Blog

How Survivors Can Seek Civil Justice: Your Rights After Abuse or Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is one of the most traumatic violations a person can endure and when the abuser is someone in a position of authority, the betrayal cuts even deeper. Teachers, coaches, foster parents, officers, medical providers, supervisors, and trusted adults are supposed to protect you, not harm you. Many survivors also face another painful injustice: […]

What To Do If You Have Been Sexually Abused

Understanding Your Rights, Your Options, and Your Time Limits to File Experiencing sexual abuse is traumatic, confusing, and overwhelming. Many survivors don’t know where to turn, what steps to take, or how long they have to act. Below is step-by-step guide to help you understand your options & protect your rights: 1. Ensure Your Immediate […]

What To Do If You Experience Sexual Misconduct During a Massage

Most people book a massage hoping to relax, relieve stress, or take care of their health. A massage should be a safe and peaceful experience. But when a massage therapist crosses a boundary and makes unwanted sexual advances, it becomes a frightening and confusing situation. Many people feel shocked, embarrassed, or unsure about what to […]

The Alpha Team Recognized in the 20th Anniversary Edition of Oklahoma Super Lawyers

The Alpha Firm is proud to announce that four of our attorneys have been selected for the 20th Anniversary Edition of Oklahoma Super Lawyers, one of the most respected and trusted attorney rating systems in the United States. Each year, Super Lawyers recognizes the top 5% of attorneys in Oklahoma who demonstrate exceptional skill, professional […]

When Police Chases Go Too Far: When a Vehicle Becomes a Weapon

Attorney Don Smolen explains why most hot pursuits should never happen. Police chases are one of the most dangerous things law enforcement can do. At high speeds, a police car isn’t just a vehicle—it becomes a weapon. Attorney Don Smolen says too many pursuits start over minor crimes and end with unnecessary deaths. “The amount […]

How We Prove Excessive Force in Hot Pursuit Cases

Police chases can start in seconds and end in tragedy. Across the country, innocent people are killed or seriously injured every year during high-speed pursuits that begin over minor crimes. These incidents raise serious legal questions about when a pursuit is justified and when it becomes excessive force. Attorney Donald E. Smolen II of Smolen […]

Bad Faith Insurance: What It Is, How to Spot It, and What to Do About It.

When you buy insurance for your home, car, or business, you expect protection when life goes wrong. You pay your premiums on time, trusting your insurance company will be there when disaster strikes. But what happens when they don’t keep their promise? That’s called bad faith insurance, and it’s more common than most people realize. […]

The Truth About Insurance Companies: What Homeowners Need to Know About Roof Damage Claims

When a storm hits, the last thing you want to worry about is fighting with your insurance company. But for many Oklahoma homeowners, that’s exactly what happens after roof damage. Insurance Companies Aren’t Your Friend Insurance companies make money by paying out as little as possible. Even when your policy should cover the damage, adjusters […]

Lawyers Wanted

Join the Alpha Team. Learn from the Best. We’re building the next generation of powerhouse trial lawyers. If you’ve got the drive, Don Smolen’s got the blueprint. You’ll learn how to build cases that shake the system, connect with juries, and fight like hell for justice. This isn’t a job, it’s your shot to level […]

Tulsa Help for Homeless People

If you are homeless or need help in Tulsa, here are places you can go. Start here: Call 2-1-1Free phone line available 24/7. They can tell you where beds, food, and help are available today. Tulsa Day Center415 W. Archer St.Open every day.Offers food, showers, clothing, medical care, and case workers. Salvation Army Center of […]

John 3:16 Mission: A Legacy of Hope in Tulsa for Homeless Citizens

In the heart of Tulsa, there is a place where people without a home can find safety, a meal, and encouragement. That place is John 3:16 Mission. The Mission began in 1952 with a man named Rev. Bob Geisinger. At first, Geisinger trained to be an opera singer and even lived in New York City […]

First Amendment Rights and Civil Rights

At Smolen Law | The Alpha Firm, we know the First Amendment is more than words on parchment — it is the foundation of American freedom. When teachers, students, and citizens are silenced by government censorship or retaliation, their constitutional rights are under attack The First Amendment: Word for Word “Congress shall make no law […]

How Do Inmates Prove Prison or Detention Center Negligence?

