Matt Hardin Law, a Tennessee-based personal injury firm, has announced that Andrew Lockert has joined the firm as a partner. Lockert, a litigator with nearly a decade of experience, brings expertise in personal injury, federal civil rights, and criminal law. He will lead a new criminal defense practice area at the firm, which has traditionally focused on personal injury cases such as car accidents, medical malpractice, and wrongful death.
Lockert is known for his work in federal courts, particularly in cases involving constitutional rights. He litigated Campbell v. Cheatham County, a civil rights case centered on Fourth Amendment protections against excessive police force. He successfully navigated the Middle District of Tennessee and the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals to ensure the claim against the primary officer could proceed to trial. Lockert also gained regional recognition for his involvement in the 'Reid Van Ness' litigation, which challenged regulatory boundaries in the funeral industry and sought to protect families from mishandling of remains.
Lockert comes from a long line of legal professionals in Cheatham County, including a grandfather who served as both a judge and attorney, and several relatives who have held judicial and legal roles. This background, he says, instilled in him a deep respect for the Tennessee legal system and a diplomatic approach to complex litigation.
Despite often representing clients against local municipalities and law enforcement, Lockert has maintained a reputation for professional collaboration with police units and agencies in Cheatham County and Middle Tennessee. His addition to Matt Hardin Law is expected to bolster the firm's personal injury practice while expanding its capabilities in federal civil rights and criminal defense.
The firm's founder, Matt Hardin, noted that Lockert's experience aligns with the firm's mission to provide elite legal representation with a community-focused touch. The expansion into criminal defense reflects a growing demand for attorneys who understand both local and federal court systems.
Lockert's appointment comes as Matt Hardin Law continues to grow its presence in Middle Tennessee. The firm, known for its 'locally grown' approach, handles cases ranging from car accidents to medical malpractice and wrongful death. With Lockert on board, the firm aims to offer a voice for those who feel unheard by the legal system, whether they are accident victims or individuals facing civil rights violations.
