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JUNE 2024
4315 W. Lovers Lane, Suite A, Dallas, TX 75209 | 1900 W. Illinois Avenue, Suite 101, Midland, TX 79701 www.buttonlawfirm.com | 214-888-2216 HOT-BUTTON ISSUES
A SMALL BUT MIGHTY CIRCLE How My Close-Knit Crew Keeps Me Grounded
Everyone needs a best friend they can count on. On June 8, as we mark Best Friends Day, I can’t help but think about personal friendships and the incredible relationships we foster at The Button Law Firm. The camaraderie and mutual respect we share here aren’t just byproducts of a cordial workplace; they are the foundation of our firm’s culture — a culture deeply influenced by the values my dad instilled in me. From the moment I partnered with Ashley, it was clear we shared a common thread built on friendship, compassion, and respect in the workplace. We both genuinely love what we do — trying cases, strategizing, and helping our clients navigate their toughest days. Sure, we face challenges, but our passion for our work and our commitment to our clients never wavers. It’s the kind of work environment where, as the saying goes, you never work a day in your life because you love what you do and whom you do it with. At BLF, everyone who joins our team becomes part of this core fabric. The people here aren’t just colleagues; they’re the type of friends who have your back no matter what. This makes even the most challenging conversations easier because you know, without a doubt, you’re all in it together. This deep-seated trust and loyalty define what it means to be a best friend. On Best Friends Day, I’m also reminded of how I have a small, tight- knit circle both in and out of work. I give everything I have to these people, who have become my family. Honestly, I don’t need to have a massive social circle. All I need are those few that I count as my closest friends. They’re the ones in my inner circle and the ones I can go a long time without talking to — yet when we reconnect, it’s as if no time has passed. This connection isn’t limited to conversations; it’s about actions and shared values. Take my wife, Sammy, for example. Coming home to her feels like a vacation, a break where we can enjoy the simple pleasures of Netflix binging and delicious food together. Whether we’re just
watching TV or cooking dinner, time with her and my loved ones helps me momentarily forget the stresses and responsibilities of daily life.
Friends also help us celebrate our wins and offer support during setbacks. In the hustle of our daily duties, it’s easy to lose sight of our achievements. The people in your life remind you of these victories and encourage you to savor them. And when things don’t go as planned, they help you move forward, not dwell on the failures. As I grow older, I see how these bonds evolve — much like how my relationship with my parents has transitioned over the years. They started as caregivers and guides, but now, they are my friends who I can always turn to. We share stories, reflect on the past, and discuss our lives in ways that add deeper meaning to our relationship. So, this Best Friends Day, let’s celebrate the friendships that brighten our personal lives and those that enrich our professional world. I am immensely grateful for every best friend — those who inspire, support, and keep me grounded. Here’s to the friends who make the good times better and the hard times not as bad as we imagined. –Russell Button
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2 YEARS STRONG!
JAMES COOK REFLECTS ON 2 INFLUENTIAL YEARS AT BLF
It’s been two whirlwind years since James Cook joined our team at BLF as an Operations Assistant, and what a journey it has been! This month, we’re celebrating his dedication and the vibrant spirit he brings to our office. James arrived with a background in retail management, but his connection with our founder, Russell, and his strong alignment with BLF’s values truly made him the perfect fit. Over the past two years, he has embraced and embodied the supportive culture we cherish here. Working in such a demanding field requires not just skill but a hearty dose of empathy and emotional resilience — qualities James has in spades. Child injury cases can take a heavy toll, and James understands this more than anyone. He’s become integral in ensuring our clients and team have the support they need during tough times. Whether it’s facilitating case paperwork, getting contracts signed, When a child is injured, especially in a supposedly safe environment like a daycare, the impact goes beyond physical harm. The emotional and psychological scars can be deep, not only for the child but for the entire family. Understanding these effects and knowing where to find support are crucial steps toward recovery. As part of our ongoing commitment to support families dealing with daycare injuries, we recently produced a video highlighting five common coping mechanisms that children may adopt after a traumatic event. These behaviors are often a child’s attempt to deal with pain THE INVISIBLE WOUNDS How Families Can Emotionally Recover from Daycare Incidents
or notarizing urgent documents, James handles his responsibilities with a level of care and precision that helps every case reach a resolution that brings peace to the families we serve. Reflecting on his journey so far, James shares, “There was definitely a learning curve when I started. Making
in air traffic control and a Navy veteran — has blossomed. James is now studying flying and plans to attend flight school, aiming to pilot recreationally. “Flying is liberating,” he says, “It’s about the journey more than the destination.”
