in best outcomes for clients. In 2012, Kumen L. Taylor, working with other Firm attorneys, exemplified exactly what a Hutchison & Steffen attorney should be. Beginning in January 2012, Taylor defended the Firm s clients in multiple personal injury cases, including three jury and one bench trial. The four trials three car accidents and one restaurant slip-and-fall could have resulted in damages ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. During the course of each trial, Taylor successfully cross-examined each plaintiff using their prior deposition testimony (sworn statements taken under oath) and their own medical treatment records. He was able to show in each case that the plaintiff gave inconsistent testimony about their injuries and/or about the accident. As an attorney, it is important that you never do something that makes you look like you did something deceptive or underhanded, Taylor explained, when asked his personal philosophy on winning jury trials. You always make sure that you are accurate in what you are saying and that you have the documentation to back it up. Juries really like the credibility of documentation, and the more credibility an attorney has, the better for the client. In Taylor s first case of the year, he defended his client against claims that the defendant failed to exercise due care while operating his vehicle. Taylor successfully cross-examined the plaintiff on her prior deposition testimony and used school records and other documents to show that the plaintiff was not being truthful. By bringing to light the plaintiff s lack of truthfulness, coupled with his client s own credible testimony in his defense, Taylor was able to defeat the plaintiff s claim, in which she sought $1.1 million in damages. Raquel M. Sorenson v. Bodi Braithwaite, Case No Next, Taylor defended a Las Vegas Applebee s chain restaurant in a slip-and-fall case that could have cost the restaurant $3.2 million. Working alongside Christian M. Orme, Taylor KUMEN L. TAYLOR

9 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT was able to attack the plaintiff s credibility based on multiple inconsistent statements concerning the cause of the accident, her alleged injuries, her educational and employment history, and her damage claims. After a hotly contested trial, the judge returned a defense verdict in favor of Taylor and Orme s client on all counts. The plaintiff was seeking $3.2 million dollars in damages. The plaintiff claimed the defendant failed to exercise due care in maintaining the restaurant in a reasonably safe condition and that this failure led to her back injuries. Taylor and Orme successfully argued over the period of two weeks that the plaintiff was not credible in her description of the accident, cause of the accident, injuries, or claims for damages. The Court further found that Taylor and Orme s client made every effort to keep its premises reasonably safe, and to warn its patrons. Kori Wiggins v. Apple Nevada, LLC, Case No. A C. CHRISTIAN M. ORME Taylor s third trial of 2012 was a personal injury claim arising out of a low-impact, rearend collision. The plaintiff claimed that she experienced significant neck injuries, lingering pain, and spinal issues. Using the plaintiff s own medical records, Taylor was able to show that the injuries the plaintiff complained of were the result of pre-existing conditions, not from the accident. Exposing the plaintiff s inconsistencies and untruthful statements, both about her injuries and concerning the severity of the accident, persuaded the jury that this was truly a low-impact, rear-end collision, that the plaintiff was not injured, and to find for the defendant. The jury awarded the plaintiff nothing on her claims. Tamara Barkdull v. Tiffany Rupe, Civil No (Ogden, Ut. 2012). Taylor s final case of the year was another case involving a low-impact, rear-end car collision. In this case, the plaintiff claimed that she suffered injuries that would require long-term and constant medical attention from an accident involving Taylor s client. Through aggressive and methodical effort, Taylor was able to discredit the plaintiff s claims of serious injury and prove to the jury using past records that her injuries, if any, were actually caused by a completely different automobile accident that occurred after this accident. The jury agreed and awarded her nothing. Michelle Stephens v. Adam Cleghorn, Case No. CV (Dept. 10, Reno, Nev. 2012). We are extremely pleased to have Kumen at the Firm, says John T. Steffen, Firm managing partner. His trial record has been impeccable, but to have won all of the trials that he has argued this year is quite impressive. He absolutely embodies the type of skilled attorney that we employ at the Firm, and look forward to seeing what he will do in the future. After the impressive year that Taylor has had in 2012, there is no time for rest in 2013, which will include a case involving damages that will be larger than all four of the cases he tried in While his trial philosophy and techniques will remain the same, he has advice for litigants that may come in handy. Don t lie about your case. I ve been trying cases for more than twenty years. Every case I ve ever tried has come down to integrity, and I go through all of their inconsistent statements. No judge or jury will reward those who do not take their oath to tell the truth seriously. H&S 9

10 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT PARTNER JAMES H. RANDALL AND ASSOCIATE JARED R. OWENS OBTAIN DEFENSE AWARD AT ARBITRATION TRIAL In Taylor v. California Plaza et al., Firm partner James H. Randall and associate Jared R. Owens obtained a defense award at arbitration. The plaintiff was a pharmaceutical sales representative who was visiting a medical provider. He slipped and fell as he was coming out of the medical office and walking down a ramp. The Firm argued that the plaintiff was not looking where he was going, was walking too abreast down the ramp, and was wearing shoes that did not have adequate traction on them. Moreover, the Firm argued that the ramp s condition was appropriate and that even if it was not, it was open and obvious to the plaintiff who had been in the area over sixty times. The plaintiff underwent surgery to his knee and claimed injury to his shoulder with medical expenses approaching $50,000. The arbitrator agreed with the Firm s position and issued an award in favor of the Firm s client and against the plaintiff. Taylor v. California Plaza et al., Case No. A C (Dept. 22, Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). JARED R. OWENS PARTNER JAMES H. RANDALL AND SHANNON R. WILSON ENFORCE SET TLEMENT AGREEMENT After the parties in a contested divorce matter agreed to a full and final settlement, one of them refused to sign. Firm partner James H. Randall and associate Shannon R. Wilson sought to enforce the agreement on behalf of its client. The Court found an enforceable agreement existed and awarded Hutchison & Steffen s client attorney s fees and costs from the day the opposing party refused to sign the agreement until the decree and agreement were filed. Consequently, Hutchison & Steffen s client was reimbursed the fees and costs incurred to enforce the settlement. James R. Moore v. Rebecca Jean Kelley Moore, Case No. D D (Dept. L, Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). SHANNON R. WILSON JAMES H. RANDALL

11 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT FIRM PARTNER JAMES H. RANDALL OBTAINS DEFENSE AWARD AT ARBITRATION James H. Randall obtained a defense award at arbitration in an action arising out of a rear-end bump that occurred in the left-hand turn lane from the Fashion Show Mall to northbound Las Vegas Boulevard. The turn arrow illuminated green and the plaintiff pulled forward as the cab driver followed. Suddenly and without warning, the plaintiff slammed on her brakes. The cab was unable to stop in time and made contact with the plaintiff s bumper. The plaintiff went on to run up her medical expenses to over $16,000. The Firm argued that the plaintiff was at fault for the accident and that she should not recover anything. The arbitrator agreed and issued an award in favor of the defendants and against the plaintiff. Thomas v. Watkins, Case No. A (Dept. 30, Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). FIRM OBTAINS DISMISSAL OF ALL CLAIMS FILED AGAINST CLIENT IN A RENO LAWSUIT SEEKING $1.5 MILLION Partner Joseph Sid Kistler and associate Jeffrey R. Hall obtained dismissal of a complaint alleging fraud and negligent misrepresentation in connection with the sale of stock in a corporation. The plaintiffs brought suit in Reno, arguing that they were fraudulently induced by the corporation s board of directors into purchasing shares of the company. More than $1.5 million in damages were sought against the Firm s client. The dispute between the parties also involved active litigation in both Chicago and Canada. Kistler and Hall moved to dismiss the complaint, arguing that the plaintiffs filed their complaint in Nevada to unnecessarily burden the defendants and duplicate the cost of litigation. The Court agreed and dismissed the complaint against the corporation. Hampson, et al. v. Live Current Media, Inc., et al., CV , Washoe County, NV. JEFFREY R. HALL ASSOCIATE JEFFREY R. HALL OBTAINS ARBITRATION AWARD IN CONTRACT DISPUTE Associate Jeffrey R. Hall obtained a substantial award for a client in a contract dispute. The Firm s client was initially sued for an alleged breach of contract by the plaintiff seeking large monetary damages. The client counter-claimed against the plaintiff also seeking damages. After a hotly contested arbitration, the arbitrator awarded the Firm s client monetary damages and dismissed the plaintiff s claims against the client. The suit was especially contentious because the plaintiff and the defendant were brothers. Bieniek v. Bieniek, Case No. A633385, Clark County. JOSEPH SID KISTLER H&S 11

