The People Behind the Firm

Trial-tested attorneys, dedicated to Indianapolis

Our lawyers come from different corners of the law, but they share one thing: a conviction that every client deserves preparation, candor, and a fight worth having. Get to know the team that will stand beside you.

JH

James Hartwell

Founding Partner

  • EducationIndiana University Maurer School of Law, J.D.; Purdue University, B.A.
  • AdmittedIndiana, 1998 · U.S. District Court, S.D. Ind.
Personal InjuryTrial PracticeWrongful Death

James founded the firm in 1998 with a courtroom-first philosophy that still defines it today. He has tried cases to verdict across Central Indiana and is known for meticulous preparation and an unshakable calm under pressure. When a client’s future is on the line, James is the lawyer other lawyers call.

EC

Eleanor Cole

Partner

  • EducationNotre Dame Law School, J.D.; Butler University, B.A.
  • AdmittedIndiana, 2003
Family LawDivorceCustody

Eleanor leads the firm’s family law practice with a rare blend of toughness and compassion. She has guided hundreds of Indiana families through divorce and custody disputes, always keeping children’s well-being at the center. Clients describe her as the steady voice they needed in the hardest season of their lives.

MR

Marcus Reed

Senior Associate

  • EducationIndiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, J.D.; Indiana State University, B.S.
  • AdmittedIndiana, 2011
Criminal DefenseOWIExpungement

A former public defender, Marcus has stood beside clients in Marion County courtrooms more times than he can count. He brings street-level experience and an encyclopedic command of Indiana criminal procedure to every defense — and a deep belief that everyone deserves a vigorous advocate.

PN

Priya Nair

Associate

  • EducationUniversity of Michigan Law School, J.D.; Indiana University Bloomington, B.S. Finance
  • AdmittedIndiana, 2016
Business LawEstate PlanningContracts

With a background in finance, Priya translates complex business and estate matters into plain English and practical plans. She helps Indiana entrepreneurs form their companies, protect their work, and prepare for the future — combining technical precision with a genuinely client-first approach.

Ready to put this team to work for you?

Every consultation is free and confidential. We’ll listen, give you an honest assessment, and only move forward if it’s right for you.

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