To convey James’ determination and passion in a nutshell, here’s a quote he lives by: “Work until you no longer have to introduce yourself.” As we celebrate James’s two-year anniversary with us, we’re not just recognizing the work he’s done. We’re applauding his journey, his growth, and the heart he brings to our BLF family every day. Here’s to many more years of James soaring in and out of the office!
mistakes felt like the end of the world. But over this past year, I’ve learned to embrace those moments as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. I’ve gained a new sense of confidence and ownership of my role.” James has also taken this mindset outside of work, cherishing the small details of life and spending quality time with his family and two dogs. His interest in flying, inspired by his grandfather — a pioneer
5. Hypervigilance: Children sometimes become excessively wary or anxious about their safety and surroundings.
and confusion that they might not fully understand or have the words to express.
1. Regression: After an injury, it’s not uncommon for children to regress to behaviors they had outgrown, such as bedwetting, thumb-sucking, or clinging to a comfort object. This regression can signify that a child is trying to return to a time when they felt safer. 2. Avoidance: Children might avoid recalling the traumatic event or situations that remind them of the incident. This could mean a reluctance to return to the daycare or a general withdrawal from social activities. 3. Aggression: Frustration and anger can also surface, sometimes in unexpected ways. Children struggling with trauma might become more aggressive toward peers, siblings, or adults. 4. Withdrawal: A child who used to be lively and engaged may become unusually quiet and distant, pulling back from friends and family as they process their feelings internally.
They might startle easily or be constantly on alert, anticipating danger even in safe settings.
Recognizing these behaviors as coping mechanisms is the first step in helping your child heal. It’s equally important for parents and caregivers to acknowledge their own feelings of guilt, anger, or helplessness. Emotional support for the entire family is vital. For families navigating these challenging waters, know that you’re not alone. Our law firm is dedicated to more than just legal outcomes; we’re here to offer resources and support throughout your recovery journey. For more detailed information and resources, please visit our website or contact our office directly. We are committed to assisting families affected by daycare injuries to not only seek justice but also to find a path forward in healing.
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A TRAGIC FIRST DAY How Poor Daycare Supervision Led to Emergency Brain Surgery
had a fracture to the right side of his skull and a 2.9-centimeter-thick epidural hematoma, causing a 0.8-millimeter leftward midline shift of his brain.
We often share some of the most heartbreaking daycare incidents and how our team helps find a resolution. Yet, this case may just be the most distressing one to date. Not only was this baby, whom we’ll call Clayton to protect his privacy, believed to be safe with a church daycare, but the tragic incident happened on his very first day in their care. Just hours after being dropped off by his parents, Clayton experienced a head injury that would change his life. While the accident happened at 10 a.m., his parents were not called until hours later at 2:30 p.m. They were simply told that he was “projectile vomiting.” When Clayton’s mom made it to the church, she immediately noticed swelling in her son’s head. After rushing him to the emergency room, she received the astonishing news: Clayton
It was then that he had to be immediately taken to a larger children’s hospital via critical air transport for an emergency surgery. Time was of the essence, and Clayton was swiftly intubated and put under general anesthesia so doctors could perform a craniotomy. Who knows what could have happened to Clayton if the daycare staff waited any longer to notify his parents? While the surgery may have removed the hematoma and healed his fractured skull, the injury continues to cause Clayton and his family distress. Not only can Clayton no longer sleep a whole night without crying, but he also has been experiencing staring spells and signs of exotropia, where one eye turns outward. Because of his vision issues, which may impact motor skills and cognitive abilities, there’s no telling how this will affect his health in the future. Thankfully, we were able to assist this family and achieve justice and closure for them. It was evident that the daycare was responsible because Clayton wasn’t adequately supervised and his parents weren’t informed promptly after the accident. With this case resolved, the family can now concentrate on recovering from the trauma and ensuring Clayton’s ongoing well-being. It’s essential to prevent similar injuries in the future, and we’re committed to taking every necessary measure to achieve that goal.
