Issuu

SUMMER 2026

The Persistent

SHADOW The Devastating Impact of Human Trafficking in Las Vegas

Benny Binion The Legend Who Raised the Stakes

To Protect and To Serve Policing in the Digital Age

EXPERT NEUROLOGIST NOW IN LAS VEGAS

NEUROLOGIST OWNED & OPERATED Dr. Jonathan Gomez serves as CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER forSynapse TBI and is widely recognized for his role as a ringside physician for the UFC. Dr. Gomez speaks Spanish and English, and will be seeing patients in the local Las Vegas market in person for evaluations for TBI.

In-Person Evaluations

Treatment Plans for Rehab

Objective Diagnostic Testing

Life Care Plans

Follow Up Evaluations

Daubert Challenged

TBI Blood Testing

Litigation Ready

1 4 8 5 E F l a m i n g o R d , L a s Ve g a s , N V 8 9 1 1 9 - 5 2 5 6 | 7 0 2 - 5 8 2 - 7 9 6 7

EDITOR IN CHIEF PRESTON P. REZAEE, ESQ.

ADVERTISING INFO@VEGASLEGALMAGAZINE.COM CALL 702-222-3476

PUBLISHER TYLER MORGAN, ESQ.

CONTRIBUTORS MARK FIERRO DON LOGAY TYLER MORGAN, ESQ. PRESTON REZAEE, ESQ. STEVE GRAMMAS ROBERT P. DICKERSON, ESQ. JOE BROWN, ESQ. GEORGE J. CHANOS MATTHEW-LORÉN LINDSEY DEAN MARTIN PRITIKIN

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS JEFFRY COLLINS, ESQ. EXECUTIVE PRODUCER EVAN DEIRO

COVER STORY: THE PERSISTENT SHADOW The Devastating Impact of Human Trafficking in Las Vegas

TO PROTECT AND TO SERVE

A SEAT AT THE TABLE WITH JOE BROWN

LIFESTYLE 68 | BENNY BINION 78 | UVOLUTION 82 | BAR REVIEW 86 | WINE TRENDS 2026

PLUS 90 | VLM ELECTION GUIDE 94 | VLM CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHTS

BENNY BINION

LETTER FROM

THE EDITOR

Dear Readers, As the desert blooms in Summer 2026, we are pleased to present the latest issue of Vegas Legal Magazine. In a city defined by energy, innovation, and constant evolution, the legal profession continues to play a vital role in safeguarding justice and shaping our community’s future. Our cover story confronts one of Las Vegas’s most urgent challenges: human trafficking. This powerful report examines the scope of the crisis in Southern Nevada, the networks exploiting vulnerable individuals, and the legal tools available to combat it. We highlight prevention efforts, survivor support programs, and the critical role attorneys play in prosecution and policy reform. We hope this story raises awareness and inspires meaningful action. We are thrilled to introduce a new column by veteran Nevada attorney Joe W. Brown, Esq., titled “A Seat at the Table with Joe Brown.” Practicing law in Nevada since 1969, Joe draws on his 40-year friendship with Robert “Bob” Maheu, Howard Hughes’ legendary Chief of Nevada Operations. Continuing the Maheu tradition of thoughtful discourse, Joe’s First Wednesday Luncheons bring community leaders together. His inaugural column spotlights the March 4, 2026 luncheon focused on preventing the sexual exploitation of children, featuring a distinguished panel including Lena Walther of Awareness Is Prevention, Prosecutor Peter Thunell, LVMPD Officer Esmeralda Boveda, and moderator Councilwoman Dr. Monica Larson. In this issue, we also present an exclusive interview with incumbent Judge Kishner. In a candid conversation, she reflects on the state of our judicial system, challenges facing Clark County courts, judicial independence, and her vision for fair and efficient justice in Southern Nevada. We hope you find this issue both enlightening and practical. Thank you for your continued support.

Preston P. Rezaee, Esq. 6

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To learn more about Purdue Global Law School or to apply: Call 877-757-8189 or visit PurdueGlobalLawSchool.edu. Purdue Global Law School is part of Purdue Global, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLCommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The law school is accredited by the Committee of Bar Examiners of the State Bar of California. Due to its accreditation by the Committee of Bar Examiners, Purdue Global Law School has the authority to offer a Juris Doctor degree that qualifies recipients to take the California Bar Examination and obtain admission to the practice of law in California. * Purdue Global Law School does not guarantee employment or career advancement. † Study at, or graduation from, this law school does not qualify graduates to take the bar examination or to satisfy the requirements for admission to practice in jurisdictions other than California, Connecticut, or — with an approved petition — Indiana. Purdue Global Law School cannot guarantee that any individual’s Indiana waiver petition will be granted. Graduates who earned their JD degree in 2024 or later are eligible upon graduation to sit for the Connecticut ’s Bar Exam through 2027, at which time Purdue Global Law School will seek renewal. After receiving a law license in California, Connecticut, or Indiana, graduates may also apply to sit for the bar exam in North Carolina and Wisconsin. There may be additional eligibility requirements to be admitted in California or any other state. Refer to Purdue Global’s State Licensure and Certifications page for state-specific requirements. ‡ Except as provided in rule 4.30 of the Admissions Rules (Legal education in a foreign state or country), completion of a professional law degree program at this law school other than for the Juris Doctor degree does not qualify a student to take the California Bar Examination or satisfy the requirements for admission to practice law in California. It may not qualify a student to take the bar examination or to satisfy requirements for admission to the practice of law in any other jurisdiction. A student intending to seek admission to practice law should contact the admitting authority in the jurisdictions where the student intends to qualify to sit for the bar examination or

LETTER FROM

THE PUBLISHER

Dear Readers, Las Vegas has always been more than bright lights, major events, new resorts, and an ever-changing skyline. Beneath the modern city is a history shaped by risk-takers, entrepreneurs, entertainers, developers, visionaries, and larger-than-life personalities who helped turn a desert town into a world-famous city. At Vegas Legal Magazine, we believe those stories matter. It is easy to focus only on what is new: the next resort, arena, restaurant, sports franchise, business development, or legal issue. But the city’s future is better understood when we remember the past. Las Vegas was built by people willing to take chances and see opportunity where others saw desert. That is why we are proud to feature stories that explore Las Vegas history and the individuals who helped define it. In this issue, Benny Binion is a perfect example: colorful, controversial, ambitious, bold, and impossible to ignore. His influence remains visible downtown through Binion’s Horseshoe, Fremont Street, the World Series of Poker, and the National Finals Rodeo’s connection to Las Vegas. He understood that people came here not only to gamble, but to have an experience. History should not be reduced to nostalgia. Some who helped build this city were innovators, some were outlaws, and many were both. Studying them honestly helps us understand how Las Vegas developed its identity, economy, culture, and reputation. For those of us who live and work here, this history is instructive. Las Vegas continues to reward creativity, resilience, reinvention, and calculated risk. As publisher, I am proud that Vegas Legal Magazine can preserve and elevate these stories. It is more than a publication about law. It is about Las Vegas: its leaders, institutions, challenges, opportunities, and evolution. Benny Binion’s story is one chapter in a larger Las Vegas narrative. Whether viewed as a businessman, gambler, showman, controversial figure, or legend, he helped shape this city. That is why stories like his deserve to be told. Warm Regards,

Tyler Morgan, Esq. 8

LAW

“The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom. For in all the states of created beings capable of law, where there is no law, there is no freedom.” – John Locke

Meet the Incumbent Judge Joanna Kishner

udge Joanna Kishner of Department 31 of the Eighth Judicial District Court has spent her life deeply connected to Las Vegas. Born and raised in the city, she grew up during a time when Las Vegas combined the excitement of the entertainment capital of the world with the close knit feeling of a small town. From attending Clark High School to eventually returning home to build her legal career, Judge Kishner’s path has been shaped by a strong commitment to public service and the community that helped raise her. Influenced by mentors, family values centered on service above self, and a lifelong respect for the justice system, she has served the people of Clark County on the bench for more than fifteen years. In this edition of Meet the Incumbent, Judge Kishner reflects on her childhood in Las Vegas, the experiences that inspired her legal career, and what it means to serve as a judge in the same community where she grew up and raised her own family. Vegas Legal Magazine (VLM): You were born and raised in Las Vegas. What was the city like during your childhood? Judge Joanna Kishner (JJK): Las Vegas was the entertainment capital of the world but it had a small town feel. Our community was one of paradoxes. It was not unusual to go to school or know someone whose family worked for the FBI and to also know someone, who I found out years later, had a relative who may have been under investigation. I would see people you read about and saw in movies and also met people who were part of working families. At the time, it did not seem unusual to have Liberace come over and say hello when we were eating at his restaurant, have Joan Rivers sit near me at an event, or have friends whose mothers were show girls. It also was not unusual for school age children to see the shows on the Strip. For example, in high school sometimes we would go to a show after a school dance. One time we went to see Wayne Newton and he did so many encores that I missed curfew. I was about to be grounded so my friend reached out to his father who worked in the showroom and his father explained to my parents that Wayne Newton had performed past his scheduled time. As a result, I was not grounded. At the time, I did not appreciate

how unique my experiences were but now I do. VLM: What are some of your earliest memories of growing up here? JJK: One of my earliest memories was how individuals who did not live in Las Vegas viewed Las Vegas very differently than I did. There were several occasions when I was young when I would be at camp, at an outof-town school function, or on vacation, when someone would ask me where I was from. I would respond Las Vegas. On more than one occasion, the response would be “I didn’t know people actually lived there” or “I didn’t know they have schools there as I thought there were only casinos.” I would generally try and explain that we were a typical community nestled in the desert with beautiful mountains. I will acknowledge, however, that there may have been an occasion when a person was persistent in her misconception, that I may have joked that our teachers didn’t teach us to count to ten but, instead, we were taught to count to twenty-one by playing blackjack. VLM: How has Las Vegas changed the most since you were young? JJK: Due to the increase in population and the changing views on gaming, there are now more sports and cultural/arts activities than there were when I was growing up. As I am sports enthusiast and a supporter of the arts, I enjoy the opportunity to go to these events locally. There is also a positive derivative effect as many of these companies participate in charitable organizations and/ or provide support to our schools. The change in population has also resulted in an increase in crime. The increase in crime is an ongoing challenge we address in the court system. VLM: Did growing up in Las Vegas shape your perspective on justice or community in a unique way? JJK: Yes, it shaped my perspective on both. My father was very active in community service including Rotary. Rotary’s motto is “Service above self”. I was raised on that motto and I continue to follow that every day. It impacts my view both on community and justice. As I explained further in my response to another question, 13

I wanted to be a judge since I was a youth as I was taught how important the justice system impacts everyone in our community on a daily basis. VLM: Were there particular neighborhoods, schools, or community spaces that influenced you? JJK: The neighborhood I grew up in is now called McNeil. I was fortunate that we felt safe playing throughout our neighborhood as the neighbors all looked out for everyone’s children not just their own. My neighbors showed me the importance of being part of a community. The neighborhood I grew up in also gave me the opportunity to attend quality public schools such as West Charleston (now Howard Wasden) Elementary, Matt Kelley Sixth Grade Center, Hyde Park Junior High and Clark High School. By attending those schools, I not only made lifelong friends, but I was fortunate to have outstanding teachers who instilled in me a love of learning and sense of how important our community is. Over three decades later, I was honored to be asked to be a part of Clark High and ATEC’s parent/ community boards which allowed me to help students pursue their own goals. VLM: Did you always imagine building your career here, or did you ever consider leaving? JJK: After graduating Clark High School, I knew I wanted to expand my knowledge and experience elsewhere so that I had a broad based background. I also always planned to return to Las Vegas as I knew early on that I wanted to do public service in my hometown. VLM: How does serving the community you grew up in feel different from serving elsewhere? JJK: It is the reason I became the Judge in Department 31. In 2010, the Court expanded from twenty-five departments to thirty-two. I chose to seek to be the Judge in Department 31, because it was symbolic of Nevada Day which is October 31st. For me, I believed that I had the breadth and depth of experience based on my then over twenty years of being an attorney combined with being a Justice of the Peace Pro Tem, Arbitrator, and Small Claims Referee. I felt I also had shown a strong commitment to the community through my pro bono work and community service. By selecting to serve in Department 31, it brought together all of those factors as well as my desire to serve the 14

community where I grew up and raised my children. I am reminded every day for the past fifteen years of how important it is to serve our Nevada community as I welcome individuals to Department 31. VLM: Do you ever run into people from your childhood in your courtroom? JJK: Yes, in many contexts. There have been several occasions where a prospective juror is someone I went to school with, volunteered in the community or knew my parents. More recently, as my children are in their twenties, I am now seeing some of their friends not only as jurors, but also as attorneys. To ensure transparency, I do various things. First, I review the juror list and look at the jurors who come into Court. I then disclose to the attorneys/litigants if I know anyone. Second, in my introductory remarks, I state that I was born and raised in Clark County and ask if any prospective juror knows me. It is a humbling experience when someone I knew when I was a child or who I knew as a teacher comes into Court and says an unprompted complementary comment about me. Similarly, there was a chuckle in the Courtroom when one time a person said they knew me before I could walk. It is also enjoyable to see the kids that I made snacks for or attended my children’s birthdays, now appear as part of a legal team or jurors. VLM: What do longtime Las Vegas residents understand about this community that newcomers might not? JJK: We are fortunate to be a melting pot of longtime residents and newer residents; each of which bring their own experiences and perspectives. Those who have lived in the Clark County area for a long time understand that we have a unique sense of community that is often found in smaller towns. Longtime residents do not seem surprised that this sense of community has resulted in several of us seeking to serve the public as Judges whereas individuals who have moved to our community more recently seem surprised that many of us are or were judges. To illustrate my point, I graduated Clark High School in 1982. I went to high school with the late Judge Valerie Adair (1981), former Justice and Judge Abbi Silver (1982), Judge Kathleen Delaney (1983), and Judge Denise Gentile (1983). VLM: What does it mean to you personally to give back to the city that raised you? JJK: Personally, I am honored and humbled that our community has provided me the opportunity over the last fifteen years to serve the community where I

was born and raised and where I raised my children. Whenever I volunteer or speak at schools and to groups, I try and express my appreciation that I had so many mentors during my youth which helped me develop the breadth and depth of expertise that I use now to serve our community.

my time pro bono including being an advocate for children through the Children’s Attorney Project. In order to prepare myself to transition to be a full time Judge, I was a Justice of the Peace Pro Tem, Small Claims Referee, and Arbitrator. I also continued to hone my mediation skills.

VLM: Can you tell us a little about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in law?

As I discussed above, when Department 31 was created, I felt my over twenty years of experience, combined with my dedication to the community, meant it was the right time to pursue my dream of serving our community as a Judge. I have served as the only Judge in Department 31 since its inception.

JJK: As I mentioned, I was born and raised in Las Vegas where service above self was put into action every day. I was fortunate to have excellent teachers who inspired me as well. I believe that you need to give back and work hard which resulted in my being a Valedictorian, Student Body Treasurer, Yearbook Editor, Spanish Cub President, and having many other roles in high school. I then went to Claremont McKenna College where I double majored in Political Science and Psychology Magna Cum Laude while working with Autistic children. I worked at a local law firm, Lionel Sawyer and Collins, during a summer and a Los Angeles firm another summer. I chose two majors as I felt they would provide me a good foundation for a career in law as well as allow me work with special needs children. Afterwards, I went to UCLA School of Law. At UCLA, I continued my community work through the Homeless Legal Project while continuing to strengthen my experience by externing for a full semester for a federal Judge, working as the Managing Editor of the Federal Communications Law Journal, participating in Moot Court, and clerking for two national/international law firms. After law school, although I knew I wanted to return to Las Vegas in the future, and wanted to be a Judge, I knew I needed to have a strong breadth and depth of experience. I accepted the job offer that not only would allow me to develop my skills, but also could provide me the opportunity to work on Los Angeles Dodger’s matters and potentially work on some matters in Nevada. I was then offered the opportunity to expand my experience to be an in-house Senior Counsel at Warner Bros. I worked at Warner Bros. until I had my son. Once I started my own family, I knew I wanted to raise my children where I was raised. I returned home to Las Vegas and accepted a position at an international law firm. In addition to representing clients, I volunteered

VLM: Who or what had the biggest influence on your decision to become a judge? JJK: My biggest influence was the way I was brought up. While my father was a constant positive influence, he also introduced me to community leaders who were also lawyers and/or Judges such the late Judge Lloyd George, the late Samuel Lionel, and former Justice Miriam Shearing. Each of these individuals gave back to the community in a variety of ways which inspired me to be a Judge. VLM: Looking back, what experiences shaped your approach to the bench? JJK: Throughout my life, I have worked with a very broad cross-section of individuals with all levels of capabilities. I have counseled, advocated, and represented a wide variety of clients with different needs throughout the world. I believe that these experiences have influenced me to be very wellprepared and not merely state my ruling. Instead, I ask questions and explain my rulings. My goal is that each litigant and attorney will understand that I read and listened to everything, that he/she/they were treated fairly and impartially, and that the ruling was based on the law. Regardless, if I have a pro se litigant, a newer attorney, or a very experienced attorney, I want each individual to understand that whatever the ruling is, it was fully and carefully considered. VLM: Outside of the courtroom, what are some of your personal interests or hobbies? JJK: I enjoy spending time with my adult children doing things we all enjoy. For example, my son and I will travel to areas where we can visit sites but also see the Golden Knights, Dodgers or Lakers play. My daughter is more interested in art and culture, so we go to art and cultural events. 15

VLM: What do you enjoy most about serving as a judge? JJK: Every day I learn and have the opportunity to help people and companies resolve issues. VLM: What is the most challenging aspect of the role that people might not realize? JJK: The most challenging aspect is that some individuals take a ruling personally rather than acknowledging that each decision needs to be based on the law. VLM: How has your perspective on justice evolved since you first took the bench? JJK: I realize every day that the law evolves and changes and I adapt with each new change by researching, preparing and listening to those who appear. While the legislature may change or modify a law, or the appellate courts may make new precedent, my perspective that justice needs to be timely, fair, and impartial has not changed. VLM: What qualities do you most appreciate in attorneys who appear before you? JJK: I appreciate when attorneys are prepared, show professional courtesy, and demonstrate that they care about their clients and the law. 16

VLM: What are some common mistakes you wish attorneys would avoid in your courtroom? JJK: We have an excellent bar with excellent lawyers. At the same time, everyone makes mistakes. Many of the mistakes can be minimized if an attorney is prepared and reads the rules and case law applicable to his/her matter. To not show up for court, or to come unprepared, negatively impacts the attorney’s client. It can also negatively impact others who are waiting to have their matter(s) heard. VLM: How do you think the legal community in Las Vegas can better support one another? JJK: There are a several ways the legal community can support one another. One way is if an attorney realizes that another attorney is having a personal difficulty or health issues, they can accommodate those needs as I do from the judicial side. Sometimes referring the person to Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, or the free counseling program through the State Bar, can help someone in need. Other times, listening to the person so that he/she knows someone cares can be a solution. If the issue is lack of understanding or being new to the profession, then offering mentorship or guidance can help. There are numerous continuing education programs that are available for free or at minimal cost. Suggesting some specific courses can help

support as well.

the next decade?

VLM: What advice would you give to young or newly licensed attorneys starting out in the profession?

JJK: I see the role of judges evolving to meet the community needs. One way to do that is through effectively and efficiently managing our dockets and participating in settlement conferences to help parties resolve their issues.

