Circle City Conversations

Rudy Longman is a Senior Associate Attorney at McCready Law, a personal injury law firm serving the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana area since 1999. A seasoned civil litigation lawyer, Rudy is renowned for his relentless fight against injustice, specializing in car accidents, premises liability, and catastrophic injury cases. His academic and career background boasts a degree in psychology from Butler University, a JD from Valparaiso University Law School, and litigation experience from his previous role at Hensley Legal Group. An esteemed Indiana Trial Lawyers Association member and a Super Lawyers Rising Star, Rudy is licensed to practice law in Indiana and Michigan.

Practicing law can be one of the most rewarding jobs. However, the constant high pressure of the industry can be daunting, even for the most dedicated attorneys. How do thriving lawyers rise to the challenge and become a beacon of hope for victims of injustice?

Personal injury attorney Rudy Longman delves into his inspiring background growing up in Indiana, his pivot from a psychology student to a passionate attorney, and his experience transitioning from mass tort to personal injury law. Drawing from experiences with trial victories and setbacks, including a significant premises case that went to the Court of Appeals, he shares his motivation for taking on challenging cases. To maximize the chances of winning injury cases, resilience and thorough trial preparation are crucial, especially in premise liability cases. Rudy reveals his favorite and least favorite parts of a trial, emphasizing the adrenaline rush of delivering impactful closing arguments and the challenges of observing a client's cross-examination. With insights into AI's influence on the legal field and the supportive network provided by the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, he offers a candid look into the world of a trial lawyer committed to justice.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes hosts Rudy Longman, Senior Associate Attorney at McCready Law, to discuss his journey as a trial lawyer and advocate for the injured. Rudy explores the importance of tenacity, robust client relationships, and technological advancements in law. With insights on aligning personal values with a career in law, he narrates tales from the trenches of jury trials and highlights the value of maintaining a work-life balance for attorneys.

Travis Jensen is the Co-founder and Partner at Johnson Jensen LLP, a personal injury firm focused on distinguishable client care and professionalism. An accomplished trial lawyer deeply invested in his community, Travis has represented over 800 clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases in Indiana and nationwide. His experience as a defense lawyer and passion for psychology and its multiple roles in the trial process led him to develop the jury research process that is the foundation of his and his partner's company, Precognitive Jury Research, LLP. Apart from law, Travis is a passionate musician, having played in bands since his early years, with his Billy Joel tribute band still performing today.

Hobbies can play a pivotal role in enhancing personal and professional growth, often serving as a bridge between passion and productivity. How does a trial lawyer draw parallels between leading a law firm and maintaining a vibrant love for music? And what can we learn from his versatility?

Travis Jensen's journey from a musically inclined high school student to a respected trial lawyer and the President of the Indianapolis Bar Foundation illustrates passion and community leadership. Travis' early love for music complemented his dynamic personality, serving as an outlet for stress while providing the fresh perspective needed in his professional life. He highlights the importance of family, his band's tribute to Billy Joel, and his role with the Indianapolis Bar Foundation, demonstrating how one's passions and profession can harmoniously coexist. His multifaceted experiences and an innate understanding of psychology have established a foundation for a legal approach that's as strategic as it is benevolent.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes hosts Travis Jensen, Co-founder and Partner at Johnson and Jensen, to discuss how he intertwines his love for music with his fight for justice. Travis shares insights gained from facing challenges on both sides of the courtroom as a defense attorney turned trial lawyer. He illustrates the value of family and community service, embracing lifelong learning, and engaging in a creative hobby outside your primary job to maintain a balanced life.

Katherine Karres is a Personal Injury Lawyer at Hurst Limontes, an Indiana law firm focused exclusively on helping victims of negligence. With over 13 years of experience in injury litigation, Katie has tried 27 injury cases over her legal career and has helped thousands of clients resolve their cases. Before joining Hurst Limontes, she worked as a medical negligence claims litigator.

As a graduate of the University of Indianapolis and the Indiana University School of Law, Katie has lived in Indiana for most of her life. She has been a Super Lawyers Rising Star since 2017 and named Top 40 Under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers.

When you slip and fall, who's really at fault — and just how hard is it to prove your case in a court of law? In Indiana, premises liability cases present unique challenges, often tipping the scales against the injured. Can a strategic approach to trial lead to outcomes that defy expectations?