1. Medical Records & Documentation Even in federal prison, inmates generate medical records whenever they request care, get seen by a nurse/doctor, or receive medication. If medical care was denied or delayed, those records (or the lack of them) can show what really happened. Outside hospitals (if an inmate was transferred during an emergency) also […]

FAQ: Abused Children in Custody

❓ My child is in custody. Do they still have rights? Yes. Even if your child is in a federal juvenile facility or immigration detention center, the government has a legal duty to keep them safe, healthy, and protected from harm. ❓ What kinds of neglect or abuse can lead to a claim? Some of […]

What Is the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA)?

The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) is a law that allows people to hold the United States government accountable when negligence by a federal employee causes injury, illness, or death. Normally, the government is protected by “sovereign immunity,” which means it cannot be sued like a private company or individual. The FTCA is one of […]

Spotting Red Flag Behavior at School 🚩

What’s a Red Flag? A red flag is a warning sign that something isn’t safe or fair. If something makes you feel scared, worried, or trapped, pay attention. Red Flags to Look For Adults don’t listen when you ask for help. Someone threatens you, even as a “joke.” You’re told to keep a secret that […]

How to Stop Bullying: A No-Phone Guide for Students and Parents in Oklahoma

Bullying can cause lasting harm if it’s not addressed quickly and effectively. At Smolen Law, we believe every child deserves a safe, supportive school environment. If your child has been bullied and no one is listening, then this guide will help you understand your options, protect your child, and build a strong case for action. […]

Denied Car Warranty Coverage? You’re Not Alone

In 2017, I bought my son a car. It was a Volkswagen GTI. I paid extra for a five-year extended warranty. I was told it would protect us if anything went wrong during that time. We believed we were covered. Before the five years were up, the car needed repairs. We went to use the […]

Wrongful ICE Raid on Oklahoma Family: “This Should Never Happen in America”

Attorney Don Smolen of The Alpha Firm is speaking out following a deeply disturbing ICE-led raid that resulted in the unlawful detention and humiliation of a U.S. citizen and her three daughters in northwest Oklahoma City. In April, federal agents—identified as members of ICE, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals Service stormed the family’s home […]

Reopen the Menendez Case: Why Justice Demands a Second Look

Lyle and Erik Menendez have spent more than three decades behind bars for the killing of their parents. But this story is far more complicated than the media circus made it out to be in the 1990s. What if I told you these men never got a fair trial? What if I told you we […]

Who’s Protecting Our Child Stars?: If I Were Your Attorney

We’ve all seen the headlines. Honey Boo Boo’s reality show antics. Piper Rockelle’s glam TikToks. Young faces racking up millions of followers, brand deals, and YouTube checks. But here’s the question I keep asking: Who’s protecting these kids? As a civil rights attorney, I’ve represented survivors of abuse, coercion, and systemic failures across schools, churches, […]

Legal Guide: Warning Signs of Neglect in Senior Living and What Families Can Do About It

When a loved one enters a senior living or memory care facility, families hope they’re doing the right thing, keeping them safe, supervised, and supported. But when something feels off, or worse, someone is hurt or passes away, families are often left asking: What are my rights? Is this normal… or is this neglect? Can […]

Injured in Oklahoma? Here’s How to Find the Best Personal Injury Attorney for Your Case

When life takes an unexpected turn due to an accident or injury, finding the right personal injury attorney can make all the difference. Whether you’ve been hurt in a car crash, a trucking accident, a workplace incident, or through medical negligence, choosing the best Oklahoma personal injury attorney ensures you have someone fighting for your […]

Taking It Nationwide: Why Donald Smolen Is the Attorney You Want for Federal Cases

When justice is on the line in a federal case, you need more than a local lawyer—you need someone with the experience, strategy, and strength to take on powerful institutions. Whether it’s a civil rights violation, a Federal Tort Claim, or a case involving government misconduct, Donald Smolen has earned a national reputation for fearless […]

Surgery Complications and When to Call an Attorney

We all hope surgeries go according to plan. But what happens when they don’t? Medical errors are among the leading cause of death in the United States (Johns Hopkins), and many of them are preventable. If you or a loved one has been the victim of negligence during a hospital stay, you may have felt […]

