MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC
About MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC
MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC is listed in our database based on their SEC registration. They are not a fiduciary, meaning they aren't legally required to act in your best interest. This doesn't make them dishonest, but it means they may recommend products that earn them commissions.
MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC has 3 complaints on file (10.34 per 100 clients). This is above the industry average of ~0.15 per 100 clients — a yellow flag worth discussing with them directly. They earn commissions on product sales, creating a potential conflict of interest — always ask what they make from any recommendation.
One thing to watch: they're affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they can earn commissions beyond their stated fees. Ask them to disclose all compensation in writing. Bottom line: We recommend interviewing at least 2-3 other advisors in CLEVELAND before committing to MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC. Their risk profile suggests extra caution.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC
“What is your all-in fee, including fund expenses?”
Their disclosed model is commission. Ask for the total cost including underlying fund fees, trading costs, and any platform charges.
“Are you a fiduciary at all times — not just sometimes?”
MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC is not registered as a fiduciary. This means they can legally recommend products that benefit them more than you. Ask them to sign a fiduciary pledge in writing.
“How are you compensated when you recommend a specific product?”
This firm earns commissions on product sales. Ask exactly how much they make on each recommendation and whether a no-commission alternative exists.
“Can you explain the 3 complaints on your record?”
Regulatory complaints don't always indicate wrongdoing, but you deserve a direct explanation. Ask what happened and how they've changed their practices since.
“Can I see your Form ADV Part 2A brochure before our next meeting?”
This is the legal disclosure document that details fees, conflicts, and disciplinary history. Every SEC-registered advisor must provide it. Read it before signing anything.
Compensation Model
Compensation type disclosed on SEC Form ADV Item 5C. Filed 46119. Specific fee percentages are available in this firm's Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Conflict of Interest Analysis
Broker-Dealer Affiliated: Yes
This firm is affiliated with a broker-dealer, which means they may earn commissions on product sales — creating a potential conflict between their revenue and your best interest.
Insurance Licensed: No
Not insurance licensed. Cannot sell you annuity or insurance products directly.
Custody per Form ADV Item 9: Yes
SEC Form ADV Item 9 reports that this adviser is deemed to have "custody" of some client assets under Rule 206(4)-2. This is a broad regulatory term that includes situations where client assets sit at an independent qualified custodian (e.g., Schwab, Fidelity) but the adviser has authority to deduct advisory fees, or has a standing letter of authorization on the account. It does not, on its own, mean the adviser physically holds client assets. See the firm's ADV filing on adviserinfo.sec.gov for the specifics.
Proprietary Products: No
Uses only third-party investment products. No proprietary product conflicts.
Regulatory & Disciplinary History
3 customer complaint(s)/arbitration(s) disclosed on Form ADV Item 11.
ResolvedTotal complaints on record: 3
Complaint ratio: 10.34 per 100 clients
Industry average is approximately 0.15 complaints per 100 clients. A ratio above 0.30 is considered elevated.
Firm Details
| Legal Name | MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC |
| CRD Number | #135414 |
| SEC Registered | Yes |
| Registration Date | 2005-05-06 |
| States Registered | OH |
| Assets Under Management | $1.3B |
| Number of Clients | 29 |
| Employees | 29 |
| Compensation Type | commission |
| Last ADV Filing | 46119 |
Other Advisors in CLEVELAND
ANCORA RETIREMENT PLAN ADVISORS, LLC
CLEVELAND, OH · Since 2007
CBIZ INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES, LLC
CLEVELAND, OH · Since 2017
HIGHLAND CONSULTING ASSOCIATES INC.
CLEVELAND, OH · Since 1994
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC a fiduciary?
No. MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC is not registered as an RIA and is not legally bound by the fiduciary standard.
How does MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC charge clients?
MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC uses a commission compensation model. They also earn commissions on product sales, which may create conflicts of interest. Full fee details are in their Form ADV Part 2A brochure at adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Does MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC have any complaints?
Yes. MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC has 3 complaint(s) on record. Their complaint ratio is 10.34 per 100 clients (industry average: ~0.15).
How does MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC compare to other advisors in CLEVELAND?
MCDONALD PARTNERS LLC has a Trust Score of 54/100. There are 34 registered advisory firms in CLEVELAND. Use our city page to compare firms side by side.
Where does this data come from?
All information is sourced from SEC Form ADV public filings (mandatory regulatory disclosures) and FINRA BrokerCheck records. Last updated: 2026-06-24. We do not accept payment from financial advisors.
Data source: SEC Form ADV (Parts 1 and 2A) filed with the Investment Adviser Registration Depository (IARD). Filing date: 46119. Last data refresh: 2026-06-24. AdvisorRanked does not verify the accuracy of SEC filings. This is not financial advice.