Leslie A. (Shively) Haynes was born and raised in Churubusco, Indiana. Multiple generations of her family have resided in and served Whitley County and the surrounding area. She graduated from Churubusco High School in 2000. Then attended Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Criminal Justice, in 2004. After college, Leslie moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she gained invaluable experience in a variety of roles within the criminal justice system. Beginning as a paralegal, then as a bailiff in a major felony court, and finally as a juvenile probation officer.

Leslie graduated cum laude from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in May, 2012, and was admitted to the Indiana bar in October, 2012. She began her legal career as a deputy prosecutor in Elkhart County, Indiana, in January, 2013. In her six years there, she handled a variety of cases ranging from traffic infractions to murder. Desiring to move back home to Whitley County, Indiana, where her family still resides today, she continued her career as a deputy prosecutor in Noble County, Indiana, in January, 2019. In December, 2022, she was promoted to chief deputy prosecutor and held that position until September, 2025.

She lives in Whitley County with her husband, three children, two Goldendoodles, two donkeys, one rabbit, and several chickens!

Leslie is straightforward and dedicated to protecting her clients’ rights. Known for her honesty, responsibility, organization, and careful preparation, Leslie is a fierce advocate. Most importantly, she is a strong and passionate defender of justice and has a heart for protecting the most vulnerable.