During his 45-plus years of practice, Connelly has come to be regarded as one of the leading federal tax litigators in the United States. A shareholder at Chamberlain Hrdlicka in Houston since 1987, he focuses his practice on IRS audit, collection, and criminal matters including civil and criminal tax litigation matters for individuals, companies, and estates.

Outside the courtroom, Connelly has long mentored young lawyers through both his daily interactions and formal presentations, including his involvement on the Student Development Task Force for Earl Carl Institute at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University.

The legal profession is constantly evolving and that evolution only seems to have accelerated in recent years. What's the biggest change you've seen in the profession during your career?

Without a doubt, it is technology. When I began practice in 1971, we used typewriters and carbon paper. We had telephones but no voicemail or hand held devices. Personal computers were nonexistent, and computerized research was considered a fantasy. No Skype or video conferences, and no internet. The changes could have come out of a science fiction novel.

What is one thing about the profession that has remained unchanged over the years?

The importance of dedication: to the client, to the practice, to the firm where one works, and to one's loved ones.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone entering into the profession that you wish you had as a young lawyer? 

The practice of law, much like life itself, is a journey and not a destination. All which preceded it—law school, the bar exam, the recruiting process, and showing up the first day—adds up to prologue. The real journey begins when you arrive on that first day.

An awards ceremony will be held on Sept. 18 at the Belo Mansion in Dallas. The Attorney of the Year award winner will be announced at the ceremony.

Click here for booking information. For information about sponsoring the event, contact Andre Sutton at 757-721-9020 or email [email protected].