THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL 96 | NOVEMBER 2025 The Back Page EVERY NOVEMBER, we pause to honor those who have worn our nation’s uniforms. Veterans Day is a time to reflect on their service and sacrifice, but it’s also a moment to recognize the challenges they face at home. Service members are not separate from the communities we serve; they are our neighbors, co-workers and clients. And just like any other Oklahoman, they unexpectedly face legal problems that affect their daily lives. Military life brings extraordinary pressures – deployments, separations from family and the invisible burdens of trauma and reintegration. But it also shapes a mindset and lifestyle centered on discipline, readiness and mission above self. These internal and external stressors compound the legal issues veterans face, which are often the same as any other citizen: divorce, bankruptcy, landlord-tenant conflicts, debt collection, employment issues, criminal charges and estate planning, to name just a few. What makes legal challenges more complex for veterans isn’t the nature of the issue but the barriers to getting help. The military fosters a deep sense of self-reliance, and many service members hesitate to seek assistance. Some are unaware of their rights or the legal support available. Others choose to suffer in silence rather than reach out, even to a trusted “battle buddy.” Although today’s military leadership has made commendable progress in addressing the stress of service – such as expanding mental health care, family support and VA access – many veterans served in generations when support was limited or seen as weakness. That’s where attorneys can make a difference, even those who don’t concentrate their practice in military law. Sometimes, answering a question or offering 30 minutes of guidance in a particular area of expertise is more legal support than that veteran may otherwise receive. A brief consult on a lease dispute, assistance understanding a custody order or reviewing a will can be life-changing when done with empathy and clarity. While some parts of Oklahoma are fortunate to have specialized resources, such as veterans treatment courts or legal clinics, access to veteran-specific legal support can vary widely depending on where someone lives. That’s why real impact often begins at the individual level, with a conversation, a consultation and a willingness to help. This year, I encourage every attorney in Oklahoma to consider taking one meaningful step toward serving veterans in your community. It doesn’t need to be complex. Possibilities include reaching out to local veterans service organizations (VSOs) or volunteering time at a legal clinic. Another option is supporting the work of the OBA Military Assistance Committee, which I proudly co-chair with S. Shea Bracken. If you’re willing to help but are unsure where to begin, please mark your calendar for Veterans Day 2026. The OBA will be hosting Heroes Day, a coordinated effort to connect service members and veterans with attorneys who can provide brief legal advice in their areas of expertise. It’s a simple yet powerful way to give back. More details will be shared as the date approaches, and I hope many OBA members will consider becoming part of this initiative. This Veterans Day, let’s remember those who raised their hands and swore to make the ultimate sacrifice if called to do so. Their legal struggles should not go unanswered. Whether it’s divorce, an eviction or something else, a lawyer’s knowledge, time and presence could change the course of a veteran’s life. Our nation’s heroes deserve nothing less. Mr. Cannon is the owner and founder of Cannon & Associates, a law firm with offices in Oklahoma City, Edmond and Norman focused on criminal defense and family law. He serves as co-chair of the OBA Military Assistance Committee and is a judge advocate in the Oklahoma Army National Guard. Fighting for Those Who Fought for Us: Veterans and the Legal System By John P. Cannon Statements or opinions expressed in the Oklahoma Bar Journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the Oklahoma Bar Association, its officers, Board of Governors, Board of Editors or staff.
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