12 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT PARTNER SCOT T A. FLINDERS OBTAINS COMPLETE DEFENSE VERDICT Firm partner Scott A. Flinders obtained a complete defense verdict, successfully defending the Firm s clients against the plaintiff s personal injury claim. Liability in the automobile accident case was hotly contested. The plaintiff argued he had the right of way through an intersection when the Firm s clients turned left in front of him. Flinders argued that the plaintiff failed to meet his burden of proof, and that it was just as likely that the Firm s clients turned left on a green arrow as they claimed, and that the plaintiff improperly proceeded through the intersection. A defense verdict was returned in favor of Flinders and his clients, and the plaintiff was awarded no damages. Serge Cooltschinski v. Katherine M. Derequito and Lolita D. Galang (State Court Case Number A623307) (Eighth Judicial District, NV 2010). SCOT T A. FLINDERS AND JARED R. OWENS PREVAIL FOR CLIENTS IN PROPERTY DAMAGE CASE Partner Scott A. Flinders and associate Jared R. Owens obtained a damage award on behalf of a client in Pyles v. Nguyen, et al., by successfully defeating the claims asserted against the Firm s clients and prevailed on its counterclaims against the opposing party. The Firm represented a well-known transportation company and its driver involved in an automobile accident at an intersection. Both the plaintiff s and the Firm s clients claimed that the other party ran a red light and caused the accident. The plaintiff and the driver of the transportation company claimed substantial damages for personal injuries and the transportation company claimed substantial property damage. Both Flinders and Owens argued that the plaintiff had grossly misrepresented her prior automobile accident history and that she had, in fact, been involved in multiple automobile accidents, including similar accidents at traffic signals. Moreover, Flinders and Owens argued that the plaintiff misrepresented her prior medical history and prior injuries. The arbitrator awarded the plaintiff no damages and ordered that the plaintiff compensate (1) the transportation company for its property damage, and (2) the transportation company s driver for his personal injury claims. Pyles v. Nguyen, et al., Case No. A C (Las Vegas, NV 2012). JARED R. OWENS SCOT T A. FLINDERS

13 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT JAMES H. RANDALL PARTNER SCOT T A. FLINDERS AND ASSOCIATE JARED R. OWENS OBTAIN DEFENSE AWARD AT ARBITRATION In Hawes v. Magic Touch Lawn Maintenance, et al., Firm partner Scott A. Flinders and associate Jared R. Owens obtained a defense award at arbitration. The plaintiff was an owner of a condo who slipped and fell on ice on the sidewalk within the common area of the condominium development. The Firm argued that the plaintiff failed to exercise due caution by not looking where she was going despite having seen water on the sidewalk multiple times before and having slipped on the same sidewalk previously. Moreover, the Firm argued that the plaintiff was not wearing appropriate footwear at the time of the accident and that she had a prior history of falling. The plaintiff underwent surgery on her elbow and claimed medical expenses approaching $50,000. The arbitrator agreed with the Firm s position by awarding the plaintiff no damages and issuing an award in favor of the Firm s client. Hawes v. Magic Touch Lawn Maintenance, et al., Case No. A C (Las Vegas, NV 2012). FIRM SUCCESSFULLY DEFENDS JACOB TRANSPORTATION AGAINST THIRD-PARTY COMPLAINT Firm partner James H. Randall and of counsel Erin Lee Truman successfully defended Jacob Transportation against a third-party complaint for contribution and indemnity filed by Metlife in federal court. On behalf of Jacob Transportation, the Firm filed a Motion to Dismiss for Failure to State a Claim. The motion was based on the legal argument that Metlife, an insurance carrier, had no legal basis to seek contribution and indemnity from an alleged thirdparty tortfeasor. Arguably, Metlife s only tenable legal right against Jacob Transportation and/or its driver would be for subrogation. Metlife filed its third-party complaint for contribution and indemnity after the applicable two-year statute for a subrogation action expired. The Firm was successful in having the federal action dismissed with prejudice. The Firm was also successful in obtaining a judgment against Metlife for the taxable costs. Met Life v. Jacob Transportation, Case No. 2:09-cv RCJ-RJJ (Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). JARED R. OWENS ERIN LEE TRUMAN H&S 13

14 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT HUTCHISON & STEFFEN SECURES VICTORIES FOR NEIGHBORHOOD PHARMACIES AGAINST LARGE PHARMACEUTICAL, CARDINAL HEALTH Firm partner Joseph Sid Kistler and associates Jeffrey R. Hall and Jessica S. Taylor helped local pharmacies Farmacia Del Pueblo and Well Care Pharmacy obtain injunctive relief to prevent their distributor and billion-dollar pharmaceutical giant, Cardinal Health, from precipitously terminating the shipment of pharmaceuticals. Cardinal Health sought to terminate the shipment of certain pharmaceuticals to these pharmacies without notice and without valid justification. Cardinal Health s actions would have had the effect of putting these neighborhood pharmacies out of business unless injunctive i relief was obtained. Hutchison & Steffen obtained the temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction on behalf of Pharmacia Del Pueblo from Judge Nancy Alf. Well Care Pharmacy s injunctive relief was obtained from Judge Elizabeth Gonzalez. Well Care Pharmacy II, LLC v. Cardinal Health 110, Inc. and Cardinal Health 411, Inc., Case No. A C (Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). JEFFREY R. HALL JESSICA S. TAYLOR PARTNER MARK A. HUTCHISON AND ASSOCIATE TIMOTHY R. KOVAL OBTAIN ARBITRATION TRIAL AWARD OF APPROXIMATELY $1 MILLION FOR THE FORMER MANAGER OF MIXED MARTIAL ARTS FIGHTER Firm senior partner Mark A. Hutchison and associate Timothy R. Koval obtained an arbitration award totaling approximately $1 million for the former manager of a world-renowned mixed martial arts fighter for, among other things, breach of a management agreement. The fighter initiated the arbitration, arguing that he overpaid his former manager and that he was entitled to various reimbursements. Hutchison and Koval countered that the fighter failed to pay promised commissions to his former manager and failed to reimburse her for various expenses. At trial, the arbitrator agreed that the fighter owed his former manager various commissions and reimbursable expenses and awarded the Firm s client nearly $1 million in damages, interest, costs, and fees, as well as various stock warrants and future commissions. This award far exceeded the final settlement offer that the fighter made shortly before trial. Further, the client s award far exceeded her offer of judgment, entitling her to payment from the fighter for costs, interest, and attorney s fees, which the arbitrator awarded following the trial. St-Pierre, et al. v. Strategic Leadership Services, Inc., et al., JAMS Arbitration, (Las Vegas, NV). MARK A. HUTCHISON JOSEPH SID KISTLER TIMOTHY R. KOVAL

