The Nicholson Nugget: Oct 2024, issue 41
The Official Newsletter for the Law Office of Mark Nicholson
Welcome to Your November Nicholson Nugget
Hello!
Welcome to our latest edition of the Nicholson Nugget, where we keep you informed and inspired with all things legal. Whether you're a valued client, a potential client, or one of our cherished public supporters, we're thrilled to share our latest news with you!
In This Issue
I may be on a national TV show as a legal commentator. Another farewell, a new book, holiday cheers and Go Vote! Also, very sad news about the fire at the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation’s main office.
Office News & Achievements
This September, I had the honor of being selected as an Instructor at the Trial Practice Institute, an essential training ground for new criminal defense attorneys sponsored by the Indiana Public Defender Council. It was a privilege to help equip these budding advocates with the skills they need for successful client representation.
Courtney Benson-Kooy and I also had the pleasure of speaking at Wine and Crime Night in New Castle. Here is a snapshot from the event.
Legal Victories
Our team has been hard at work settling several significant cases:
Henry County Sheriff Case: We reached a settlement in a case involving the Henry County Sheriff. We are committed to defending against excessive force, violations of constitutional rights and discrimination
Personal Injury: We settled a car crash lawsuit.
Indiana Beach Cases: With the invaluable assistance of Enrique Flores, we've successfully settled a lawsuit against Indiana Beach, ensuring justice for our clients.
Additionally, we’ve had several criminal cases dismissed, a testament to our dedication and experience.
TV Show Prelude
While I can't reveal too much yet, I've been approached by a TV show to provide legal commentary. Keep an eye out for future updates—I’ll be sure to share more once filming begins!
Farewell & Best Wishes
In our previous edition, we celebrated Bob Hill's retirement and welcomed Ray Casanova. This time, I'm sending off my very dear friend and colleague, Courtney Benson-Kooy, who is leaving the Marion County Public Defender agency. Known affectionately as "Ebony and Ivory" during our time together due to our many successful case partnerships.
I like to think I trained her on everything that she knows. but she's learned a lot without my mentorship. She has had many jury trials, major felony cases, and the worst of the worst cases, and she is currently on a death penalty case with another good friend and excellent attorney, Deana Martin. Courtney’s moving on to Chris Eskew's Law Firm. We're incredibly proud of her achievements and wish her all the best at her new law firm.
The Nicholson Nugget of the Month
“Every man’s life ends the same way. It is only the details of how he lived and how he died that distinguish one man from another."
By: Ernest Hemingway
Holiday Cheer
We hope you had a spooky yet safe Halloween. Stay tuned for more festive updates as the holiday season approaches! Thanksgiving and Christmas! YES!
A New Book:
I co-authored a book, From Sole to Sold: The Business of Selling Feet Pictures. It rapidly climbed to the top of the charts on Amazon. It's a practical guide for those looking to start a successful foot modeling business. We have tips, privacy protection advice, and personal experiences from the co-author, Jill Hills, as well as an exclusive interview with Nixie Ray. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in the industry.
This book has given me the confidence to finally write my memoir. I plan to have it ready by October of 2025.
Fire at HVAF: Support Our Heroes
The recent fire at the main office of the Hoosier Veterans Assistance Foundation/Helping Veterans and Families (HVAF) in Indianapolis is a tragedy that goes beyond mere brick and mortar. It's a reminder that even the institutions dedicated to safeguarding our nation's heroes are vulnerable and in need of support. This is a cause that’s close to my heart because I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of HVAF.
When I was homeless, HVAF was the lifeline that pulled me from the streets and into one of their transitional housing units on Arlington Avenue. It was more than just shelter; it was hope. Their dedication and resources helped me rebuild my life. Now, it’s our turn to give back and support this organization that has done so much for countless veterans like me.
The fire, which began in the attic of the facility and was ruled accidental by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) alongside the Indianapolis Fire Department, displaced around 48 veterans. Fortunately, according to Emma Hildebrand, HVAF's CEO, all veterans have been accounted for and are now temporarily housed across three hotels in the city. However, this is just a stopgap measure. The reality is, finding permanent housing for these veterans could take several months, and repairs to the damaged property may span over a year.
This incident highlights an urgent need for communal effort. HVAF is currently in dire need of donations—food, clothing, hygiene items, transportation, and mental health resources are at the top of their list. These essentials will ensure that displaced veterans can continue living with dignity as they transition to new accommodations.
But there’s some good news for those who wish to help. Thanks to organizations like HVAF, the number of veterans experiencing homelessness in Indianapolis has been trending downwards in recent years. This progress is a testament to the effectiveness of the support provided by such foundations. However, continued support is crucial to maintain and expand this positive trend.
Critics may argue that there are other pressing issues that also require attention and funds, but supporting our veterans should never be seen as a lesser priority. These individuals have served our country with valor and sacrifice, and it's our duty to ensure they have the support they need when they return home.
I urge you to consider donating to the HVAF today. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of veterans who have given so much for our freedom. Together, we can help HVAF rebuild and continue its mission to eliminate veteran homelessness in Indianapolis.
To donate, please visit HVAF's donation page. Step up, lend a hand, and help our heroes get back on their feet. They were there for us; now it’s our turn to be there for them.
Call to Action
Don't forget to vote! By the time the next issue comes out, either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris will be the president. I'm not ashamed to say that I’m voting for Kamala Harris. I hope that she wins. I could go on and on about the reasons why. But I will save that for a different post.
Thank you for being part of our community. Feel free to reach out with any inquiries or legal needs—we're here to help.
Warm regards,
Mark Nicholson