Railroad and Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Dirk Hennessey

Dirk Hennessey is an experienced trial lawyer who represents railroad workers and others seriously injured by corporate negligence, toxic exposure, and unsafe working conditions. He brings skilled advocacy and relentless preparation to every case, fighting for justice in and out of the courtroom.

Rooted in Compassion. Driven by Justice.

Dirk Hennessey is a passionate advocate for individuals and families navigating the aftermath of catastrophic injuries. At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, he brings relentless dedication, skilled advocacy, and unwavering heart to every case he takes on.

Dirk proudly represents clients injured by toxic exposures, railroad negligence (FELA claims), trucking accidents, defective products, and other serious wrongdoing. Licensed in both Missouri and Illinois, he practices in state and federal courts across both states, ready to serve wherever justice demands.

A Relentless Trial Lawyer Driven by Justice

In 2024, Dirk stood beside his client as a jury awarded a $3.515 million dollar verdict against a major railroad company—a testament to the idea that when truth meets courage, justice is not just a hope; it’s an outcome.

Beyond the courtroom, Dirk finds purpose and renewal alongside his beloved, Jill, on their ten-acre farm, where they grow vegetables and steward the land with the same patience, perseverance, and respect that define his legal practice. His work on the farm mirrors his work for clients: careful preparation, tireless effort, and an unwavering belief in the value of honest labor.

Dirk prepares relentlessly, advocates fearlessly, and never loses sight of the human story at the center of every case. He believes that the law is not just a profession—it is a sacred trust to protect those who cannot fight alone. Dirk also provides pro bono legal support to nonprofit organizations working to expand food access and build resilient, community-centered farms—believing that justice should take root both in the courtroom and in the soil.

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, Dirk embodies the firm’s mission: to deliver justice with skill, heart, and an unbreakable commitment to those who need it most.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Fighting for the marginalized and beating the powerful.

    What is a personal injury case?

    A personal injury case is a legal dispute that arises when one person suffers harm from an accident or injury, and someone else might be legally responsible for that harm. Personal injury cases typically involve injuries to the body, mind or emotions, and not property. Examples include car accidents, medical malpractice, slip and fall accidents, toxic exposures and more.

    If you have been injured by someone or a company's negligence or wrongful actions, you may have a personal injury case. It is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to determine the strength of your case and your legal options.

    The value of a personal injury case can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the severity of the injury, the amount of medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine the potential value of your case. It is critical to speak with an experienced attorney to maximize the value of your case.

    The length of time it takes to settle a personal injury case can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the complexity of the case, the availability of insurance coverage, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate a settlement. Some cases may be resolved in a matter of months, while others may take longer. The harder your attorney works on the case, the more likely it settles quickly.

    Negligence is the failure to exercise the degree of care that a reasonably prudent person would use in similar circumstances. To prove negligence in a personal injury case, your attorney must show that the defendant did something that a reasonably careful person would not do, and that it caused a physical injury.