15 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT CHRISTIAN M. ORME CHRISTIAN M. ORME RECEIVES UNANIMOUS JURY VERDICT IN HARRAH S LAS VEGAS PERSONAL INJURY MATTER Firm associate Christian M. Orme received a unanimous jury verdict in defending Harrah s Las Vegas in a recent personal injury matter. After listening to the arguments and testimony from both the plaintiff and the defendant, a jury returned a complete defense verdict in favor of the Firm s client on all counts. The plaintiff claimed that the defendant failed to exercise the requisite ordinary care and prudence to render the poker room at Harrah s reasonably safe for the visit of a person invited on his premises for business purposes. The jury members unanimously sided with Orme s arguments that Harrah s policies and procedures were reasonable and that the plaintiff s own actions were a contributing factor in the accident. Joseph Picataggio v. Harrah s Las Vegas, LLC, Case No. A C (Eighth Judicial District, NV 2012). FIRM ASSOCIATE CHRISTIAN M. ORME SUCCESSFULLY DEFENDS CLIENT IN SIGNIFICANT INJURY CASE In Montgomery v. Harrah s Imperial Palace, Corp., Christian M. Orme successfully defended the Firm s client in a claim relating to significant back and hip injuries caused when the plaintiff slipped in the elevator lobby at a local casino. The arbitrator returned a defense verdict in favor of Orme and his client. The plaintiff claimed that the defendant failed to exercise the requisite ordinary care and prudence to render the premises reasonably safe for the visit of a person invited on his premises. Orme successfully argued that the casino had no actual or constructive notice of the spill and that the plaintiff s injuries preexisted the accident. (State Court Case Number A C). CHRISTIAN M. ORME SECURES DISMISSAL OF STRICT PRODUCTS LIABILITY CASE In Callaway v. Skyjack, Inc. and Ahern Rentals, Inc., Firm associate Christian M. Orme secured dismissal of the plaintiff s cause of action for strict products liability for the Firm s commercial lessor client. Orme argued, and the district court agreed, that the Nevada Supreme Court has never extended the doctrine of strict products liability to apply to commercial lessors. Further, the district court held that the decision on whether to expand the doctrine of strict products liability to commercial lessors is a decision best made by the Nevada Supreme Court. Consequently, the cause of action for strict products liability against the Firm s commercial lessor client was dismissed. This is a critical decision for the Firm s commercial lessor client in not only this case, but could potentially have an impact in all future cases involving strict products liability and commercial lessors. (State Court Case Number A602229). H&S 15

16 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT SHANNON R. WILSON OBTAINS IMPORTANT VICTORY IN FAMILY COURT Hutchison & Steffen associate Shannon R. Wilson obtained an important victory in Family Court. The Firm s client was a foster family that had a child removed from their home after almost a year to be placed with relatives. Shannon articulately showed why the foster family has standing and why it is in the child s best interest to go back to the foster family rather than be placed with relatives. She was successful in convincing the hearing master that the child needs his own Children s Attorney Project (CAP) attorney, that the Department of Family Services has been unreasonable, and that at least temporarily the child should remain with the client. In the Matter of K.J., a minor child, Case No. J P1 (Dept. O, Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). SHANNON R. WILSON STEPHEN J. MAYFIELD AND TODD L. MOODY WIN In the matter of Guardianship of Larry Druss, Firm associate Stephen J. Mayfield appeared with Firm partner Todd L. Moody and prevailed in a case against Marva Kaywood. The case was for annulment, return of Ward s property, and appointment of proper guardian. Marva had married Larry in July 2011, two years after he had been initially diagnosed with dementia. She married him unbeknownst to his friends and family and began to immediately misappropriate his funds and assets. The court found by clear and convincing evidence that Larry had substantial diminished capacity as of 2010 and certainly lacked the understanding and contractual capacity to marry in July STEPHEN J. MAYFIELD The court s ruling was bolstered by the expert witness, Dr. Louise Sherk, who testified that the Ward did not have capacity as of the marriage date and likely was incapable of marrying as far back as early to middle of The court ruled for the annulment of the marriage and awarded a return of property in the amount of $66,008 plus attorney s fees. The court also confirmed the Firm s clients as the proper guardians and confirmed them as general guardians for the person and estate of the Ward. In the Matter of the Person and Estate of Lawrence Druss, an Adult Ward, Case No. G A (Dept. E, Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). TODD L. MOODY

17 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT MICHAEL K. WALL JOSEPH R. GANLEY, CAMI M. PERKINS, AND BENJAMIN J. COMIN OBTAIN SIGNIFICANT VICTORY FOR CORPORATE CLIENTS Firm partner Joseph R. Ganley and associates Cami M. Perkins and Benjamin J. Comin obtained a significant victory for corporate clients by securing extraordinary equitable relief in a case involving breaches of fiduciary duty, corporate governance, and intentional misrepresentation. They successfully brought an emergency motion to prevent the looting of corporate assets by the defendants, saved the corporation from dissolution, and compelled the defendants to explain their illicit conduct to an Eighth Judicial District Court judge. The favorable ruling on the motion gave the clients enough leverage to resolve the dispute quickly and prevent dire losses to the company. Munaf Virji, et al. v. Vacation Priority Rewards, et al., Case No. A (Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). BENJAMIN J. COMIN MICHAEL K. WALL, CAMI M. PERKINS, AND TANYA S. GAYLORD OBTAIN FAVORABLE ORDER FROM THE NEVADA SUPREME COURT Partner Michael K. Wall and associates Cami M. Perkins and Tanya S. Gaylord successfully obtained an order from the Nevada Supreme Court affirming Eighth Judicial District Court Judge Jesse Walsh s order granting summary judgment in favor of the Firm s clients and awarding the plaintiff nothing. The appeal involved two consolidated actions in which the plaintiff alleged breach of contract under personal guarantees secured by real property. In its eight-page Order, the Nevada Supreme Court analyzed Nevada s one action rule, which requires creditors to first foreclose on the secured property as a means to satisfy the borrowers debt, and the circumstances cu ces when borrowers can waive the protections of the one action rule. The Supreme Court s Order also delineated how the plaintiff failed to properly articulate grounds for its requested continuance at the District Court level. The Nevada Supreme Court agreed with all arguments presented on behalf of the Firm s clients and affirmed the decision of the District Court. The plaintiff asked the Supreme Court for reconsideration of its Order, which the Supreme Court rejected. Eli Applebaum IRA v. Arizona Acreage, LLC, Case No. A C (Las Vegas, Nev. 2012). CAMI M. PERKINS TANYA S. GAYLORD JOSEPH R. GANLEY H&S 17

18 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT HUTCHISON & STEFFEN AT TORNEYS NAMED AS MOUNTAIN STATES SUPER LAWYERS AND RISING STARS 2012 The Firm is pleased to announce that partners Mark A. Hutchison, John T. Steffen, Joseph R. Ganley, and James H. Randall have been named to the 2012 edition of Mountain States Super Lawyers. Hutchison and Ganley were recognized for their business litigation practice, while Randall was honored for his personal injury defense practice, and Steffen for his work in real estate matters, particularly landlord/tenant disputes. In addition, Firm partner Patricia Lee and associates Richard L. Doxey and David W. Gutke were named to the 2012 edition of Mountain States Rising Stars. Lee was recognized for her intellectual property practice, Doxey for his real estate practice, and Gutke for his business litigation practice and their respective success in Attorneys are selected using a rigorous, multiphase rating process in which peer nominations and evaluations are combined with third-party research. JOSEPH R. GANLEY PATRICIA LEE JAMES H. RANDALL RICHARD L. DOXEY DAVID W. GUTKE JOHN T. STEFFEN MARK A. HUTCHISON

19 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT MARK A. HUTCHISON AND JESSICA S. TAYLOR HONORED AS LEGAL ELITE Mark A. Hutchison and Jessica S. Taylor were selected to Nevada Business Magazine s Top 150 Southern Nevada Attorneys list. Firm co-founder and senior partner Hutchison was recognized for his work in the employment litigation, professional liability defense, trust and probate litigation, appellate litigation, and business and complex tort litigation practice areas. Taylor, an associate with the Firm since 2010, was named for her work in the commercial litigation, healthcare professionals advocacy, administrative law, insurance defense, and personal liability defense practice areas. MARK A. HUTCHISON Nevada Business Magazine employs a strict voting process to select attorneys to the Legal Elite list each year. Nominations are open to the public and attorneys are nominated by their peers in the community. Nominations are calculated, and top scorers are named to the list. FIRM PARTNER MICHAEL K. WALL REAPPOINTED FOR A SECOND TERM TO THE NEVADA SUPREME COURT S BENCH BAR COMMITTEE Michael K. Wall was recently reappointed to a second term as a member of the Nevada Supreme Court s prestigious Bench Bar Committee. The Committee provides a liaison between the Justices and prominent members of the State Bar to discuss and investigate matters of concern to the legal profession and the betterment of the law in Nevada. The Committee members review documents and proposals at the request of the Court, serve on sub-committees, and consider proposed administrative and procedural changes to the rules and processes of the Court. They meet together to discuss issues facing the courts and the state, and to provide input and opinion regarding a variety of issues, chiefly at the request and direction of the Justices. JESSICA S. TAYLOR MICHAEL K. WALL H&S 19

