But Connelly's job has been to deal with some difficult questions. With 38 staff gone, including some of the firm's most senior pros, he has to discuss the process of rebuilding as well as address the human-interest angles that reporters seek. "At times it does become a strain," he said, his voice trailing off a little. Talking with the press is especially difficult when he is discussing "specific individuals that I've known for many years," he said.
Connelly focuses on why reporters ask these questions, which, he says, is "respect for our colleagues." "We understand where the media is coming from on this," he said. "We know the importance of it. We lost some great people, but we are moving forward as a firm. It's really a balance. It's difficult to do, but we know the importance of doing it."