JJK: I would suggest that newly-licensed attorneys find a mentor. If the newly-licensed attorney is in a firm, then reaching out to someone more experienced in their field would assist them. They should also reach out to support staff as oftentimes the support staff are very familiar with procedures and can offer valuable insights. I would also advise a newly admitted attorney to observe court as he/she/they can easily connect via Zoom to almost any hearing or trial and observe not only other attorneys, but the Judge so that they gain knowledge, understanding, confidence, and be comfortable in court. Observing is also important in developing a style of presentation as you can observe how many different individuals address an issue. Additionally, all attorneys should be familiar with the rules that apply to their case as that is going to guide each matter. The rules apply to everyone, equally, so having an understanding of both procedural and substantive rules will not only allow the lawyer to feel more comfortable in court, but it will also help him/ her/they be more successful. As a final pointer, I would suggest that the person be prepared rather than just try and wing it. Successful attorneys are prepared and explain things in a simple manner that leads the Judge or jury to rule in their favor. VLM: Looking back at your own career, what do you wish you knew as a young lawyer? JJK: I wish I had a crystal ball that works. While I have enjoyed the challenges I have undergone since I graduated law school and passed my first bar in 1989, I wish I knew how much I would enjoy being a lawyer and Judge. VLM: What would you like to see more of from your fellow judges across Nevada? JJK: As the former president of the Nevada District Judges Association, I would have had the opportunity to work with Judges throughout the state. I would like it if we could collaborate more so that we can better appreciate what Judges in each District encounter and learn from each other.

VLM: What do you hope your legacy will be when people look back on your judicial career? JJK: I would hope that my legacy reflects that I truly care about justice and access to Justice so that everyone’s voice is heard fairly and impartially. In addition to the numerous hours I spend ensuring that occurs in Department 31, I also serve on the statewide Access to Justice Commission, I serve on Legal Aid of Southern Nevada’s Pro Bono Advisory Committee, I am a Trustee of the Law Library and am a member of the Standing Committee on Judicial Ethics. In each of these roles as well as my other legal and community activities, I try and promote justice and access to our courts for everyone. VLM: What keeps you grounded in a profession that can be demanding and high-pressure? JJK: My family and my friends are part of my village of support. VLM: What do you do to decompress from the pressures of the bench? Personal Hobbies? JJK: In addition to spending time with my family and volunteering, I am part of a book club and a mahjong group. I learned to play Pickleball and do yoga. VLM: What do you enjoy most about living and working in Las Vegas? JJK: I enjoy the people. I have friends that I grew up with which makes living and working here enjoyable. At the same time, Las Vegas is such a welcoming community, I continue to make new friends at who are now my friends and continue to become friends with new people I meet in all types of situations. VLM: Your top three restaurants and bars? JJK: I enjoy trying new restaurants as well as long time restaurants. I have recently enjoyed meals at Sushi Fever, Anima by Edo, and Golden Steer.

VLM: How do you see the role of judges evolving over 17

Vegas Icon

Judge Donald Mosley (Ret.) By Mark Fierro

f they made a movie about Retired District Court Judge Don Mosley they would have to get Clint Eastwood to play the part, think long tall cowboy, but with Mosley being a six-footfive-and-a-quarter-inch man, Eastwood would have to grow an inch or two. Mosley started his judicial career as the youngest man ever elected to the Clark County District Court bench. By the time he retired, he was the oldest, making him the longest-serving judge in the history of the court. Mosley presided over some tough years, tough cases. All of the B.S. about “Las Vegas was a better city when the mob ran the place” aside, Las Vegas was the city with the most violent crime in the nation year after year. Wise guys big and small, contract killings, street crime, Marielitos: street criminals let loose on America by Fidel Castro killed with guns, knives and little reason. Tough times, and then-District Court Judge Don “The Hanging Judge” Mosley didn’t take any crap off of anyone. A point of disclosure: Mosley is a good friend of the author. I have always said he gave more people the death penalty than the rest of the court combined and at least half of the condemned were sentenced to death for parking violations. Because he was on a track that only considered violent crime, and there was no sense in plea bargaining for defendants looking at mandatory life without, Mosley saw a never-ending conga line of murderers and child rapists. The flip side was that they would face dead-serious career prosecutors like Dan Seaton, Ray Jeffers and the Babe Ruth of the day, Mel Harmon, who as far as anyone can remember, never lost a case. Murder defendants went from being accused to being dead men walking.

One of the most memorable cases of the day centered on a lively, down-at-the-heels nightclub, The Keyboard Lounge. In those pre-internet days, television was the media environment, that’s all there was, and the contract murder of Keyboard Lounge owner Harry Wham, paid for by his wife “Stormy” (you really can’t make this stuff up) was a made-for-television killing. She brings in hitman John Oliver Snow. He takes a shot at Harry. Harry miraculously lives! Cops interview Harry. “Who has it out for you?” Harry (whispering so Stormy doesn’t hear from the next room): “Well, I was screwing around a bit.” Stormy from the other room (in full voice so the cop can hear): “I should have had you killed a long time ago.” Snow takes another pop at Harry. Kills him. Harry’s dead. Mosley sentences Stormy to the death penalty. Button man Snow? Death penalty. Stormy dies on death row before she ever walks the last mile. This is what passed for family entertainment in the 1980s in Las Vegas, and Judge Don Mosley was right in the middle of it until March 2, 2012. The child cases were the ones that got under his skin. One case stands out. A woman working as a prostitute at the Horseshoe meets a well-dressed accountant from Los Angeles. Mercedes, money, the whole package. She mentions she has a sixyear-old daughter. The man propositions her, offering serious money to bring the girl into the 19

are elegant, “ You but ineffective. — Judge Donald Mosley

business. She goes straight to a narcotics officer, who posed as a fellow predator and arranged to meet the man at the executive airport. They sat down, had a drink, and the whole conversation was recorded. The man from Los Angeles, comfortable and confident, said five words that sealed his fate: “I like them under eight,” he told the officer. “After eight, it’s too late.” He went away. Case closed. He’ll give you his honest assessment of what a trial actually is: “Pretty much know who did what. My clerk, my bailiff, everybody. The trial, really, is - can the defense attorney convince one juror? So it became kind of a game.” Not a cynical game. A professional one. The attorneys who earned his respect understood the economy of it. Van Rosenberg was one. Precise, articulate, right on point. Until the day he wasn’t. Mosley called him to the bench mid-closing argument and delivered one of the great judicial one-liners 20

in Clark County history: “You are elegant, but ineffective.” Rosenberg wrapped it up. Above them all stood Mel Harmon, a Mormon bishop who weaponized silence in a way that no law school teaches. In the middle of a sentence, he’d stop. Let it hang. The jury would lean in. As far as anyone can recall, Mel Harmon never lost a case. The courtroom is a lesser place for his absence. Anyone who has been in the trenches at the district court for a few years knows the name John Watkins. Without any question, Watkins was the absolute authority on DUI, drug, and drunk driving cases. Years ago, Watkins gets the kind of case that only Watkins can drill down into. At the time, the practice was that if you were detained for suspected impaired driving and you did not consent to a breath or blood test, they could submit it to the court, and your license could be

revoked and/or you could face the possibility of six months to a year in jail. So Watkins has a client, and the officer in the field says on the stand that Watkins’ client did not blow hard enough to register on the breathalyzer test. In the cop’s mind, that constituted the driver refusing to take the test. Watkins’ client lost his license for one year. Watkins says no way and takes it up to judicial review. The case gets referred to Mosley, and Watkins makes a motion stating that the client did not refuse, and he wanted the case reviewed and the breathalyzer machine brought into court. So here it is. A full-on demonstration of the machine. Mosley, being a man of action, says, “Mr. Watkins. Blow into the breathalyzer.” Watkins comes back and says, “Your Honor, wouldn’t it be more effective if you blew into the machine so that we can honestly test?” Mosley comes down off the bench. Ask yourself, would you see this in court today? Watkins says “They get the machine set up and Mosley blows into it.” I mean, really blows into it. He’s turning beet red. He’s turning tomato red. Nothing, period. “The machine doesn’t register that he blew anything. Mosley tries again to the point he looks like he’s going to pass out, and the machine again registers nothing.” With Mosley’s last breath, he says, “Motion granted. Case dismissed.”

Not one professional campaign manager. Just the judge, his friends, and the voters of Clark County, who kept sending him back because they knew what they had. Robert Marshall, who clerked for Mosley, put it plainly: “His word was his bond. He put implicit trust in his staff and his staff did not fail him. They were loyal to him because of the bubble of trust that he placed in us.” Thirty-three years. The youngest man ever elected to the Clark County District Court bench. By the time he walked out the door on March 2, 2012, the oldest. The longest-serving judge in the history of the court. When you ask him if he’d do it all again, Don Mosley doesn’t hesitate. “Yeah. I enjoyed my work.” For a man who spent three decades staring down the worst of what people do to each other, that’s not a small thing to say. Robert Marshall called him “a judge’s judge.” Hard to argue with that.

Off the bench, Mosley is the first to tell you the law isn’t for everyone. Too much paper. Too many cases stacked like cordwood. The personal injury industrial complex, the billboard lawyers, the loss-of-consortium claims, gave him headaches he was glad to leave behind. He was chief judge in ‘96 and talked the other judges into splitting civil and criminal. Civil went one way. Criminal came to him. “People will lie till the last dog dies,” he says. “When they are on the stand, they swear under oath, they can’t walk across the courtroom, and then they’re playing basketball on the weekend.” Mosley went to Tulsa University for law school, came back to Las Vegas, became a deputy city attorney, watched the judge above him get thrown off the bench for taking bribes, decided he could do better, filed to run, won handily, and never looked back. Seven successful campaigns. 21

Court of Public Opinion By Mark Fierro

awrin Mota, teacher, professor, landlord, veteran of U.S. Army Cavalry may be on his way to prison for the rest of his life. There is no question about one thing: On the evening of June 12, 2023, Mota shot and killed Oscar Ramirez. Ramirez put in time in a very different service. He was a gang member, member of the Suerenos. The Suerenos are affiliated with the Mexican Mafia, one of the most powerful prison gangs in the United States and Mexico. Ramirez, the gangbanger, had suffered a long, long list of arrests and convictions including leaving the scene of an accident involving death or personal injury; duty to give information and render aid; operating a motor vehicle without a drivers license; no insurance/security; open container in a vehicle; DUI (alcohol, first offense); DUI with priors (felony); failure to restrain an animal; prior probation violations and resisting a police officer. He had a habit of ignoring courtissued bench warrants, blowing off Clark County District Court judges.

Not only was Ramirez deported as an undesirable, in the U.S. illegally, he reentered the United States illegally. Though he married a Clark County school administrator, he had no proof of legal income. For years. We know several of the details surrounding the case, because my firm is working for the defense team as of writing this. Following the shooting Metro Police officials made public releases to the media, which were incredibly misleading, about Mota’s case. They made it sound like Mota was a jealous exhusband. Police made it sound like Mota was a scorned lover who was going to kill his ex-wife’s new husband. The truth is Dawrin Mota had been remarried for years. He had a happy life with three kids of his own and a blended family with his new wife and her three children. Mota was an elementary school teacher during the day, and a professor at CSN at night…the

man was a dynamo, he was going for his second master’s in teaching as well as owning multiple rental properties. He had his kids, his new wife had children, this was a happy hard-working home … when 246 pound Ramirez, a man officials described as barrel chested, who police records show has a history of violence, attacked Mota. The police made it sound like it was about money: Gang member Ramirez and Mota’s ex-wife owed Dawrin as much as $12,000 in back mortgage payments and Mota never confronted them or threatened them. He wrote them, advised them to sell the house because Ramirez showed no legal income. Mota never attacked them over $12,000 in back mortgage payments and potentially destroying his credit, but Metro’s releases to the media would have you believe that Mota, the schoolteacher, attacked Ramirez the gang member over $100. This is how the deadly confrontation began: Ramirez “borrowed” $100 from Mota’s 12-yearold son’s birthday money. Mota simply asked for his son to be paid back that same day or the next morning. Ramirez sounding, very much like the tough guy gang member, in broken English texts Mota back, “Is me Oscar, tell u dad I said f*** him.”

Mota, following advice that 911 operators had given him to “try to work it out,” goes over to the home he owns with his ex-wife, just like police told him to. Not to confront him but to “work it out.” Mota has a bullet proof vest. IT’S IN THE TRUNK. He has a vest because Mota is a landlord and landlords keep getting killed in Las Vegas. This guy’s a veteran. Why would he put a potentially life saving bullet proof vest in the trunk of his car if he planned to get in a gunfight with an admitted gang member? Mota is wearing flip flops. Ever hear of a battle trained U.S. Army veteran going into a gun fight, even a fist fight with flip flops? Mota never gets to the house. When he is two houses away, he slams on his brakes. As a result of that noise of skidding tires, neighbors look out their windows. The reason Mota stops so suddenly is because he sees Ramirez running down the street towards him with a German Shepherd. Ramirez looks like he is looking for a fight. Ramirez runs about 70 feet. When he reaches

Mota’s car window, he throws open the driver’s door, climbs into the driver’s seat. Mota withdraws to the front passenger seat. We know that because of witness statements, those witnesses who were alerted by the sound of skidding tires. The mother of one of the witnesses says this on a police body cam. I’ve seen the video. With no further place to withdraw to…with the powerfully built 246 pound Ramirez overpowering him Ramirez starts beating Mota, possibly breaking his own hand hitting Mota in the forehead. The veteran shoots once, the witnesses say they saw the gang member withdrawing from the car. Then he drops to the ground and dies at the scene. So like we wrote at the top, they want to put Dawrin Mota, the U.S. Army veteran in prison for the rest of his life, until the day he dies, for

“

protecting himself against a member of one the most feared Mexican gangs in America. Let me tell you something else…Mota had concealed weapons insurance because he is a landlord. If it wasn’t for that insurance…police and the DA would have kept him in a six by nine-foot cell for the last two and a half years awaiting trial. But that insurance bailed him out, that insurance paid a nationally recognized law firm to protect that veteran. If it wasn’t for that insurance, Mota’s chances of going to prison with a public defender and no forensic expert, no one to help, locked up with his family left penniless, the veteran’s chances of going to prison for the rest of his life would have been pretty damn close to 100%. The case is awaiting trial.

...they want to put Dawrin Mota, the U.S. Army veteran in prison for the rest of his life, until the day he dies, for protecting himself against a member of one the most feared Mexican gangs in America.

States are Expanding Licensure Opportunities Nevada Should, Too By Dean Martin Pritikin

ithin the last two years, nearly a dozen states have made it easier for graduates of law schools not approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) to sit for their bar exams, or are currently considering doing so. Nevada—already an innovator in licensure reform—would do well to join this growing movement. The Growth of Non-ABA Opportunities For decades, California was one of the only states that let non-ABA law school graduates sit for the bar exam upon graduation. California began accrediting law schools independently of the ABA in 1937, to make law school more accessible for those in the geographically large state who could not get to, or could not afford, an ABA law school. The ultimate goal was to make legal services more accessible and affordable. The tide started to turn in July 2024, when the Indiana Supreme Court amended its bar admission rules so that graduates of non-ABA law schools eligible to sit for the bar exam in another state could petition the Indiana Board of Law Examiners for a waiver of the ABA-education requirement. The next change came in Connecticut, one of a handful of states where the board of bar examiners is authorized to approve a non-ABA law school. In October 2024, the Connecticut Bar Examining Committee approved Purdue Global Law School, the nation’s first fully online law school. This was the second time in Connecticut’s history that it granted such approval, and the first time it did so to a fully online school. Meanwhile, some other states reduced but did not altogether eliminate the hurdles non-ABA law school graduates must overcome. In March 2024, Washington State reduced its years-of-practice requirement for non-ABA graduates from three to just one. In May 2025, Utah lowered its years26

of-practice requirement from ten to five, and also eliminated its categorical ban on online law schools. That same month, Nevada followed suit, halving its years-of-practice threshold from ten to five. For their part, Wisconsin and North Carolina now both allow a non-ABA law school graduate to sit for their bar exams (or transfer in a UBE score) as soon as they are licensed in another jurisdiction, without any practice requirement. But the dam really started to break in January 2026. That’s when the Supreme Courts of Texas and Florida announced that they were no longer relying on ABA approval as their benchmark for bar exam eligibility upon graduation. (They haven’t announced what criteria would be used instead.) The Supreme Courts of Tennessee and Ohio are also similarly considering eschewing their reliance on the ABA. Then in April, the Supreme Court of Alabama went a step further. It ordered that graduates of a law school eligible for licensure in any jurisdiction will be eligible for the bar exam in Alabama. These shifts can’t simply be written off as “red” states expressing their displeasure with the ABA’s perceived liberal inclinations. The day after Alabama’s order came down, the Board of Governors of the Washington State Bar Association, which is authorized to decide who can sit for Washington’s bar exam, amended its policies to largely mirror Alabama’s. Washington’s focus was not on rebelling from the ABA, but rather on expanding the pool of lawyers who could provide needed representation for residents. Is Opening the Bar Exam Upon Graduation to Non-ABA Law Schools a Good Idea? Expanding licensure opportunities for non-ABA law school graduates largely means expanding opportunities for online law school graduates. This is

a good thing from an access-to-justice perspective. A fully online law school is, by definition, a non-ABA law school. The ABA requires a law school to have a campus to obtain ABA approval. In November 2023, the ABA proposed amending its standards to allow a fully online law school to apply for approval, but no further action has been taken since.

Our curriculum and faculty qualifications are comparable to those in many ABA schools. We feature an externship program, a clinic, an awardwinning competitive moot court program, and multiple student organizations. Our webinars have featured speakers from Harvard, Stanford, USC, UCLA, and Northwestern, among others.

Requiring a campus increases the cost of legal education. Roughly two dozen ABA law schools have obtained permission to offer programs that go beyond the ABA’s 50% limit on online learning. But the average program tuition for these schools’ online programs is nearly the same as their inperson programs, at $151,776 versus $153,439 for 2025-2026. By contrast, because Purdue Global Law School doesn’t need to incur the cost of maintaining a campus, its total program tuition is nearly twothirds less, at $52,900.

Our quality has been recognized by third parties. We’ve won the Leading Edge Prize for Innovation in Legal Education and the ABA Brown Select Award for Legal Access. We have been on the Princeton Review’s list of Best Online JD Programs each year since that list began. And we were given an A rating on the National Jurist’s Justice and Opportunity Honor Roll.

Moreover, online law school students and graduates are far more likely to live in rural or other underserved areas than their ABA-approved counterparts. In California, attorneys are underrepresented in rural areas by 50%. But Purdue Global Law School’s graduates are overrepresented in such areas by 50%. So, too, in Indiana, 22% of the state’s population lives in “legal desert” counties, defined by the ABA as having fewer than one attorney per 1,000 residents. (The nationwide average is about one per 250 residents.) A mere 8% of Indiana’s attorneys live in legal deserts. But among Purdue Global Law School’s students, who only became eligible for licensure in 2024, that figure is already 18%. A potential counterargument is that many states, including Nevada, already have a pathway for nonABA law school graduates to pursue licensure after practicing law in another jurisdiction for a number of years. But this means online law students already living in Nevada would need to leave the state to garner the years of practice required to practice in-state. Once they are established elsewhere, the likelihood of their returning to Nevada plummets. They should be permitted to remain in their communities during law school, pursue licensure immediately upon graduation, and start representing people in their communities right away.

As for outcomes, in the three administrations since our graduates could sit for Indiana’s or Connecticut’s bar exam, their first-time pass rates exceeded the average of all ABA takers twice in Indiana and once in Connecticut, including a 100% pass rate on Indiana’s February 2025 exam. Our graduates have also beaten the ABA first-time average in California twice in the last three years. Expanding opportunities for non-ABA law school graduates immediately upon graduation is the right move from an access-to-justice perspective. It could be particularly beneficial to a geographically large state like Nevada. This is a golden opportunity for the Silver State. Martin Pritikin is the Dean and Vice President of Purdue Global Law School. A magna cum laude graduate of Harvard Law School and former litigator at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, he was a tenured faculty member and administrator at an ABA-approved law school for 12 years before joining Purdue Global in 2016.

