Heyl Royster

Jack Hafford

Associate
Edwardsville, IL

Joined Firm in 2026

Jack Hafford combines sound judgment with direct, honest counsel, helping clients understand their options and face difficult decisions with confidence.

  • Helped defend prisoner civil rights lawsuits in the Nebraska Attorney General’s Civil Bureau
  • Drafted motions to dismiss and successfully argued a dismissal motion in Nebraska district court
Read Full Bio

Jack Hafford

Attorney in Edwardsville, IL

Jack approaches legal work with a belief that clients deserve honest answers and a respectful working relationship. Based in Heyl Royster’s Edwardsville office, he handles civil rights and correctional healthcare litigation, as well as casualty and tort matters. He takes time to understand his clients’ concerns and explain the legal issues that affect their options.

During law school, Jack clerked in the Civil Bureau of the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, where he helped defend the state against lawsuits brought by prisoners. His work included drafting several motions to dismiss and successfully arguing a motion before the District Court in Lincoln County, Nebraska. The experience gave him a foundation in civil rights defense and reinforced the importance of connecting a thorough review of the facts with a well-supported legal argument.

Jack also spent 13 seasons officiating soccer, from local recreational leagues to state-sanctioned high school competition. The role called for quick decisions, clear explanations, and composure when players and coaches disagreed. He brings those habits to his legal work, listening carefully and communicating directly when matters become contentious. He works with colleagues across the firm to consider related legal concerns and keep the client’s broader needs in view.

Jack earned his J.D. from the University of Nebraska College of Law and his bachelor’s degree in history, magna cum laude, from Sewanee: The University of the South.

Outside the office, Jack enjoys reading fiction and nonfiction, following current events, and attending sporting events. He especially values time with friends and family.

Credentials

Education

J.D., University of Nebraska College of Law

B.A., Sewanee: The University of the South, History, magna cum laude

Licensure and Admissions

State Courts of Illinois

Public Profile

Jack approaches legal work with a belief that clients deserve honest answers and a respectful working relationship. Based in Heyl Royster’s Edwardsville office, he handles civil rights and correctional healthcare litigation, as well as casualty and tort matters. He takes time to understand his clients’ concerns and explain the legal issues that affect their options.

During law school, Jack clerked in the Civil Bureau of the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, where he helped defend the state against lawsuits brought by prisoners. His work included drafting several motions to dismiss and successfully arguing a motion before the District Court in Lincoln County, Nebraska. The experience gave him a foundation in civil rights defense and reinforced the importance of connecting a thorough review of the facts with a well-supported legal argument.

Jack also spent 13 seasons officiating soccer, from local recreational leagues to state-sanctioned high school competition. The role called for quick decisions, clear explanations, and composure when players and coaches disagreed. He brings those habits to his legal work, listening carefully and communicating directly when matters become contentious. He works with colleagues across the firm to consider related legal concerns and keep the client’s broader needs in view.

Jack earned his J.D. from the University of Nebraska College of Law and his bachelor’s degree in history, magna cum laude, from Sewanee: The University of the South.

Outside the office, Jack enjoys reading fiction and nonfiction, following current events, and attending sporting events. He especially values time with friends and family.

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