Industry Legend Bart Durham Passes Away at 89

News Summary

Bart Durham, the founder of Bart Durham Injury Law and a prominent figure in personal injury law, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for his tenacity and innovative marketing strategies, Durham influenced countless lives throughout his distinguished career. His legacy includes significant contributions to legal advertising and a commitment to his clients. Beyond law, he was a devoted family man and passionate about high-performance automobiles, showcasing a vibrant and adventurous spirit.

Industry Legend Bart Durham Passes Away at 89

The legal community is mourning the loss of Bart Durham, a titan of personal injury law known for his tenacity and innovative approach to representing clients. Durham, the founder of Bart Durham Injury Law in Nashville, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 89, leaving behind a rich legacy in the practice of law and a profound impact on the lives he touched.

Early Life and Military Service

Bart Durham was born on March 5, 1935, in the small town of Ripley, Tennessee. His journey began in earnest when he served in the U.S. Army for two years, where he gained invaluable experience during his deployment in Germany. This military service instilled in him a sense of discipline and dedication that would follow him throughout his career.

Legal Education and Early Career

After returning from the Army, Durham attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where he laid the groundwork for his future in law. He earned his law degree from Southern Law University in Memphis, setting the stage for a career that would eventually span decades. In 1969, Durham moved to Nashville to take on a position as a prosecuting attorney in the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office.

Trailblazing Career in Personal Injury Law

While working as a prosecutor, Durham achieved remarkable feats, including arguing three cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. These accomplishments paved the way for his transition into private practice in 1975, where he partnered with fellow attorney Henry Haile. Starting with limited resources but boundless ambition, they set out to make a name for themselves in the competitive landscape of Nashville law.

Innovative Marketing Strategies

One of Durham’s most notable contributions to the legal field was his pioneering use of advertising, as he became the first lawyer to promote legal services through print, radio, and television. In the mid-to-late 2000s, his memorable soap opera-style advertisements not only drew attention but also set a trend that would influence how lawyers marketed their practices for years to come.

A Passionate Life Beyond the Courtroom

Beyond his legal expertise, Bart Durham was known for his flair in his personal life. His adventurous spirit was evident in his love for flying and wrestling. In 1997, he founded the Tennessee Chapter of the Ferrari Club of America and served as its president and regional director, showcasing his passion for high-performance automobiles.

A Devoted Family Man

He was actively involved in his community and a member of the Nashville Korean Presbyterian Church, where he worshipped alongside his wife, Cindy Durham. Bart was a proud father to his children, Colin, Michele (Falletta) Durham, Blair and Kelley (Bean) Durham, and a loving grandfather to Ethan and Adelynn.

A Legacy of Service and Commitment

With a career spanning numerous personal injury cases, Durham became a recognized figure within the Tennessee legal community, earning the title of senior counselor by the Tennessee Bar Association. Even until his passing, he remained actively engaged in his work, fueled by a deep love for the profession and a determination to avoid boredom.

Honoring a Pioneer

His family has expressed their commitment to honoring Durham’s memory while requesting donations to Heart’n Soul Hospice in lieu of flowers or gifts. With his passing, the legacy of Bart Durham, a bar-setting attorney, and cherished family man, will undoubtedly endure through the countless lives he influenced.

As the community bids farewell to this legendary figure in law, many will remember Bart Durham not just for his professional achievements but for the passion and heart he brought to every aspect of his life.