Munsch Hardt is proud to announce Dallas Litigation Shareholder William Toles has been selected to receive the James H. “Blackie” Holmes Award from the Dallas Chapter of ABOTA. This rare distinction recognizes exceptional civility, ethics, and professionalism in the practice of law and remains the highest honor the Chapter can bestow.

The award was established in 2014 to honor the late James H. “Blackie” Holmes, a revered trial lawyer, longtime member of Burford & Ryburn, and past president of the Dallas Chapter of ABOTA. Holmes held every Chapter office, served 15 years on the executive committee, and was named TEX-ABOTA Trial Lawyer of the Year in 2004. He is best known statewide as a co-author of the Texas Lawyers’ Creed, which is incorporated into the Texas Rules of Disciplinary Conduct. His deep commitment to professionalism and the principles of ABOTA shaped both his career and the standards he championed within the legal community.

The award was first conceived by then-Chapter President Ben C. Martin, who presented it to Holmes in early 2014. It was formally announced to the full membership later that year and posthumously presented to his wife, Judy, at the annual dinner. Since its creation, the award has been bestowed only once, in 2018, underscoring its selectivity and significance.

Munsch Hardt congratulates William on this exceptional and well-deserved recognition.