20 FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT AT TORNEY AT LAW MAGAZINE SPECIAL REPORT Mark A. Hutchison Partner ATTORNEY AT LAW MAGAZINE ATTORNEY OF THE MONTH Mark A. Hutchison Partner The Firm and its members were named in various lists in BUSINESS PRESS BOOK OF LISTS Local Law Firms No. 2 BUSINESS PRESS BOOK OF LISTS Business & Commercial Litigation Attorneys No. 4 BUSINESS PRESS BOOK OF LISTS Local Law Firms No. 4b BUSINESS PRESS THE LIST Law Firms No. 5 NORTHERN NEVADA BUSINESS WEEKLY Law Firms VEGAS INC Law Firms No. 4c LAS VEGAS WOMAN MAGAZINE Cami M. Perkins Associate Christina M. Alexander Partner

21 In 2012, many of the Firm s attorneys appeared or were featured in print publications, including articles and interviews. FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT Mark A. Hutchison Partnerr John T. Steffen Managing Partnerr NEVADA BUSINESS MAGAZINE LEGAL OPINIONS John T. Steffen Managing Partner Telia U. Williams Associate DESERT COMPANION TOP LAWYERS 2012 NORTHERN NEVADA BUSINESS WEEKLY BUSINESS LAW GUIDE 2012 Glade L. Hall Of Counsel James H. Randall Partner Joseph R. Ganley Partner Michael K. Wall Partner SUPER LAWYERS MOUNTAIN STATES 2012 Mark A. Hutchison Partner H&S 21

22 Meet the Neighbor Tell us a bit about the adoption cases. What s it like creating new families? FIRM ACCOMPLISHMENTS / FIRM MEMBERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT & MAGAZINES MEET THE NEIGHBOR Todd L. Moody Partner DESERT COMPANION ATTORNEY PROFILES 2012 Mark A. Hutchison Partner with Todd L. Moody By Callie Thomas T WAS A SCENE THAT COULD EASILY HAVE BEEN PLAYED OUT any law drama on TV. A young lawyer sinks Iinto the comfortable leather chair behind an immaculate desk in his newly appointed office, pleased with himself after passing the bar. Visions of the tough, compelling cases that are sure to pave the way to a brilliant legal career flash before him, just as the all knowing senior partner saunters in and gleefully dumps a banker s box full of cases onto the desk. While the bubble may have been burst for many, resident Todd Moody had a different reaction. In 1994, Moody was the young attorney that accepted the senior partner s welcome in the form of several adoption cases. He soon found himself immersed in Family Law and loving it. Nearly two decades later, Moody is still passionate about his work and has been influential in helping create new families throughout the community, along with his ongoing commitment to working with Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada, Jewish Family Services, LDS Family Services and Premier Adoption. Moody is also one of just three attorneys in southern Nevada authorized to finalize adoptions for special needs children for Clark County. His passion for kids is evident as he also relishes his appointment as an executive board member for both the Las Vegas Area Council and Western Region for Boy Scouts of America. In his spare time, he s a super sleuth of sorts, connecting the dots by studying family history through his involvement with the National Genealogical Society, which is sometimes less enthusiastically appreciated by his four children Johnson, Mary, Sam and Emilee, as well as his wife Dee. Todd Moody talks about his work, his passions and making a difference. I finalize between six and ten adoptions almost every week of the year. Nothing that I do as an attorney is more rewarding than helping people navigate the legal process and become a permanent family. I go into the courtroom with them, unopposed, and share one of the happiest moments of their lives. I really think I have one of the best jobs on earth! You have been recognized by the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys. Yes, I was named as one of only four Fellows in all of Nevada. Fellows in the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys are selected because they have met the highest ethical and competency standards. You have to be proud of your efforts. What makes you successful? I work with an entire firm of attorneys and staff who love what they do and are extremely good at it. Success is contagious. If you do a good job for someone, they share the experience with others and it snowballs. How do you feel Scouting supports our youth? I am passionate about youth having experiences that allow them to do difficult things. Young men and women who are stretched and challenged beyond what they thought they can do are more apt to meet life s later challenges head-on. It takes willing adults to stand side by side with youth, particularly those from broken homes, to give them a vision of who they are and what they can become. You also spend time studying genealogy; however, it seems it isn t a favorite pastime of your family. Frequently, when I travel, I try to find a cemetery where a relative is buried and a library or courthouse to search for vital records. My children don t always share my passion and get a little frustrated with me when I want to stop to take a photo of a headstone at a cemetery. Your research uncovered the fact that you are a descendant of someone who sailed on the Mayflower. Anything else you think others might not know about you? I have a collection of almost 400 Star Wars action figures. My kids are getting older but one day, when I have grandchildren, we ll have some fun. I can ride a unicycle and if I wasn t an attorney or professional genealogist, I d be an FBI agent. 36 September/October 2012 September/October LAS VEGAS WOMAN MAGAZINE Patricia Lee Partner Cynthia G. Milanowski Associate VEGAS INC TOP LAWYERS 2012 Todd L. Moody Partner

