Serving the Legal Needs of Indiana since 1895
Blackwell, Bemis & Hasbrook
Ruckelshaus, Kautzman,
John C. "jack" ruckelshaus
From his commitment to public service to his legal practice, John C. “Jack” Ruckelshaus’ career accomplishments impact Indiana’s communities and citizens everyday.
After graduating from Notre Dame with his Bachelor’s degree, Jack began pursuing his law degree from Indiana University while working full-time. During his last semester of law school, Jack entered public service as an Indiana State Senator and he served the State Senate from 1957 to 1964.
Jack followed up his work in the Senate with a successful run for the Indianapolis Public School Board serving a four year term. In 1969 Jack was a member of the inaugural Indianapolis City-County Council. He served as a councilman until 1973.
In the 1960’s, Jack launched a life-long professional relationship with firefighters and police officers. In 1966, he began providing legal counsel to the Fraternal Order of Police (F.O.P.) in Indiana. Jack served as general counsel for the Indiana F.O.P. and the Indiana Firefighters Union until his retirement in 2012. Jack also served as the first general counsel for the National F.O.P. and held that post for eight years. In 1983, Jack was instrumental in creating the Legal Defense Fund for Hoosier F.O.P. members.
Jack is a member of the Indianapolis and Indiana State Bar Associations. He concentrates his practice in the areas of police and fire associations, law enforcement discipline and defense, labor law and legislation.
On January 1, 2012, Jack formally retired from the practice of law with firm bearing his name but remains engaged with the firm in the capacity as "Of Counsel". Jack continues to provide invaluable advice to the firm's remaining members.