Listed in Best Lawyers in Dallas, D Magazine, 2001. Designated Super Lawyers by Law & Politics and Texas Monthly, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009. Selected as one of the top 100 Trial Lawyers by the American Trial Lawyers Association 2008. Recipient: John Howie Award, 2008; Lifetime Service Award, Texas Municipal Police Association, 1992; Vision and Courage Award, Kyle Facility New Vision Treatment Program, 1992; Legislative Crime Fighter of the Year, Greater Dallas Crime Commission, 1991; Legislative Honor Roll Aware, Texas District and County Attorneys Association, 1991; Legislator of the Year, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1991; People's Choice Award, Texas Association of Home Health Agencies, 1991; Legislative Award, Texas Association Against Sexual Assault, 1991; Legislative Award, Greater Austin Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, 1991; Legislative Award, Texas Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors, 1991; Legislative Excellence Award, Texas Black Bass Unlimited, 1989; Legislative White Hat Award, Texas Farmers Union, 1989; Legislator of the Year, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1987; Senator of the Year, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1985; Legislative Conservationist of the Year, Sportsmen's Clubs of Texas, 1985; Conservation Legislator of the Year, Texas Outdoor Writers Association, 1985; Legislative Service Award, Sierra Club, 1985; Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Texas Legislature, Texas Catholic Conference, 1985; One of Four Best Legislators, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1983; Legislator of the Year, Common Cause of Texas, 1981; One of Two Outstanding Legislators, Dallas County Sheriff's Association, 1981; One of Ten Best Legislators, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1981; All-Star Legislator, I'D" Magazine, 1981; Outstanding Freshman Legislator, Texas House of Representatives, 1979; One of Four Best Legislators, Combined Law Enforcement Association of Texas, 1979; One of Two Outstanding Legislators, Dallas County Sheriff's Association, 1979.