23 over over Partner Partner In 2012, the Firm launched a number of additional client resources, including new Firm publications (available by mail and on the Firm s Web site at hutchlegal.com) and informative, brief videos about the Firm s attorneys and their practice areas. NEW VIDEOS ON FIRM WEB SITE New practice area videos have been created and uploaded to the Firm s Web site. These videos provide visitors with information about the Firm s attorneys and multiple practice areas. The videos range from one minute to just under two minutes in length. Visit hutchlegal.com or the Firm s YouTube channel, youtube.com/hutchisonsteffenlaw. ADDITIONAL CLIENT RESOURCES FIRM LAUNCHES THE ADOPTION ADDITION The family law practice group presented the premier issue of The Adoption Addition, a periodic newsletter covering adoption topics. The content of the initial issue was written by Firm partner Todd L. Moody, who practices in a number of areas, including adoption. Moody provides a full range of adoption services to families throughout Nevada. The American Academy of Adoption Attorneys has named Moody as one of only four Fellows in all of Nevada. Fellows are selected because they have met the highest ethical and competency standards and are active practitioners with the most knowledge, skill, and experience in the field of adoption. Past issues of The Adoption Addition are available by visiting the Firm s Web site at hutchlegal.com. On the home page, click on the Client Resources tab. GLORIA STURMAN, Nevada District Court Judge, Department 26 Behind the Bench ISSUE 2 f there were an award for Social Master, Floyd Hale. Sturman stuck Butterfly of the bench, Judge with Hale for the next twenty years, I Gloria Sturman would certainly be before deciding to run for District Patricia Lee e isapart partner the front-runner. Very approachable Court Judge. Sturman does not have with Hutchison &St Steffen and down-to-earth, Judge Sturman any family in Nevada and admits that practicing primarily in was born and raised NANCY in southwestern L. ALLF, this Clark was County the hardest District part about Court being Judge, business Department and commercial 27 Colorado. After graduating from high a new resident to Nevada back in litigation, including, but not limited to, partnership/ school, Sturman moved to Tempe, the 1980 s. However, Sturman quickly shareholder disputes, Arizona, where she obtained both her made friends that she now considers Behind the Bench contract enforcement/ ISSUE 1 undergraduate degree in Business and to be just like family. defense, non-competition Real Estate and law school degree agreements, and from ASU. When discussing running for District commercial lease review f there were an award Court for Judge, Ms. Sturman seventies likens where her the father continued and litigation. In addition, Sturman came to Nevada Congeniality in 1983 after of the bench, campaign it would process to work with undercover. her fellow Her father Patricia later practices in the placement director surely for go her to our law freshman co-candidates Judge, to acted a cohesive as the FBI scrum technical advisor the areas for Patricia Lee is a partner of trademark school encouraged Nancy her to Allf. go to Judge Vegas Allf of graciously kids at a soccer the movie, match Casino, runningwhich was registration loosely function based on trying her father s to undercover collections, mechanic s business and commercial gation. Convinced despite with Hutchison & Steffen and litigation, and assist on the granted MGM Grand my request fire liti- for from an interview, practicing primarily in function to that she her would overflowing only get docket [their] and face[s] squad. out there. Incidentally, Although George Togliotti, liens/foreclosures, medical litigation, including, but have to stay here community for two to commitments. three she credits I arrived her successful father of campaign Judge Togliotti, to was claims also on billing, and family not limited to, partnership/ years at most, Sturman on a set Friday her sights afternoon some and extent was to advertising, the same squad. Sturman When asked law. how Patricia it is dedicated shareholder disputes, on Vegas. Twenty-eight greeted by years an apologetically later, emphasizes late Allf that there s was growing nothing up as like the daughter to serving of an the needs of contract enforcement/ not only more sizeable Sturman is a Nevada who had District been Court held back getting by a going out there FBI and agent, meeting Allf people jokes that she couldn t defense, non-competition client companies, but Judge who swears away that three party years for can Judge one Jackie on Glass. one and get letting a date. them know agreements, and also providing legal turn into 28 with a She blink was of an kind eye. enough who to bring you are up and that you would like commercial lease review the watch my husband guidance and services to their had vote. bought It s like All jokes the old aside, saying Allf clearly gets entrepreneurs her and litigation. In addition, and small Sturman started her for me young on Valentine s career as day goes, and every which hand strong you shake sense is 5 of votes. morality from business her parents. Parents teach by example the Firm s and program entitled Edwards Hunt, which security later check-in expand- gate, those thus of saving us who were dedicated to registration and litigation, Patricia practices in owners through an associate at the I had then absentmindedly law firm of I think left at this the strategy really paid off for the areas of trademark I inherited a rich sense of right The Legal and Solution for ed to include well my known marriage attorney and a lot of doing grief it. in one collections, mechanic s wrong from my dad. He was a Entrepreneurs lawyer & Small liens/foreclosures, medical turned complex fell litigation swoop. Special and had the strictest moral compass Businesses. claims billing, and family of anyone I ve ever seen. Everything law. Patricia is dedicated Walking into her office, you immediately take notice of the various with a range of colleagues was very black and white and Patricia defined. enjoys working to serving the needs of I think I practiced civil law because I not only more sizeable paraphernalia evidencing her zeal within her legal profession. saw things in more shades of grey. client companies, but for the Kentucky Derby and horses. Behind the Bench also providing legal Allf hails from Kentucky, where she chronicles a series guidance of and services to grew up with her one sibling, a sister, and her parents; her father, an elected role as a judge, I asked with judges her within business Turning our attention to her interviews newly Patricia entrepreneurs has had and small our owners through FBI agent working undercover for the about her take on judicial advocacy various court systems. the Firm s We program entitled hope you enjoy this The issue. Organized Crime Squad. Her family and whether she believes that there Legal Solution for was transplanted to Las Vegas in the is any room for that on the bench. Entrepreneurs & Small [email protected] Businesses hutchlegal.com Patricia enjoys working with a range of colleagues Patricia Lee within her legal profession. Behind the Bench chronicles a series of interviews Patricia has had with judges within our various court systems. We hope you enjoy this issue. [email protected] hutchlegal.com Patricia Lee FIRM LAUNCHES BEHIND THE BENCH The Firm has launched a series of newsletters featuring interviews that Firm partner Patricia Lee has had with judges within Nevada s various court systems. Each informative issue focuses on a single judge and includes professional and personal background information and questions and answers regarding working with that particular judge. Lee is proud to share this information with colleagues within the legal profession. Past issues of Behind the Bench are available by visiting the Firm s Web site at hutchlegal.com. On the home page, click on the Client Resources tab. H&S 23

24 ATTORNEYS PROUD OF THEIR 2012 PRO BONO ACCOMPLISHMENTS Seven years ago the Firm made a firm-wide commitment to increase its pro bono efforts. And when the attorneys and staff at Hutchison & Steffen decide they are going to do something, they tend to go full-steam ahead. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT The spike in pro bono efforts was initially most noticeable in While the Firm s attorneys and staff have always actively participated in the community, with attorneys providing pro bono time and effort, partner Patricia Lee was a driving force behind the enhanced pro bono efforts, Hutchison & Steffen Awarded Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year by Nevada Legal Services offering additional time and efforts to set the platform for others at the Firm. Others quickly followed, as she, along with associate Tanya S. Gaylord, were recognized at the annual awards ceremony by Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada as part of their 50 Hours or More Club. In addition, the Firm as a whole doubled its pro bono hours worked with Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada the previous year and increased their caseload from 9 to 25. For these efforts, the group honored them with the Rising Star award. The award honors a law firm that has developed a firmwide commitment to community service and a growing contribution to pro bono programs each year. These awards sparked an even stronger interest in the attorneys and staff at the Firm heading into Once the ball started rolling, the efforts only grew. There has been a groundswell of support from dozens of our attorneys, ranging from associates to partners to of counsel team members. Not only does the Firm support this community service, but the individual attorneys have significantly stepped up their efforts this year. I see only continued growth and commitment in future years, Firm senior partner Mark Hutchison said about his staff in a news release announcing the awards at the end of He was proven right in Firm Partner Patricia Lee Awarded Nevada Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Early in 2012, the Firm announced that it would be adopting a practice group through Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and became the first firm in Southern Nevada to ever formally adopt a practice group. While PATRICIA LEE

25 PRO BONO CONTINUED the Legal Aid group does have full-time attorneys on staff, they are only able to handle approximately 80 percent of the domestic violence cases. When this information was presented to the Firm, the partners decided adopting the practice group would make the most significant impact. Adopting the practice group thrilled Patricia Lee, who stated, Legal Aid is so close to my heart. It has been on my goal list to help increase my pro bono efforts as well as the Firm s. So, to be able to help in such a large way, by having every attorney with the Firm dedicating time to Legal Aid, I couldn t be more thrilled. Hutchison & Steffen Sponsors Pro-Bono Practice Area for 2012 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Continuing with her personal goals and the goals established by the Firm, Patricia Lee also became a member of Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada s first-ever Pro Bono Advisory Council. The goals for the Advisory Council are, among other things, to increase awareness of the Pro Bono Project in the legal community and beyond, expand pro bono participation among lawyers in Southern Nevada, and improve satisfaction levels and retention of all volunteers. Her significant efforts were recognized in December 2012, when Patricia was named Pro Bono Attorney of the Year at a banquet attended by more than 2,000 people, including most of the state and federal judiciary (including the entire Nevada Supreme Court), legislators, and other members of the Las Vegas community committed to serving the legal needs of the poor. Honored for her time and dedicated efforts, Patricia received a standing ovation for her outstanding work and commitment to Las Vegas and the Southern Nevada community as a whole. TANYA S. GAYLORD SHANNON R. WILSON That was just one award of many presented to the Firm and its attorneys that evening. The Firm was honored for taking the greatest number of pro bono cases in the state of Nevada. Additional awards were presented to Firm attorneys Joseph Sid Kistler, Tanya S. Gaylord, Shannon R. Wilson, and Jessica S. Taylor as members of the 100 Hour Club. This club recognizes attorneys who dedicated 100 hours or more during the year to pro bono clients through Southern Nevada Legal Aid. JOSEPH SID KISTLER JESSICA S. TAYLOR CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE H&S 25

26 PRO BONO CONTINUED COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT The Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada was not the only group recognizing Hutchison & Steffen attorneys in The Firm was recognized as Pro Bono Law Firm of the Year by Nevada Legal Services at a luncheon held in October Nevada Legal Services is a non-profit organization providing free legal services to low-income Nevadans. The luncheon was held as part of the group s National Pro Bono Celebration. As a Firm, we feel it is important to give back to our community and to provide legal services to those who otherwise simply cannot afford a lawyer. The Firm really stepped up this year, taking our commitment to a new level. To be awarded for our efforts is an honor, Mark Hutchison stated. RICHARD L. WADE TODD L. MOODY Not to be forgotten are the attorneys who gave of their time and abilities, but were not given an award. In 2011, partner Todd L. Moody participated in National Adoption Day in November, where he assisted 18 families adopt 28 children through the Clark County Department of Family Services. He did not stop there and went on to schedule an additional adoption day, not associated with the National Adoption Day, where he assisted 30 families adopt 51 children. In keeping with the theme of increased efforts for 2012, Moody again participated in the November National Adoption Day where he assisted 43 children, all designated with special needs, to join 27 families. And, in December, he worked to help place an additional 60 children on two more adoption days. Moody was joined by Firm associates Shannon R. Wilson and Richard L. Wade in the tremendous effort. Family Court is often a place of contention and heartache. Today was about putting families together, not taking them apart, Moody said during the National Adoption Day. Children and their new families came in and out of courtrooms all day long. There were tears, tissues, hugs, smiles, and photos. I can t imagine doing anything as an attorney that could be any more rewarding. I was thrilled to be a part of it. SHANNON R. WILSON Todd L. Moody, Shannon R. Wilson, and Richard L. Wade Help 43 Special Needs Children Find Homes on National Adoption Day The Firm s efforts have not stopped, or even slowed, as they move into 2013 with a renewed effort to take things one step further.