Personal injury lawyer Katherine Karres shares insights into overcoming such challenges. Katie shares her experience of successfully trying a trip and fall case in Fulton County, a rural area where most everyone knew the defendant. She dissects critical aspects of trial preparation and litigation, from the power of jury selection to the advantages of bifurcating trials into separate liability and damages proceedings. By anticipating jury biases, presenting clear and convincing evidence, and being transparent about the "bad facts" of a case, attorneys can mitigate the impact of any negatives used by the opposing side. Illustrating the nuances that shape courtroom battles and the tactics that can lead to a favorable verdict, Katie discusses how her strategic approach resulted in a favorable and swift settlement post-verdict in the Fulton County case, highlighting how even seasoned defense attorneys can underestimate the determination of a well-prepared plaintiff's lawyer.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Katherine Karres, Personal Injury Lawyer at Hurst Limontes, about the legal procedures and psychological dynamics in personal injury trials. Katie dives into the nuances of a premises liability case that unfolded in the rural setting of Fulton County, Indiana, expounds on her approach to jury selection and the concept of bifurcation, and highlights the pitfalls one might encounter, from dealing with biases to battling summary judgments.

Enrique Flores is the Principal Attorney at Flores Law Group, an Indianapolis-based law firm specializing in personal injury cases. A California-born, Texas-raised attorney, Enrique focuses his practice on personal injury and workers' compensation law, with a strong commitment to serving the Hispanic community. He received a JD from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law and has practiced at Schiller Law Offices, LLC, and the Indiana Attorney General's Office. As a mediator and advocate for education, Enrique is a preferred attorney for the Mexican consulate and actively mentors the next generation of legal professionals.

A multicultural background in the legal profession can enrich a lawyer's ability to navigate diverse legal landscapes, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of global perspectives. How does this unique advantage enhance an attorney's ability to advocate effectively in an increasingly interconnected world?

Enrique Flores, a prominent Latino trial lawyer and mediator, shares how his multicultural upbringing became the cornerstone of his identity and career. Enrique emphasizes how diversity can create new opportunities and help you stand out in a competitive field. He also reflects on his journey into workers' compensation law, his efforts in serving the Hispanic community, and the challenge of finding that essential balance between work and personal life. He offers actionable insights on navigating complex workers' compensation cases, explaining the challenges faced by both workers and lawyers within the system. By prioritizing mentorship, skill development, community involvement, and the pursuit of justice, attorneys in this field can shape a fulfilling legal career.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes welcomes Enrique Flores, Principal Attorney at Flores Law Group, to discuss Enrique's dynamic role as a trial lawyer and community advocate. Enrique delves into his multicultural background and the power of bilingualism in the legal profession. He also provides insights into the workers' compensation law, how to navigate the legal industry during tough economic times, and the importance of community involvement and mentorship.

Tina Bell is a Partner at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, an Indianapolis law firm representing people with personal injury, wrongful death, and medical negligence claims. With over 25 years in the field, Tina has accumulated vast experience in medical malpractice law from both sides of the courtroom. As a former defense attorney who transitioned to advocating for victims of medical negligence, she leverages her insider knowledge to serve Indiana citizens.

A dedicated mother, committed missionary, and well-respected leader in the legal community, Tina shapes an inspiring example in the courtroom and global community. Her recognition as one of the Top 25 female lawyers in Indiana and as a Super Lawyer honoree every year since 2012 underlines her prolific legal expertise.

Have you ever been fascinated by the intricacies of medical malpractice law or wondered what it takes to switch sides in the courtroom? Could the experience of working a job you are passionate about fundamentally change your approach to life's challenges?

Tina Bell, a seasoned medical malpractice lawyer, delves into how dedication, knowledge, and empathy shaped her stellar career in a male-dominated field. With remarkable expertise in both defending and prosecuting medical malpractice cases, Tina details the complexities of medical malpractice litigation in Indiana, shedding light on limiting laws and the emotional toll they can take on victims. She discusses the difference in dynamics when representing plaintiffs, illustrating the significant hurdles faced in these cases and the importance of rigorous case selection. Providing a beacon for young lawyers navigating the field, Tina reveals her surprising origin story, how she found her calling in law against all odds, and the impact of mentors on her career.

