Circle City Conversations

Timothy F. Devereux is a Partner at Wagner Reese, LLP, an Indianapolis-based personal injury law firm. With over 30 years of legal experience, he specializes in product liability, construction site injuries, industrial accidents, and catastrophic personal injury cases. Licensed in Indiana, Illinois, Texas, and Colorado, Timothy has argued cases before the Indiana and Colorado Supreme Courts, the 7th and 10th Circuit Courts of Appeals, and the Indiana Court of Appeals. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, has held leadership roles in the Indianapolis Bar Association, including serving as Vice President, and is a nationally published author in Matthew Bender's Products Liability Practice Guide.

Product liability cases often hinge on complex technical details and legal nuances that can overwhelm juries. In states like Indiana, conservative verdicts and strict liability laws make it even harder for plaintiffs to secure fair compensation. How can trial lawyers overcome these hurdles and advocate effectively for their clients?

Experienced personal injury attorney Timothy F. Devereux shares his journey from law school to handling high-stakes product liability claims across the US — from kerosene heaters to fireworks — and the legal strategies he employs in corporate negligence cases. He revisits a landmark case he and Alex Limontes worked on together, where they fought for an undocumented client's right to claim lost wages — a case that went all the way to the Indiana Supreme Court and resulted in a precedent-setting outcome. Timothy also explains how appellate law requires a more strategic, big-picture approach compared to the fast-paced, tactical nature of trial litigation. With a case study of a recent "Appeals on Wheels" where he represented a student injured by a falling window, he demystifies the legal principle of res ipsa loquitur.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, host Alex Limontes sits down for a fireside chat with his longtime friend and fellow attorney, Timothy F. Devereux, Partner at Wagner Reese, LLP. Set in Alex's bourbon bar, Timothy discusses his journey into law, how he developed a specialization in product liability cases, and his recent "Appeals on Wheels" experience. He highlights the key differences between trial and appellate work and the impact of res ipsa loquitur in personal injury cases.

Brandon Tate is a Member of Waldron Tate Bowen Land LLC, a law firm in Indianapolis, Indiana, specializing in litigating cases including personal injury, wrongful death, medical malpractice, real estate and construction, and business and corporate services. Brandon's focuses on personal injury, wrongful death, corporate litigation, constitutional violation claims, and life insurance denials. Notably, Brandon helped secure a record-breaking $159 million jury verdict for a client catastrophically injured by a drunk driver, marking the largest reported jury verdict in Indiana history. He has been recognized by Super Lawyers from 2027 through 2025.

How can professionals navigate a significant career transition and emerge successful in a competitive field? By fostering a growth mindset and remaining open to new experiences, professionals can pivot effectively and seize opportunities as they arise. Learn how a personal injury attorney made this seemingly improbable leap and excelled in his legal career.

Initially drawn to Indiana for its vibrant legal community, Brandon Tate's journey was marked by strategic planning and the pursuit of practical experience over academic excellence. Together with his partner Kevin Bowen, they meticulously planned to establish a law firm while still in law school, focusing on gaining courtroom experience through criminal and family law to eventually transition into personal injury law. Their proactive approach and willingness to adapt allowed them to build a reputable practice from the ground up, defying the odds of failure often associated with new law firms.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes chats with Brandon Tate, Member of Waldron Tate Bowen Land LLC, about the intricacies of building a law practice. Brandon reflects on his team's journey to establishing themselves in the legal field, discusses the importance of storytelling in trials, how to overcome public speaking challenges, and the nuances of different legal cases, including qualified immunity and the value of human connection and authenticity in the courtroom.

Alexander Limontes is the Managing Partner of Hurst Limontes LLC, a personal injury law firm. Licensed in Indiana and Florida, he is also a certified civil mediator. His passion for personal injury law stems from extensive trial experience and a commitment to advocating for victims of negligence. His recognitions include being named a Super Lawyers Rising Star from 2015 to 2020. Alex has been listed as Best Lawyers in America since 2019 and, in 2023, received the Excellence in Civility Award from the American Board of Trial Advocates. Beyond his legal practice, Alex is actively involved in the Indianapolis community, serving on various boards and committees.

