Death of Indiana Attorney Ken Nunn

Ken Nunn, a prominent personal injury attorney known throughout Indiana for his decades-long legal career and memorable “tough lawyer” persona, has passed away at the age of 85. Nunn died in June 2024, surrounded by family members. His passing marks the end of an era for the Indiana legal community, where Nunn was a household name for over half a century.

A Journey from Humble Beginnings to the Courtroom

Born in March 1940 in Jeffersonville, Indiana, Kenneth J. Nunn overcame significant hardships in his early life. As a teenager, he faced poverty and periods of homelessness, even dropping out of high school for a time. A turning point came when he met Leah, the woman who would later become his wife. With her encouragement, Nunn returned to high school and set his sights on higher education.

Nunn often credited literature for inspiring his career choice. After reading Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird,” he was moved by the character Atticus Finch. This literary hero sparked Nunn’s ambition to stand up for the underprivileged. He went on to enroll at Indiana University Bloomington, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1964, followed by a Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 1967.

From Law School to Legal Legend

Armed with his law degree, Ken Nunn embarked on his legal career in the late 1960s. While he initially practiced criminal defense, he soon transitioned to personal injury law, a shift that aligned with his desire to help “the little guy.”

In the early 1970s, he founded the Ken Nunn Law Office in Bloomington. Over the next five decades, he built the practice into one of the most recognized firms in the state. The firm grew to handle thousands of cases annually, ranging from car accidents to wrongful death claims. With Nunn at the helm, the firm became known for its aggressive representation of accident victims.

Champion of the Underdog

Throughout his career, Ken Nunn cultivated a reputation as a tenacious fighter. He viewed trial lawyers as the “last line of defense” for individuals against powerful insurance companies.

In Indiana, Nunn became a celebrity of sorts due to his ubiquitous television and radio commercials. Often featuring his signature cowboy hat, Nunn urged accident victims to “call Ken Nunn” for help. His marketing slogans, including “You don’t pay unless we win,” resonated deeply with Hoosiers, embedding his image into the state's cultural consciousness.

Courtroom Success and Professional Recognition

Nunn’s legal prowess translated into significant victories. His firm secured numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, earning him membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum—a group representing fewer than 1% of U.S. attorneys.

His achievements were recognized by several organizations:

• Indiana Super Lawyer: Repeatedly listed among the top 5% of attorneys in the state.
• AV Preeminent Rating: The highest rating for ethical standards and legal ability from Martindale-Hubbell.
• ITLA Hall of Fame: Inducted by the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association for his unwavering commitment to client advocacy.

Philanthropy and Community Impact

Outside the courtroom, Ken Nunn was a dedicated philanthropist. As a proud IU alumnus, he gave generously to Indiana University Athletics. In recognition of his support, the university named a prominent area at Memorial Stadium the “Ken Nunn Champions Plaza.”

Beyond the university, Nunn invested in public safety. His law office donated hundreds of trauma kits to local law enforcement agencies across Indiana. These kits have been credited by the Bloomington Police Department and other first responders with saving lives at accident scenes.

Furthermore, Ken and Leah Nunn established endowed scholarship funds to assist first-generation college students from southern Indiana, ensuring that others could follow the path he once cleared for himself.

A Lasting Legacy in Law and Life

Even in his 80s, Nunn maintained a relentless work ethic, often working 60 hours a week. His grandson, Jimmy Nunn, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media:

“My grandfather was the most important person in my life... He built everything from the ground up, working up to 60 hours a week his entire life. He was the toughest fighter I knew and cared deeply for his clients.”

The news of his death prompted tributes from across the state. Scott Dolson, IU Athletics Director, stated, “Ken Nunn embodied the true spirit of Hoosier generosity. His support... went far beyond writing checks—he genuinely cared about making Indiana University a better place.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who was Ken Nunn?
A: Ken Nunn was a legendary personal injury attorney based in Bloomington, Indiana, famous for his "Heavy Hitter" persona and long-running TV advertisements.

Q: Where was Ken Nunn's law firm located?
A: His primary office, the Ken Nunn Law Office, is located in Bloomington, Indiana, though he served clients throughout the entire state.

Q: What is the Ken Nunn Champions Plaza?
A: It is a gathering space at Indiana University’s Memorial Stadium named in honor of Nunn’s significant financial contributions to the university's athletic programs.

Q: Will his law firm continue to operate?
A: Yes, the Ken Nunn Law Office is expected to continue its operations under its established team of experienced attorneys, carrying on Nunn’s mission of advocating for injured Hoosiers.

Q: How can I donate in his memory?
A: The family has suggested donations be made to Indiana University scholarships or local community charities in lieu of flowers.

Rest in peace, Ken Nunn (1940 – 2024).