Tune in to this episode of the Circle City Conversations as Alex Limontes interviews Tina Bell, Partner at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, about her journey from defense attorney to plaintiff powerhouse. Tina provides an insider's perspective on Indiana's medical malpractice law, revealing her approach to handling high-stakes depositions and mediations. She also highlights the value of camaraderie in trial law and the impact of giving back through mission work.

Lee Christie is a Partner at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, an Indianapolis law firm representing individuals with personal injury, wrongful death, and medical negligence claims. With over four decades of experience, including extensive trial work in federal and state courts, Lee has earned a reputation for passionate representation and cultivating meaningful client relationships. He has served in leadership roles for several Indiana organizations, including the Walker Foundation, and amassed over $60 million in settlements and verdicts. As the 2024 President-Elect of the Indianapolis Bar Association, Lee has profoundly influenced Indiana's legal landscape.

When protecting the rights of those who have been wronged, understanding how to navigate complex legal battles is key. But what does it take to excel in this high-stakes environment, and how can one lawyer's experiences illuminate the broader challenges personal injury victims face? Could the key to success be the union of expertise, compassion, and community involvement?

Renowned Indiana attorney Lee Christie delves into his remarkable career, highlighting his transformation from a hopeful student wanting financial security to a seasoned trial lawyer and influential member of the Indiana legal community. His tales of courtroom strategy, mentorship under industry leaders like Buddy Yosha, and his experiences with monumental cases reveal the intricacies of the legal profession. Beyond winning cases or securing settlements, Lee is committed to serving the community, shaping the profession's future, and fostering connections within the law community. Through his narratives, including his success in a trial against Tesla and other verdicts, listeners gain insight into the evolution of trial law and the resilience required to champion clients' causes.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes welcomes Lee Christie, Partner at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, to discuss the strategies that paved the way to Lee's legal accomplishments. Lee reveals the secrets of running a thriving law firm, shares memories from notable cases, and unveils his practice's integral principles. He also reflects on the vital role of mentorship in his career and his vision for the future of the Indianapolis Bar Association.

Alex Limontes is an attorney and the Managing Partner at Hurst Limontes LLC, a personal injury law firm based in Indiana and one of the few firms whose practice focuses solely on personal injury claimants. At Hurst Limontes LLC, Alex and his team have represented thousands of clients and obtained hundreds of millions in settlements and verdicts.

A strong advocate of community involvement, Alex has worked closely with established Indianapolis organizations and has served on the Board of Directors at the Indianapolis Bar Association Solo/Small Firm Committee. His impact in the industry has earned him several accolades, including being listed as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers and recognized by Best Lawyers in America for professional excellence in private practice. Alex is passionate about providing effective representation and, in turn, maximizing returns for personal injury claimants.

Most personal injury cases — especially those that require filing a lawsuit or going to court — are complicated. How can you ensure you are heard and fairly compensated in a personal injury litigation?

Alex Limontes, an experienced personal injury attorney, emphasizes that being proactive as a victim in an injury case is critical for successful litigation. Victims can ease the process for lawyers and insurers by, for instance, having witnesses and providing visual evidence such as videos and pictures. It can be easy for victims to be taken advantage of by actors such as insurance companies because most injured persons and their families focus more on recovery and medical attention, forgetting accident documentation. Alex advises calling an attorney immediately after an accident to take on the hard work of litigation while you focus on healing. However, some victims hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer because they do not know how to identify the right attorney or worry about fees. Alex recommends researching a law firm's reputation and hiring an attorney who works on a contingency fee basis and provides a personalized service. Regardless of the claim size, the right attorney takes time and effort to address your concerns.

In this episode of the Circle City Conversations, host Alex Limontes welcomes Chad Franzen of Rise25. Chad flips the scripts and interviews Alex as they demystify accident documentation, insurance claims, and the importance of visual evidence and witness information. Alex highlights how victims can identify the right attorney for their cases and how to navigate the tactics of insurance companies. He also shares a thrilling account of a personal injury case with an unexpected outcome.

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.

What would it be like to meld the intensity of a legal discussion with the fiery challenge of a hot wings contest? Each bite brings not only the spice of chili but the sizzle of standout courtroom anecdotes. Can legal wisdom be truly imparted through a haze of capsaicin-induced tears?

