Getting to know Chris Heil
Getting to know Chris Heil…
I became a lawyer because… My parents instilled in me a sense of justice, of right and wrong, but also a sense of compassion so that I understand that right and wrong are not always black and white, but often gray. I also find satisfaction in using my legal skills to help others in difficult situations. The only profession I can think of that fits all of those criteria is the practice of law, representing people before a jury of their peers.
What I like most about the law is… I think of a quote from Tom Hanks in the movie "Philadelphia"... what I love about the law is that "every once in a while, you get to be a part of justice being done." and there is not much else in the world that is as rewarding as being a part of that.
My most rewarding case was… There are actually too many for me to pick out just one. As I thought about my most rewarding cases, two things stood out. First, each involved an individual who suffered greatly at the hands of another, generally more powerful person or corporation, and needed an equalizing factor - the law. Second, whether or not a case was rewarding had nothing to do with money, or ego, or pride, but rather doing justice, which was a reward in itself.
My most disappointing case was… My most disappointing case involved the death of a 9-year-old girl, killed by a drunk driver. Those facts are disturbing and horrifying enough, but the rest of the story is heartbreaking. This child and her father, a minister in a small town, were going home on a Sunday afternoon after Church, driving down a small town street at a leisurely pace. At the same time, a young man had just left a "party" at a local park after getting into a fight with his girlfriend. He was quite intoxicated and driving recklessly. As the young girl and her father approached an intersection, the drunk ran a stop sign at 50 mph striking the little girl’s side of the minister's car. The impact immediately killed the drunk, but unfortunately the collision was not so merciful to the young girl. She lingered for a while in her father's arms crying for his help until she eventually passed away in front of him.
The drunk driver had only "minimum limits" liability insurance on his vehicle, or $25,000, and no assets. There was no one to take responsibility for this child’s death and I had to explain to the minister why his daughter’s life was only "worth" $25,000.
I joined The Brad Hendricks Law Firm because… It is a dynamic and ethical firm devoted to the pursuit of justice for those who cannot help themselves. The people here are dedicated to their jobs and a joy to work with.
My friends describe me as… having a dry sense of humor
A job I could not do is… Physician in a Children's Hospital. As much as I would love to help children and admire those who do, I could not bear to watch children suffer day after day.
Someone I really admire is… Mark Martin, Winston Cup Driver, for his sportsmanship and class, and Joshua Lawrence Chamberlin, a civil war general who to me exemplifies what it means to be a man of character.
My favorite sport's team is… The Philadelphia Eagles
My favorite music is… 70's and 80's Rock.
My favorite movie is… Pretty much anything with John Wayne, Clint Eastwood or Denzel Washington
What is your favorite word? "Daddy"
A sound or noise I love is… I enjoy the quiet of falling snow.
A sound or noise I hate is… the cry of a child in pain.
Outside of my family, my most treasured belonging is… Whichever model Mustang I am currently driving!
When not at work, I enjoy… Playing guitar, playing softball and being with my kids. I am also a huge NASCAR fan.