Wells, Whipple And The Election Of Remedies

The following is a discussion of recent Oklahoma Supreme Court cases addressing workers’ compensation exclusivity and intentional torts, election of remedies and the constitutionality of the Oklahoma Legislature’s limitation of workers’ compensation death benefits to spouses, children and legal guardians of employees killed in work-related incidents. Current Status Of The Parret Exception To Workers’ Compensation Exclusivity It […]

How A Texas ‘Fender Bender’ Truck Accident Turned Into A $32 Million Nuclear Jury Verdict

On a quiet September afternoon in 2013, a minor fender bender between a tractor-trailer and a pickup truck barely disrupted life in the tiny East Texas town of Ore City. Joshua Patterson was driving his pickup to a church luncheon when the vehicle was sideswiped by an FTS International Services tractor-trailer driven by Bill Acker. […]

Choosing the Right Attorney

When you need an attorney, where do you turn?  Often times, people search the internet or we hear, quite frequently, another law firm referred them or they were sharing a story with someone who sent them our way.  Listed below are three tips on how to best choose an attorney, and we’ll also talk about […]

Improper Treatment

News outlets often shine light on inmates receiving improper treatment while in jail or prison.  Men and women have cried and screamed for help,  some begging for water and being told to get it on their own, others in need of medical attention, but denied.  Why don’t officers and or nurses seem to care?  Do […]

Taxes… do I have to?!

It’s that time of year again! I, personally, get really excited about tax season, though there is some anxiety because I want to make sure I fill in all the areas, since I do them myself, correctly. For business owners, it’s probably not the most exciting time of year, but most business owners have a […]

Celebrity Lawsuits

I’m going to showcase four lawsuits involving celebrities this week. Some you may have heard, others are kind of “crazy.” So bear with me, if you will, this may be more entertaining than you think. That being said, first on the list, Rosa Parks v. Outkast. Rosa Parks’ Attorney sued Outkast | laFaceRecords stating, “You […]

Q&A

Walking into a business can be intimidating at times, especially if you’ve never been there before. Thankfully, when you walk into Smolen Law you will be greeted by a smiling, friendly face, and her name is Megan Dalton. This week our interview is focused on her. How long have you worked at Smolen Law and […]

2020 Brings New Laws

New year, new laws for several states. Today we’re going to cover three different states and their new laws. New Year’s Day brought about twenty-four new laws for the state of Texas. Homeowner’s Tax Exemption: Disabled veterans, surviving spouses of disabled veterans, Texans over the age of sixty-five and those with disabilities are eligible for […]

Lessons Learned in 2019

Even with the excitement of the holidays, I’ve made time to reflect on the lessons I learned from this year, and I want to share a few of them with you… I am more capable than I think I am. Regardless of your age, you have insecurities in some capacity. Be it personal or professional, […]

Thank you

Smolen Law opened it’s doors January 2019 with a mission to provide exceptional legal services locally, regionally, and nationally with integrity, professionalism and respect. We want your experience to be different with us. We want to ensure that you feel your needs are taken care of in a fair, effective and efficient way. You deserve […]

Strength in the Midst of the Storm

The holidays are near, next week to be precise; it’s hard to believe 2020 is swiftly around the corner. Folks are rushing to purchase last minute gifts, lights are sparkling every where you turn, or if you’re in my house, ornaments are disappearing one by one because your dog seems to think they’re chew toys. […]

Bad Faith

Every one is encouraged to have insurance. House, vehicles, boats… anything and everything that, specifically, comes with an expensive price tag. So what happens when the roof of your house is damaged due to bad weather, your vehicle is smashed in a car accident, or your summer lake vacation is ruined by a boating collision? […]

Q&A

Attorney Jack Warren joined Smolen Law in September 2018, and is as dedicated to helping his clients, as he is tenacious.  If you’ve ever met Jack, you know he does and will do everything in his power to move cases toward timely, successful resolution. This week, readers of all ages, Q&A with Jack Warren… How […]

…but it’s less than $20

My significant other hasn’t been feeling well. Despite the fact that it’s 25 degrees outside, I warmed up my vehicle and drove to the nearest Walgreen’s. I say hi to my favorite Walgreen’s associate, and to no surprise, spend too much time deciding whether to buy a 2 liter of 7up or diet Sprite. I […]

Do you have a FTCA?