27 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT STATE SENATOR PARTNER MARK A. HUTCHISON ELECTED TO NEVADA SENATE On November 6, 2012, voters elected firm founding partner, Mark A. Hutchison, to the Nevada Senate. Hutchison represents Senate District 6 in Northwestern Las Vegas. Under Nevada law he assumed his official responsibilities and four-year term the day following the election and was officially sworn into office on February 4, Hutchison overcame a substantial voter registration deficit to prevail in a highly competitive race. Although hard fought, the race received public acclaim for its civility, professionalism, and focus on relevant issues. Hutchison ran on a platform of job creation and economic growth, education improvement, and increasing value and efficiency in government. He serves on the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Commerce, Labor, and Energy two of the most important committees in the senate. The Nevada legislature is a part-time, citizens legislature, which meets in a 120-day session every two years. PARTNER MARK A. HUTCHISON SPEAKS TO NEVADA STATE BAR CONVENTION ON U.S. SUPREME COURT S RULING ON FEDERAL HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION On the day that the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling on the federal healthcare legislation in June 2012, Mark Hutchison spoke to a packed session at the Nevada State Bar Convention in San Diego. The Nevada State Bar s Insurance and Health Law Section had previously invited Hutchison to speak at the convention. Hutchison lead Nevada s legal efforts as part of the historic 26-state constitutional challenge to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Obama in Hutchison presented the history of the legislation and the legal challenge from its beginning in the U.S. District Court of Florida to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit to the U.S. Supreme Court s decision rendered the very day of Hutchison s remarks to the State Bar. MARK A. HUTCHISON H&S 27

28 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CHRISTIAN M. ORME SPEAKS ABOUT LAW AT LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL On March 16, 2012, Christian M. Orme met with the business and personal law class at Clark High School. During the 90 minutes that Orme spent with the students, he explained different facets of the law, provided examples of legal issues, and took questions from the students. Many of these students have a desire to become a lawyer one day. What a great experience to share my thoughts on being a lawyer with the students at Clark High School, explained Orme. They were so receptive to learn about how law is such an integral part of all of our daily lives. CHRISTIAN M. ORME ASSOCIATE JACOB A. REYNOLDS INSTRUCTS FIFTH GRADERS ON THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE CONSTITUTION Firm associate Jacob A. Reynolds met with fifth grade classes at Kit Carson Elementary School as part of an effort with a not-for-profit organization. He instructed them on the significance of the Constitution, what led to the Constitution, and what it means to Americans today. JACOB A. REYNOLDS The organization Jacob volunteered for is called the Conservative Alliance for Growth run by Brenda Flank. The Alliance is concerned with educating children about the Constitution. I am always flattered to be invited to speak on the Constitution. I have been published several times on Constitutional topics in academic journals, and spoken at large events for adults on the topic. However, presenting to children is a different animal altogether, and many times the experience is much more rewarding to see their excitement at such a young age. I consider it a pleasure to help anyone come to a better appreciation of the meaning and significance of the U.S. Constitution and its unique place in history and the world. The children at Kit Carson Elementary give me hope with their enthusiasm and intelligence that we have a bright future.

29 FIRM SUPPORTS PALO VERDE HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS WITH SCHOLARSHIPS In May, Hutchison & Steffen presented its annual scholarships at The Public Education Foundation s 13th Annual Scholarship Recognition Luncheon. More than 200 Las Vegas Valley high school seniors were awarded higher education scholarships made possible by a range of corporate, private, and foundation donors. This year, the Hutchison & Steffen Athletic Awards Scholarships were presented to five deserving Palo Verde High School students Kaitlyn McOsker (cheer), Marcus Judd (wrestling), Stacie Gubler (soccer), Jordan Hart (wrestling), and Cody Schuster (baseball) each with impressive records of scholastic and athletic performance. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Hutchison & Steffen works closely with Palo Verde High School s administration to review the applications of those seeking the scholarships. We are very involved in the selection process, notes Mark A. Hutchison, Hutchison & Steffen founding partner. The scholarships are awarded to scholar-athletes who live well-rounded lives and have tried hard in the classroom, on the field, and serving members of their community. The Firm continues its support of the Summerlin community, including this fifth year of awarding scholarships to worthy L TO R: KAITLYN MCOSKER (CHEER), MARCUS JUDD (WRESTLING), STACIE GUBLER (SOCCER), JORDAN HART (WRESTLING) CODY SCHUSTER (BASEBALL), AND CARY HUTCHISON. student-athletes. When we reviewed the applications, we put a lot of emphasis on community service and individuals who have taken the time to help others through participation in community and charitable events. We believe that idleness is a problem that plagues many of our youth, and we are trying to encourage and reward those teens who have set goals and stayed busy with worthwhile endeavors, explained Hutchison. THE PUBLIC EDUCATION FOUNDATION BACKGROUND In 1991, The Public Education Foundation was established as an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit Nevada corporation. Since then, the foundation, inspired by a belief that improving our public schools was too big a task for a school district to accomplish alone, has worked tirelessly to mobilize community resources to improve public schools. The Public Education Foundation recognizes that community and business involvement is vital to school improvement. The foundation is dedicated to generating community resources and facilitating collaborations and partnerships to ensure high-quality public educational opportunities for all children. H&S 29

30 STEPHEN J. MAYFIELD RIDES FOR BIKES FOR KIDS While Stephen J. Mayfield spent much of his 2012 logging countless hours for Firm clients, he also spent a lot of time on the open road. Mayfield participated in the Master s Division of the Mt. Charleston Hill Climb. The race is a 17.5-mile bike ride, which includes 5,375-feet of vertical elevation gain. The race raised money for Bikes for Kids, a nonprofit organization that raises money to provide new bicycles to underprivileged children. In the end, Mayfield worked hard to show that whether in the courtroom or raising money for children, he was prepared to, Ready. Set. Win. STEPHEN J. MAYFIELD COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT JESSICA S. TAYLOR JESSICA S. TAYLOR VOLUNTEERS AT BOYD Firm associate Jessica S. Taylor is an active mentor volunteer with UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law s mentor program entitled First- Year Student/Attorney Mentor Program. Each mentor meets oneon-one to share his or her experience as a law school student and practicing attorney with their designated mentee in an effort to guide the student through law school and ultimately help the student settle into their legal career in an area of practice that best suits them. I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to my alma mater and share my legal experience and knowledge with the next generation of Boyd graduates, Taylor stated. HUTCHISON & STEFFEN PARTNER TODD L. MOODY INVITED TO FBI CITIZENS ACADEMY Firm partner Todd L. Moody was invited to participate in the Las Vegas Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation s Ninth Citizens Academy. For eight weeks, Moody as well as approximately 15 other prominent business, civic, and religious leaders participated in this unique opportunity. TODD L. MOODY I was so excited to be included in this wonderful opportunity, says Moody. It was very enlightening to get a glimpse into the innerworkings of the FBI, and as an active member in the community, I was pleased to be able to offer them insight on what they could do to better serve our community. The purpose of the FBI Citizens Academy is to afford community leaders an inside look at the FBI, and foster a greater understanding of the FBI s role in the community. Through this interaction, the FBI also learns more about the community they serve to foster stronger relationships and an improved understanding between the FBI and the communities it serves.