Success in personal injury litigation requires a combination of legal expertise and client-centered skills. Attorneys must navigate court proceedings while prioritizing client satisfaction. This episode explores the essential attributes that distinguish top practitioners in the field and the key elements that drive excellence in personal injury law.

Host Alex Limontes explores the complexities of personal injury litigation in this special episode, featuring insights from top legal minds. Marc Lopez shares how strategic delegation allowed him to focus on marketing and client service. Michael Langford emphasizes the importance of trial experience for mediators, advising litigators to maintain professionalism for future career opportunities. Katie Marshall highlights the power of juries in humanizing personal injury cases, while Faith Elizabeth Alvarez sheds light on pregnancy discrimination and the value of working mothers. Katherine Karres underscores the need for client-centered legal strategies, ensuring their needs and well-being remain the priority.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes reflects on previous chats with legal experts on the intricacies of personal injury law. From jury trial impact and workplace discrimination to strategic hiring and fostering professional relationships, Alex engages with guests on balancing strategies for enhancing a legal career while advocating for clients.

Cameron Fathauer is an Attorney at Schad Law, which is based in New Albany, Indiana. His legal specialties include personal injury, traumatic brain injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, wills, trusts, and other estate-related work. Born and raised in Columbus, Indiana, he shifted from aspiring to be a minister to pursuing a career in law after a life-altering accident. A husband, father, and community leader who has overcome severe personal challenges and actively promotes mental health awareness, Cameron is a proud graduate of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. He has also written and published articles for the American Bar Association and authored an upcoming book called Saving the Subject: How I Found You When I Almost Lost Me.

Has adversity ever thrown you a curveball that made you question everything? What if the very path you were on was suddenly shattered, forcing you to rebuild your identity from scratch? How do you find resilience when faced with the seemingly impossible?

Cameron Fathauer, a youth minister turned formidable attorney, channeled adversity into advocacy. Through a gripping recount of the accident that brought his life to a standstill, Cameron unveils the uncanny resilience that propelled him from hospital beds to law school benches. He shares the critical role of his supportive family and the intersection of personal challenges with professional ambitions. Amidst discussing legal intricacies and technological advancements, he previews his upcoming book — a quest for identity against the backdrop of personal catastrophe and recovery. We delve into his integration of deeply personal experiences with his ministry background, culminating in a unique legal practice encompassing personal injury, wills, estates, and beyond.

On this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Cameron Fathauer, an Attorney at Schad Law, about overcoming life-changing challenges. They dive into Cameron's transformative experience, discussing the details of his accident, the aftermath, and how it reshaped his goals. Cameron also explores the integration of AI in a legal practice, the significance of respect and authority in the law industry, and the importance of empathy in helping others.

Chase Wilson is an Attorney at Hurst Limontes, an Indiana law firm representing Hoosiers. With eight years of experience in insurance coverage law, Chase focuses his practice on victims of personal injury and wrongful death cases, recovering millions of dollars in compensation. An award-winning attorney, Chase has been recognized as a Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch and has earned the Super Lawyers Rising Star accolade. He is also the Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, where he advocates for professional growth and community engagement.

In high-stakes courtroom battles, lawyers often tackle cases where the evidence seems stacked against them. What happens when a case involves minimal visual damage, a seemingly invincible client, or an admission of liability? This episode details these kinds of challenges as two attorneys share their strategic approach to a complex car accident case that defies the odds.

Chase Wilson, a personal injury attorney, and host Alex Limontes dive into their team's experience overcoming the myriad of obstacles in a three-car accident case. This accident resulted in minimal visual damage to the vehicle but significant ongoing pain to the client. Despite the apparent lack of severe injuries, Chase focused on the underlying damages and the permanent impact on the client's quality of life. Notably, the team faced the added hurdle of dealing with an uncooperative insurance company, which ultimately drove them to trial due to an inadequate offer that failed to cover medical expenses. Through diligent preparation and the relentless pursuit of justice, Chase and his colleagues achieved a verdict significantly higher than the initial offer.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Chase Wilson, Attorney at Hurst Limontes, about the challenges of personal injury trials. Chase explores the value of storytelling in jury trials, in-depth knowledge of the rules of evidence, and adapting mid-trial to unexpected twists. Tune in for an insider's view on strategic legal preparations, jury selection intricacies, and the pivotal moments that can make or break a case.