Another possible counter is that a non-ABA law school cannot provide the same educational experience or deliver the same outcomes as a traditional campus-based school. But Purdue Global Law School’s example proves otherwise. 27

To Protect and To Serve Policing in the Digital Age By Steve Grammas

aw enforcement has always operated under scrutiny. Oversight, review, and public accountability are essential components of a constitutional system rooted in due process. However, in today’s digital environment, scrutiny has evolved into something immediate, global, and often unforgiving.

an encounter can be recorded, edited, and distributed worldwide within minutes.

Modern policing no longer unfolds solely within courtrooms, internal affairs investigations, or community meetings. It unfolds online — in real time — shaped by smartphones, viral clips, hashtags, and commentary that can reach millions before formal investigations even begin.

• • • • •

This shift has created one of the most significant operational and legal challenges law enforcement agencies have faced in decades. The Rise of the Instant Narrative

Yet public reaction frequently precedes investigative findings. The digital narrative forms quickly, and once formed, it can be difficult to recalibrate — even after full body-worn camera footage or investigative reports are released.

In prior eras, major police incidents were filtered through traditional media outlets, with time for fact gathering and editorial review. Today,

Officers now perform their duties knowing that any interaction could become a national headline before their shift ends.

While transparency is critical to maintaining public trust, context is often the first casualty of speed. A short video clip may not capture: The dispatch call that initiated the response Prior suspect behavior Verbal warnings issued Threat assessments in progress The legal standards governing use-of-force decisions

Due Process in the Court of Public Opinion

fewer individuals are willing to step forward.

The legal system is built on due process — a careful and deliberate process designed to ensure fairness, neutrality, and constitutional compliance. Internal investigations, critical incident reviews, and prosecutorial determinations take time because they are meant to be thorough.

Retention presents an equally serious issue. Veteran officers with decades of experience are retiring earlier, citing burnout, diminished support, and reputational risk. Losing experienced personnel not only affects agency stability but also impacts training and mentorship for younger officers.

Social media does not operate on that timeline. Allegations can rapidly become conclusions. Officers may face: • • • • •

assumed

Online harassment Public identification and doxxing Threats against family members Immediate reputational harm Political pressure even before investigations can conclude

This dynamic creates serious tension between legitimate public accountability and the foundational principle that individuals — including law enforcement officers — are entitled to due process. The psychological strain is substantial. Officers must continue responding to emergencies, testifying in court, and engaging with the public while under intense digital scrutiny. That pressure affects morale, performance, and longterm career decisions. Recruitment and Retention Challenges Across the country, law enforcement agencies report recruitment and retention difficulties. The digital environment is a contributing factor. Prospective applicants observe: • • • •

Highly publicized incidents Intense online criticism Career instability amplified by fast-moving viral controversy Polarized political discussion and debate surrounding policing

The profession demands a lot, including emotional resilience, ethical clarity, and the ability to make rapid legal decisions under stress. When that responsibility is coupled with the possibility of instant public condemnation,

For cities like Las Vegas — with a dynamic tourism economy, rapid growth, and complex public safety demands — maintaining a strong and experienced law enforcement presence is essential to community stability. The Expanding Legal Landscape Digital media has not only changed public perception; it has expanded the legal complexity of policing itself. Officers today must navigate: • • • • • •

Cybercrime investigations Digital evidence preservation Social media threat assessments Privacy considerations in electronic searches First Amendment protections for public recordings Evolving case law regarding technology

Body-worn cameras, dash cameras, surveillance systems, and digital forensics are now standard components of policing. These tools increase transparency and evidentiary integrity, but they also introduce new legal responsibilities. Chain-of-custody protocols, public records requests, data storage requirements, and disclosure obligations must be meticulously followed. Any misstep can undermine prosecutions or expose agencies to civil liability. Simultaneously, law enforement officers must respect the constitutional right of citizens to record police interactions in public spaces. Balancing officer safety, investigative integrity, and First Amendment protections requires training, judgment, and composure in highpressure moments. The margin for legal error has narrowed, even as operational complexity has increased. 29

Media, Misinformation, and Public Trust

The Human Element Behind the Badge

Another challenge in the digital age is the rapid spread of misinformation.

Amid policy debates and legal analysis, it is important not to overlook the human dimension. Law enforcement officers are members of the communities they serve. They are parents, spouses, and neighbors. They operate under policies and procedures designed to guide decision-making, yet those decisions often occur in dynamic, unpredictable environments.

Incomplete facts, edited footage, or speculative commentary can circulate widely before corrections are issued. Once misinformation embeds itself in public discourse, restoring trust becomes more difficult. This does not negate the importance of transparency. Rather, it underscores the need for responsible communication. Agencies have importance of: • • • •

increasingly

recognized

the

Timely factual updates Clear public information protocols Professional media engagement Community outreach beyond crisis moments

Transparency and fairness are not opposing values. They must coexist. The public deserves access to accurate information. Officers deserve a fair evaluation grounded in full context and legal standards. 30

In the digital age, the personal and professional boundaries can blur quickly. An officer’s image may circulate online without consent. Family members may become targets of criticism or threats. The weight of public judgment can follow them home. Supporting officer wellness — including access to mental health resources and peer support — has become increasingly vital. Agencies that prioritize officer resilience are better positioned to serve their communities effectively. Moving Forward: Accountability with Balance The digital era is not temporary. Technology will continue to evolve, and public access to

“

Constructive progress requires:

In an era of instant judgment, preserving that balance may be one of the most important responsibilities we share.

• • • • •

Continued investment in training and legal education Clear and consistent communication strategies Responsible media consumption Patience during investigative processes Community dialogue grounded in facts rather than assumptions

The public trust is strengthened not by speed, but by accuracy. The legal community — including prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, and civil litigators — plays an important role in this ecosystem. Their work reinforces procedural integrity and ensures that incidents are evaluated through the lens of law rather than public sentiment alone. Policing has always required courage and judgment. In today’s digital landscape, it also requires resilience against instantaneous global scrutiny. The badge carries authority, but it also carries responsibility — to uphold constitutional rights, to act within policy, and to serve the public with integrity. At the same time, those who wear it are entitled to the same due process protections that define our justice system. The challenge of the digital age is not choosing between transparency and policing. It is ensuring that transparency operates alongside fairness, context, and legal rigor. 32

”

information will only increase. The solution is not to resist transparency but to refine how accountability and fairness operate together.

It also demands perspective.

Case in Brief

When lawyers fall out of love By Robert P. Dickerson, Esq.

Nevada attorney well knows from the days he or she was studying for the Nevada Bar Examination.

Under the Nevada community property laws, certain rebuttable presumptions arise when it comes to characterizing an asset as being community property or the separate property of one of the parties. Any property (real property, personal property, and all tangible and intangible assets) owned by a person on the date of his or her marriage is presumed to be his or her separate property. NRS 123.130.2 Conversely, any property acquired during a couple’s marriage is presumed to be community property. NRS 123.220.3 These two presumptions are simple legal concepts every

So, applying these legal presumptions that arise under Nevada law, what happens to a lawyer’s law practice when he or she gets married? Consider the following factual scenario. Ms. Lawyer has been practicing law for the past ten years, and she decides it is time for her to finally accept one of the many marriage proposals she has received since the day she passed the Bar Exam – (isn’t it amazing just how much better looking we all become the day we pass the Bar Exam). Now, fast forward another ten years, and Ms. Lawyer, who just ten years earlier was a “lawyer in love,” realizes she no longer is in love, and it is time to get a divorce. Is her law practice her separate property or is it community property, or is it possibly a mixture of being her separate property and the community property of her and her spouse? Taking this factual scenario a step further, what if she was a sole practitioner at the time she tied the knot, and she later creates a professional corporation or some other type of

n the early 1980’s (1983 to be exact), a then very young singer and songwriter by the name of Jackson Brown wrote a song called “Lawyers in Love.” While the song has nothing to do with lawyers falling in love, it does have a catchy title that seems to work perfectly as a segue into the subject matter of this “Case In Brief.” Specifically, what happens when a lawyer falls out of love and finds himself or herself heading to the divorce court?1 A recent decision of the Supreme Court of Nevada provides us with an interesting answer.

business entity to conduct her law practice? Or, what happens if she is a partner in a law firm on the day she gets married, and she leaves that law firm during her marriage to join another law firm or to start her own law firm? Well, the answers to these questions are, “It all depends. I need more facts to provide a more definitive opinion.” Our Supreme Court provided us with a partial answer and some “food for thought” in its 2024 decision in Draskovich v. Draskovich, 140 Nev. Adv. Op. 17, 545 P.3d 96 (2024). In Draskovich, the husband attorney had been practicing law for fifteen years prior to his decision to finally get married. At the time of his marriage, he was a partner in a law practice that had only one other partner. 4 After being married for six years, the husband dissolved his partnership with the other attorney, and he created a professional corporation from which he continued his law practice. He was the sole shareholder of his professional corporation. In its decision, our Supreme Court emphasized that the husband “offered uncontested testimony” that his law practice operating under his professional corporation was “‘the very same practice’” as his share of his former partnership. Id., at 98.5 Four years after creating his professional corporation, and after ten years of marriage, a divorce action was initiated, and the parties’ divorce was finalized the following year.

created during the parties’ marriage. The reason this factual scenario became important in the parties’ divorce trial is because the parties agreed the value of the husband’s law practice at the time of trial was $1,210,000. Because the husband’s professional corporation was formed during the parties’ marriage, the wife argued the corporation should be presumed to be community property pursuant to NRS 123.220. On the other hand, because his law practice was essentially the same both before his marriage and after his marriage, the husband argued that his practice should be presumed to be his separate property pursuant to NRS 123.130.6 Thus, the trial court was put in the position of determining which statutory presumption was to be applied in the case. If the husband’s position that his law practice was his separate property because he owned the practice at the time of the parties’ marriage was correct, the wife would have had the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that the community had acquired an interest in the husband’s business. If, however, the

So, the relevant facts are (1) at the time of the parties’ marriage, husband had been practicing law for fifteen years, during which time he became a partner in a law firm; (2) he continued to operate his law practice in that partnership for the first six years of the marriage; (3) during the sixth year of the parties’ marriage, the husband terminated his partnership and created a professional corporation from which he continued to conduct his law practice; (4) the husband was the sole shareholder of his newly created professional corporation; (5) the husband continued to practice law through his professional corporation during the remainder of the parties’ marriage; (6) the parties were married for approximately eleven years at the time of their divorce; (7) during the first six years of the parties’ marriage, husband was a partner in a law firm in which he owned an interest prior to the parties’ marriage; and (8) during the last five years of the parties’ marriage, husband conducted his law practice through a professional corporation he 35

wife’s argument that her husband’s law practice was community property because his professional corporation was created during the parties’ marriage was correct, the husband attorney would have had the burden of proving by clear and convincing evidence that the business he owned at the time of the divorce trial was traceable to the law practice he owned and operated at the time of the parties’ marriage. After a two-day trial, the district court concluded that the husband’s law practice was community property. The district court relied on the date of incorporation of the husband’s professional corporation to find that the business was acquired during the parties’ marriage and was thus presumptively community property under NRS 123.220. The district court then concluded that the husband attorney had failed to overcome the community property presumption because he did not offer clear and convincing evidence regarding the value of any separate property interest he had in his professional corporation. Thus, the court found the husband’s entire law

practice to be community property. On appeal, the Supreme Court reversed the trial court’s decision and remanded the case for further proceedings. In summarizing the reason for reversing and remanding the case to the trial court, the Supreme Court stated: We first address the division of [the professional corporation’s] value. In this, we consider the proper character of [husband’s corporation] as separate or community property. Concluding that [husband] brought the business into the marriage with him, we hold that [the professional corporation] is [husband’s] separate property, and the community property presumption does not apply. Yet, because the business may have grown owing to community resources, [wife] must be given an opportunity to show a community portion of [the corporation] by clear and convincing evidence such that the district court may have to apportion [the value of the corporation] between the

separate and community property interests. Draskovich, 545 P.3d at 99.7 Our Supreme Court disagreed with the trial court’s reasoning that the husband’s professional corporation was community property simply because it was created during the parties’ marriage. Instead, the Supreme Court held “that the date of incorporation is not the decisive factor in determining a property’s character. Rather, the court must look to the totality of the circumstances to determine whether a business is an asset acquired during the marriage and thus presumptively community property, or merely a continuation of a premarriage enterprise and thus separate property.” Id. In so holding, the Court noted that in Schulman v. Schulman, 92 Nev. 707, 709, 558 P.2d 525, 526 (1976), it “implicitly determined that the date of incorporation alone did not dictate the character of the property.” Draskovich, 545 P.3d, at 99. 8 Thus, in articulating its holding in Draskovich, the Supreme Court “now expressly hold[s] that district courts must consider the totality of the circumstances when determining whether a business represents the continuation of a premarriage enterprise.” Id., at 100. In Draskovich, because the Supreme Court concluded the statutory presumption that applies to a party’s separate property is the presumption that should have been applied by the trial court, it would have been the wife’s obligation to attempt to present clear and convincing evidence at the trial to rebut the presumption. However, though it appears the wife failed to even attempt to rebut the presumption at the trial, the Supreme Court decided to remand the case to give her the opportunity to do so. In remanding the case for further proceedings before the district court, the Supreme Court reasoned and instructed the parties and the district court as follows: [Husband’s] business is likely not presently worth the same amount as it was at the time of his marriage to [wife] in 2012. A business can increase in value over time from separate property input or from community property input. Where an increase in the value of a property stems from both, “that increase should be apportioned between separate and community property.” Johnson v. Johnson, 89 Nev. 244, 246, 510 P.2d 625, 626 (1973). The “rents, issues, and profits” of

separate property presumptively remain separate. Smith, 94 Nev. at 251, 578 P.2d at 320. Therefore, when a spouse claims that the increase in value of separate property is partially attributable to the community, that spouse must show clear and convincing evidence of the community share. Kelly v. Kelly, 86 Nev. 301, 310, 468 P.2d 359, 365 (1970) (additional citations omitted). Id. The Supreme Court continued, Here, [husband] brought the business into the marriage, so it is his separate property, and any increase in its value over time is also presumed to be separate. See Smith, 94 Nev. at 251, 578 P.2d at 320. This means [wife] bears the burden of showing by clear and convincing evidence that a portion of any increase to his practice’s value over the course of the marriage belongs to the community. The community is entitled to that portion of the property “purchased with community funds or credit or acquired by … community toil or talent.” Kelly, 86 Nev. at 310, 468 P.2d at 365. [Wife] can demonstrate this by showing that [husband’s] active work as an attorney at the firm during the period of the marriage increased the value of the firm in some way. See Sly v. Sly, 100 Nev. 236, 240, 679 P.2d 1260, 1263 (1984) (citing Ormachea v. Ormachea, 67 Nev. 273, 297, 217 P.2d 355, 367 (1950)) (noting that “[t]he labor and skills of a spouse belong to the community”). If, on remand, [wife] meets her burden to make such a showing, the district court must then apportion the property between separate and community interests, an undertaking [husband] conceded in oral argument would likely be necessary should [his professional corporation] be classified as his separate property. Draskovich, 545 P.3d., at 100-01. This rationale and the holding of our Supreme Court in Draskovich applies to any business, whether it be any type of professional practice or any other business operation. The same rationale and legal principles recognized by the Supreme Court in Draskovich are the same as the Court recognized in Schulman where the husband owned a wholesale meat processor business prior to his marriage. 37

However, because the theme of this “Case In Brief” is what happens to a lawyer’s law practice when he or she falls out of love, we see that it truly depends on “the totality of the circumstances” when it comes to determining whether the lawyer’s law practice represents the continuation of his or her law practice prior to marriage. Id. The evidence in the Draskovich case established that the husband’s law practice before his marriage was essentially the same as his practice at the time of the parties’ divorce. However, what if the lawyer joins another established law firm as a partner or shareholder? What if the lawyer merges his or her law practice with one or more other attorneys’ ongoing practice? What if the lawyer’s new law firm or his or her new law partners practice in different areas of the law than the area of the law in which he or she practices – (for example, a criminal defense attorney joins a law firm that handles civil litigation or transactional matters)? What if the lawyer is required to work with his or her new law firm as an employee for six months before the lawyer becomes a partner or shareholder in the firm? What if he or she has to wait a year before he or she acquires an ownership interest in the new law firm? 38

As can be seen, the answers to these questions truly depend on the totality of the circumstances – and of course the lawyer’s skill and competency in presenting and arguing each of those circumstances to the trial court and eventually the Supreme Court. 1The song and its title actually is a satirical critique of the materialism and shallowness of the American society in the early 1980s. The song portrays a shallow society focused on wealth and image, which Brown characterizes as “the mating calls of lawyers in love.” The title itself was inspired by a comment about Los Angeles being designed by “lawyers in love.” 2NRS 123.130 creates a rebuttable presumption

that property owned prior to marriage is separate property. This statutory presumption may be overcome only by clear and convincing evidence proving it is not separate property. The burden of proof is on the party claiming such an asset owned by his or her spouse prior to marriage has somehow been transformed into community property. See Smith v. Smith, 94 Nev. 249, 251, 579 P.2d 319, 320 (1978), and Kerley v. Kerley,

112 Nev. 36, 37, 910 P.2d 279, 280 (1996). 3All assets acquired during marriage are presumed to be community property, and this presumption can be overcome only by clear and convincing evidence presented by the party claiming any such asset acquired during marriage is his or her separate property. Pryor v. Pryor, 103 Nev. 148, 150, 734 P.2d 718, 719 (1987); Todkill v. Todkill, 88 Nev. 231, 236, 495 P.2d 629, 631-32 (1972); Lopez v. Lopez, 139 Nev., Adv. Op. 54, 541 P.3d 117, 125-26 (Ct. App. 2023).

4In describing this “partnership” relationship between the husband attorney and another attorney, our Supreme Court noted that the husband attorney “and the only other partner were paid separately for the work they each performed, and each partner maintained his own staff and clients, although they shared a bank account and paid taxes together.” Id., at 98. 5The Supreme Court further noted that the husband “kept the same office location, as well as his clients, staff, assets, and practices, after incorporation and [the husband attorney] stated that he changed only the letterhead and the name stickers on the firm vehicles to match the name of change of the firm.” Id., at 98. It is difficult to determine whether the Supreme Court’s decision would be different if the husband was a partner or shareholder in a larger law firm and he left that firm to start his own law firm or join another law firm. 6The parties jointly retained a forensic accountant.

The accountant determined the present value of the husband’s interest in his wholly owned professional corporation to be approximately $1,210,000. However, neither party asked the accountant to determine the historic value of the practice. Specifically, neither party asked the accountant to determine whether there is a separate property interest and a community property interest in the husband’s law practice, and, if so, the value of each such interest. The accountant testified she could not provide any valuation for a separate property share of the husband’s law practice because neither party had engaged her to allocate the separate and community property interests. Thus, it appears each party took an “all or nothing” approach to the litigation of this issue, putting the trial court in the unfortunate position of having to apply Nevada law to determine whether the $1,210,000

law practice was 100% community property or 100% the husband’s separate property. It was only during oral argument before the Supreme Court that each party conceded there is a separate property interest and a community property interest in the husband’s law practice. However, it appears neither party made such a concession or offered such an argument before the trial court. 7The Supreme Court added, “‘When reviewing a

district court’s determination of the character of property, this court will uphold the district court’s decision if it was based on substantial evidence. However, we will review a purely legal question, such as the application of a presumption, de novo.’ Waldman v. Maini, 124 Nev. 1121, 1128, 195 P.3d 850, 855 (2008). We therefore review the district court’s factual classification of [husband’s professional corporation] with deference but review the application of the community property presumption to [the professional corporation] de novo.” Id. 8Schulman is a case involving a husband who

owned a wholesale meat processor business as a sole proprietorship for approximately 40 years before his marriage. Four years after marrying, the husband incorporated the business and received all shares of the newly incorporated business. While the husband undertook operations to expand this business, the essential nature and character of the business remained unchanged. The Supreme Court concluded that an apportionment between separate and community interests in the business was necessary when the parties divorced. In determining that the underlying business remained the husband’s separate property, the Supreme Court implicitly held that the date of incorporation alone did not dictate the character of the property.