31 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT MANAGING PARTNER JOHN T. STEFFEN APPOINTED TO THE YMCA BOARD Hutchison & Steffen managing partner John T. Steffen was appointed to serve on the YMCA Southern Nevada Board of Directors. He is serving on the Y s Resource Development Committee. The YMCA is one of the largest youth-serving organizations in the United States. Steffen has dedicated countless hours to strengthening the foundations of communities in Las Vegas through programs that nurture the potential of every youth and teen and is eager to continue this work through the YMCA. HUTCHISON & STEFFEN PARTNER PATRICIA LEE APPOINTED TO LEGAL AID STEERING COMMITTEE Hutchison & Steffen partner Patricia Lee was appointed to the Legal Aid Steering Committee by District Court Judge Elizabeth Gonzales, who oversees the Committee and its efforts. The Committee supports the efforts of the Legal Aid self-help center at the district courthouse. The Committee, comprised of high-level executives, works to maintain funding, improve services, introduce new services, and monitor the data collection functions of the self-help center. JOHN T. STEFFEN PATRICIA LEE I am honored to be appointed to this Committee, Lee stated. I am a strong advocate of ensuring access to justice for everyone in our community, and this Committee coordinates legal professionals efforts in achieving that goal. I m glad to be a part of that effort. H&S 31

32 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT HUTCHISON & STEFFEN SPONSORS EAGLE BALLOON IN THE 2012 SUMMERLIN PATRIOTIC PARADE In recognition of our country s celebration of Independence Day, more than 50 of the Firm s partners, associates, and staff along with their families and friends of the Firm came together to provide an amazing display of the American Bald Eagle during the Summerlin Patriotic Parade on July 4th. This symbol of freedom has a wingspan of 33 feet, is 25 feet tall, and takes twelve balloon handlers to navigate it through the parade route. The Firm was honored to participate in this celebration of American heritage and freedom. The eagle received many cheers and much applause along the parade route. An estimated 40,000 Southern Nevada residents attended the 2012 parade. HUTCHISON & STEFFEN EXCEEDS COLLECTION GOAL AT ANNUAL BLOOD DRIVE Firm attorneys and staff, along with a generous Summerlin neighbor or two, rolled up their sleeves to make Hutchison & Steffen s annual blood drive to benefit United Blood Services a success. The goal for a successful event was set at 18 units of blood, but donors lined up to ultimately donate 26 units. United Blood Services provided the on-site collection team at Hutchison & Steffen s Las Vegas office. Again this year, we had tremendous support during Collection Day, explained managing partner John Steffen. If we hadn t run out of time, we would have exceeded the 26 units! This year, the Firm again had several first-time donors and multiple double-donors. Hutchison & Steffen will continue this community event in summer TRENT CANNON & BRITTANY BULLARD KUMEN L. TAYLOR RIK L. WADE JAMES H. RANDALL

33 COMMUNITY AND ORGANIZATION SUPPORT The Firm encourages its attorneys and staff to be active in the communities and neighborhoods in which they live and work. In 2012, some of the Firm s community commitment included supporting the following: COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT CIMARRON-MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL proud to support the las vegas area council boy scouts of america 2012 Hutchison & Steffen attorneys who know how to win a full-service, av-rated law firm peccole professional park west alta drive, suite 200 las vegas, nevada fax hutchlegal.com las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix Cynthia Milanowski, Esq., at PALO VERDE HIGH SCHOOL is a parent of students at SEAS and a proud supporter of our school 2012 HUTCHISON & STEFFEN A FULL-SERVICE, AV-RATED LAW FIRM PECCOLE PROFESSIONAL PARK WEST ALTA DRIVE, SUITE 200, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA HUTCHLEGAL.COM LAS VEGAS AREA COUNCIL BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA 2011 Hutchison & Steffen peccole professional park west alta drive, suite 200 las vegas, nevada fax hutchlegal.com las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix CYNTHIA G. MILANOWSKI SEAS H&S 33

34 Hutchison & Steffen is proud to provide a full range of legal services to businesses and individuals. Below is a sampling of our 2012 outreach to some of those audiences. When everything is on the line... READY, 2012 hutchison & steffen SET, CAMPAIGN / MARKETING 2012 hutchison & steffen and winning is the only option. las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix PECCOLE PROFESSIONAL PARK WEST ALTA DRIVE, SUITE 200 LAS VEGAS, NEVADA HUTCHLEGAL.COM the winning of hutchison steffen Since the Firm s founding, Hutchison & Steffen has been committed to diversity in general and particularly to the success and retention of women at the Firm. We are proud to introduce or reacquaint you with this group of talented attorneys, an integral part of the Firm s more than 40 attorneys and 50 support staff handling client matters. WIN. las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix PECCOLE PROFESSIONAL PARK WEST ALTA DRIVE, SUITE 200 LAS VEGAS, NEVADA HUTCHLEGAL.COM Our experienced attorneys are professionals who understand business owners needs and are ready to handle pressing legal matters, as well as proactively plan to identify and assist in mitigating potential legal risk.

35 personnel partners Mark A. Hutchison John T. Steffen James H. Randall Joseph R. Ganley Joseph Sid Kistler L. Kristopher Rath Michael K. Wall Todd L. Moody Scott A. Flinders Patricia Lee Kumen L. Taylor Christina M. Alexander of counsel Thomas L. Steffen Fredrick P. Waid Kevin J. Blair Erin L. Truman Glade L. Hall attorneys Deidre J. Call Todd W. Prall Cynthia G. Milanowski Stephen J. Mayfield Shannon R. Wilson Christian M. Orme Jeffrey R. Hall Cami M. Perkins Traci L. Cassity Michael S. Kelley Richard L. Doxey Telia U. Williams David W. Gutke Jacob A. Reynolds Nancy J. Heimerle Russel J. Geist Jessica S. Taylor Z. Kathryn Branson Tanya S. Gaylord Rik L. Wade Timothy R. Koval Jared R. Owens Benjamin J. Comin Timothy T. Heaton Ava M. Bessel Seth D. Oxborrow Amber L. Samuels representative clients ABC Cab Company Ace Cab Company Ahern Rentals, Inc. Allied World National Assurance American Family Insurance American Safety Insurance Anesthesiology Consultants, Inc. The ASNY Company, LLC Caesars Entertainment Corporation California Wholesalers Century Steel, Inc. Chicago Title, Inc. Chubb Group of Insurance Companies The Dentists Insurance Company Desert Radiologists Fidelity National Title, Inc. Ford Insurance Adjusters Harrah s Hotel & Casino INVISTA S.a.r.l. (Koch Companies) Leavitt Insurance Company Lunas Construction Medicus Insurance Melaleuca, Inc. National Credit Union Administration Nevada Capital Insurance Co. Nevada Mutual Insurance Co. Orix Capital Markets, LLC Owens Corning ProTec Equipment Resources Pueblo Del Sol Mobile Home Park Sierra Health Services, Inc. Truline National Truck Lines United Health Services, Inc. Western Cab Company Western Litigation, Inc. firm managers Janet Tolleson Firm Administrator Teresa Tokumon-Phillips Office Manager