Harvey Lancaster is a Partner at Lancaster Gill PC, a law firm that represents clients in various matters, including those dealing with criminal charges, individuals seeking compensation for personal injuries, and cases related to contract law. Harvey, an Indiana University Bloomington's Groups Scholars Program graduate, earned his JD from IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Following law school, he litigated numerous personal injury and medical malpractice claims for prominent firms. Later, Harvey turned his full attention toward representing victims of injustice and educating them on their rights under the law. Leveraging his previous experience in retail management and the service industry, he combines a deep understanding of the criminal mind and jury psychology with corporate law, helping Hoosiers navigate the justice system.

As an attorney, building trust with clients who find themselves overwhelmed by the legal system can be challenging. How do you navigate the complexities of a courtroom, ensuring justice while contending with the unpredictable nature of juries?

Personal injury attorney Harvey Lancaster shares his journey and strategies for tackling these issues. Harvey's background in retail and the service industry honed his people skills, which are crucial in courtroom battles and client relations. He emphasizes the importance of likability and trustworthiness, drawing parallels between serving customers and convincing jurors. With case studies of how he combats misconceptions, he sheds light on the often misunderstood world of personal injury law. Harvey's anecdotes about his passions outside the courtroom, such as his love for music and family, offer a powerful glimpse into the resilience, values, and passion that define his career and character.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes chats with Harvey Lancaster, Partner at Lancaster Gill PC, about navigating the legal landscape in Indianapolis. Harvey provides insights into his career's challenges, recounts a memorable trial experience, and illustrates the impact of standing up for clients against formidable insurance companies. Tune in for insights into balancing pragmatism with client advocacy, managing setbacks, and the importance of shedding ego for the sake of justice.

Amy Davis is the Owner of the Law Office of Amy M. Davis, a firm based in Indianapolis, Indiana, specializing in personal injury and wrongful death litigation. Known for her competitive drive, Amy has secured substantial verdicts, including a notable $5.26 million settlement in Knox County, earning her Trial Lawyer of the Year award from the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association. Beyond her legal accomplishments, Amy is a former college basketball player who enjoys coaching her daughters' sports teams and is passionate about empowering the next generation of female trial lawyers.

Life experiences can shape a career path, influencing life-changing decisions. From a childhood incident that sparked her interest in justice to navigating her early experiences in law, legal advocate Amy Davis details the influences and decisions that led her to the courtroom. What can you learn from her journey?

Amy didn't just stumble upon a thriving legal career; it was a cultivated path marked by determination and a competitive edge. With humble beginnings as a small-town athlete, Amy embraced her competitive nature, leveraging scholarship opportunities at Anderson University and gaining valuable experience through internships. She recounts the personal tragedy that reinforced her passion for law and how these experiences guided her career trajectory. Highlighting the intersection of competitive sports and law, she shares the nuances of finding her passion in helping others and facing the complexities of trial law. Amy vividly describes her involvement in a landmark case in Knox County, where her dedication and strategic approach resulted in a significant victory for her client, earning her the Indiana Trial Lawyer of the Year award.

In this episode of the Circle City Conversations podcast, Alex Limontes sits down with Amy Davis, Owner of the Law Office of Amy M. Davis, to discuss the strategy and emotional intelligence required for big wins in the courtroom. Amy highlights the value of mentorship and support networks, empathy, work-life balance, and why storytelling is a critical skill for attorneys.

Jose Torres is a seasoned homicide detective at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, where he specializes in solving complex murder cases. Credited with solving over 90 homicide cases, Jose has successfully led numerous high-profile investigations throughout his career, contributing to the department's impressive clearance rates and enhancing community safety through his diligent and thorough approach. Originally from East Chicago, Indiana, he brings a unique perspective to his work, drawing on a background rich in diverse experiences and a passion for justice.

We've all seen the dramatized portrayals of homicide cases on television, but do they capture the truth of these events? What happens when the lines between professional duty and personal empathy blur for detectives, especially in high-stakes criminal investigations? These intriguing questions are at the heart of a compelling conversation where emotional intelligence meets the rigid world of law enforcement.

