Walter T. Madison - Akron, OH

I strongly advise CAUTION before retaining this attorney. Based on my firsthand experience, his conduct reflects a consistent failure to perform the duties of a prudent and ethical legal professional. Lack of Communication: He was repeatedly slow to respond—if he responded at all—except when it came to collecting payment. Even when physically present at the courthouse with the client, communication was minimal. Unprofessional Business Practices: No written agreement or contract was ever provided. Despite multiple requests, he failed to produce itemized invoices or statements for services billed. Financial Misconduct: He requested an additional $20,000, allegedly to hire a private investigator. No investigator was ever hired. Instead, he attempted to use those funds to pay himself to visit the crime scene, an action that was neither disclosed nor authorized. Unprepared and Ineffective at Trial: At trial, he appeared surprised by key case details—information he would have known if he had effectively communicated with the client or used the PI funds as stated to investigate the case. Failure to Transfer File: Despite repeated formal requests, he never transferred the client’s file to the new attorney, causing delays and undermining the client’s right to adequate representation. Unfulfilled Promises: He made several commitments during the representation that he simply did not follow through on. This pattern of behavior reflects not only negligence but raises serious concerns of ethical violations. If you’ve had a similar experience, you can file a grievance with the Office of Disciplinary Counsel under the Supreme Court of Ohio, which handles attorney misconduct and violations of the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct. Protect yourself. Know your rights. Legal representation should be accountable, transparent, and competent—this attorney failed on all counts.