“

The date of incorporation is not the decisive factor in determining a property’s character. Rather, the court must look to the totality of the circumstances. 39

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A Seat at the Table with Joe Brown Joe Brown’s luncheon highlights fight against child exploitation amid Las Vegas trafficking crisis By Joe Brown Featuring Dr. Monica Larson, Lena Walther, William Rowles, and Sheriff Kevin McMahill

oe W. Brown has practiced law in Nevada since 1969. His 40 year friendship with Robert “Bob” Maheu dated back to the days when billionaire Howard Hughes “owned” Las Vegas— six hotels, three ranches, a major television station, an FBO private aviation operation, and THOUSANDS of acres of developable real estate acreage! Maheu held the title of Chief of Nevada Operations. Maheu once said “He (Hughes) was the king of Las Vegas, and as his surrogate , I wore the crown!”

Approximately 175 community leaders and concerned citizens gathered recently in Las Vegas, attending the Joe Brown’s First Wednesday Luncheon on March 4, 2026. This luncheon focused on an important and often difficult topic: preventing the sexual exploitation of children. The event brought together nonprofit advocates, law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and local government representatives to discuss the scope of the problem and the need for greater awareness within the community.

During his last years, Maheu met monthly with Brown and a handful of other old friends for lunch and to reminisce, talk politics and world events, and share a bottle or two of wine! Maheu’s intriguing and exciting stories were always the highlight of every gathering!! When Bob died in late 2008, Brown was honored to be asked to deliver his eulogy.

The program featured a panel of experts representing different sectors that work together to address crimes against children. Representing Awareness Is Prevention (AIP) was its founder and president, Lena Walther, who established the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2014. Lena is the Swedish Consul Emerita to Nevada and personally saw, and rescued, two Swedish Citizens who were entrapped in Nevada. She became interested how grave the situation was for adults and has since shifted her attention to the sexual exploitation of children. Lena discussed the organization’s mission of educating communities about the warning signs of child sexual abuse and

The Maheu lunches, held on the first Wednesday of each month at the Ahern Hotel, are an effort to perpetuate the Maheu tradition of polite discourse among engaged citizens of the Las Vegas community. 44

exploitation, and the importance of prevention through awareness and early intervention. Also participating on the panel was Peter Thunell, from the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, who provided insight into the legal process involved in prosecuting cases related to child exploitation. He emphasized the critical role that collaboration between investigators, prosecutors, and community organizations plays in successfully addressing these crimes and protecting victims. Representing the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department was Officer Esmeralda Boveda, who spoke about the investigative side of combating child exploitation and the challenges law enforcement faces as technology increasingly plays a role in these cases. She also encouraged community members to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity that could help authorities intervene early. The panel discussion was moderated by Dr Monica Larson, a councilwoman from the city of Henderson and a recognized subject-matter expert on child safety issues. Larson guided the conversation and helped frame the discussion around practical ways communities can strengthen prevention efforts and support law enforcement initiatives.

“

Preventing child exploitation requires vigilance, education, and cooperation across all sectors of the community.

”

believe is essential to addressing the issue effectively. According to Joe Brown, bringing these voices together was an important step in informing members of the Las Vegas community about a problem that requires increased awareness and coordinated action. Feedback following the luncheon was overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees expressing appreciation for the opportunity to hear directly from professionals working on the front lines of prevention and enforcement. Organizers hope the event will help encourage continued dialogue and greater community involvement in protecting vulnerable children.

The luncheon reflected a collaborative approach among nonprofit organizations, law enforcement, and local government — an approach organizers

As the event concluded, participants left with a shared understanding that preventing child exploitation requires vigilance, education, and cooperation across all sectors of the community. Through continued awareness and collaboration, organizers believe meaningful progress can be made in safeguarding children and strengthening community protection efforts.

Dr. Monica Larson

William Rowles

Lena Walther

Sheriff Kevin McMahill 45

The Persistent

SHADOW The devastating impact of human trafficking in Las Vegas By David G.

s of May 2026, Las Vegas remains one of the most visible epicenters of human trafficking in the United States. Beneath the neon glow of the Strip, the constant influx of millions of tourists, conventioneers, and event-goers creates a perfect storm for exploitation. Nevada consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for human trafficking victims per capita— hovering around first or second, with experts citing approximately 58 victims per 100,000 residents. The crime thrives on the city’s transient population, 24/7 hospitality industry, major highways, and online platforms that connect buyers with victims. While overall crime in Clark County dropped in 2025, human traffickingrelated offenses rose nearly 19 percent, even as law enforcement conducted aggressive stings netting 115 arrests and citations in a single late2025 multi-agency operation—an 11 percent increase from the prior year. Human trafficking, defined under federal and Nevada law as the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services through force, fraud, or coercion, manifests predominantly as sex 46

trafficking in Las Vegas. Labor trafficking occurs in construction, hospitality, and domestic work but accounts for far fewer reported cases. The National Human Trafficking Hotline, operated by Polaris, has identified 2,464 cases and 4,903 victims in Nevada since 2007. In 2024 alone— the most recent full-year data available—418 signals were received, leading to 236 cases and 539 victims identified, with sex trafficking comprising the vast majority (158 pure sex cases, plus 23 combined). Local nonprofits paint a nuanced picture of 2025 trends. Signs of HOPE, a Las Vegas crisis support organization operating the R.I.S.E. (Resources and Integration for Survivor Empowerment) program for over 50 years, encountered 1,003 trafficking survivors in the field—a 30 percent decrease from 1,444 in 2024—but served 661 who accepted long-term support, a 6 percent increase. Juvenile survivors served dipped slightly from 128 to 116. CEO Kim Small described the higher service uptake as a sign of growing trust but warned that fewer field encounters may indicate victims are becoming harder to reach amid fears of deportation,

discrimination, and underreporting. The Southern Nevada Human Trafficking Task Force (SNHTTF), led by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), coordinates investigations with a trauma-informed, victimcentered approach. Despite these efforts, the scale remains staggering. Older but still-cited estimates from the FBI designate Las Vegas as one of 13 U.S. High Intensity Child Prostitution Areas, with historical projections of thousands of child sex trafficking victims statewide. Why Las Vegas? Structural Vulnerabilities Fuel the Crisis Las Vegas’s economy is built on tourism, entertainment, and conventions—factors that traffickers exploit ruthlessly. The Strip’s hotels, motels, casinos, and escort services provide anonymity and high demand. Major events like Formula 1 races or past Super Bowls historically correlate with spikes in activity. Highways such as I-15 facilitate movement of victims across state lines, while the city’s transient workforce and nightlife draw vulnerable populations: runaways, foster youth aging out of systems, migrants, people experiencing homelessness, and those with histories of abuse, poverty, or substance use.

Online recruitment has surged, with two-thirds of some national operations in 2025 involving digital platforms. In Las Vegas, venues for sex trafficking cases frequently include hotel/ motel-based operations (18 in 2024 hotline data), street-based activity, and escort services. Traffickers target individuals with risk factors— prior child welfare involvement, limited support networks, or economic desperation—then use coercion, debt bondage, or violence to control them. Arizona State University researchers, presenting to Nevada lawmakers in March 2026, noted victims range from ages 11 to 58, with about 60 percent from Nevada itself in one study group. Common vulnerabilities include runaway histories and prior abuse. The Human Cost: Trauma That Endures The impact on victims is profound and lifelong. Survivors endure physical violence, sexual assault, forced substance use, and extreme isolation. Psychological effects include posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, dissociation, and complex trauma that hinders reintegration. Many contract sexually transmitted infections, face unplanned pregnancies, or develop chronic health issues from neglect. Children and youth suffer disrupted development, educational loss, and

heightened risks of revictimization. In Las Vegas, the R.I.S.E. program and partners like the Salvation Army’s SEEDS of Hope provide crisis response, counseling, case management, and 24/7 hotlines. Yet demand outstrips resources. Signs of HOPE’s 2025 data shows deeper engagement once survivors connect, but systemic barriers—fear of law enforcement, language issues for migrants, and housing instability—keep many hidden. Public defenders highlight how the justice system often compounds harm. In March 2026 legislative testimony, attorneys described teenage girls coerced into trafficking who were later prosecuted for ancillary crimes (e.g., posting ads, transporting others) despite clear duress. Nevada lacks robust “safe harbor” expansions for adults, unlike 40 other states. These survivors 48

faced probation and lifelong records despite completing programs. Community and Economic Ripples Beyond individual suffering, trafficking strains Las Vegas’ social fabric. It correlates with other crimes—assaults, drug offenses, and gang activity—draining law enforcement and social services. Child welfare systems see elevated involvement; historically, many detained youth were already in protective services. Health systems bear costs of emergency care, mental health treatment, and infectious disease management. Taxpayer-funded victim services, investigations, and prosecutions add millions annually, though precise local figures remain elusive. Economically, the underground sex trade generates illicit profits for traffickers while

imposing hidden costs. Las Vegas’s hospitality sector faces reputational risks and potential liability. In April 2026, two survivors filed a federal lawsuit against Boyd Gaming and Station Casinos properties, alleging staff ignored red flags during years of alleged trafficking by a perpetrator later sentenced to 37 years to life. Such cases raise questions about due diligence in high-volume hotels. Tourism, the lifeblood of the economy, is doubleedged: high visitor volume creates demand, yet unchecked trafficking could deter families or ethical travelers. Labor trafficking in hospitality and construction further erodes worker protections and fair wages. Nationally, the illicit economy siphons productivity; locally, it diverts resources from legitimate growth. Law Enforcement, Policy, and Community Responses LVMPD and the SNHTTF emphasize collaboration, conducting targeted operations that yielded 115 arrests in November 2025 phases alone. Training reaches thousands: over 4,400 individuals in one recent year via task force efforts. Hotels and resorts partner with advocates for staff training on warning signs—constant “Do Not Disturb” signs, rooms with excessive condoms, distressed individuals lacking ID, or those monitored closely. Statewide, progress is incremental. In January 2026, lawmakers launched a mandated interim study on reducing rates in Clark County, acknowledging Nevada’s persistently high per-capita ranking. March 2026 hearings examined survivor protections and hotel roles. Nevada earned an “F” from Polaris on survivor safeguards, prompting calls to expand judicial discretion, seal records, and offer immunity for victims reporting crimes (a version of 2025’s AB 209 was vetoed over police concerns).

“

Nonprofits like Signs of HOPE, Stop the Traffic Foundation, Embracing Project, and RubiesLV deliver frontline support, awareness campaigns, and prevention education. Initiatives target schools, airports, transit systems, and the marriage licensing bureau. The National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) and text “Be Free” (233733) remain critical. Challenges and the Road Ahead Persistent obstacles include underreporting, online evasion, and resource gaps. Fears around immigration enforcement in 2025–2026 have likely silenced migrant victims. Digital recruitment outpaces traditional stings. Survivor services remain underfunded relative to need, and policy debates pit victim protection against law enforcement priorities. Looking to 2027, the legislative study promises data-driven reforms. Expanded hotel training, technology for tip-sharing, and robust aftercare could bend the curve. Yet experts stress prevention: addressing poverty, foster care gaps, and demand reduction through education. Human trafficking in Las Vegas is not an abstract global issue—it is a daily reality exacting a steep human and societal toll. From the 661 survivors who stepped forward for services in 2025 to the hundreds arrested in stings, the data reveals both resilience and urgency. As Nevada lawmakers deliberate and communities mobilize, the fight demands sustained vigilance, compassion for survivors, and accountability for exploiters. Only through collective action—by tourists, businesses, residents, and policymakers—can Las Vegas dim the shadow of exploitation and reclaim its promise as a city of lights, not hidden darkness.

Human trafficking in Las Vegas is not an abstract global issue—it is a daily reality exacting a steep human and societal toll.

”

RED Report

Real Estate Development By Justin C.

s the Summer 2026 issue of Vegas Legal Magazine hits desks across Southern Nevada, Las Vegas stands at a pivotal moment in its real estate evolution. The frenzied postpandemic boom has given way to a more measured, sustainable growth cycle. Clark County’s population continues its steady climb— projected at roughly 1.7 percent annual growth through 2026—fueled by corporate relocations, tech expansion, and lifestyle migration from higher-cost states. Yet the housing market has cooled: existing-home sales fell nearly 9 percent in 2025, inventory has risen, and median prices hover around $420,000–$482,000 with builder concessions returning in force. This “normalization,” as economists describe it, has not slowed the cranes. Master-planned communities, Strip transformations, downtown mixed-use hubs, and infrastructure megaprojects are reshaping the valley. For attorneys advising developers, lenders, and municipalities, the story is one of opportunity laced with regulatory complexity. Water rights, zoning reforms, federal land constraints, and new housing legislation enacted in the 2025 session demand careful navigation. This Real Estate Development Report examines the key trends defining Las Vegas in May 2026 and the legal strategies essential to capitalizing on them. 52

Residential Renaissance in Master-Planned Communities New-home construction remains the brightest spot. The “Big Three”—Summerlin, Cadence, and Skye Canyon—continue to drive activity, while Blue Diamond Hill, developer Jim Rhodes’ long-anticipated project on more than 2,000 acres near Red Rock Canyon, is finally breaking ground in early 2026. Plans call for thousands of homes, parks, and commercial nodes, promising relief for families priced out of older neighborhoods. Buyers are responding to aggressive builder incentives—rate buydowns into the low 5 percent range, closing-cost credits, and upgrade packages—after years of tight inventory. Demand is shifting toward attainable and workforce housing in Henderson, North Las Vegas, and the southwest valley. The UnCommons mixed-use development in Spring Valley and Midtown Development Group’s sustainable, all-electric Arts District project exemplify the live-work-play model now favored by both residents and investors. Legally, the 2025 legislative session delivered meaningful tools. Governor Lombardo’s omnibus bill, AB 540 (the Nevada Housing Access and Accountability Act), expanded the definition of

“affordable” and “attainable” housing, created new financing mechanisms, and streamlined local approval processes. Equally significant is AB 241, which requires local governments to adopt ordinances by March 1, 2026, allowing “byright” multifamily and mixed-use development on commercially zoned land. Developers no longer face discretionary special-use permits for many projects, accelerating redevelopment of aging retail corridors. Still, challenges persist. Clark County’s Title 30 zoning code, traffic-impact studies, and stringent desert landscaping and waterconservation standards can add months—and legal fees—to entitlements. Federal Bureau of Land Management holdings, which control the majority of undeveloped valley land, released only 41.8 acres in 2025, the lowest total since the Great Recession. Developers must master nomination processes and fair-market-value auctions or risk project delays. Commercial, Momentum

Industrial,

and

Hospitality

The Strip is undergoing its most ambitious facelift in decades. The guitar-shaped Hard Rock Hotel tower replacing the Mirage is advancing toward a 2027 opening, while the Oakland A’s stadium at the former Tropicana site is moving forward, promising a new entertainment district. Downtown’s Symphony Park welcomed its first hotel in 2025 and is adding luxury apartments; Chinatown is expanding with new retail plazas and mixed-use complexes slated for 2026 groundbreaking. Industrial real estate, after a supply surge, is stabilizing. Vacancy rates have tightened to approximately 11.3 percent with positive

“

The frenzied post-pandemic boom has given way to a more measured, sustainable growth cycle.

”

absorption, driven by e-commerce, logistics, and clean-energy employers. Office and retail vacancies vary sharply by submarket, but positive net absorption in select corridors signals renewed investor confidence. Infrastructure projects amplify these gains. Brightline West high-speed rail, Vegas Loop tunnel expansions, and airport and road upgrades are reshaping accessibility and land values. For legal counsel, these megaprojects require sophisticated development agreements, public-private partnership structuring, and environmental-impact mitigation under both state and federal rules. Sustainability, Technology, and the Innovation Edge Water remains the defining constraint — and opportunity. Las Vegas casinos already recycle 99 percent of indoor water, but new technologies promise more. UNLV’s atmospheric water-harvesting innovation, commercialized by WAVR, could tap an “invisible river” above the valley floor, offering a sustainable supply for new developments. The 2025 legislature advanced voluntary groundwater rights retirement programs to ease pressure on the Colorado River system. Sustainability is no longer optional. Energyefficient designs, EV infrastructure, and allelectric buildings are standard in projects like Midtown’s Arts District tower. Meanwhile, Desert Forge Ventures and potential film-studio incentives signal Las Vegas’s push to diversify beyond tourism and gaming into tech, AI, cloud infrastructure, and entertainment production. These shifts create demand for specialized legal expertise in incentive agreements, intellectualproperty leasing, and venture-capital structuring. Legal Imperatives: Compliance, Risk, and Opportunity Attorneys are indispensable in this environment. The 2025 session introduced several mandates effective in late 2025 and early 2026. Written brokerage agreements are now required for all realestate representations. Rental properties must offer transparent application-fee disclosures and at least one fee-free payment method. Large apartment complexes face new employee background53

check

requirements

for

key-access

staff.

Zoning and entitlement work has grown more complex yet more predictable thanks to byright reforms. Development agreements with Clark County or the City of Las Vegas must address traffic, water budgets, affordablehousing set-asides, and community benefits. Title insurance, escrow, and financing counsel must stay abreast of interest-rate volatility and federal land-auction timelines. Litigation risks include neighbor challenges to large-scale projects, water-rights disputes, and fair-housing claims amid corporate-investor activity. Proactive strategies—early community engagement, thorough due diligence on BLM parcels, and creative use of public incentives— can shorten timelines and reduce exposure. Looking Ahead: Steady Growth, Strategic Lawyering Forecasts for the remainder of 2026 point to moderate, sustainable price appreciation of 3.5– 4.8 percent, balanced inventory, and continued population-driven demand. No dramatic spikes 54

or crashes are expected; instead, the market rewards disciplined, well-advised participants. For the legal community, the message is clear: Las Vegas’s development future hinges on collaboration between private enterprise and public policy. Whether structuring a multimilliondollar master-plan entitlement, advising on water-conservation compliance, or closing a mixed-use financing deal, attorneys who master both the technical regulatory landscape and the broader economic currents will thrive. In the desert’s relentless sun, Las Vegas is building not just structures but a more diversified, sustainable, and legally sophisticated metropolis. The cranes will keep rising—so long as the legal frameworks supporting them remain as innovative as the city they serve.

Death and Taxes By Justin C.

n this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes. Benjamin Franklin’s famous quip resonates as sharply in Las Vegas as anywhere else—perhaps more so. In a city built on high-stakes bets, glittering fortunes, and the relentless churn of entertainment and real estate empires, the inevitability of death meets the certainty of taxation in unique ways. For Nevada attorneys guiding clients through the summer of 2026, the landscape has shifted in subtle but significant ways following the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) signed on July 4, 2025. That legislation permanently raised the federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemption to $15 million per individual ($30 million for married couples), with annual inflation adjustments beginning in 2027. The top marginal rate remains 40 percent.

gaming executives, and real estate developers seeking to preserve wealth across generations. For the Las Vegas legal community, the theme “Death and Taxes” is not merely philosophical; it is a practical call to proactive planning. With probate thresholds recently adjusted upward under Senate Bill 404 (effective for deaths on or after October 1, 2025), and with Nevada’s robust domestic asset protection trust (DAPT) laws, attorneys have powerful tools to help clients minimize friction, avoid unnecessary court involvement, and ensure legacies endure. This article explores the current federal and state framework, key planning strategies, Nevada-specific considerations, and practical pitfalls for practitioners in Clark County and beyond.

