Joseph M. O’Donnell

Joseph M. O’Donnell is a partner at Goodspeed & O’Donnell in Augusta, Maine who handles a broad practice that includes probate and estate matters, real estate, bankruptcy and debt relief, and family matters. His long service as a public administrator has given him substantial involvement with probate, wills, estate administration, and responsibilities arising when estates require court-supervised management.

O’Donnell earned an A.B. from the College of the Holy Cross and a J.D. from Northeastern University School of Law. He also studied at the Institut d’Études Politiques in Paris and pursued postgraduate work in European History at Clark University. This academic background combines legal study with broader training in history and public affairs.

O’Donnell has served as Public Administrator for Kennebec County since 1980, a role that involves probate administration and estate-related responsibilities. His private practice also includes bankruptcy, debt-relief, real-estate, and family matters, allowing him to assist clients with both planning and contested legal issues. Across these matters, O’Donnell evaluates the legal and factual issues that shape strategy, negotiation, and the available path toward resolution.

Joseph M. O’Donnell draws on decades of probate and general-practice experience when advising individuals and families on estates, property, debt, and related legal matters. His work as a public administrator adds practical familiarity with court procedures and fiduciary responsibilities in estate administration. This approach keeps legal strategy connected to the client’s practical objectives and the specific demands of each matter.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Goodspeed & O’Donnell
• Member, Maine State Bar Association
• Member, Kennebec Bar Association
• Member, National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
• President, Howell House
• Past President, CODA Chorus
• Past President, St. Leo’s parish counsel
• President and Advisory Board Member, Kennebec Historical Society
• Chair, Town of Monmouth Public Safety Committee
• Public Administrator, Kennebec County (1980-Present)
• Member, Select Board

Licensed State

• Maine

Education

• Northeastern Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• College of the Holy Cross
  A.B.
• Clark University
  post graduate study in European History

Awards & Badges