Federal Tort Claims Act, also known as FTCA, is when someone is injured on government property or by an individual, such as a medical professional working for a government establishment.  But it doesn’t stop there… What Does Tort Mean? A civil wrong or wrongful act, whether intentional or accidental, from which injury occurs to another. […]

Q&A

Ally Harrell, many have seen her name or spoken to her on the phone, but what is her role at Smolen Law? Besides being one of the hardest working individuals I have ever been around- Ally ensures deadlines are met, e-mails are answered (she gets a lot of e-mails), our lawyers are assisted, and client …

Their Lights Make Me Nervous

Police Officers are hardworking individuals like the rest of us. They chose a career and receive a paycheck same as you and I. Of course, none of this negates the fact that those flashing lights are intimidating. There are heartwarming videos of Law Enforcement Officers taking time out of their day to play basketball with …

Q&A

As we all know it takes a team of individuals to run a law office. We have attorneys and paralegals in our firm, but we also employ people who are the point of contact when potential clients want to speak with someone about their case, and others who request medical records. Lindsay is who we’re …

Malfunctioning Products

You’re the maintenance person for your department. The job entails monitoring equipment, making sure the area is clean for the other employees, and overall safety for the surrounding area. Music is playing in your headphones to drown out background noise, but you’re well aware of what is happening around you. A particularly large machine is …

Are you covered?

Illness and injury are inevitable. From allergies to broken bones, and life-saving procedures, no one is immune from seeing a doctor. They’re already offering flu shots for the upcoming seasons and I’ve heard about several children, under the age of ten, diagnosed with pneumonia (it’s only October!). Then, of course, you have the unexpected shoulder […]

Online Harassment

A story about a college student being harassed online made it’s way to news outlets after the young woman, the target of the attacks, refused to remain silent. Twitter, the very popular social media platform is where the threats and name calling began. Taylor Dumpson, became an unsuspecting target of boldly expressed hate after “her historic win […]

Q&A with Laura Hamilton

I’ve been given the opportunity to ask the attorney’s at our firm professional, and personal questions. I think it’s an excellent way for former, current, and potential clients to find out a little more about the hard-working attorney’s that have, or could be working on their case some day. This week, one of our Partners, Laura […]

Still we rise

Those around to experience September 11, 2001 will never forget the impact this day had on the United States. I remember I was in band class when my teacher turned on her TV.  We watched in disbelief. The shock of such an attack sent a wave of chaos, anger, sadness, brokenness, and grief across the […]

Divorce

I don’t know any couple that’s gotten married planning to divorce.  I’ve heard stories about people marrying the love of their life, and all-of-a-sudden find out their significant other has another lover, or behind closed doors the person who was once affectionately titled “best friend” has become terribly cruel, and abusive.  There are other couples […]

Let’s Talk Opioids

Opioids are an epidemic, and the number of those addicted is rising. Unfortunately, the misuse of opioids is far too common, causing an estimated 130 deaths, in America, each day. Thankfully, as times goes on, more awareness, and attention is being brought to this worldwide heartbreak. On Monday, August 26, 2019 an Oklahoma judge ordered “Johnson & Johnson […]

Right or Wrong

I read a news article yesterday about US Customs Border Protection choosing not to vaccinate migrants.  In the article, Evelyn Stauffer, a spokeswoman for the Office of Refugee Resettlement stated, “After leaving CBP custody, children without parents are sent into the care of the US Department of Health and Human Services, where flu vaccines are distributed.”  Since […]

Goals & Dreams

What are your goals?  Dreams?  What gets your blood pumping?  What excites you? Is your life mundane or are you constantly on the move, and living as if today is your last? No successful person got anywhere sitting in the corner, twiddling their thumbs. No successful person stopped learning, stopped dreaming, or gave up when […]

Para-what?!