Yet Nevada itself imposes no state estate tax, no inheritance tax, and no gift tax—a status it has enjoyed since repealing its estate tax in 2005. This combination makes the Silver State a magnet for high-net-worth individuals, retirees, entertainers,

The OBBBA resolved years of uncertainty that had hung over estate planners since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Without congressional action, the exemption would have dropped dramatically in 2026. Instead, the new $15 million basic exclusion

The Federal Landscape Post-OBBBA

amount (indexed for inflation after 2026) applies to decedents dying in 2026 and beyond, alongside the unified gift and GST exemptions. Portability remains available: a surviving spouse can elect to use a deceased spouse’s unused exemption via Form 706, potentially shielding up to $30 million for couples. For most Nevada estates, this threshold means no federal estate tax exposure. The IRS estimates that fewer than 0.1 percent of estates nationwide will be taxable under these generous limits. Still, the ultrawealthy—think Strip casino owners, international real estate investors, or entertainment moguls with intellectual property portfolios—must plan carefully. The gross estate includes virtually everything: real property (valued at fair market value on the date of death), cash, securities, life insurance proceeds (if the decedent owned the policy), retirement accounts, and certain transfers made within three years of death. Practitioners should remind clients that the estate tax is a tax on the right to transfer property, paid by the estate before distribution. Form 706 is due nine months after death (with a six-month extension possible). Even non-taxable estates may file to elect portability. Meanwhile, the annual gift tax exclusion stands at $19,000 per donee in 2026, allowing systematic wealth transfer without dipping into the lifetime exemption. Medical and educational gifts paid directly to providers remain unlimited. Nevada’s Tax-Free Edge Nevada’s absence of state-level death taxes is a cornerstone advantage. Unlike California (which has no estate tax but high income taxes) or New York (with an estate tax exemption of roughly $6.94 million in 2026), Nevada heirs receive inheritances free of state taxation. This draws snowbirds, celebrities, and business owners relocating from high-tax jurisdictions. Real property located in other states, however, may still trigger that state’s estate or inheritance tax rules, creating hybrid planning challenges. Nevada’s community property system further simplifies matters. Assets acquired during marriage are presumed community property, receiving a full step-up in basis at the first spouse’s death—unlike separate property states, where only the decedent’s half steps up. This can yield significant capital gains tax savings for heirs selling appreciated assets like 56

Las Vegas real estate or business interests. Strategic Planning Tools: Beyond the Basics Effective estate planning in Nevada begins with the revocable living trust. Properly funded, it avoids probate entirely, preserving privacy and speeding distribution. Nevada’s probate code requires formal administration for estates exceeding roughly $150,000 in personal property or involving real estate (updated thresholds effective October 2025). Small-estate affidavits now cover up to $150,000; summary administration reaches $500,000. Even with these efficiencies, probate in Clark County can take 12–18 months and incur attorney and executor fees of 2–5 percent of estate value. Trusts sidestep this, but attorneys must stress the critical importance of retitling assets—real estate deeds, brokerage accounts, and vehicle titles—into the trust. Unfunded trusts are a common malpractice trap. For clients with creditor concerns or complex asset protection needs, the Nevada Asset Protection Trust (NAPT) under NRS Chapter 166 stands out. This self-settled DAPT allows the settlor to be a discretionary beneficiary while shielding assets from future creditors after a two-year seasoning period— the shortest among competing states. Nevada courts have consistently upheld these trusts, with no “exception creditors” (including divorcing spouses in many scenarios). High-net-worth Vegas clients— gaming license holders wary of regulatory scrutiny, or developers with construction liabilities—frequently pair NAPTs with LLCs for layered protection. Recent case law underscores the importance of proper drafting: out-of-state real property held directly in a NAPT may not enjoy full protection, highlighting the need for Nevada trustees and LLC intermediaries. Gifting strategies remain potent. Clients can leverage the $19,000 annual exclusion across multiple donees, or use the lifetime exemption for larger transfers. Irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs) remove policy proceeds from the taxable estate while providing liquidity for estate taxes or family needs. Charitable remainder trusts and donor-advised funds appeal to philanthropically inclined clients, especially those in the entertainment industry supporting local causes like the Nevada Ballet or UNLV. Family limited partnerships (FLPs) or limited liability companies (LLCs) allow valuation discounts (often 20–40 percent) for lack of marketability and

minority interests, stretching the exemption further. However, IRS scrutiny under IRC Section 2703 and recent court decisions demands legitimate non-tax business purposes and proper documentation. Vegas-Specific Nuances Las Vegas presents distinctive challenges. Gaming licenses and casino interests require Nevada Gaming Control Board approval for transfers upon death, often necessitating pre-planned succession documents. Intellectual property—music catalogs, show rights, or influencer brands—demands specialized valuation and ownership structures, frequently involving revocable trusts with pour-over provisions. Real estate dominates many portfolios. Stripadjacent properties, vacation homes, or timeshares can trigger ancillary probate in other jurisdictions if not titled correctly. Community property agreements (NRS 123.220) can clarify asset character and enhance step-up benefits. International clients add complexity. Non-resident aliens face different estate tax rules (a $60,000 exemption, with situs-based taxation on U.S. real estate). Foreign trusts and FATCA reporting requirements intersect with Nevada’s privacyfriendly laws. Retirement accounts—IRAs, 401(k)s—require beneficiary designations that coordinate with overall plans. The SECURE Act 2.0 rules generally mandate 10-year distributions for most non-spouse heirs, amplifying the need for Roth conversions or trust-based strategies to manage income taxes in tandem with estate taxes.

Pitfalls and Best Practices Common errors include failing to update plans after life events (divorce, remarriage, birth of grandchildren), neglecting digital assets, or ignoring state-specific creditor claims during probate. Executors must file final income tax returns, fiduciary returns (Form 1041), and, if applicable, the estate tax return. Nevada imposes no separate estate income tax filing, but federal compliance remains mandatory. Attorneys should collaborate with CPAs, financial advisors, and insurance professionals early. Annual reviews are essential, especially with inflationadjusted exemptions and evolving case law. Turning Certainty into Opportunity In Las Vegas, death and taxes are not merely inevitable—they are opportunities for thoughtful lawyering. The OBBBA’s permanent $15 million exemption, coupled with Nevada’s tax-free environment and innovative tools like NAPTs and revocable trusts, empowers attorneys to craft plans that protect families, honor client intent, and minimize friction. As the Summer 2026 issue of Vegas Legal Magazine lands on desks across the valley, the message is clear: proactive planning today ensures that when the final curtain falls, legacies endure untaxed and intact.

By educating clients on these realities and leveraging Nevada’s unique advantages, the local bar continues to make the Silver State the premier destination not just for living large, but for dying with dignity and financial grace. 57

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Money Matters by Justin C.

s the Summer 2026 edition of Vegas Legal Magazine reaches readers, Southern Nevada’s financial landscape reflects both resilience and recalibration. Nevada’s economy, heavily tied to tourism and gaming, posted record statewide gaming revenue of $15.8 billion in 2025 despite a 7.5% drop in Las Vegas visitation—the first post-pandemic annual decline. Stabilization is the watchword for 2026, with economists forecasting modest visitor recovery to around 40 million, tempered growth in employment, and a balanced housing market amid steady mortgage rates in the high 6% range. For many legal professionals advising clients on wealth preservation, business finance, taxation, and investments, 2026 presents a mix of federal tax shifts, state opportunities, and local economic realities. This “Money Matters” report explores key trends shaping client strategies in Las Vegas today. Federal Tax Overhaul and Its Local Ripple Effects The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed in July 2025, introduced sweeping changes effective for 2025 returns and beyond. Key provisions include permanent extensions of many

2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act elements alongside new deductions and limitations. A big flashpoint for Nevada’s gaming community is the reduction in gambling loss deductions from 100% to 90% of winnings starting January 1, 2026. High-rollers and recreational players who usually break even could now face federal taxes on “phantom income.” Nevada lawmakers, casinos, and industry groups continue pushing for reversal, but practitioners must advise clients on meticulous record-keeping and potential structuring of play through business entities or even trusts. Positive changes include an enhanced Child Tax Credit ($2,200 per child), a new senior deduction up to $6,000 ($12,000 for couples), and—critically for auto-dependent Las Vegas—an interest deduction on loans for new U.S.-assembled vehicles purchased in 2025, capped at $10,000. Attorneys should guide clients through amended 2025 returns and proactive 2026 planning, especially regarding modified adjusted gross income phase-outs. Estate and gift tax exemptions remain elevated but face potential sunsets, making 2026 an opportune year for gifting strategies, family limited 63

partnerships, and irrevocable trusts to leverage current higher thresholds. Gaming and Hospitality Finance: Resilience Amid Softness Despite visitation softness, non-Strip markets (Downtown, Boulder Strip, locals casinos) drove 2025’s record revenue, signaling diversification within gaming. Legal teams structuring casino financing, REIT transactions, or sports-betting partnerships must account for stable but not explosive growth projections for 2026. Public-private partnerships for infrastructure— Vegas Loop expansions, stadium districts, and convention upgrades—offer financing opportunities via taxable and tax-exempt bonds, opportunity zone investments, and federal grants. Counsel should emphasize robust development agreements, revenuesharing models, and compliance with prevailing wage and local hiring mandates.

bridge loans, and seller-financing arrangements. The 2025 legislative session’s housing bills continue facilitating attainable units, creating opportunities for tax-credit syndications and low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) projects. Investors eye commercial and industrial properties amid e-commerce and tech diversification. Title companies report increased scrutiny on chainof-title issues in rapidly developing areas, while escrow attorneys manage heightened fraud risks in a more competitive lending environment. Wealth Management, Estate Planning, and Diversification With population growth and corporate influx (tech, aerospace, film), high-net-worth clients seek sophisticated planning. Nevada’s assetprotection trusts, lack of state income tax, and favorable business climate remain magnets. Attorneys are structuring dynasty trusts, charitable remainder trusts, and private placement life insurance to minimize federal exposure.

For operators, cash-flow management and debt restructuring remain priorities as interest rates stabilize. Lenders are more selective, favoring projects with strong entertainment or convention anchors over pure gaming exposure.

Retirement planning gains urgency as baby boomers age. Required minimum distribution rules, Roth conversions, and Nevada-compliant self-directed IRAs investing in local real estate or private equity demand careful guidance.

Real Estate Finance and Housing Market Normalization

Small businesses and entrepreneurs benefit from expanded Section 179 deductions and bonus depreciation under extended TCJA provisions. Legal teams help with entity formation (LLCs, series LLCs), succession planning, and access to state economic development incentives promoted by the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance.

Las Vegas housing in May 2026 is buyer-friendly for the first time in years: median prices near $498,000, 4.6 months of inventory, and days on market around 38. Mortgage rates have settled in the 6.7–6.9% range, with builder concessions and rate buydowns common. Legal considerations abound. Lenders and borrowers navigate tighter underwriting, with attorneys reviewing adjustable-rate mortgages,

“

Emerging Risks and Compliance Imperatives Inflation moderation and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts can support consumer

With prudent legal guidance, Southern Nevadans can turn 2026’s financial realities into sustainable prosperity.

”

confidence, but tariff proposals and national economic uncertainty loom. Attorneys must stress scenario planning, liquidity reserves, and insurance reviews. Compliance hotspots include: • • •

Beneficial ownership information (BOI) reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act Anti-money laundering rules for gaming and real estate Updated sales tax due dates and My Nevada Tax portal enhancements

Litigation risks involve tax disputes, partnership dissolutions amid economic softness, and fairlending claims in mortgage origination.

capital structures and incentive maximization. Steady Hands in a Dynamic Market Las Vegas in Summer 2026 embodies cautious optimism. Record gaming wins alongside tourism softness, a normalizing housing market, and significant federal tax adjustments create a complex but navigable terrain. Legal professionals who combine deep knowledge of these “Money Matters” with forward-looking strategies will empower clients to build and protect wealth amid the desert’s perpetual reinvention. The city’s cranes still rise, its conventions hum, and its diversifying economy advances. With prudent legal guidance, Southern Nevadans can turn 2026’s financial realities into sustainable prosperity.

Strategic Advice for Legal Practitioners In 2026’s “Money Matters” environment, success lies in proactive, holistic counsel. Recommend stress-testing financial plans against 1–2% visitation swings or rate volatility. Encourage diversification beyond tourism-dependent assets into tech, healthcare, and logistics. Leverage Nevada’s advantages — no state income tax, strong privacy laws, business-friendly courts — while preparing for federal headwinds. For families, emphasize multigenerational planning that aligns with Las Vegas’s evolving economy. For businesses, focus on resilient

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, financial, investment, tax, legal, or other professional advice. The author is not acting as a financial advisor, investment adviser, brokerdealer, or fiduciary. Readers should consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. 65

LIFESTYLE

“There’s really only one constant in Las Vegas and that’s change.” – Travis Hoium

Benny Binion

Early Las Vegas... and the nicest "bad guy" / baddest "nice guy" By Don Logay

here are many thoughts, opinions and versions of how and when Las Vegas actually began... and, as one might expect, it depends who you talk to. Many point to vintage Vegas in the 1950s, when the mob owned, influenced and/or operated iconic hotel/casinos... like the Sands, Dunes and Stardust... turning a little-known small desert town into the dazzling Entertainment Capital of the World. Others look still further back, to the very first resort-style casinos that appeared on Highway 91... like El Rancho Vegas (1941) and Bugsy Siegel’s Flamingo (1947)... as pioneers that paved the way and ushered in today’s 4.2 mile neon-drenched Strip.

While history buffs look even further back, noting specific dates and benchmarks that set the stage for a town like no other... milestones... like legalized gambling (1931), a railroad owner’s decision to sell some land (1905) and an explorer’s overnight camp while mapping the wild West (1844). In The Beginning Las Vegas per se’ began on a hot and windy 100-plus degree Monday... at a dusty water-stop for the San Pedro, Los Angeles and Salt Lake railroad line... when railroad owner and East Coast-based entrepreneur, William Andrews Clark, decided to sell some land adjacent to his train station.

Clark widely-publicized a two-day auction, starting at 12 noon on May 15, 1905. It drew over 3,000 potential buyers who took advantage of a special $16 train fare to the event.

(to the North), Garces (South), Main (West) and 5th (East) – now Las Vegas Blvd. Opening bids ranged from $150 to $750 for corner lots and $100 to $500 for inside lots.

The 110-acre property, noted as “Las Vegas,” was subdivided into 1,200 lots with thoroughfares he named after explorers, pioneers and relevant figures. Stewart Avenue was named after Helen Stewart who sold the land to the railroad, Garces honored Father Francisco Garcés, an early Spanish missionary and one of the very first to ever explore the Mohave Desert and naturally, Clark named one street after himself.

With the final auctioneer’s “Sold!” on day two, all of the lots were spoken for and the auction netted $265,000 for land that Clark had purchased from Helen Stewart for $55,000... and the “City of Las Vegas” was officially signed, sealed and delivered.

Fremont Street was named after famed explorer John Charles Frémont, who – while mapping the American West in 1844 – camped overnight next to a natural spring the locals called “Las Vegas.” He put it on his map... and for decades noted Las Vegas as a recommended watering stop for pioneers and settlers heading West. Carson Street was named for legendary frontier scout Kit Carson, who led Frémont on his many mapping expeditions. Clark’s new “Las Vegas” township was comprised of 40 blocks... bounded by Stewart

Six Months Earlier Over 1,200 miles away, on Sunday, November 20, 1904 – in the midst of a rare cold snap and wintry blizzard – another event took place that would dramatically impact and shape the future of the new “Las Vegas”... a child named Lester Binion was born in rural Pilot Grove, Texas... about 60 miles northeast of Dallas/Ft. Worth. Due to poor health and chronic pneumonia, his parents kept him out of school. During his childhood and early teens he garnered “street smarts” and often accompanied his father, Lonnie Lee Binion – a professional horse trader – on business trips... where the buying and selling

Clark’s 1905 Land Auction sold $265,000 worth of lots that officially founded the City of Las Vegas. Photo courtesy UNLV Special Collections

Early saloons were confined to “Block 16”…between Ogden and Stewart and 1st and 2nd)… the town’s only area allowed to serve liquor and that became the notorious red light district and origin of today’s “Sin City” reputation. Photo courtesy UNLV Special Collections

of horses involved complex and subjective evalutions that often presented opportunies for mild deception and/or flat-out dishonesty. The art of classic “Horse Trading” was not lost on young “Benny” Binion. In lieu of a formal education, he also learned to “gamble” as he traveled the Southwest with his father. Playing card games was a favorite pastime with horse traders when they met (and hustled) their farm and ranch customers at county fairs and big barn sales. The combination of street smarts, horse trading and card-sharking ultimately proved to be the guiding factors for a young man in search of who or what he was to become. Early Downtown Las Vegas In the days following Clark’s Auction, tents began appearing on newly purchased lots near a very large temporary structure – called “Hotel Las Vegas” – created by Clark to house those 70

attending the auction. It is, and was, truly the very first hotel in Las Vegas. In short order, Hotel Las Vegas and pitched tents gave way to wood and stucco buildings... that soon became a general store, a bank, small hotels and a pharmacy. Before long, structures grew two-stories high... lining busy streets filled with horse-drawn carriages and early automobiles... passing by early established businesses and the famed origins of Las Vegas tourism. There was the prestigious Nevada Hotel (1 Fremont Street)... and the fancy Arizona Club (219 North 1st Street) – the premier saloon of notorious block 16 (between Ogden and Stewart and 1st and 2nd ) the town’s only area allowed to serve liquor – that also became the notorius red light district and origin of today’s “Sin City” reputation. While not located in the center of downtown Las Vegas, Fremont Street fast became the

Lake railroad was well on it’s way to becoming a virtual mecca for legal gambling, luxury hotels, upscale dining and world-class entertainment. Rapidly growing downtown Las Vegas needed just one more thing... a principal player. Texas Outlaw In 1922, at the age of 18, young “Benny” Binion struck out on his own and (for reasons unknown) headed 685 miles west to El Paso, Texas. Along with his acquired “street smarts” – that included the mildly-deceptive (and often flatout dishonest) art of horse trading and shady tricks of informal gambling – the infamous 18th ammendment of 1920 (i.e., The Prohibition) presented another lucrative opportunity... and Benny, noting the public’s thirst for illegal DIY-produced high-proof liquor, added “moonshining” to his growing skill set of wheelin’, dealin’ and gamblin’.

business district’s primary thoroughfare as it led directly to the train station. It was also the very first paved street in Las Vegas (1925) and first to have a traffic light (1931). Over the years, the innovative Nevada Hotel also gained its place in Las Vegas history with quite a number of “firsts”... such as offering lodging with indoor plumbing, heating and electricity in every room, installing the very first telephone (with phone number one) and in later years, introducing the legendary classic Vegas shrimp cocktail.