Detective Jose Torres is no stranger to these challenges. He delves into the scrutiny accompanying high-profile cases, sharing strategies for avoiding media sensationalization. Emphasizing the importance of sincere communication, he illustrates how he bridges the gap between law enforcement and the communities he serves, particularly in difficult circumstances involving personal injury or death. By leveraging body language and emotional cues, detectives can foster trust in situations where individuals are reluctant to engage with the police. Additionally, Jose reflects on technology's transformative impact on investigative processes, reiterating the role of the human element as irreplaceable in solving crimes.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes once again chats with Jose Torres, homicide detective at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, about Jose's perspective on policing and how societal perceptions impact criminal investigations. Jose delves into the behind-the-scenes of homicide investigations, shares insights into navigating a career in law enforcement, and highlights the intersection of law enforcement and community connection.

Jose Torres is a seasoned homicide detective at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, where he specializes in solving complex murder cases. Credited with solving over 90 homicide cases, Jose has successfully led numerous high-profile investigations throughout his career, contributing to the department's impressive clearance rates and enhancing community safety through his diligent and thorough approach. Originally from East Chicago, Indiana, he brings a unique perspective to his work, drawing on a background rich in diverse experiences and a passion for justice.

What motivates someone to pursue a career in law enforcement, especially in high-stakes roles like homicide investigation? The allure of unraveling mysteries, bringing closure to grieving families, and the daily grind of piecing together complex puzzles are only part of the equation. But what does a typical day look like for those who walk this challenging path, and how do they balance justice and empathy?

Detective Jose Torres has faced his fair share of challenges, from navigating the complexities of homicide investigations to dealing with the emotional weight of the job. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities and nuances of criminal investigations, highlighting the emotional intelligence required to handle sensitive situations. Growing up in Chicago, Jose initially joined the Valparaiso Police Department but was driven by a desire to tackle more complex cases, leading him to Indianapolis. His work is far from what TV portrays; it involves detailed investigative processes, constant collaboration with the prosecutor's office, and a deep commitment to victims' families. Jose emphasizes the importance of perseverance, the role of community relationships, and how communication, both with colleagues and the public, can help detectives build solid cases and ensure justice is served.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes hosts Jose Torres, homicide detective at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, about the realities and challenges of working in homicide investigations. Jose delves into the realities of police work, the importance of teamwork, the evolving nature of criminal investigations, and the personal drive needed to handle the emotional weight of homicide cases.

Katie Marshall is a Trial Attorney at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, an Indianapolis law firm representing people with personal injury, wrongful death, and medical negligence claims. A recipient of the Max Goodwin Young Lawyer of the Year award, Katie has earned a reputation as one of the top trial lawyers in Indiana, known for her relentless pursuit of justice and impressive courtroom victories. Growing up in McCordsville, Indiana, she developed a strong interest in the legal system early, influenced by high-profile trials and TV shows like Court TV and Matlock. As a member of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, she chairs the Women's Caucus, contributing to pivotal discussions and networking opportunities in the legal community.

What does it take to become a top trial lawyer in the competitive legal field? Katie Marshall, a trial attorney with a track record of pushing past prejudices and difficulties, explores this compelling question, shedding light on defying the odds and carving a niche in personal injury law.

Katie Marshall reflects on key lessons from her legal journey, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, networking, and hands-on trial experience. Inspired by iconic cases like the O.J. Simpson trial, she developed a passion for challenging cases early in her career. She highlights the role of focus groups in refining trial strategies and underscores the value of a solid support system in managing a demanding career. Sharing case studies of her experiences with high-profile cases, Katie illustrates how attorneys can stay true to their values in the face of adversity, prevent stereotypes from holding them back, and inspire a new way of thinking within the legal system. Striking a balance between her demanding career and her personal life, she also reveals creative hobbies that help her recharge and stay connected to those she loves.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes hosts Katie Marshall, Trial Attorney at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, about how she secures favorable outcomes in the courtroom. Katie delves into the value of mentorship and networking for aspiring lawyers, how early trial opportunities accelerated her professional growth, and how to utilize focus groups for case preparation.