Meet Buddy: Prism’s Newest Mediator
Along with welcoming in the fall weather, Prism Group also welcomes in its 5th mediator, Buddy Hendry, and we couldn’t be more excited with this addition to our team! It is with careful intention and consideration that we select mediators, and we know you’ll understand our choosing of Buddy as you get to know him below, as well as in person in the (hopefully) near future.
Please join us in welcoming Buddy, and know that we are always grateful to you, our Prism family, for the opportunity to grow our team and continue to serve you.
Where are you from and where did you grow up?
Born and “raised” in Minden, LA
Tell us about your family, including any 4-legged family members.
My wife, Rebekah, and I have been married 28 years and we have 2 sons, Matthew (27) and Jonathan (23). We lost our 15-year-old White English Labrador Retriever, Boomer, this year but still have one pet, a 14-year old Yorkipoo, Reggie
What drew you to the legal field?
I viewed a law degree as something that could open a variety of career paths. I had chosen a narrow industry (Geology) in college and worked in that field for several years before the oilfield “bust” in the mid-1980s. That event and the cyclical nature of that business caused me to rethink my career path.
How long have you been practicing and what kind of experience in workers’ comp do you have?
I have been practicing 33 years. I have been involved in workers’ compensation claims since 2001, when I started working for a large workers’ compensation insurer as one of their in-house defense attorneys. I left that position briefly to serve as the Office of Workers Compensation Judge for the Shreveport office from 2005 to 2007. I then returned to the in-house defense attorney position until 2013, at which time I started my law practice representing injured workers in workers’ compensation claims. I also handle Social Security Disability claims, which can have an impact on workers’ compensation cases, particularly when a claimant is a Medicare beneficiary.
What about the mediation process is appealing to you?
I think in all types of legal issues, but especially in the workers’ compensation claims process or litigation, there are perspectives that hinder or dominate the decision process that have little to do with the potential value of a claim. It would be gratifying to be a part of a process that provides an opportunity to take a fresh look at the situation and hopefully find a path that resolves disputes and provides finality to ongoing conflict.
What strengths do you have that will lend themselves to mediation?
Experience as claimant’s attorney, defense attorney and judge are great for understanding the issues, but I think my curiosity in getting to know people and their “story” will certainly help. Also, Alan encouraged me many years ago to take a strengths finder test. My highest ranked strength was “restorative” which means one who likes to identify problems and find solutions. I think this strength is well suited for mediation.
Outside of work, what things might you be found doing?
In line with my restorative strength, I have taken on and finished a couple of projects recently, the restoration of a 1979 International Scout and renovation of a dilapidated small cottage in Benton. I’m looking for my next project now.
Do you have any daily “rituals” or routines that help set you up for a good day?
Physical fitness and reading (less TV) have been a focus of mine for the last year, so I work out early each morning and read 5-10 pages from a good non-fiction book
Favorite place you’ve traveled/visited
Zion National Park
Book, podcast, or other author recommendations
Lewis Howes - The School of Greatness podcast. I recently read “As A Man Thinketh” by James Allen and “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. These are old classics but still have relevant content for current times.
TV Series you’re currently into
Nothing at this time but recently finished a PBS series called “Unforgotten”
Movie you could watch over and over again
Shawshank Redemption and any of the Jason Bourne movies
Buddy is available for mediation and can be reached at bhendry@prismgroup.net.
To schedule a mediation or inquire about availability, click here.