The Martin Firm - selected case information

LEDGER-ENQUIRER

MONEY TODAY

Monday, June 21, 1999

Frank and John Martin, partners in The Martin Firm
"It's nice to be able to have some fun"

Richard Thomason/Ledger-Enquirer

John, left, and Frank Martin, a 35-year law veteran, have been working together for four years.

There’s several running jokes between attorney John Martin and his partner and father Frank Martin, such as who is the senior partner in the business. Frank has practiced law for more than 30 years, but it’s John who controls the firm’s checkbook. The two enjoy their close relationship and occasionally playful work environment in an otherwise serious business.
"I like that I don’t have to answer to someone I don’t have a relationship with," said John, who has practiced law with his father since he graduated from law school four years ago. "It makes the work environment better. We can joke about things you

normally wouldn’t joke about at work, and when you work so hard, it’s nice to be able to have some fun."
     Frank Martin, a former Columbus mayor, has practiced law in private firms and public offices, but of all of his professional experiences, he says John has been the best partner of his 35-year career.
     "He’s given me more freedom to do something outside the office and go places," Frank Martin said. "With John filling in for me when I go out of the office, I don’t worry. I’ve never had that freedom or peace of mind before."
     John said he grew up with an interest in a law career but decided to get an outsider’s view into the profession by working for an Atlanta firm before committing to law school. Now that the two are partners, Frank said John has brought a lot of fresh ideas into the practice.
     "When you’ve done something for as long as I have, it can get a little bland," Frank said. "But after John got here, it’s like I have started all over."
     And their working relationship has also allowed them to maintain the close personal relationship they have always shared.
     "This is a blessing very few parents have when their children are grown - to be able to spend so much time with them and get along so well," Frank Martin said.

Abby Brach