Mike Walters, managing attorney of the Legal Helpline at Pro Seniors, is the 2024 recipient of the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation Denis J. Murphy Award. The Foundation annually presents the Murphy Award to an Ohio legal aid staff member to recognize outstanding leadership and advocacy.
Walters received the Murphy Award on August 14 at Seniors Who Rock, a one-of-a-kind awards presentation and fundraiser honoring inspirational Ohio seniors who continue to impact the community.
Throughout his 25-year career at Pro Seniors, Walters has passionately advocated for older Ohioans. Walters leads a team of Legal Helpline attorneys who assist older adults facing civil legal issues. Under his leadership, the Legal Helpline conducted 12,000 appointments in 2023, a record number. During his career, Walters has personally assisted more than 20,000 clients, a tremendous accomplishment.
“Mike is an effective advocate for Pro Seniors’ clients because of his extensive expertise, outstanding problem-solving ability, and collaborative and down-to-earth personality,” said Foundation Board President Paula Boggs Muething, who presented Walters with the Murphy Award. “It is without question that thousands of Ohio seniors are better off because of Mike’s dedication and leadership.”
Walters’ vast knowledge of Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security makes him an invaluable asset and resource at Pro Seniors. Despite his busy schedule, Walters generously donates his time and energy to helping his colleagues, ensuring their clients receive the best outcomes possible.
“Our clients are really appreciative of what we do for them,” Walters said. “There’s a tremendous amount of personal satisfaction knowing that you’re able to make a difference in people’s lives.”
Walters is an active and engaged participant in the legal community, supporting advocacy, outreach, and education at the state and national levels. He is president of the National Association of Senior Legal Helplines, assistant chair for the Statewide Legal Aid Utilities Subgroup of the Consumer Taskforce, and a Cincinnati Bar Association Social Security Law Committee member.
“Mike’s exceptional commitment and leadership within Pro Seniors has been instrumental in helping older adults secure access to justice,” said Foundation Executive Director Angie Lloyd. “We’re thrilled to honor him with the Denis J. Murphy Award.”