Have you ever wondered what a Paralegal is?  Maybe you speculated, or haven’t even cared to find out. For those unsure of what a Paralegal does (known to some as a Legal Assistant), you’re going to find out in this post. Some would say a Paralegals’ most important role is to assist their attorney with […]

A More Hopeful Future

Domestic Violence/Domestic Abuse is a horrible and heartbreaking reality for many. Not only is it an experience women and men both endure, children can also be caught in the crossfire. According to https://ncadv.org/statistics, more than 10 million women and men are victims of physical abuse by an intimate partner each year.  Let me repeat that, MORE THAN […]

You are NOT a number.

We are incredibly humbled and grateful for our clients. The ability to serve them with integrity, professionalism, and respect is our top priority. Over the years we’ve had the opportunity to meet and represent a variety of individuals, and want to share with you how a few of them feel about The Alpha Firm. “Don […]

It’s okay, we’ll get through this together.

It’s Saturday morning, the twins have soccer, you promised your mom you’ll meet for lunch with the kids, you also have a vet appointment set for the dog, and grocery shopping; can’t forget grocery shopping before dinner tonight with the neighbors.  Everything is planned out, and you’re confident it’s going to be a smooth day, […]

Lemons Anyone?

You’ve heard the saying, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. The pessimist is likely to focus on life giving them lemons. The optimist will make lemonade, and hope more lemons come their way to make a bigger batch. The realist’s focus is dealing with the lemons handed them, and then follow through with making lemonade. Whether you’re a pessimist, […]

Semi-Truck Accidents

It was Christmas Eve, my sister (we’ll call her Gina) was driving to spend the holiday with us when my parents received a gut-wrenching call; Gina was involved in an accident with a semi-truck. My mother has always been great with organized chaos, and this was one of those times where it kicked in full […]

Q&A with Donald E. Smolen, II

Donald E. Smolen, II is the Principal at Smolen Law.  He’s a Tulsa native, growing up on a ranch south of town. He attended the University of Tulsa for his undergraduate degree, and the University of Tulsa School of Law. Don, as many refer to him, is an impeccable attorney known as, “The Alpha Attorney,” […]

What is Catastrophic Tort?

Catastrophic Tort is the area of the law that deals with any accident caused by the fault of another, which results in the victim sustaining a catastrophic injury. Examples include, but are not limited to: spine, spinal cord, or brain, may also include skull or spinal fractures.  These types of injuries often require life-long care […]

Overtime and Wage Claims

You work hard to provide for yourself and your family.  Most days are great, minus some long hours here and there, and being tired once you get home; overall you have no complaints.  Your boss approaches you one day and asks you to work overtime.  Maybe someone is out sick or the work load has […]

Testimonial

“After calling two other law firms in the Tulsa area, one of them gave me the number for Attorney Don Smolen. Frustrated and discouraged, I gave his office a call, explained my situation, and was told they’d get back with me. In less than 24 hours I received a call from Don’s office asking if I’d […]

Nursing Home Neglect & Abuse

Negligence– we’ve all heard this word in some way, shape, or form. Maybe you’ve experienced negligence yourself or know someone who has. Though we cover several areas of neglect in our practice, Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse is our focus today. Let’s be honest, it’s never easy choosing to place your loved one in the […]

Maybe This Will Help…

Let’s face it, something happens to you and whether you admit it or not, you’re a little bit scared. Some people take immediate action while others don’t know what to do, leaving them feeling completely lost and alone. If you’re in the lost and alone category, the following may be helpful to begin your first steps: Know […]

Robert Bates Guilty

On April 27, 2016, justice was served. A jury found Robert Bates, the 74-year-old volunteer reserve sheriff deputy, guilty of second-degree manslaughter. The jurors recommended the maximum sentence of four years in prison. Prosecutors told jurors that Bates was criminally negligent and deserved to be sent to prison for shooting and killing an unarmed and restrained, Eric Harris. […]

Sheriff Stanley Glanz Indicted; Announces Resignation

Wednesday, September 30 was a victorious day for the citizens of Tulsa.  Justice was served. On that day, a grand jury indicted Tulsa County Sheriff Stanley Glanz on charges of mismanaging his department and failing to perform his official duties when he refused to release information, and a 2009 report during the investigation into former reserve deputy […]