Legacy of Leadership
Connell Foley was established in 1936 by Robert Shaw, a
 venerable litigator who went on to become a federal judge in 1961. The firm’s name, and the sterling reputation it has earned for absolute integrity, staunch client advocacy, forward-thinking vision and tireless community activism reflects the efforts of two men who joined the firm in the 1950’s, partners Adrian “Bud” Foley, Jr. and the late George “Walt” Connell.
Mr. Connell, who passed away in March 2005, joined the firm in 1950, and quickly developed a reputation as a tough trial attorney and legal professional of unfailing integrity. The success of his partnership with Mr. Foley, who came on board in 1959 and went on to chair various government commissions and professional associations, is a testament to the pair’s synergy, and an illustrious example for successive generations at the firm.
A Team Philosophy
From the earliest days of their partnership, Mr. Connell and Mr. Foley nurtured a philosophy that regarded individual accomplishments as firm successes, much like an athlete’s performance contributes to a team victory.
At the same time, they encouraged those under their management to dream, to set goals for themselves and then, step by step, make each goal a reality.
In fact, they did more than encourage; they led by example, establishing high standards for their own individual achievement and taking enormous pride in the firm. By doing so, they have inspired two generations of Connell Foley attorneys to strive for – and achieve – success.
Notable Accomplishments
The caliber of Mr. Connell’s and Mr. Foley’s achievements has reflected well on the firm, with each rising to professional and personal prominence in the legal field and the community. Clients have been the primary beneficiaries of these accomplishments.
Early on, Mr. Connell devoted much of his time and energy to courtroom litigation. He then took over management of the trial staff when Robert Shaw left to become a federal judge.
Through his work with the New Jersey Manfacturers Insurance Company and other clients, he developed an expertise in insurance law, which led to his being asked to join a working group of business leaders charged with examining New Jersey’s auto
insurance system and proposing improvements. Today’s no-fault law was the product of the working group sessions to which Walt contributed his expertise.
Mr. Foley joined the firm after serving as Essex County Surrogate from 1954-58. He brought with him a diversity of experience, and took on a variety of cases upon his arrival, including a dramatic first degree murder case. Eventually he focused on corporate law, business litigation and taxation and estates, in the process building a loyal clientele consisting of prominent business and government leaders.
As Connell Foley grew in size and stature, both Mr. Connell and Mr. Foley found their expertise and leadership sought by corporate boards, governmental commissions and professional organizations.
Professional Leadership
Mr. Foley served as President of New Jersey State Bar from 1964 to 1965, and, in 1966, as President of the State of New Jersey's Fourth Constitutional Convention.
He has been Chairman of the ABA Litigation Section, and Chairman of the ABA Commission on Advertising. He is a past Director of the American Judicature Society, a present member of the American Law Institute, and a permanent delegate to the Third Circuit Judicial Conference.
Advisors to Government and Industry
For many years, Mr. Foley was a Member of the Board of Directors of Prudential Insurance Company of America and Chairman of both the Executive and Finance Committees. He is currently a Director of the ESBI International Executive Committee.
He also has served as an advisor in the public sector, specifically to Richard J. Hughes, a former Connell Foley partner who became Governor in 1961. In addition, he was Treasurer and original Commissioner of the New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, having been appointed by Governor Cahill back in the early 1970’s. Currently he serves on the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee.
In addition to Mr. Connell’s work on former Governor McGreevey’s auto insurance reform initiative, he was appointed by three separate governors to the Governor’s Council on Alcoholism, an important cause and one that he supported personally and professionally for 28 years.
Community Activism
Another beneficiary of Mr. Connell’s energy was Turning Point, a 12-bed facility in Cedar Grove that offers substance abuse treatment for indigent clients. This organization was particularly dear to Mr. Connell’s heart, and his contributions over the years helped countless afflicted clients get back on their feet.
He also was a generous supporter of Mountainside Hospital in Montclair, helping to chair the annual Candlelight Ball that has raised millions for the medical facility.
Both Mr. Connell and Mr. Foley believe in taking active roles in their communities, giving of their time and effort to both civic and charitable organizations. As in so many other areas, they led by example, as many of their peers and colleagues have joined them in giving back to the community.
A Legacy and a Challenge
The legacy that Mr. Connell and Mr. Foley have established is a towering one. That legacy has made personal growth, respect, public stature and success synonymous with the Connell Foley name. It has helped to build a reputation that partners and associates alike can be proud of and to which they can contribute. Most of all, it has presented a challenge to the next generation of Connell Foley leadership: Dream, achieve, allow clients, colleagues, family and community to share in your success.
Firm Access
|
