Joseph Louis "Joe L." Hensley (1926–2007) was an American author, lawyer, and jurist who balanced a distinguished legal career with a prolific output of science fiction and mystery fiction. Born in Indiana, Hensley spent much of his life in Madison, Indiana, where he established himself as a prominent local figure. His professional background in the legal system heavily influenced his writing, particularly his mystery novels.
Hensley's career spanned several decades, during which he served as a prosecuting attorney, a member of the Indiana General Assembly, and a circuit court judge. This deep, firsthand knowledge of the law and the judicial system provided a realistic foundation for his crime and mystery fiction. In addition to his legal thrillers, Hensley was an active member of the science fiction community, both as a fan and a writer, contributing numerous short stories and novels to the genre.
Throughout his literary career, Hensley was known for his ability to weave complex legal procedures and ethical dilemmas into compelling narratives. He remained a dedicated resident of Madison, Indiana, until his death in 2007 from complications of leukemia. His dual legacy as a dedicated public servant and a versatile genre writer continues to be remembered by fans of both mystery and science fiction.