The Circle City Conversations takes a scorching turn — literally — as the jovial camaraderie between host Alex Limontes and guest Chase Wilson brings to life tales of the courtroom. From civil rights cases to insurance policy conundrums, they reflect on navigating the legal system while subjecting their taste buds to an increasingly spicy array of hot wings. A proud Indiana native and sports enthusiast, Chase shares his journey from a humble upbringing to becoming a respected attorney, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped his choices, including an influential high school mock trial and the sage advice of seasoned practitioners.

In this latest episode of the Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews Chase Wilson, Attorney at Hurst Limontes, about the passion and dedication it takes to succeed in law and chase hotter culinary experiences as an Indiana native. Chase shares his strategies for balancing intense courtroom battles with lighter moments of food and sports fandom, offering a candid look at the intricacies of trial law, the challenges he faced as a young lawyer, and hidden gems in the Southern Broad Ripple scene.

Abigail Stanley is the Co-founder of Legal Nurse Secrets, where she empowers nurses to launch and grow highly successful legal nursing businesses. She is also the Founder and President of Nurses Still Care, a team of law nurses that have helped over 25,000 injured people working alongside top attorneys in the US and Canada. A seasoned nurse with a passion for legal consulting, Abigail's impactful journey from operating room nurse to entrepreneur started with her company's launch in 2011, utilizing her extensive medical knowledge to serve as an expert witness and create life care plans. With experience in both clinical and mass tort law, Abigail aims to improve legal proceedings through healthcare expertise.

What if attorneys could navigate the complexities of the law with an unexpected ally — nurses? How could the expertise of these health professionals translate into the courtroom, and what would it mean for the future of both the healthcare and legal industries? Could nurses be the missing link to more nuanced and informed legal proceedings in injury cases?

Abigail Stanley, a legal nurse consultant, unravels how her career as an operating room nurse provided the foundation for a bold transition into entrepreneurship in the legal industry. She reflects on the value of nursing expertise when navigating lawsuits, such as understanding medical costs and assisting with case qualifications. Reflecting on the local to national growth of her business, she emphasizes the value of effective marketing, particularly in mass tort cases. She also touches on the unique challenges in male-dominated sectors, like birth injury litigation, and the importance of nuanced, empathetic communication with plaintiffs. Abigail's unique professional journey exemplifies the potential for nurses to contribute beyond typical expectations, setting an intriguing precedent for potential synergies between two critical fields.

In this episode of the Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes welcomes Abigail Stanley, the Co-founder of Legal Nurse Secrets, to discuss her multifaceted role that bridges law and nursing. Abigail dives into growth strategies for legal nursing businesses, the challenge of marketing to attorneys, and her recent ventures into plaintiff acquisition. She highlights the role of nurses outside traditional clinical settings, resonating with listeners curious about interdisciplinary career paths.

David Duncan is Counsel at Scannell Properties, a privately owned real estate development and investment company focusing on build-to-suit and speculative development projects throughout the US and Canada. An award-winning lawyer with expertise in business services, David specializes in preparing and negotiating crucial loan and transfer documents for asset-based and real estate transactions. Before joining Scannell Properties, he honed his skills as an Associate at Tabbert Hahn Earnest & Weddle, LLP, where he handled non-litigation work. Notably, his involvement in the Marion County Library construction defect litigation case showcased his prowess in navigating complex legal landscapes. David is serving as the 2024 President of the Indianapolis Bar Association.

As regulations transform, societal norms evolve, and technology reshapes interactions, legal professionals equipped with the ability to swiftly pivot and anticipate future trends stand at a distinct advantage. How can cultivating adaptability help attorneys maintain relevance and effectiveness in an increasingly dynamic field?

In a thought-provoking dialogue, legal luminary David Duncan shares intimate glimpses of his journey, from his roots in Lafayette, Indiana, to his pivotal decision to pursue law after initially contemplating consultancy. David highlights pivotal moments in his career, including transitioning from handling non-litigation work at Tabbert Hahn Earnest & Weddle to representing lenders in high-stakes projects, such as the Marion County Library construction defect litigation case. Delving into the intricate realms of real estate development and legal careers, he underscores the significance of resilience, broad exposure, and nurturing relationships as crucial factors in today's legal and real estate sectors.

In this episode of Circle City Conversations, Alex Limontes interviews David Duncan, Counsel at Scannell Properties, to discuss the importance of adaptability and foresight in the dynamic legal industry. David shares his unconventional law career journey, Indianapolis Bar leadership, insights on the pandemic's impact, and how to leverage emerging trends in the real estate sector.