A year later, he left El Paso’s modest population of 77,000 and in 1923 headed east to bigcity Dallas – population 190,000 – where he again set-up moonshining. However, seems secretly makin’ bathtub gin turned out not to be Benny’s forte... as he was frequently busted – repeatedly losing his entire inventory – and was subsequently twice arrested and convicted. Considering moonshining too risky, he dabbled in another new venture... a lucrative “numbers” game, a shady street lottery of sorts, that was also illegal... once again drawing heat from the

While secretive backroom gambling was prevalent in the early days, it all changed when the Northern Club (15 Fremont Street) received one of the first six new Nevada State Gambling Licenses issued in 1931. Thanks to Fremont’s Government Map (1844) , Clark’s Auction (1905) and Nevada’s pivotal new Gambling Law (1931)... this once dusty waterstop for the San Pedro, Los Angeles and Salt

Benny Binion 71

law. However, in the process of all this – and on the plus side – he met Warren Diamond, owner of the St. George Hotel Casino, who offered him a real job as a crap table dice croupier. A shortlived “legal” stint (and eduation) that later in his career would prove valuable. Malice in Dallas Benny had arrived in the modernizing Dallas with a definite goal in mind... and that was to build upon early horse trading and amateur card-sharking know-how with a more elaborate bootlegging operation – that included the manufacture, distribution and sale of alcohol during the prohibition years (1920 to 1933) – all of which would be supported with other various illegal and nefarious side ventures. Mister Webster defines “malice” as “the intention or desire to do evil”... and Benny’s 23-year stint in Dallas certainly was just that. In short order, the country hick became city slick... ditching dusty cowboy duds for a wardrobe of suits and fedoras that better suited his drive to become an respected local underworld figure and emerging gambling kingpin. 72

Building upon his profitable numbers lottery (or “policy” as it was known then) he established other lucrative underground businesses that involved dealing with both shady prominent poiticians and members of the syndicate and organized crime. While Benny fiercely guarded his empire... with many murders attributed to him in the 1930s and 1940s... he was also known to always be quick with a friendly smile and helping hand. He was a great guy – as long as you didn’t cross him. Benny supposedly once said, “I never killed anyone who didn’t deserve it.” Downtown Las Vegas While Benny was refining his life of crime in Dallas... Downtown Las Vegas, 1,222-miles west, was booming during the Great Depression years of the early 1930s... thanks to the thousands of daily workers building the Boulder Dam project and Nevada’s new gambling law. Every payday, on the tenth and twenty-fifth of the month, 5,000-plus dam workers beat a wellworn path from their housing in near-by Boulder City to the legal gambling, alcohol and loose

women of Sin City. In 1931, the 26-mile dirt road between the two became Boulder Highway – the very first paved two-lane road in the State of Nevada. With money in hand, they patronized the burgeoning number of rowdy clubs, saloons and brothels of Block 16... that, in addition to the fancy Arizona Club, included the notorious Double O, Red Onion, Arcade and Star, to name but a few... that all operated with impunity until a clean-up effort got underway in the early 1940s.

A frustrated Binion even tried to kill a competitor named Herbert Noble and missed with one of his trademark car bombs – that accidentaly killed Noble’s wife instead – and, in turn, launched a vendetta that lasted for decades. Facing impending prosecution from authorities, or a possible worse fate from rival gang members, Binion decided to skip town. Benny packed up his wife and five kids and – with a million dollars in cash and a tommy-gun in the trunk of his Cadillac – headed west to the burgeoning Las Vegas.

Exit Stage Left

The Principal Player Arrives

While things were booming in Vegas, the times they were a-changing in Dallas and Benny was beginning to feel the heat. Competing Dallas gangs were fighting over territories creating turmoil, and the politicians who had afforded him the protection needed to run his illegal enterprises were no longer in office.

Benny hit downtown Las Vegas at just the right time... with seasoned know-how that was a perfect match for a town in the process of cleaning up its image. With legalized gambling now in force in Nevada, the flourishing casino business was

While the fancy Arizona Club catered more to locals… every other week thousands of Boulder Dam workers crowded the less-classy rowdy saloons and booming brothels of Block 16… that all operated with impunity until the town’s clean-up effort in the mid-1940s. Photo courtesy UNLV Special Collections 73

“

Thanks to Fremont’s map (1844), Clark’s Auction (1905), and Nevada’s pivotal new Gambling Law (1931)... this once dusty water-stop for the San Pedro, Los Angeles and Salt Lake railroad was well on its way to becoming a virtual mecca for legal gambling, luxury hotels, upscale dining and world-class entertainment.

”

made for Binion’s skill set... and with touch of horse-trading know-how and assorted gambling experience... he went to work – first becoming a short-term partner in the Las Vegas Club Casino and Westerner Gambling House... before purchasing the Eldorado Club and Apache Hotel on his own in 1951... and re-opening them as the combined Binion’s Horseshoe Casino – and so it began.

Horseshoe was in play reshaping downtown. Benny’s was the first casino to replace frontierstyle sawdust-covered floors with plush carpeting and was the first to offer free drinks and comps to all gamblers, not just those who bet big money. Binion was also the first institute very high table limits.

While Highway 91, five miles to the south, was just getting underway – with new resort-style hotel/casinos like El Rancho Vegas and Bugsy’s Flamingo that became the Vegas Strip – Binion’s

While Benny’s philosophy – “Make little people feel like big people” quickly turned his Horseshoe into one of the best casinos in Las Vegas – he was still a gangster at heart.

Over the Years

In 1951, Binion purchased the Eldorado Club and Apache Hoel and re-opened them as the combined “Binion’s Horseshoe Hotel & Casino. Photo courtesy UNLV Special Collections

Benny Binion’s famous “Million dollars Cash” display on the casino floor was a popular photo op for tourists. With daughter Becky… who later took over Casino/Hotel operations after Binion’s death. Photo courtesy UNLV Special Collections

Local politicians and cops were paid off to look the other way and troublesome rivals sometimes mysteriously disappeared. Benny was the unpredictable showman and daring pioneer – promising “good food, good whiskey, and good gambling” – that never forgot his roots... and it ultimately forever changed Las Vegas. His life-long relationship with card playing led to creating and promoting the now famous World Series of Poker in 1970... and his affinity for horses led to his bringing the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) to Las Vegas in 1985. He also put a million dollars in cash on display in his casino as a photo op for tourists. Born during a rare winter snow storm in Pilot Grove, Texas... Benny Binion’s life also ended during a record-breaking cold week in Las Vegas... on Christmas Day, December 25,

1989... of congestive heart failure at age 85 with his wife and family at his side. Gone but not Forgotten Today, Binion’s Gambling Hall & Hotel still operates at 128 Fremont Street... in 1955, the Nevada Hotel was renamed the Golden Gate and 120-years later is the city’s oldest operating hotel and casino... and the downtown “Fremont Experience” is a major tourist attraction that draws 24 million visitors annually – and 25,000 people nightly – to wander and play under the world’s largest LED canopy. The annual World Series of Poker has grown dramatically and today draws nearly 10,000 players from all over the world... and in 1990, Benny Binion was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame. Every year at each round of the National Finals Rodeo, Binion’s legacy lives on when a custom 75

Fremont Street Experience today draws 24 million visitors annually… and the life-size statue of Benny Binion on a horse – originally in front of Binion’s on Fremont – was moved to South Point Casino/Hotel in 2008 and sits at the entrance of the Arena & Equestrian Center greeting riders and attendees for all National Final Rodeo events.

red stagecoach bearing his name – drawn by six quarter horses – makes its way around the arena to thundering applause. Binion was also inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame. As a lasting tribute to the cowboy from Texas, a lifesize statue of Benny Binion riding a horse was erected across from the Horseshoe on the corner of Casino Center and Ogden. In 2008 it was moved to South Point Casino and sits at the entrance of the Arena & Equestrian Center, where the National Finals Rodeo takes place annually. Last but not least, an eight-episode Netflix series – called “Blood Aces: The Wild Ride of Benny Binion” – is in production and will soon air with Cole Hauser (of “Yellowstone” fame) portraying the Texas outlaw and Vegas legend. In a fitting epitaph, famed professional poker player and friend, “Amarillo Slim” – who won 76

the World Series of Poker in 1972 – said of Benny Binion: “He was either the nicest bad guy or the baddest good guy you’ll ever see”... and that he was.

Don Logay is an award-winning journalist and former Editor-in-Chief of three national magazines. Today he writes luxury lifestyle articles for numerous publications. He can be reached at (949) 240-4444 or press@ donlogay.com.

Fremont Street Experience

World Series of Poker

National Finals Rodeo 77

UVOLUTION

A Series of Thought Envoking Articles on the Evolution of You By George J. Chanos, Former Attorney General of Nevada

hat is Uvolution.io and “The Circle,” and why should you care?

Uvolution is a community built to help people survive and thrive in an era of rapid technological disruption. Grounded in “People Helping People,” it brings together a multicultural, multigenerational network focused on mentorship, learning, and meaningful connection. We begin with The Essentials—100 micro-lessons (under 5 minutes each) based on research from Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon— designed to improve performance across life and work. From there, members gain access to a powerful ecosystem: courses, events, discussions, and relationships with accomplished leaders across industries. “The Circle” is our invitation-only layer—where high-level thinkers, founders, scientists, and leaders gather to exchange insight, build relationships, and stay ahead of what’s coming. This is more than a platform. It’s a community designed to help you grow, connect, and lead in a rapidly changing world For most of human history, we have understood the world by studying its parts. 78

Atoms. Cells. Planets. Organisms. We tend to think of reality as a collection of individual things. But a growing body of science suggests that this view may miss something fundamental. What often matters most is not the things themselves. It is the relationships between them. Something to think about, as we reflect upon our own relationships. Across biology, technology, economics, and even cosmology, researchers are discovering that many complex systems share the same underlying structure: networks. Nodes connected by links. Signals moving through pathways. Clusters forming around hubs. From the microscopic scale to the largest structures in the universe, this architecture appears again and again. The Web That Started the Question One of the most elegant examples of network architecture appears in nature: the spider web. A

spider web is not simply a trap. It is a finely tuned sensory network. Each strand of silk transmits vibrations across the structure, allowing the spider to detect the precise location and size of prey caught in the web. The web functions almost like an external nervous system. Information flows through the silk. The spider interprets those signals. Action follows. The web is not just structure. It is also a communication network. The Hidden Networks Beneath Forests The same principle appears beneath our feet. For centuries, forests were seen as collections of individual trees competing for sunlight and nutrients. But modern research has revealed a hidden layer beneath the soil. Fungal networks— known as mycorrhizal networks—connect the roots of trees through vast underground webs of microscopic filaments. Through these connections, trees exchange nutrients, water, and chemical signals. Older trees can transfer carbon to younger saplings growing in shade. When one tree is attacked by insects, chemical signals can spread through the network, warning neighboring plants to activate defensive responses. Some scientists have nicknamed this system the “Wood Wide Web.” What appears to be a forest of individual trees is actually a living network. The Network Inside Your Skull The human brain is perhaps the most complex network known. It contains roughly 86 billion neurons, each capable of forming thousands of connections with others. These connections create trillions of synapses forming a vast communication web. Thought itself emerges from this network. Memories are not stored in single cells. Ideas are not confined to isolated regions. Instead, patterns of electrical activity move through the network like waves across an ocean. Consciousness arises from connections. Remove enough of those connections, and the system loses function. Strengthen them, and learning occurs.

The brain is not merely an organ. It is a network generating experience. Humanity’s Global Nervous System In the past half century, humanity has built something remarkable. The internet. What began as a small experimental network connecting a handful of computers has grown into a planetary infrastructure linking billions of devices. Fiber-optic cables stretch across continents and oceans. Satellites orbit above the Earth transmitting signals. Data centers process unimaginable volumes of information every second. Messages, financial transactions, research data, and entertainment now travel instantly across the globe. In many ways, the internet resembles a digital nervous system for the planet. Information flows through nodes and pathways much like signals in a brain. The Network of Money Even the global financial system behaves like a network. Banks lend to one another. Investment funds hold overlapping portfolios. Markets react to information flowing through interconnected institutions. When the system functions smoothly, capital flows efficiently across the world. But when disruptions occur, those disturbances can cascade through the network. The global financial crisis of 2008 revealed how tightly connected financial institutions had become. Problems in one sector spread rapidly across others. The architecture of the network determined the speed and scale of the crisis. Understanding financial systems increasingly requires understanding network structure. The Cosmic Web Perhaps the most astonishing example of network architecture appears on the largest scale imaginable. The universe itself. 79

Astronomers mapping the distribution of galaxies have discovered that they are not scattered randomly through space. Instead, they form enormous filaments stretching across the cosmos. Where these filaments intersect, vast clusters of galaxies gather. Between them lie immense empty voids. This structure—known as the cosmic web—spans billions of light-years. Galaxies cluster at nodes. Filaments of matter connect them. Gravity transmits influence across the network. The largest structures in existence appear to follow the same architectural logic seen in spider webs and neural networks. Patterns Across Scale When scientists compare these different systems, something remarkable emerges. The geometry of many complex networks looks strikingly similar. Dense clusters. Branching filaments. Highly connected hubs. Long-range links. The similarities appear across systems that operate under entirely different physical laws. Neurons transmit electrical impulses. Fungal networks exchange chemical signals. Financial systems transmit capital. Galaxies interact through gravity. Yet the structure of their connections often resembles one another. Why? One possibility is that networks represent one of the most efficient ways for complex systems to organize themselves. 80

Networks allow: • • • •

rapid communication distributed resilience efficient resource flow adaptability to change

In many environments, the systems that adopt network structures may simply survive and evolve more successfully. Nature may repeatedly architectural solution.

arrive

the

same

The Importance of Relationships Interestingly, the importance of connections is not limited to physics or biology. It also appears in human life. For more than 80 years, researchers at Harvard University have conducted one of the longestrunning studies ever performed on human wellbeing. The Harvard Study of Adult Development followed generations of participants across their lives. Researchers analyzed wealth, education, lifestyle, intelligence, and career success. But the strongest predictor of long-term happiness and health turned out to be something far simpler. Relationships People with strong social connections tended to live longer, healthier, and happier lives. Isolation, by contrast, proved harmful to both mental and physical health. The study’s conclusion echoed a truth seen throughout nature: Connection matters. Cooperation in the Natural World Look closely at the natural world and the same pattern appears again and again. Bees operate through the collective intelligence of the hive. Ant colonies coordinate thousands of individuals through chemical signals. Schools of fish move in synchrony, responding instantly to the movements of their neighbors. Flocks of birds produce breathtaking aerial formations by following simple relational rules.

Life often thrives not through isolation but through interaction. The system becomes more powerful than the individual components. The Network Age Human civilization is becoming increasingly networked. Transportation systems move people and goods across continents. Energy grids distribute electricity across vast regions. Digital platforms connect billions of people. Artificial intelligence analyzes enormous streams of global data. These systems increasingly interact with one another, forming networks of networks. Understanding how connections operate—how influence spreads, how systems stabilize, how disruptions cascade—may be one of the most important intellectual skills of the 21st century. Network thinking is rapidly becoming a powerful way to understand complexity.

The universe itself appears to be structured as a network of galaxies. Reality may be less like a collection of isolated things, and more like a vast web of connections. Connecting the Dots Once you begin to see networks, they appear everywhere. In science, nature, technology, the universe - and in the relationships that bind us, support us, and allow us to thrive. The dots are all around us. Understanding the world may increasingly mean learning how to connect them. Want to Explore This Idea Further? This article introduces a much larger set of ideas exploring how network architecture appears across many different domains—from spider webs and forest ecosystems to the human brain, the internet, financial systems, and the cosmic web.

A Different Way of Seeing

I’ve written a 12-part deep dive called “The Architecture of Reality.”

For centuries, we thought about the world in terms of objects. But the deeper we look, the more we see something else.

If this idea intrigued you, follow or subscribe to my Substack @GeorgeJChanos to explore the full series.

Relationships.

Once you begin to see the networks that shape the world, you’ll start seeing connections everywhere and you’ll have a greater appreciation for the social fabric that connects us, and the relationships that support us.

The brain is a network of neurons. Forests are networks of organisms. Societies are networks of people. Economies are networks of transactions.

Bar Review Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse Fire, Flavor, and the Full Experience By Preston Rezaee, Esq.

n a city where the night practically demands a great cocktail, Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse has crafted the Perfect Cocktail for the Vegas professional in 2026: the Mezcal Manhattan on the Rocks. Smoky mezcal meets the classic Manhattan’s bold rye and vermouth backbone, finished with a luxuriously smooth pour over ice. The result is a sophisticated, slightly mysterious sipper that perfectly bridges the fiery Brazilian churrasco experience to come — earthy, complex, and built for the desert. Sipping this modern classic at Fogo’s elegant bar has quickly become the preferred way for locals and legal professionals alike to ease into an evening of abundance. It sets the tone: refined yet adventurous, just like the city itself. In a city overflowing with steakhouses and celebrity chef dining rooms, it takes something special to stand out. Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse manages to do just that by turning

dinner into an experience rather than just a meal. From the moment you walk in, the restaurant leans into the centuries-old Brazilian tradition of churrasco, a style of grilling meats over open flames and carving them tableside. The result is an evening that feels equal parts feast and performance. Start at the Bar Before the parade of meats begins, the experience really starts at the bar. Fogo de Chão’s lounge is an ideal place to settle in with a drink while you take in the atmosphere. Dim lighting, polished wood, and the hum of conversation set the stage for what’s about to come. The star of the cocktail menu is the Caipirinha, Brazil’s national drink. Made with cachaça, muddled lime, and sugar, it’s crisp, citrusy, and refreshing—exactly the kind of cocktail that primes your appetite before a serious meal. The

bar also offers a thoughtful wine list with strong South American representation, along with classic cocktails for those who prefer the familiar.

the dining room carrying skewers of fire-roasted meats. Each is carved directly onto your plate, offering a steady rotation of cuts that include:

Sipping a drink here before being seated feels like the calm before the storm—in the best possible way.

• • • • • •

The Market Table: An Unexpected Highlight Once seated, the first stop is the Market Table, Fogo’s expansive salad and appetizer bar. Calling it a “salad bar” doesn’t quite do it justice. Expect a beautifully arranged spread of fresh vegetables, imported cheeses, cured meats, smoked salmon, seasonal salads, and traditional Brazilian sides. The variety is impressive, and the quality is high enough that it could easily stand alone as a meal. But pacing is key. Veterans know that this is only the opening act. The Main Event: Churrasco The real magic begins when you flip the small card on your table to green. Within moments, gaucho chefs begin circulating

Picanha (the prized Brazilian top sirloin cap) Filet mignon Ribeye Lamb chops Garlic-crusted steak Bacon-wrapped chicken and steak

The picanha is the standout—tender, deeply flavorful, and seasoned simply with rock salt to let the quality of the meat shine. The rhythm of the service becomes part of the fun. Just when you think you’re finished, another gaucho appears with a new cut you feel compelled to try. Service and Atmosphere Despite the high-energy nature of the dining room, service at Fogo de Chão is polished and organized. Servers keep drinks filled, plates cleared, and the flow of meats steady without ever making the experience feel rushed. The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between

upscale and lively. It’s equally suited for a celebratory dinner, a business outing, or a special night out in Las Vegas. The Verdict Dining at Fogo de Chão isn’t just about steak— it’s about abundance, tradition, and the simple joy of great food shared around a table. Starting the evening with a cocktail at the bar before settling in for the full churrasco experience only adds to the anticipation. In a city famous for over-the-top dining, Fogo de Chão proves that sometimes the most memorable meals come from a timeless idea done exceptionally well: fire, meat, and hospitality. If you come hungry, and take the time to enjoy a drink at the bar before the feast, you may very well leave thinking it’s the best meal you’ll have in Las Vegas.