BLF HIGHLIGHT REEL
CLIENT REVIEW
“The team at The Button Law Firm is nothing short of AMAZING! My family had a situation where my daughter was injured at her daycare with little to no explanation how. It was a very stressful time and I was not sure how to proceed forward. Luckily, I came across The Button Law Firm and the team immediately really took the initiative to stand up for my family and listen to all of our concerns and go through all the options and information we needed to know. They were very kind, professional, attentive, and empathetic towards our case, and really earned the title of confidant throughout the process. We were able to land on a settlement with the daycare and my family and I are pleased with the results and that my daughter has her future secured to have funds to pay for college or buy a home one day. Big shout out and thanks to Jacky, Rena, Cristina, and Russell, you all played a vital role in my family’s experience and were always well prepared and willing to help us with any questions or concerns.”
–William Marty
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4315 W. Lovers Lane, Suite A Dallas, Texas 75209
www.buttonlawfirm.com | 214-888-2216
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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How True Friendships Shape Our Lives
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James Celebrates 2 Years of Commitment and Community
The Psychological Impact of Injuries on Children and Their Families How a Heartbreaking Daycare Incident Led to Life-Altering Injuries
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Highlight Reel
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From Client to Attorney, Rena’s Journey of Transformation
RENA’S CELEBRATING 2 YEARS WITH BLF! BLF Celebrates Rena’s Work Anniversary and Graduation In last month’s newsletter, we shared
our clients. Rena’s firsthand experience brings an authentic empathy and understanding to her role, helping other parents navigate their legal journeys with someone who truly “gets it.” This ability to relate deeply with our clients has made Rena an indispensable part of our firm. Becoming an attorney is no small feat, especially for someone managing the dual demands of family life and a rigorous academic schedule. As she prepares for the bar exam — essentially locking herself away for a 12-week, full-time study marathon — our firm has ensured she has all the support she needs. This transition entails a myriad of responsibilities, ranging from delivering a keynote address at her graduation to managing the transfer of her current duties during her absence — all while preparing for a significant career shift following
the bar exam. Post-exam, Rena intends to indulge in a well-deserved break with her family at the beach, allowing her to reconnect and rejuvenate before returning to BLF, ready to transition into her new role as an attorney in August. Despite the hard work ahead, Rena is excited to apply her new skills to bring closure and peace to more families. She remains grateful for the unwavering support of her family and colleagues at BLF, who have been her rock through this transformative period. Rena’s journey powerfully reminds us how life’s unexpected challenges can set us on a path to fulfilling our true potential. Here at BLF, we are incredibly proud to have Rena on our team and look forward to the many ways she will continue to make a difference in the lives of our clients and their families.
Rena’s story about her path through law school and her recent graduation. This June marks another significant milestone for Rena, who is celebrating her second anniversary with our team here at BLF. Reflecting on her journey with us brings to light a remarkable story of resilience and transformation that began with a challenge that reshaped her life’s direction. Six years ago, Rena first walked through our doors, not as a team member but as a client dealing with a parent’s worst nightmare — a daycare injury case involving her child. This experience, fraught with emotional and legal challenges, ignited a passion within her that has dramatically altered her career path. Today, Rena is an integral member of our team.
Her unique perspective as a former client- turned-advocate offers immense value to
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