Embracing Adversity: Larry Wilder’s Story of Resilience
Southern Indiana attorney Larry Wilder has built a reputation as one of the region’s most recognized trial lawyers, representing clients in some of the state’s highest-profile cases. But his journey has also included a personal low point that tested his character and reshaped his approach to both life and law.
Years ago, Wilder became the subject of national headlines when photos surfaced of him passed out in a trash can outside his home. What could have ended his career instead became what Wilder now calls a defining moment—one that forced him to confront adversity head-on.
“I was taught that when you face adversity, it’s either going to destroy you or make you better,” Wilder said. “You climb out of the hole and find out how to be better, and when you find out what’s better, you keep going.”
Rather than retreat from the embarrassment, Wilder put on his suit and went back to work. He leaned on the lessons of his family’s coal-mining roots in eastern Kentucky—lessons about resilience, persistence, and making the best of hard circumstances. That philosophy became a cornerstone of his practice and a perspective that resonated with clients who turned to him during their own most difficult times.
Wilder’s personal life also found new footing. Shortly after the incident, he met his now-wife, Teresa, through a dating website. What started as a three-hour dinner quickly grew into a long-term partnership, leading to marriage in Sedona, Arizona, in 2017. Together, they’ve built a life centered on family, health, and shared resilience, with Wilder crediting Teresa for helping him embrace a healthier lifestyle and renewed balance.
Professionally, Wilder rebounded stronger than ever. Though he resigned from several public positions in the immediate aftermath, he went on to rebuild his practice, handling more than 300 active cases and representing clients in matters ranging from high-profile criminal defense to civil litigation. Colleagues describe him as larger-than-life, aggressive when necessary, and deeply committed to the people he represents.
Judge Brad Jacobs recalled learning from Wilder’s case management skills, while attorney Bart McMahon noted Wilder’s ability to connect with anyone and make them feel at ease. His reputation as both a fighter in the courtroom and a trusted friend in the legal community has only grown since his career’s most difficult moment.
Reflecting on his path, Wilder acknowledges the impact of that experience. “I’ve represented a lot of really good people and a lot of very interesting cases. It’s a tribute to the fact that people recognize that I work hard, and I don’t let adversity or things change course for me or my clients. You just put your nose down and you go. I think it made me a better person, a better attorney, and made me a hell of a lot more money.”
Today, Wilder embraces his past with humor but also with perspective. For him, resilience isn’t about erasing mistakes—it’s about using them to grow stronger. “If you take what’s happened in your life and move forward using it as a tool to be better,” he said, “it’s much better than pretending like it didn’t happen.”