Steady presence. Strategic thinker. Committed to getting it right for every client.
Raised in Simpsonville, South Carolina, Madison Johnston has quickly earned a reputation as one of the Upstate’s rising legal talents. A graduate of Hillcrest High School, the University of South Carolina, and Charleston School of Law, Madison entered the courtroom with purpose—and hasn’t looked back since.
Before joining Jake Erwin Attorneys at Law, Madison served as an attorney with the Thirteenth Circuit Public Defender’s Office in Greenville, where she represented clients across a broad range of criminal charges. Her years as a public defender sharpened her trial skills and deepened her passion for protecting constitutional rights—especially when the system seems stacked against the accused.
In 2025, Madison officially joined the Law Offices of Jake Erwin, bringing her courtroom grit, compassion, and tactical mindset to clients across criminal defense, civil litigation, and more. Her work continues to reflect a deep commitment to fairness, due process, and fearless advocacy.
Madison is licensed to practice in both the State of South Carolina and the United States District Court for South Carolina. She has advanced her trial skills through elite national programs, including the National Institute for Trial Advocacy and the National Criminal Defense College.
She is a member of:
- Greenville Bar Association
- Greenville Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
- National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Madison’s advocacy has been recognized on a national level, including coverage by PBS NewsHour on legal and ethical challenges facing women in the justice system. Whether she’s fighting to dismiss unjust charges or navigating complex legal terrain for her clients, Madison’s approach is always the same: strategic, determined, and guided by principle.
In the courtroom or out, she’s proof that being underestimated is a powerful advantage.