36 AREAS OF PRACTICE Administrative Law The attorneys of Hutchison & Steffen are well-versed in environmental regulation and bring experience in addressing numerous environmental concerns. The Firm embraces federal, state, and local laws for clean air and water, hazardous and solid waste, radioactive mixed waste, radioactive waste disposal, endangered species, and the clean-up of hazardous waste sites. The Firm s attorneys have successfully solved complex environmental problems to include alleged violations of hazardous waste recycling and disposal standards, claimed infractions of the laws governing indirect discharges of water-borne pollutants and pre-treatment standards, and exoneration of clients from charges of improper storage of radioactive mixed wastes. Alternative Dispute Resolution The Firm offers a distinct alternative dispute resolution practice. The Firm provides advice and representation to clients who desire to resolve disputes in mediation, arbitration, or other alternative dispute resolution processes. The Firm s attorneys are seasoned practitioners before mediators and arbitrators. Appellate Litigation The Firm s attorneys bring to their clients an extensive history in the practice of appellate law. They have participated as counsel in cases before the United States Supreme Court, Federal Appellate Courts, and the Nevada Supreme Court. The Firm s experience in the Nevada Supreme Court is unparalleled in the state, and two of Hutchison & Steffen s attorneys offer combined experience of almost thirty years. One was with the Court for fifteen years, retiring as Chief Justice, and another was both a staff attorney and a long-time supervising staff attorney at the Court. Asset Protection & Business Planning Our attorneys understand the importance of protecting a client s assets against claims by potential creditors. The Firm s attorneys employ a variety of asset protection techniques to discourage or make impractical the seizure of assets or the collection of judgments. Hutchison & Steffen s asset protection strategies include the creation of Spendthrift Trusts, Offshore Asset Protection Trusts (OAPTs), Separate Property Trusts, retirement plans, family limited partnerships, and the gifting of property to descendants. Banking With ever increasing regulatory controls, decreased liquidity, and stricter lending requirements, the attorneys at Hutchison & Steffen provide our banking and financial institutional clients with the experienced representation on state and federal matters to ensure compliance and operate effectively even in an uncertain economy. The Firm s practice also provides transactional risk management, loan restructuring, and litigation solutions for both the borrower and financial institution. Bankruptcy & Creditor s Rights The attorneys of Hutchison & Steffen regularly serve as counsel to creditors in proceedings filed under Chapters 7, 11, and 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. With an approach both aggressive and thorough, the Firm effectively guides troubled entities through the reorganization process and a return to profitability. Hutchison & Steffen routinely handles consumer and non-consumer bankruptcy filings and related bankruptcy litigation in the bankruptcy courts of Nevada, Utah, and Colorado. Business Law & Commercial Litigation The attorneys of Hutchison & Steffen bring extensive experience to most major areas of commercial litigation. The Firm s practice handles matters of corporate, contract, intellectual property, environmental, employee relations, and product liability. Additionally, counsel is provided in preventative measures to avoid litigation. At Hutchison & Steffen, the interests of business clients are protected through such pretrial remedies as temporary restraining orders, preliminary injunctions, appointment of special masters, and receiverships. These remedies often require intense preparation so that the client s position is presented to the court in an accelerated trial format. The Firm successfully represents numerous clients each year in these types of proceedings. When cases proceed to trial, the Firm s in-depth pretrial preparation achieves effective results. Litigators at Hutchison & Steffen have experienced repeated success before juries and judges for large national companies, local companies, and individuals. Condemnation Law From pre-condemnation planning, government taking hearings and negotiation, to trial or appellate representation, the Law Firm of Hutchinson & Steffen offers extensive experience in the complex environment of eminent domain. Our attorneys have substantial experience in representing property owners in proceedings when the government attempts to seize private property for public purposes. The Firm aggressively protects clients legal rights through the condemnation process to ensure they secure just compensation. Constitutional Law Hutchison & Steffen understands that Nevadans have a long tradition of fierce independence from government intrusion and overreaching. They expect government to respect and value their individual rights and liberties guaranteed in both the U.S. and Nevada Constitutions. The Firm has an active and high-profile practice in constitutional law. The Firm s attorneys have experience in property rights and Takings Clause matters, Commerce Clause litigation, and Equal Protection and Due Process Clause cases, including denial of equal protection of the law due to race, national origin, religion, and gender. The Firm represents individuals, corporations, states, and government officials in legal challenges to and defense of federal and state legislation and pursues legal claims involving governmental misconduct. Construction Law Our construction-defect practice brings extensive experience and a solid reputation with the select group of mediators, special masters, expert witnesses, plaintiffs attorneys, developers attorneys, and subcontractors attorneys who dominate Nevada s construction-defect legal practice. The attorneys of Hutchison & Steffen have litigated and tried many construction-defect cases and possess extensive educational and hands-on experience in the construction industry, providing a broad base for representing a variety of clients in construction-defect litigation. Corporate & Commercial Law The Firm s attorneys provide clients with a broad range of legal services related to corporate transactions. These services include drafting documents for the formation and sale of business entities such as corporations, general partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and limited liability companies, as well as contracts and related documents covering many facets of business transactions. Additionally, legal services are provided to clients who wish to obtain protection of their intellectual property rights (e.g., trademarks and copyrights) under both state and federal laws. Election Law & Government Ethics Hutchison & Steffen s Election Law and Government Ethics Practice counsels clients at all levels of state and local government concerning the complex and difficult election laws and regulations that apply to candidates for public office, public officials, and their campaigns. The Firm also guides public officials as they navigate Ethics in Government laws and directives. Our legal team consists of long-time Nevadans with deep community roots. The Firm brings considerable experience with state and local government, including the former Chief Justice of the Nevada Supreme Court and former and current members of local and state boards and commissions. The Firm s attorneys represent candidates, citizens, and political parties in election contests, open meeting laws, redistricting, and election law litigation. Employment Law Hutchison & Steffen offers diverse experience in the complex environment of employment/labor law, with particular expertise in non-competition and confidentiality agreements. Offering knowledgeable advice with regard to various aspects of federal and state labor law and regulations, the Firm represents clients before administrative bodies on various employer/ employee matters such as unemployment and workers compensation claims. a full-service, av-rated law firm hutchlegal.com Family Law Hutchison & Steffen offers a complete range of legal services in the practice of family law. The Firm s attorneys are well-respected by family court judges, mediators, special masters, and practitioners for their experience, family-law knowledge, and aggressive representation of clients. The Firm represents clients in all aspects of family and domestic law, including separation and divorce proceedings, community property division and settlement, adoptions, guardianships, child custody, visitation and support, child abuse, termination of parental rights, spousal support, and domestic violence (including protective orders). Healthcare Professionals Advocacy The Law Firm of Hutchison & Steffen represents healthcare professionals (including physicians, chiropractors, dentists, and nurses) and healthcare organizations in a variety of matters to include physician contracting, litigation, medical-malpractice defense, physician licensing, and credentialing. The Firm s practice includes the formation of, and counseling to, professional entities such as corporations and partnerships. With confident counsel by Hutchison & Steffen, healthcare professionals are represented before the Board of Medical Examiners, Chiropractic Physicians Board, Board of Dental Examiners, and Office of Attorney General. Additionally, the Firm is active in mergers of medical practices, managed-care contracting, hospital contracts, and the purchase and sale of professional practices. Insurance Litigation The Law Firm of Hutchison & Steffen has an established relationship with many major insurance companies and understands how to effectively report and work with insurance representatives when their insureds are facing litigation. The Firm s attorneys have successfully represented the insureds of these companies in hundreds of challenging and varied cases. The scope of the Firm s representation includes general commercial liability, auto liability, premises liability, and professional malpractice defense. The Firm s attorneys also provide counsel to insurance companies in badfaith litigation. Landlord/Tenant The Firm s attorneys litigate on behalf of owners/ landlords in a comprehensive array of landlord/tenant issues. These matters include commercial and residential evictions related to nuisance, lease violations, abandonment, breach of contract, and non-payment of rent. The Firm has one of the largest and most active landlord/tenant practices in Nevada, and its attorneys are recognized as leaders in the field. Personal Injury The Firm offers a personal injury practice which carefully selects the representation of individuals who have suffered personal injuries or damages by motor vehicles, bad faith, wrongful death, and medical malpractice. The Firm has extensive experience in litigating major personal injury actions to successful conclusion. Professional Liability Defense Hutchison & Steffen has successfully defended numerous claims of malpractice filed against attorneys, doctors, dentists, and other professionals. Fellow professionals demand the highest degree of aggressive and competent representation, and the Firm has enjoyed tremendous success in the defense and prosecution of these cases. Real Estate Law The Firm provides a wide-range of legal assistance to clients for transactions related to the acquisition, development, and disposal of real property. The Firm also provides land-use planning, eminent domain, and zoning advice to clients. In its experienced representation of businesses and developers against defaulting lending institutions, the Firm has been highly successful. Trust & Probate Litigation As part of the Firm s fiduciary litigation practice, Hutchison & Steffen represents trustees, banks, investment professionals, and private individuals who are involved in disputes concerning estates and trusts. When appropriate, the Firm works closely with other trust and estate professionals to maximize the client s opportunities for a successful resolution of these disputes. NOTICE: THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT! 2013 HUTCHISON & STEFFEN las vegas reno salt lake city phoenix