Chaney was admitted to the bar in 1883 and commenced practice in Sullivan, Indiana. He served as a member of the state central committee from the second district in 1884 and 1885. In July 1889, he was appointed by President Harrison as assistant to the Attorney General in the Department of Justice, serving in that position until August 1893, when he resigned and resumed the practice of law.
Chaney became a licensed attorney in 1883 and started his legal career in Sullivan, Indiana. He held various roles, including a seat on the state central committee from 1884 to 1885. In July 1889, President Harrison appointed him as an assistant to the Attorney General, a position he held until August 1893, when he stepped down to resume his law practice.