On October 30, 2025, the Irish American Bar association gathered before 100 guests to honor Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Daniel M. Crowley with its 41st annual Daniel O’Connell award.  His Hon. Daniel M. Crowley joins the esteem company of prior winners including Mayor Richard Riodan, Senator George Mitchell, former President of Ireland, her excellency Mary McAleese, and other contributors to the civic well-being of the world. 

Christopher P. Yuhl of Yuhl Carr was privileged to provide the introductory remarks, touching on his honor’s rapid and influential rise through the court ranks since his appointment in 2018 for Governor Jerry Brown.

Daniel O’Connel was a world-famous statesmen and trial lawyer in late 18th and early 19th century in Ireland who struggled for the civil rights of his countrymen.  He was the first Catholic elected to the Westminster Parliament at a time when Ireland was ruled by the strong first of Protestant Great Britain. Opposed to violence, he advocated political change through peaceful means.  He staunchly opposed slavery and in 1845, just two years before he died, became a dear friend of American statesman and social reformer, Frederick Douglass.   

O’Connell is forever known as the “Great Liberator”.

Beyond his professional achievements, the Hon. Judge Crowley is known for his sharp intellect, practical approach to problem solving,  civility, sense of humor, a clear ethical compass and dedication to fair and equal justice.  He reminds us that, in legal life and as in real life, a littler laughter, a level of hard work and a lot of integrity go a long way.

Congratulations Judge Crowley.