VHF | Attorneys at Law

ATTORNEY TRENT VAN HAAFTEN

W. Trent Van Haaften |

Trent’s commitment to southwest Indiana runs deep & these roots are what drive him to find lasting solutions for his clients legal needs. After all, whether it is helping to purchase your first home, protecting your rights in the courtroom or advising your small business, Trent’s goal is to help you in being prepared for the impact the law has in your daily life.

A native of Posey County, Trent returned to his hometown of Mt. Vernon after receiving his law degree from Drake University Law School. Trent began his legal career as a prosecutor & was the second youngest Prosecuting Attorney elected in the State of Indiana in 1994. The people of Posey County elected Trent to serve three terms as their Prosecuting Attorney.

During his tenure as Prosecutor, Trent gained a reputation as a tough litigator, highlighted with his appointment as a Special United States Assistant Attorney in an international drug trade case & selection as a trial practice instructor for prosecutor’s across the country.

In 2004, Trent went from the courthouse to the State House serving as State Representative for Indiana’s 76th District until 2010. While in the Indiana House, Trent served as Deputy Speaker Pro Tem, Chairman of the House Public Policy Committee, Vice-Chair of the Courts & Criminal Code Committee & chairman of the Probate Code Commission.

Trent’s legal and legislative background provides a unique perspective to the law which benefits his clients. After numerous trials in the courtroom and advocacy in the halls of state government, Trent knows firsthand the law exists to serve the citizens of Indiana & he works to ensure the law serves his client to their advantage.

A native of Mt. Vernon, Trent has always shown a commitment to service in his community. He has coached youth football, is a member of the Mt. Vernon High School Athletic Hall of Fame and served as President for the Posey County Community Foundation. Trent also remains active in local & state politics.

Trent and his wife, Beverly, reside in Mt. Vernon and in their spare time enjoy hitting the open road on their Harley.

EDUCATION

1987 – Lake Forest College – Bachelor of Arts, politics and business 1990 – Drake University Law School – Doctor of Jurisprudence, with honors

ADMISSION TO PRACTICE

State of Indiana (1990)

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT State Representative, Indiana’s 76th District (2004-2010) Posey County Prosecuting Attorney (1995-2003) Posey County Community Foundation, Past President

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Member – American Bar Association Member – Indiana State Bar Association Member – Posey County Bar Association Member – Evansville Bar Association