Raleigh, NC (PRWEB) June 17, 2004 -- Today Actor Joe Maggard(Matlock,Love Field,One Christmas) announced he filed a Lawsuit(Case No. 7:04-CV-117-FL(1)) against McDonald's Corp. and Leo Burnett Advertising in Federal Court in Raleigh NC on June 9th 2004. Mr. Maggard has alleged in his Complaint that McDonald's and Leo Burnett engaged in unethical business practices and fraud.

"I have bent over backwards to try and communicate with McDonald's in a positive way how very upset I am with way they have treated me for the last 10 years." Mr. Maggard said. "It's a shame because I grew up under the Golden Arches, then to play Ronald and have them treat me this way, maybe a Judge will help us sort out our disagreement."

Mr. Maggard alleges in his Lawsuit that McDonald's refused to provide a copy of his contract for 8 years. Also, McDonald's used coercion, threats and manipulation in dealing with his contract negotiations. "McDonald's used the very same tactics against Sandra Darling out in California, one of their own Franchisees. A jury found them guilty, I guess thats just the way McDonald's does business." Maggard said.

"I pray for Justice in this proverbial David vs McGoliath" Maggard said. "I served my Country overseas in the US Army, then came home and put on the badge of a Deputy Sheriff and served my community. I put my life on the line to protect the laws we live by, now I expect those very same laws to protect me."

McDonald's has demanded the return of Mr. Maggards Ronald McDonald Costume, he has refused saying, "Tell the McQueen Amy Murray at the Golden Palace in Oak Brook that she can kiss this Ronald's McGriddle!"

"I look forward to my day in Court" said Mr. Maggard. The case will be heard by the Honorable Louise Flanagan, US District Court Judge in the Eastern District of North Carolina.

"It all comes down to a lack of respect for anything or anyone by McDonald's and Leo Burnett, someone said they were just a conscienceless entity. Well this is one Ronald who is gonna stand his ground against the McBullies!" said Maggard as he polished his Big Red Magic Shoes.