2026 Wine Trends

By: Sommelier Matthew-Lorèn Lindsey, Las Vegas Wine Tours

elcome 2026! The new year has arrived, bringing with it the usual flood of “circling back,” “per our last email,” and freshly updated terms and conditions we will never read. For wine writers and journalists, it predictably marks the annual wine trend forecast - a guide to what we are all supposed to be drinking in the year to come. Often framed through debates about what natty wine is in, the effects of climate change, alcohol levels, sustainability buzzwords, or which obscure region is having its moment. Often these columns are reinforced by not-so-subtle product positioning and brand placements. This is not that kind of article. I’m not here to regurgitate another fashionable, and often unattainable, list of arbitrary wines you must drink in 2026. That would be too easy. What I’m interested in is something with more consequence. Shifting the atmosphere from vanity lists to intentional experiences. At this moment, wine culture doesn’t need another recommendation list. It needs a revival. A new generation of social drinkers who let wine breathe with them (see what I did there?) as an extension of their identity and lifestyle. 86

It’s no secret, wine consumption has been trending downward for much of the past decade. This decline is not the result of a single cause, but a culmination of cultural and demographic shifts. Wine friendly older generations, particularly boomers, are aging out of their peak drinking years (yay, more for me!) and the numbers prove it. Historically, Boomers have been the most reliable wine buying generation, yet they are now reducing their overall alcohol intake due to age, lifestyle changes, and health considerations. Boomers became the wine generation for a reason. They came of age at the exact moment American wine was finding its voice after Prohibition. Napa and Sonoma were transforming from regional curiosities into national benchmarks in American wine culture. The Judgment of Paris (1976) put California on the global map. Wine felt modern and aspirational, and boomers embraced it right as they entered their peak earning years. Wine was a status marker. It was a story. It was a lifestyle. Restaurants were built around it. Culture rewarded it. There were no hard seltzers or canned cocktails fighting for attention, and there was no social pressure telling them they were doing it wrong. Wine fit their world and their values, so they claimed it fully and without hesitation.

Millennials and Gen Z have not dawned the responsibility of carrying the torch, which has decreased the demand, reshaping the entire market. Younger drinkers are not outright rejecting wine. They are rejecting the world that built it. Their social culture looks nothing like the one Boomers built. They do not sit for long dinners. They do not gather around formal tables. They do not identify wine as a signal of sophistication and arriving in life. It no longer fits the current status cues. They value experience over presentation, evolution over tradition, and wellness over ritual. Wine has struggled to keep up with that shift. And if we are being honest, the problem is not just cultural distance. There is an emotional distance as well. There is also an intangible barrier that is harder to quantify but no less real. Wine’s language, rituals, and perceived complexity often create hesitation instead of curiosity. I know that because I lived it. My first real experience with wine didn’t come until I was around twenty-seven, mostly because I felt inexperienced and wildly intimidated. Wine seemed reserved for people in ivory towers. White tablecloth rooms. Hard-to-get reservations. The kind of social experiences I didn’t feel mature enough for. Wine from the outside can look and feel very performative. There is a whole choreography surrounding it that can be overwhelming. It is surrounded with what feels like unending rules and regulations. The right varietal. The right vocabulary. The right glass. The right food pairing. All of it stacked in a way that makes wine feel like an audition instead of an invitation. And yet, that same ritual is part of what makes wine captivating. I don’t dismiss it. I celebrate it. The heritage, the ceremony, the feeling of exclusivity, those are the very reasons I fell in love with wine and made it my muse. Changing The Trend In my humble opinion, chasing wine trends is polishing the wrong surface. Trend cycles make great headlines—and my marketing background appreciates the scarcity and demand they can manufacture—but they rarely do much for the culture itself. They don’t build community. They don’t create people who care deeply; they create people who keep up. And when the focus shifts to having

the most fashionable bottle on the table, the whole thing can quietly start breeding insecurity instead of connection. It’s Not What To Drink. It’s How Social Identity & Self Expression Consumers use brands to express their identity. The need for self-expression can be related to the need for societal acceptance. Our self-expression through brand identity is inherently linked to how we project our income, wealth, and social status. Consumers express their identity in a number of ways: how they dress, where they shop, what kind of car they drive, and yes, even what they drink. As a diehard Android aficionado (cue the eye-rolling), my green bubbles are relentlessly ridiculed by the iPhone tribe. The debate of which brand is superior is as old as time and may never be settled, but the principle of the argument should be taken into high consideration more so than the conclusion. Why are the two so impassioned by their beliefs? Simply, it’s not a matter of objective superiority, but rather personal preference and emotional attachment to a brand and how that brand or product represents their values, ideals, lifestyle, and socioeconomic status. Being associated with a brand of prestige and influence can immediately bring a sense of social validation, confidence, and acceptance into a likeminded community. Wine is a commodity that plays by the same social rules as any other product. It’s a reflection of our core beliefs, values, and identity. Drinking Intentionally Modernizing wine for today’s society starts with taking the old script and rewriting it for today’s storyline. Modern drinkers aren’t waiting for the right reservation or the perfect pairing. They understand wine isn’t reserved only for special occasions or expensive dinner parties. Wine in modern society finds its power when it’s social. When it’s part of the group chat. Part of the pre-game. A key figure in the experience, not just an accessory. An important part of drinking intentionally is reframing how we think about wine in the first place. Wine doesn’t need a list of rules taped to the door or 87

a ceremony to matter. Choice matters.

It is not about rules or rituals. It is about intention.

We need to choose wine because it fits the way we live now, not the way wine used to be presented. Wine works in any social setting, with any food, with any group, and it brings people together in a way other categories rarely do. Choosing wine is choosing connection. It forces you to slow down and be intentional with the experience.

Start The Trend

The Trend - Lifestyle Design The trend is curiosity. The kind that defines your lifestyle without turning it into a performance. It starts with wine being an adventure, not a destination. It’s a beautiful world worthy of exploring. Pick up bottles that live outside your usual orbit. Try varietals and regions you have ignored because they felt unfamiliar and intimidating. Become a familiar face at all the local wine dinners. Ask the sommelier at your favorite restaurant and let them pick out your wine for the evening and trust them. Keep a journal not to judge the wine, but to understand your palate as it evolves over time. Bring wine to a party instead of a veggie tray. Host weekly themed wine tastings with friends. Join wine clubs for boutique wineries. Seek bottles with a story because that story becomes part of the moment you are creating This is what making wine part of your lifestyle looks like.

The trend for 2026 is owning how you experience wine. Not chasing lists. Not waiting for someone to bless your choices. We are the ones who get to build the culture and shape what wine becomes the next hot commodity, and that brings the entire conversation full circle. How we bring wine back into our lives with intention instead of intimidation. How we create a culture people actually want to be part of again. That is the revival. Once revival spreads, the culture follows, and suddenly, the only trend that matters is the one you create. Sip well, Sommelier Matthew-Lorèn Lindsey Matthew@LasVegasWineTours.com www.LasVegasWineTours.com @TheLordofWine Matthew-Lorèn Lindsey is a sommelier, wine consultant, and writer. He serves as the Lead Judge for Proof Awards, the largest double-blind wine and spirits competition in the United States, and is the founder of Las Vegas Wine Tours, the city’s first and only luxury wine tour experience.

• 100,000+ website visitors each month • 10,000+ digital audience • Distributed to every law ﬁrm in Southern Nevada • 4 ,300+ active attorneys • Median income of reader: $100,000/year • Average age of reader: 47 • Judges • Nevada Legislators • Attorneys • Medical Professionals • Business Elite • Fashion Industry

Contact Brandon@VegasLegalMagazine.com Contact Evan@thefirm-lv.com for more for info.more info.

Vegas Legal Magazine 2026 Clark County Election Guide Understanding the Offices, the Ballot, and Why These Races Matter

s Clark County approaches the 2026 election cycle, voters will make decisions that extend far beyond national politics. While statewide and federal races often dominate headlines, many of the most consequential decisions for Southern Nevada are made at the local level—in county offices, city halls, courtrooms, school boards, and public agencies. This issue of Vegas Legal Magazine highlights candidates and incumbents seeking public office throughout Clark County. Some are pursuing judicial positions, while others are running for county, city, education, or administrative offices. Although each race is different, all of these positions influence the institutions that affect our courts, businesses, neighborhoods, families, and daily lives. This guide is designed to help readers understand the offices on the ballot, how voting works, and 90

when voters will have the opportunity to participate. When We Vote Nevada’s 2026 election cycle includes both a primary and a general election. The Primary Election will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, with early voting from May 23 through June 5. The General Election will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, with early voting from October 17 through October 30. Because ballots vary by residence, voters should review their sample ballot before voting. How We Vote Clark County voters generally have three options: voting by mail, voting early in person, or voting in person on Election Day. Before voting, residents should confirm their registration status, polling options, mail ballot

information, and deadlines through the Clark County Election Department. County Commission County Commission races are among the most significant local contests. Commissioners oversee county budgets, land use, zoning, business licensing, infrastructure, public services, and policies affecting unincorporated Clark County. In 2026, Commission Districts E, F, and G are scheduled for election. For the legal and business communities, these races matter because commission decisions influence development, regulation, economic growth, and the local business environment. Countywide Offices Several countywide offices will also appear on the ballot. The District Attorney serves as the county’s chief prosecutor and legal counsel for county government. The County Assessor determines taxable property values, while the County Clerk, County Recorder, and County Treasurer oversee important public records and financial functions. The Public Administrator handles certain estates, and the Sheriff oversees local law enforcement operations. Although these offices often receive less attention than higher-profile races, they perform essential functions that affect residents, businesses, and government operations. Judicial Offices Judicial races are especially relevant to readers of Vegas Legal Magazine. Judges shape the administration of justice in civil, criminal, family, probate, business, and constitutional matters. Their decisions affect how cases proceed, how laws are applied, and how individuals and businesses experience the court system. In 2026, voters may see races involving the Nevada Supreme Court, the Eighth Judicial District Court, Family Court, and Municipal Courts, depending on their jurisdiction. Judicial elections in Nevada are nonpartisan. Because candidates do not run under a party label, voters may wish to focus on legal experience, courtroom background, temperament, professional reputation, and understanding of the judicial role. City Offices Depending on where they live, voters may see mayoral, city council, or municipal court races. City

officials make decisions involving development, public safety, roads, parks, business licensing, redevelopment efforts, and neighborhood services. Because city governments provide many of the services residents interact with most often, these races frequently have a direct impact on daily life. Education Offices Many voters will also see education-related contests, including school board and Board of Regents races. School board members influence local education policy, budgets, and operations, while the Board of Regents oversees Nevada’s public higher education system. These races can affect students, families, workforce development, and educational opportunities throughout Southern Nevada. Special Districts and Local Boards Some voters may also encounter races involving water districts, power districts, town advisory boards, or other local governing bodies. Although these contests often receive less attention, they can influence infrastructure, utilities, planning, and community priorities. Why These Races Matter The purpose of this election issue is not only to introduce candidates, but also to explain the offices they seek. A judge, county commissioner, city council member, recorder, treasurer, or school trustee each serves a distinct role and should be evaluated according to the responsibilities of that office. As Clark County continues to grow, the people elected to these positions will help shape how Southern Nevada manages growth, resolves disputes, maintains public trust, and delivers essential services. Voters are encouraged to review candidate profiles in this issue, study their sample ballots, confirm current election information, and make informed decisions in every race.

Judicial races are “especially relevant to the readers of Vegas Legal Magazine.

UP NEXT: VLM PRESENTS

CANDIDATE SPOTLIGHTS as appellate matters before the Nevada Supreme Court, Arizona Supreme Court, and the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. In addition to his courtroom experience, Ganz has pursued advanced training in dispute resolution. His education as includes an LL.M. from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law, a J.D. from the University of San Diego School of Law, and a B.A. from Cal Poly Pomona. He also serves as an adjunct professor at UNLV Boyd School of Law, where he teaches pretrial litigation.

Adam Ganz

Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 13

Ganz’s professional background also includes work as a mediator, arbitrator, short trial judge, and Justice of the Peace Pro Tem. His community involvement includes service with youth sports and nonprofit organizations such as Summerlin South Little League and Red Rock Search and Rescue.

dam Ganz is a candidate for District Court Judge in Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court, Department 13. Ganz currently serves as the ADR/Discovery Commissioner for the Eighth Judicial District Court. In that role, he works within the court system on matters involving discovery disputes, alternative dispute resolution, and pretrial issues that can play an important role in the efficient handling of civil litigation. His candidacy follows nearly three decades of legal experience in Nevada and regional courts. A longtime Las Vegas resident, Ganz was raised in the community and attended local public schools, including R. Guild Gray Elementary School, Cashman Middle School, and Bonanza High School. Ganz was the first in his family to graduate from college before earning his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law. Ganz’s legal career has been focused primarily on civil litigation. He has tried more than 50 civil jury trials and represented thousands of clients over the course of his practice. His work has included litigation in Nevada and Arizona courts, as well 92

Alex Quagge

Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 29

am a dedicated public servant with deep ties to this community. After growing up on the East Side of Las Vegas and graduating from Eldorado

VLM Candidate Spotlights

High School, I earned my bachelor’s degree from UNLV. I then commissioned as an officer in the Nevada Army National Guard, which afforded me the opportunity to attend UNLV’s Boyd School of Law. During law school, I was a law clerk for the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada working on consumer protection cases and a legislative policy extern for Governor Sandoval. Upon obtaining my J.D., that externship led to a position as a transportation policy analyst for the Governor’s office. I then served in the Army JAG Corps where I advised commanders and soldiers of their legal options and gained valuable experience on both sides of the criminal justice system, prosecuting and serving as defense counsel. I learned how to evaluate facts carefully, make fair decisions under pressure, and lead with integrity— skills that directly translate to the bench. I continue to serve in the Nevada Army National Guard as an Armor Officer – where it is my role to mentor, assist and strengthen every soldier reporting to me. My military service reinforces my commitment to accountability, fairness, and respect for everyone. Throughout my civilian legal career, I have worked as a Staff Attorney for the Criminal Division of the Nevada Court of Appeals, a Deputy Attorney General for the Business and Industry and Real Estate Divisions of the Attorney General’s Office and a Deputy District Attorney, first in Carson City and now in Clark County. My work in the Nevada Attorney General’s Office and the Nevada Governor’s Office involved regulatory, legal, and policy issues affecting Nevada families and businesses. This gave me an understanding of how laws are made, enforced, and applied in the real world. As a prosecutor, I’ve handled thousands of criminal cases, from misdemeanors to the most serious felonies. I’ve tried many cases before juries and worked closely with victims, families, and law enforcement. This has taught me the importance of protecting public safety while also safeguarding the constitutional rights of everyone who enters a courtroom. However, our courtrooms are more than criminal law, and in most cases, people are coming to court to deal with some of the worst moments of their lives. I believe that every person who has to navigate our legal systems should feel that the court experience was the easiest part of the process. Everyone deserves to be heard, have their questions

answered, and leave understanding what happened and why. Growing up here, working here, and raising my family here has given me a profound understanding and appreciation of our community. I’m running for judge because, I believe that our judges should be our fellow community members who can see, value and understand your lived experiences. I am committed to applying the law with integrity, listening carefully to every case, and ensuring that justice is administered fairly for all members of our community.

Anna Albertson

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 11

udge Anna Albertson serves as the District Court Judge for Department 11 of Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court in Clark County. She assumed office in January 2023 after being elected to the bench in 2022 and is seeking to continue serving in Department 11 in the 2026 election cycle. Before taking the bench, Judge Albertson built her legal career as a trial attorney, arbitrator, mediator, judge pro tem, and business owner. Her background includes extensive civil litigation experience, including more than 50 cases tried to verdict and representation of more than 1,000 clients. That experience gave her regular exposure to the practical realities of litigation, including the costs, delays, and consequences that court decisions can have on individuals, families, and small businesses. 93

VLM Candidate Spotlights

Judge Albertson earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Miami and her Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa College of Law. Prior to law school she worked as a teacher and tutor and was a Division I scholarship collegiate athlete. Judge Albertson’s public service before joining the district court included serving as a courtappointed arbitrator beginning in 2014, judge pro tem beginning in 2018, and Truancy Court Judge from 2015 to 2017. She has also been involved in legal education and professional training, including lectures and trainings for attorneys on subjects such as trial practice and rule implementation. Her community and professional involvement also includes participation in programs connected to legal education, access to justice, and the local legal community. As the presiding judge in Department 11, Judge Albertson serves within Nevada’s largest trial court system. The Eighth Judicial District Court handles a broad range of civil and criminal matters in Clark County, and district court judges are responsible for managing cases, ruling on motions, presiding over hearings and trials, and ensuring that litigants receive fair and orderly access to the judicial process. Department 11 is currently assigned civil cases and Justice Court eviction appeals. Judge Albertson’s professional background reflects a combination of courtroom advocacy, dispute resolution, public service, legal education, and judicial experience. Her path to the bench included years of work with clients and litigants before she was elected to serve as a district court judge. In the 2026 election cycle, she is running as the incumbent for Eighth Judicial District Court, Department 11.

Austin Beaumont Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 8

ustin Beaumont is a candidate for the Eighth Judicial District Court, Department 8. He has dedicated his life to service above self and will bring that steadfast dedication to the bench. He often reflects on an adage taught to him by his father: “If you have to ask yourself if it’s good enough, it isn’t.” To Beaumont, that principle reflects a broader truth about leadership. Institutions decline when mediocrity becomes acceptable, and courts are no exception. When the judiciary falls short, qualified people have an obligation to step forward and provide a solution. Our judiciary should be defined by restraint, integrity, and competence; we should never have to ask if our courts are “good enough.” Beaumont’s life reflects that standard. He worked his way through college while maintaining fulltime employment, often exceeding ninety hours per week to finance his education. He earned an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from North Idaho College and Bachelor’s degrees in General Management and Human Resource Management from Eastern Washington University. Before entering law, he built a successful career in hospitality management, where he helped turn around struggling hotels in Washington and Oregon, protecting jobs and livelihoods in the process.He later earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Idaho College of Law, where he served as Chief Managing Editor of the Idaho Law Review and received the school’s Outstanding Editor Award.

VLM Candidate Spotlights

What makes Beaumont uniquely qualified for this role is that he has already performed the substantive work judges rely on every day. He spent four years as a judicial law clerk for Judge Kerry Earley and Judge Stefany Miley and in the Eighth Judicial District Court, both of whom managed split civil and criminal dockets similar to Department 8. He drafted judicial orders, analyzed constitutional issues, handled civil and criminal motions, researched probate matters, and worked on complex legal disputes across nearly every area of district court jurisdiction. Beaumont now serves as a Chief Deputy District Attorney for Clark County, where he prosecutes major fraud and elder exploitation cases, tries complex matters to verdict, and has frequently argued before the Nevada Supreme Court. His extensive experience as a trial attorney in District Court has prepared him to be a highly effective trial judge.

Bill Henderson

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt R

Beaumont believes that when judges substitute their personal preferences for the law, it undermines our constitutional government and public confidence in the courts. Recently, the Nevada Supreme Court concluded that Department 8 had “manifestly abused its discretion” by imposing what it described as a “wholly ineffective and blatantly unconstitutional prior restraint”, violating the media’s constitutional rights, and “undermining the public trust in the veracity of court records.” Courts must be led by judges whose temperament is measured, whose legal analysis is disciplined, and whose commitment to constitutional boundaries is paramount. Clark County deserves a judiciary truly committed to service to above self and faithfulness to the law. Beaumont is running to restore confidence in the courts and to end judicial activism, and will never settle for “good enough.”

Charles J. Hoskin Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt E

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being promoted to Chief Deputy District Attorney in 2016. Colleen has served on various specialty teams including the Domestic Violence Unit, the Vehicular Crimes Unit, and the Major Fraud and Elder Abuse Units. Colleen is currently serving as the Team Chief of the Major Fraud and Elder Abuse Unit and has been since 2022.

