Martinson & Beason: A Legacy of Legal Excellence in Downtown Huntsville

By Abigail Harrison, DHI Communications Coordinator

In the bustling heart of Downtown Huntsville lies a story of perseverance, dedication, and community service, embodied in the history of Martinson & Beason. This storied law firm traces its origins back to the humble beginnings of its founder, Douglas Carroll Martinson, whose journey into the legal profession began on April 21, 1932, with a legal correspondence course.

Douglas Carroll Martinson, a distinguished alumnus of Huntsville High School where he served as Senior Class President and Captain of the football team, embarked on an unconventional path to the legal profession. In 1932, Martinson pursued legal studies through a correspondence course at LaSalle Extension University in Chicago, Illinois. His commitment was recognized a year later when he was appointed Notary Public by the governor of Alabama.

After intense preparation at Jones Law School in Montgomery, Martinson achieved a significant milestone on April 29, 1937, passing the Alabama bar examination. This achievement was particularly notable given his lack of traditional college education and full-time law school experience. At the time, Martinson was working as a butcher, assistant, and delivery boy at the A&P Grocery Store near the Madison County courthouse. His success was celebrated by the store manager, who proudly introduced him to customers as "my lawyer" for the day.

Martinson's legal career continued to flourish. On February 18, 1938, he earned his Bachelor of Laws from LaSalle Extension University. His commitment to public service was further demonstrated in 1948 when he was elected Judge of the Inferior Court of Madison County, a position he held until 1952. Even as he built his legal career, Martinson remained deeply connected to his community, starting his part-time practice in his father-in-law's grocery store.

In 1941, Martinson temporarily suspended his practice to serve on active duty with the U.S. Army during World War II. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Huntsville, transitioning his practice to full-time and renting office space near the courthouse. The practice grew and moved locations several times, reflecting Martinson’s expanding expertise and clientele.

The firm took on new dimensions with the involvement of his son, Douglas Martinson II, and colleague George Beason. The office eventually settled on Northside Square, where Martinson & Beason stands today as a testament to the family's enduring legacy.

In 2023, the firm celebrated a new chapter as Clay Martinson, the fourth generation attorney, joined Martinson & Beason. Born and raised in Huntsville, Clay graduated from Huntsville High School in 2016 and later from the University of Alabama, Summa Cum Laude in History with a minor in Civic Engagement and Leadership.

Today, Martinson & Beason continues to serve clients with a steadfast commitment to integrity and expertise, reflecting the vibrant and dynamic spirit of Downtown Huntsville. They provide a wide range of legal services, upholding a legacy of trust and excellence in the legal community.