The Tax Section of the State Bar of Texas has recognized Winstead Shareholder Thomas R. Helfand as a Texas Tax Legend. Helfand, who was the first law clerk and associate at Winstead in the 1970s, has practiced tax law in Dallas for more than 40 years.

Helfand was interviewed by William Elliott, former chair of the State Bar of Texas Tax Section, at the Dallas Bar Association’s Tax Section Luncheon. He discussed how his career began and how it has evolved, his influences, and his view of law practice. He also highlighted Winstead’s history, strengths and core values.

“[Winstead’s] environment is incredibly team-oriented while at the same time permits you to do pretty much anything that you want to do as long as it is good for the firm,” Helfand said in the interview. “That sense of comradery, collegiality and collaboration allows you to perform at a level that I don’t think you can anywhere else.”

Helfand has represented a broad range of clients in a wide variety of areas of the tax law, including bankruptcy reorganizations and restructurings, corporate mergers and acquisitions, emerging businesses, energy, executive compensation, partnership and limited liability company formations, real estate investment trusts, state tax planning, and more. He frequently speaks and writes on topics reflecting his practice.

“This is a tremendous honor and a testament to Tom’s 40+ year contribution to his craft,” Winstead Chairman and CEO David Dawson said. “Tom is much more than a tax legend; he is a Winstead legend, too.”

Helfand has served in numerous leadership and management roles at Winstead, including on the board of directors and as chief operating officer, Dallas managing shareholder, and chair of the Business & Transactions Department.

Watch the Interview Here.