Matthew Stephan Olesh

Matt Olesh is an experienced litigator with a diverse practice.  In addition to consulting with clients in an effort to avoid litigation, Matt is a fierce advocate for them in federal and state court.  Matt employs a pragmatic approach to litigation using strategic decision making and problem-solving, sophisticated legal analysis, and efficiency to obtain favorable outcomes for clients without breaking the bank.  In addition, Matt specializes in professional liability cases, attorney ethical issues and disciplinary proceedings.  

Over the course of his career, Matt has successfully obtained results for clients, including complete dismissal of cases in their favor, defeating requests for injunctions, and getting injunctive relief when necessary.  In addition to litigating high profile, “bet the company” cases, Matt is an astute negotiator and has negotiated favorable resolutions to complex disputes. Matt has also handled and resolved internal investigations in order to avoid adverse government action, and successfully defended white collar criminal cases.

Matt is well-versed in the field of alternative dispute resolution.  He has represented clients in numerous arbitration cases, and regularly serves as an arbitrator with the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Compulsory Arbitration Program, oftentimes chairing panels.  Matt has also resolved a number of cases via mediation.

Matt’s diverse practice includes the following areas of law:

• Complex commercial litigation;
• Professional liability cases, attorney ethical issues and disciplinary proceedings
• Risk assessment and management;
• Contracts;
• Antitrust law;
• Entertainment litigation;
• Securities litigation;
• Business transactions;
• Insurance defense;
• Real estate;
• Employment law;
• Internal investigations and compliance;
• White collar criminal defense;
• Consumer class actions; and
• Corporate governance.

Matt is a strong advocate for pro bono clients, taking on cases in both state and federal court in matters that include child custody and prisoners’ civil rights.  In addition, Matt prides himself on his professional and civic engagement.  He currently serves as Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Philadelphia Bar Association.  He is also an elected Committeeperson for the 30th Ward Democratic Executive Committee, a director and co-founder of the Friends of Chester A. Arthur School Education Foundation, the co-chair of the Philadelphia VIP Recruitment and Retention Committee, and the Chair of the South Street West Civic Association.