About Thomas

Thomas E. Rucinski is an attorney based in St. John, Indiana, with over five decades of legal experience. He earned his Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1974. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor of Science from Indiana University in 1971. Admitted to the Indiana State Bar in the same year he graduated law school, Mr. Rucinski has built a diverse practice that encompasses personal injury, medical malpractice, criminal law, family law, divorce, estate planning, real estate law. Arbitration and mediation. Throughout his extensive career, Mr.

Rucinski has represented clients across various jurisdictions in Indiana. His practice areas include cities such as Hammond, Gary, East Chicago, Crown Point, Munster, Highland, Dyer, St. John, Hobart, Valparaiso, Kentland, Rensselaer, and Michigan City. His broad geographical reach allows him to engage with clients, addressing their unique legal needs. Notably, Mr. Rucinski has been involved in several landmark cases that have set legal precedents in Indiana. His work in In Re Buehler tackled the issue of voluntary underemployment, while In Re Gnerlich focused on the inclusion of disability payments in the marital estate. One of his most significant achievements includes the case of Baxendale v. Raich, where he addressed the sensitive issue of child relocation from Northwest Indiana to Minneapolis.

His successful oral argument in this case before the Indiana Supreme Court showcases his appellate advocacy skills and his ability to navigate complex legal issues. Mr. Rucinski's expertise in appellate law is further demonstrated through favorable outcomes in cases such as Willsey v. People, Terpstra v — Terpstra, and Milligan v. Milligan. Each of these cases highlights his commitment to securing justice for his clients. In addition to his litigation achievements, Mr. Rucinski has made a significant impact in the area of mediation. He has effectively facilitated resolutions in family law disputes, assisting couples and their counsel in finding common ground.

His mediation skills reflect a understanding of interpersonal dynamics and the law. This lets the attorney guide parties toward amicable solutions. Mr. Rucinski is an active member of both the Lake County Bar Association and the Indiana State Bar Association, which shows his commitment to the legal community. He continues to serve as 'of counsel' at Sachs & Hess Professional Corporation, where he provides consultation on various legal matters. His office is located at 7880 Wicker Avenue, Suite 201, St. John, Indiana 46373. Prospective clients can reach him at 219-627-1799 or 219-365-3333, ensuring access to his extensive legal expertise.

Education

Valparaiso University School of Law

J.D. (1974)

Indiana University - Indiana University-Bloomington

B.S. (1971)

Accepted Jurisdictions

Indiana

Court Admissions

Indiana Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Personal Injury Medical Malpractice Criminal Law Family Law Divorce Estate Planning Real Estate Law Arbitration & Mediation

Legal Services Scope

Litigation Appellate Mediation

Professional Associations

Indiana State Bar

has membership Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 7880 Wicker Avenue Suite 201 Saint John IN 46373