Cody K Whipple Candidate for US House, 4th Congressional District

Colleen Brown

Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 24

fter moving to Nevada in 2009, Colleen began her legal career as a Law Clerk with the Clark County District Attorney’s Office. She primarily worked on appellate briefs and motions and argued cases before the Eighth Judicial District Court. Two years later, she was promoted to Deputy District Attorney before 96

Over the course of her career, Colleen has handled many different types of cases. She has even argued before the Nevada Court of Appeals and the Nevada Supreme Court. She is an experienced trial attorney who has presented over 30 cases to Clark County juries. As a prosecutor, Colleen has prosecuted cases involving crimes impacting our resort corridor, domestic violence, white-collar crime, and even murder. While on the Vehicular Crimes Unit, Colleen handled cases involving driving under the influence, reckless and negligent conduct, and deaths and injuries resulting from traffic collisions. On the Major Fraud Unit, Colleen is responsible for handling complex cases, cases that often involve high-dollar loss to local residents or businesses. She also handles public integrity cases, cases involving organized retail crime, cases involving multiple events and/or cooffenders, and cases involving the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of some of our most vulnerable citizens. Besides her duties at the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, Colleen also serves our community in other ways. Colleen has been a Transitioning into Practice (or TIP) mentor, she has provided training for law enforcement and served as a mock trial coach and volunteer judge at mock trial competitions. Colleen has previously served on the Nevada Commission for Women, the Standing Committee on Judicial Ethics, and served as the secretary of the Clark County Prosecutors Association, the bargaining body for many Clark County Prosecutors. She currently serves on the Vulnerable Adult Fatality Review Committee, and acts as the current secretary of the Board of Directors for the Let’s Talk! Child Development Center. Colleen was born and raised in the Midwest. She received her undergraduate degree from Marquette University in Milwaukee Wisconsin in 2006, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science. After graduating from Marquette University, Colleen attended the University of Wisconsin Law School. During school, Colleen completed an internship with the Office of the Judge Advocate General as well as two Milwaukee law firms that focused on insurance defense and civil litigation.

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Gabriela Wyett

Jasmin Lilly-Spells

Jacob Reynolds

Jerry A. Wiese

Candidate for State Assembly, District 41

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 29

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 23

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 30

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my calendar effectively, I am able to move cases forward in a timely and organized manner. Efficiency in the courtroom is not simply about speed; it is about respect for the time and resources of everyone involved, as well as the broader administration of justice. An efficient court promotes access to justice, reduces unnecessary delay, and helps ensure that cases are resolved fairly and without undue burden on the parties or the community.

Jennifer Schwartz Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 17

y name is Jennifer Schwartz, and I currently serve as the District Court Judge in Department 17. As a lifelong resident of Las Vegas, I am proud to serve the community that shaped me.

Beyond the courtroom, I remain actively involved in community and nonprofit organizations, reflecting my commitment to strengthening the place I have always called home. I am also grateful for the support of my family. My husband, Darren Schwartz, is a retired LVMPD sergeant of 27 years, and our son, Zev, is a sophomore and aspiring left-handed pitcher. It is an honor to serve as a District Court Judge, and I remain committed to upholding the integrity of the judiciary and serving this community. #schwartzinthecourts

After graduating from the University of Arizona, I returned home to attend the UNLV William S. Boyd School of Law. Following law school, I clerked for then District Court Judge Michael Cherry in Department 17 where I gained invaluable insight into judicial decision-making early in my career. I then practiced civil litigation, focusing primarily on construction defect cases, before joining the Clark County Public Defender’s Office. It was there that I developed my trial skills, handling numerous bench trials, evidentiary hearings, and jury trials. In 2022, following the retirement of Judge Michael Villani, I was elected to the bench and assumed my role in January 2023. Department 17 maintains a split docket, and I preside over both civil and criminal matters. I approach my role with a commitment to preparation, respect, and efficiency. I carefully review all submissions in advance of hearings, research the legal issues presented, and independently verify the authorities cited so that my decisions are wellreasoned and legally sound. Equally important, I strive to maintain an efficient courtroom. I recognize that the individuals who appear before the court— attorneys, litigants, and self-represented parties— have professional and personal obligations beyond the courtroom. By being prepared and managing 98

Jessica Goodey

Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Department 26

udge Jessica Goodey was born and raised in a small town in Illinois. She moved to Las Vegas as a single mom with her two-year old son in 2007 to attend law school at UNLV, having never been here before. Since that time, she has worked in and for the community, she is dedicated to giving back to the community that

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has given her so much. In this election, Judge Goodey has been endorsed by law enforcement, including the LVPPA and Sheriff Kevin McMahill, firefighters, veterans, the Asian American Group, Independent Black Voters, PLAN Action, and union organizations including IATSE and the Carpenter’s Union. She has also received broad support from attorneys and law firms across Clark County. Judge Goodey had the honor of serving as a Justice of the Peace for the last 3 years, where she was able to improve the process for the parties and the court. Judge Goodey is running for District Court because she believes judges should have diverse experience, and be prepared to handle the cases assigned from day one. She has that experience and preparation. Prior to taking the bench, Judge Goodey practiced almost exclusively in complex civil cases in District Court. Her entire career has been dedicated to learning and mastering the civil law rules and cases, and she is ready to apply that experience while serving on the District Court bench.

Jessica Green

Candidate for Las Vegas Municipal Court, Dpt 2

Prior to being elected in 2022, Judge Goodey was a practicing attorney for twelve years. Nine of those years were as a small business owner. As she said, “I have had the honor of counseling my clients through some of the worst times of their lives, trying to ensure that they are not victimized by a sometimes cruel and unfair judicial system.” Judge Goodey’s small business experience is especially unique and is something our current bench lacks. As a small business owner, Judge Goodey understands the full scope of the consequences of a judge’s actions or failures to act. She has also seen firsthand the impact a court can have by constantly continuing a case over and over, exacerbating the hardship on the parties involved. In addition to her private practice, Judge Goodey served as a Court-Appointed Arbitrator, presiding over civil cases of less than $50,000. She also served as a Las Vegas Alternate Judge, as well as serving as a Las Vegas Justice Court Justice Pro Tempore. These experiences helped Judge Goodey gain a better understanding of the inner workings of the court and hone an appropriate, effective judicial temperament. Judge Goodey believes it is vital that the court treat everyone fairly and with kindness, dignity, and respect. That is how she ran her practice and how she runs her courtroom.

Jessica Peterson

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 8

udge Jessica K. Peterson serves as the District Court Judge for Department 8 of Nevada’s Eighth Judicial District Court in Clark County. Her judicial profile reflects a career shaped by litigation experience, community involvement, and a stated commitment to thoughtful, fair, and respectful courtroom administration. 99

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Judge Peterson’s path to the bench is one rooted in an early interest in truth and justice, and her judicial approach is characterized as thoughtful, empathetic, and deliberate. Before taking the bench, Judge Peterson practiced law in Las Vegas and served as a junior partner at Flangas Law Group. Judge Peterson earned her bachelor’s degree from Evergreen State College and graduated cum laude from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Her civic and charitable involvement includes service as a current member and past president of the North Las Vegas Rotary Club, prior service on the board of directors for the Rape Crisis Center, and volunteer work with organizations including the Compassion Initiative and Vegas Masketeers. As the judge in Department 8, Judge Peterson presides over matters within Clark County’s general jurisdiction trial court. Department 8 is currently assigned criminal, civil, and probate dockets, placing the department in a position to handle a broad range of cases affecting individuals, families, businesses, and the community.

Joanna Kishner

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 31

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Joseph Lombardo Incumbent Candidate for Governor of Nevada

Kevin McMahill

Incumbent Candidate for Clark County Sheriff

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As mayor, Romero serves as a member of the Henderson City Council and presides over council meetings. Henderson operates under a councilmanager form of government, meaning the mayor and council exercise the city’s legislative authority while the city manager oversees executive administration. In that role, Romero has focused on policy leadership, regional collaboration, and ensuring that Henderson continues to plan for growth while protecting the character and livability that residents value.

Michelle Romero Incumbent Candidate for Mayor of Henderson

ichelle Romero is the incumbent Mayor of Henderson and is running for re-election to continue serving the city where she was raised, built her career, and has devoted decades of public service. Romero was elected Mayor in June 2022 and took office on January 3, 2023, after previously serving as the Henderson City Council representative for Ward I beginning in 2019.

During her tenure, Henderson has continued to invest in public safety and city services, including projects such as police and fire facility improvements, expanded public safety infrastructure, and continued attention to community security. Her re-election campaign has identified community safety, quality education, economic opportunity, and protecting Henderson’s quality of life as key priorities. Romero’s campaign message centers on continuity, experience, and local roots. She presents herself as a leader who understands Henderson not only from City Hall, but from a lifetime of living and working in the community. Her biography reflects a career spent helping guide Henderson through significant growth, while her re-election effort asks voters to allow her to continue that work as the city prepares for its next phase.

A lifelong Henderson resident, Romero’s background is deeply tied to the city’s growth and civic identity. Before holding elected office, she spent approximately 25 years working for the City of Henderson, giving her a unique working knowledge of municipal government, city operations, planning, public safety, infrastructure, and community services. Her public-service career has positioned her as both a hands-on administrator and an elected policymaker familiar with Henderson’s neighborhoods, business community, and long-term development needs. Romero earned a degree in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University and has often described public service as a personal calling rooted in the belief that leaders should leave their community better than they found it. That philosophy has shaped her work in city government and her approach as mayor, where she has emphasized public safety, responsible growth, economic development, quality of life, and maintaining Henderson’s reputation as one of Southern Nevada’s premier communities.

Noreen DeMonte Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Department 28

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In 2009, Anthony was elected to the Las Vegas City Council, representing Ward 4. He served three terms on the council and also served as mayor pro tem for seven years. His local-government experience included work on municipal policy, public safety, transportation, development, and quality-of-life issues affecting one of Southern Nevada’s fastest-growing communities.

Stavros Anthony

Incumbent Candidate for Nevada Lieutenant Governor

tavros Anthony is the incumbent Lieutenant Governor of Nevada and is seeking re-election in 2026. A longtime Las Vegas resident, Anthony has built his public career around law enforcement, local government, higher education, and statewide public service. He was elected Nevada’s Lieutenant Governor in 2022 after previously serving on the Las Vegas City Council and as a member of the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents. Anthony began his professional career with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1980. He served with Metro for 29 years and retired as a captain. During his law-enforcement career, he held leadership roles overseeing several divisions, including the Financial and Property Crimes Bureau, Vice/Narcotics, Northeast Area Command, and the Transportation Safety Bureau. His background in public safety has remained a central part of his public identity and policy perspective. Anthony’s education includes a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayne State University, a Master of Arts degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a Ph.D. from UNLV. He also attended the University of Louisville Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course and the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.Before serving in statewide office, Anthony was elected to the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents in 2002 and served two terms. He later served as chairman of the Board of Regents, where his work included helping develop a systemwide master plan, goals, and value statement.

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As Lieutenant Governor, Anthony holds Nevada’s secondhighest executive office. The lieutenant governor serves as a statewide constitutional officer, presides over the Nevada State Senate, and is involved in areas such as tourism, economic development, and statewide boards and commissions. The office also serves as the constitutional successor to the governor if the governor is unable to serve. Anthony’s public service has also included appointments and civic involvement outside elected office. In 2014, he was appointed to the Board of Commissioners for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. He has also served on boards for Goodwill of Southern Nevada, Founders Academy Charter School, and St. John Greek Orthodox Church.

Stephanie Itkin-Goodman

Candidate for Clark County Public Administrator

tephanie Itkin-Goodman is a Deputy Attorney General, former Assistant District Attorney, attorney, and community leader running for Clark County Public Administrator. Her career has been shaped by

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public service, accountability, and a commitment to protecting families and vulnerable communities. As the only attorney in the race, Stephanie brings the legal judgment, professionalism, and government experience needed to lead the Public Administrator’s Office responsibly from day one. Stephanie currently serves as counsel and prosecutor to multiple Nevada state licensing boards, including the Cannabis Compliance Board, Real Estate Commission, Funeral and Cemetery Services Board, Private Investigators Licensing Board, and State Environmental Commission. In this role, she works to protect the public, enforce Nevada law, and ensure government boards operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity. She previously served as an Assistant District Attorney, and in private practice, fought some of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the country to help victims pursue justice and compensation. Stephanie’s commitment to service extends far beyond her legal career. She serves as Trustee and Secretary of the Clark County Law Library Board, is a Director of the Las Vegas Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni Association, and serves on the City of Las Vegas Department of Public Safety Chief’s Advisory Board. She is also a guest lecturer at the College of Southern Nevada’s Southern Desert Regional Police Academy and a strong supporter of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the men and women who serve our community. A committed volunteer, Stephanie has served with local organizations including the United Service Organizations (USO), Catholic Charities, All Friends Animal Sanctuary, Nevada SPCA, the Mob Museum, and the City of Las Vegas Deputy City Marshals. Whether serving meals during the holidays or helping with hands-on animal rescue work, Stephanie believes community is built through small acts of care repeated day after day. Her approach to public service is rooted in showing up when people need help most. Stephanie’s values were shaped by her family and her upbringing in a proud union household that believed in service, sacrifice, and standing up for others. Her father was a law enforcement officer, and her family later lost him to illnesses connected to his 9/11 service. Her mother carried their family with strength and grace, teaching Stephanie to lead with compassion, do what is right, and remain steady during difficult moments. Stephanie carries those lessons into her life with her husband, Eric, her partner of 11 years, and their two dogs. As Clark County Public Administrator, Stephanie will focus on protecting estates, supporting families,

strengthening procedures, and modernizing office operations. The office handles sensitive family situations and significant financial assets, and it must operate with clear standards, consistent communication, and strong accountability. Stephanie is running to bring qualified, compassionate leadership to an office that is not about politics, but about protecting families, safeguarding estates, and earning the public’s trust.

Jerry A. Wiese

Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 30

Jasmin Lilly-Spells Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 23

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residential neighborhoods, business corridors, redevelopment areas, and major community assets that connect directly to broader countywide issues such as public safety, homelessness, transportation, economic development, housing, and quality of life. During his time on the commission, Segerblom has served in a policy role within Clark County’s commission-manager form of local government. The Board of County Commissioners functions as the county’s governing body, setting policy, approving budgets, overseeing county services, and addressing regional issues that affect both unincorporated areas and the broader Southern Nevada community.

Tick Segerblom

Incumbent Candidate for Clark County Commission, District E

ick Segerblom is the incumbent Clark County Commissioner for District E and is seeking reelection in 2026. He was first sworn in to represent District E on January 7, 2019, and has since served on the Clark County Board of Commissioners, including as vice chair beginning in July 2023 and as chairman of the board from January 2, 2024, through January 6, 2026.

Segerblom’s public profile has often been associated with progressive policy priorities, including civil rights, cannabis reform, labor issues, redevelopment, and community services. His experience in both the Nevada Legislature and county government gives him a long record in public office and familiarity with the relationship between state law, county administration, and local community needs.

A longtime Nevada public servant, Segerblom’s career in elected office spans local and state government. Before joining the Clark County Commission, he served in the Nevada Legislature, first in the Nevada Assembly from 2007 to 2012 and later in the Nevada Senate beginning in 2013. His legislative tenure included representation of portions of Clark County and work on issues affecting Southern Nevada’s growth, economy, civil rights, public services, and evolving regulated industries. Segerblom is a Southern Nevadan with deep family and civic roots in the state. He is a third-generation Nevadan born in Boulder City and has been described as part of a family with a long history of public service in Nevada. His professional background also includes work as an attorney. He is a graduate of Pomona College and the University of Denver Law School. As County Commissioner for District E, Segerblom represents an urban and diverse portion of the Las Vegas Valley. District E includes portions of Paradise, Sunrise Manor, Whitney, Winchester, and part of the incorporated City of Las Vegas. The district includes 104

Veronica Barisich Incumbent Candidate for 8th Judicial District Court, Dpt 5

udge Veronica Barisich was elected in 2020 by more than 423,500 voters of Clark County to be the Judge in Department 5 of the Eighth Judicial District Court. She was one of the few candidates that cycle to win her race by more than 11 percentage points, earning one of the largest margins of any

opposed judicial position. Since then, she has repeatedly demonstrated through her judgment, professionalism, and work ethic that voters and her supporters made the right choice in selecting her for the position. Judge Barisich successfully manages a high-volume, all-civil docket. After taking the bench, her ability to effectively manage her cases and provide fair rulings did not go unnoticed. This led to her selection by the Chief Judge to preside over multiple specialty court assignments. She is currently one of nine judges selected to preside over medical malpractice cases, and one of only three judges assigned to preside over probate cases. She has also been appointed to special election night committees and a hiring board. These selections show the high regard in which she is held by her peers and counsel, as well as the effect her experience coming to the bench has had on her preparedness for the job. Las Vegas has been Judge Barisich’s home for 22 years. Originally from Michigan, she grew up with strong values and a supportive family. A career in law had been Judge Barisich’s goal from a young age. A conversation with a judge during her childhood inspired her interest in law and influenced her career path. As a result, she is committed to speaking with young people and welcoming students into the courtroom. She believes that observing the justice system firsthand and interacting with members of the judiciary can inspire and encourage young people to pursue careers in law and public service. Prior to law school, Judge Barisich worked for a district court judge and for the Governor of Michigan in the Office of Strategic Initiatives. After completing her degree at Michigan State University and graduating from law school, she and her husband made Las Vegas their home, where they have built their life and are raising their children. Judge Barisich has 22 years of experience as a lawyer and judge in Nevada. Prior to serving as a District Court Judge, Judge Barisich served as a Judge Pro Tem in Small Claims Court for years and was a member of the State Bar of Nevada Fee Dispute Committee for over a decade. Both positions were in addition to her active legal career, which included civil litigation, probate, guardianship, and family law. Her experience across multiple areas of law helped shape her into a well-rounded attorney. Those professional experiences, combined with her legal background, prepared her to serve as a judge. In addition to managing her docket, Judge Barisich serves as a settlement judge within the Court’s program. She supports mediation, which allows

the parties the opportunity to resolve their disputes collaboratively and outside of trial. Judge Barisich became a certified mediator through the National Judicial College in 2025 to further strengthen her dispute-resolution skills. After the long hours on the bench, you will often find Judge Barisich spending time outdoors with her children and husband, volunteering, and attending community events. They participate in Veterans’ events and educational activities. As the daughter of an Army Veteran, Judge Barisich understands the sacrifice and commitment that families make to public service and does not take her position lightly. She is committed to building a safe, fair, and prosperous Nevada and recognizes that her decisions on the bench affect people’s lives, finances, businesses, and families. Judge Barisich is known for being prepared, respectful, and for applying the law fairly and impartially. Her record of service, leadership, and experience reflects the fairness, integrity, and professionalism voters expect from their judges. Judge Barisich is the best choice on your ballot this November for Clark County District Court Judge, Department 5. For more information, please visit: www.JudgeBarisich.com Facebook: @JudgeVeronicaBarisich Instagram: @JudgeBarisich

IT'S TIME TO VOTE!

FIND INFORMATION ON HOW TO VOTE AT WWW.VOTE/ORG/NEVADA/ 105

SAVE THE DATES

SUMMER

IN LAS VEGAS

From headline concerts and downtown entertainment to family outings and holiday celebrations. Here are dated events worth putting on your 2026 summer calendar. DINING & COMMUNITY

SHOWS & HEADLINERS

Silver Oak Wine Dinner

Kenny Chesney

Joe's - the Forum Shops June 22 | 6:30PM Multi-course meals alongside paired wines

Downtown Rocks: Finger Eleven Fremont Experience June 27 | 9PM Free concert under the Fremont Street canopy

Heritage Park: Fourth of July

July 4 | 6-9:30PM Family fun, entertainment and fireworks!

Sphere Las Vegas June 19 - July 11

Illenium

Sphere Las Vegas July 3 - 4

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

Dino Safari

Springs Preserve May 23 - September 7 a walk-through expedition for the whole family!

Toddler Time

Backstreet Boys

Springs Preserve Mon, Thu, Fri | 11AM Activities and stories, with new themes weekly

Ed Sheeran

Las Vegas Aviators Homestand

Sphere Las Vegas July 16 - August 29 Allegiant Stadium July 18

Karol G

Allegiant Stadium August 7

Las Vegas Ballpark August 4 - 16 The series will feature matchups against the Tacoma Rainiers and the Sacramento River Cats

YOUR CITY. YOUR SUMMER. YOUR MEMORIES MADE HERE!