Finis Tatum is an experienced civil and criminal trial attorney and practices primarily in the areas of complex civil litigation and white-collar defense and internal investigations. He brings a strategic and results-driven approach to high-stakes matters in both state and federal courts.

Finis is an experienced civil and criminal trial attorney whose practice focuses on complex civil litigation, white-collar defense, and internal investigations. On the civil side, Finis has successfully represented clients in a broad range of litigation, including personal and catastrophic injury claims, premises liability, environmental, toxic tort and chemical exposure claims, product liability, employment disputes, closely held business and fiduciary conflicts, and breach of contract actions. He also has significant experience representing professional athletes and public figures in high-profile defamation matters, as well as litigating cases involving public universities and government affairs.

Regarding white-collar, criminal and investigations, Finis has defended corporations, executives, and individuals in complex criminal matters involving allegations of bank fraud, mail and wire fraud, securities fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering, aggravated identity theft, access device fraud, white-collar conspiracies, and corrupt business influence. His deep understanding of government investigations and prosecutorial strategies allows him to provide proactive counsel and strong advocacy during all stages of the criminal process.

Prior to entering private practice, Finis served as a law clerk to former Chief Justice of Indiana, Randall T. Shepard, where he gained invaluable experience in appellate procedure, judicial decision-making, and administration.

Finis is known for his courtroom presence, meticulous preparation, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients, whether through trial, negotiation, or resolution outside of court.

  • Author, Special Masters a Special Solution, The Indiana Lawyer, February 1, 2023

  • Speaker, Lifecycle of a Business: From Startup through Exit, Indianapolis Bar Association, November 2024
  • Moderator, Mediation: How to Undertake a Mediation on Behalf of a Client and Essential Considerations About the Process, Indianapolis Bar Association Bench Bar Conference, French Lick, Indiana, June 2024
  • Speaker, Hidden Assets, Money Laundering, and Fraudulent Transfers: Spotting Red Flags, NBI, Inc., May 2024
  • Speaker, Indiana Firearms Law 2022, NBI, Inc., October 2022

Admissions

  • Indiana
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
  • U.S. District Court, Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana

Memberships

  • Indianapolis Bar Association, Member
    • Bar Leader Series Class XII
  • Indiana State Bar Association, Member
    • Leadership Development Academy Class VI
  • Marion County Bar Association, Member
  • Criminal Justice Act, Panel and Development Panel Member, 2013-2025

Community Involvement

  • Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Series Class XLVIII
  • Christamore House, Board Member, Jan. 2025 – Present
  • Eagle Creek Little League, Board Member and Volunteer Coach, 2014-Present
  • The Emerging Leaders Project Class, 2015-2016
  • Indianapolis Zoo, Zoobilation Corporate Fundraising Committee, 2009-2014

Education

  • J.D., Indiana University, Robert H. McKinney School of Law
  • B.A., History, Purdue University

Honors

  • 2024 Diversity in Law Honoree, Indianapolis Business Journal
  • 2024 Distinguished Fellow, Indianapolis Bar Foundation
  • Indiana Rising Stars®, 2018-2020
  • Nationally Ranked Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, 2017-2018