I am a seventh-generation Hoosier who can trace my family roots in Indiana back to the 1850s. With over a decade of litigation experience, I have worked my entire career for individuals, never insurance companies. I have dedicated my practice to representing injured people and the loved ones of those killed as a result of the negligence of others.
My litigation philosophy is based on a close personal bond with each client I work with. Lawyers are called ‘counselor’ for a reason. We as lawyers are meant to be with our clients throughout the entire process, whether it be over a text, the phone, a coffee, or a meal. As rare as that is, that is the foundation of a client-centered law firm. Every challenge, new course of treatment, settlement discussion, litigation hurdle, or medical bill question, we are there.
My most memorable case was a $915,000 settlement for a traumatic brain injury caused by railroad gross negligence. Many different firms and trial lawyers in the state turned this client away stating that he did not have a case, but when he came to me, the client and I did not give up throughout the entire process. The client was so grateful he even offered me a Harley low-rider as a bonus. I also worked on a pro bono case that helped hold an Indiana prison responsible for an unconstitutional solitary confinement practice, which was very memorable as well.
I am recognized for my pro bono work by both the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana.
Education
- Indiana University – McKinney School of Law
- J.D. 2009
Staton Intramural Moot Court Competition – Order of Barristers. - Coach – IU McKinney Law School’s moot court teams: Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition; and
National Health Law Moot Court Competition.
- J.D. 2009
- Indiana University
- Bachelor’s of Music Education 2002
Awards
- Super Lawyers – Rising Stars 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019
Presentations/Publications
- Author – Indiana Chapter of Negligence: Purpose, Elements, and
Evidence, The role of foreseeability in the Law of Each State
Published 2018 - CLE presentation at ITLA Institute – Sunrise Program 2018
- CLE presentation on business fraud 2014
- CLE presentation on mediation ethics 2012
Reported Cases
- Haire v. Parker, 957 N.E.2d 190 (Ind. Ct. App. 2011)
- Schmidt v. Allstate, 141 N.E.3d 1251 (Ind. Ct. App. 2020) trans. den. (as amicus counsel for Indiana Trial Lawyers Association)
- Hogan v. Magnolia Health, 161 N.E.3d 365 (Ind. Ct. App. 2020)
Bar Admissions
- Indiana 2010
- N.D. Ind. 2010
- S.D. Ind. 2010
Paul Petro
[email protected]
