Matthew Howard Smith

Divorce and separation Attorney at Fairfax, VA

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The lawyer you need in times of crisis.

After 20 years of marriage and 5 kids, I uncovered the fact that my wife was having an affair with her high school boyfriend. When I confronted her with what I had discovered, she set-off to destroy our family, ruin my life and run off with her boyfriend. In the months that followed I made some tactical and strategic mistakes in pursuing her and begging her to come back - I wish that I had already known Matt Smith, I would have avoided all those errors. When she finally filed for divorce, I was a mess. The first lawyer that I contacted was a disaster. I felt like I was going to loose my kids, my financial security and all that I had worked for over 20 years.. A friend of a friend heard about my situation and called with some advice. "Contact Livesay & Myers" was the advice. I met with Matt Smith a week later. Matt was a godsend! The process was not fast, but Matt was steady and cool under pressure. He knows how the process works and he has a strategic mind. He is able to craft a way forward and implement it in an effective manner. There were many stressful times, but Matt's confidence and reassurance carried us through. In the end, we avoided a costly trial, I have an agreement that is better than what I expected, my kids are happy and with me a lot and my ex-wife is not allowed to relocate to where her boyfriend lives. Matt Smith is the divorce lawyer that you need in times of crisis. It is not a cheap process, but it is the cost of freedom.

The absolute best

I can't begin to express what a wonderful experience I had working with Matthew Smith and his paralegal, Caitlin Wilkinson. They were professional, thorough, knowledgeable and most of all, kind and understanding during a difficult and painful process. Divorce is a scary time and there's no greater comfort than feeling you have the best on your side - and hiring Matthew is hiring the best. He consistently worked to balance what was best for my case based on his extensive experience, knowledge and genuine interest in my well-being, as well as my personal values and needs. He cared about my case and I always felt like a priority. Caitlin Wilkinson was an absolute joy - she took all of my calls as though I was speaking with a trusted advisor and friend. They worked diligently, efficiently and with genuine compassion to resolve my matter in a way that was better than I could have ever hoped for!

About Matthew

Learn Matthew’s areas of practice.

Practice area

Divorce and separation

100%

Experienced, award-winning divorce attorney in Fairfax, Virginia. Highly-rated, proven results!

AWARD-WINNING FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY IN FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA. GET THE HELP YOU NEED!

Matthew Smith is a junior partner at Livesay & Myers, P.C., practicing exclusively family law. He is experienced in handling every type of family law matter in Virginia, including separation, divorce, custody and support cases. Mr. Smith works in the firm’s Fairfax office, and represents clients in Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington and all across Northern Virginia.

An attorney since 2005, Mr. Smith has litigated every type of family law case in the courts of Northern Virginia, including high value equitable distribution cases, custody, support, and military divorce cases. He is the attorney in the firm most experienced in navigating the Fairfax County court system.

One of the firm’s most knowledgeable military divorce lawyers, Matthew Smith is intimately familiar with issues of military retirement, the Uniformed Services Former Spouses Protection Act, the Survivor Benefit Plan, disability pay, and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.

Mr. Smith holds the prestigious AV Preeminent rating (the highest possible rating) for ethical standards and legal ability from Martindale-Hubbell. Mr. Smith has been selected by his peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© for his work in Family Law every year since 2017. In 2022, Mr. Smith was named a Super Lawyer for the first time, after being named a Super Lawyers Rising Star each year from 2015–2020. Mr. Smith also holds a perfect 10.0 rating from both Avvo and Justia.

Matthew Smith resides with his wife and two sons in Tysons Corner.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 17 years

State DC

Status Good Standing

Acquired 2007

Updated 02/11/2021

State VA

Status Active

Acquired 2005

Updated 12/27/2022

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact Matthew

Livesay & Myers, P.C.

(703) 722-6431 Office

11325 Random Hills Rd #100

Fairfax, VA, 22030

livesaymyers.com/fairfax/

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Reviews

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4.4 / 5.0

19 customer reviews

5 Star

84%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

16%

Posted by anonymous | July 22, 2015

The lawyer you need in times of crisis.

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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2016

The absolute best

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Posted by anonymous | June 7, 2019

Respectful, Knowledgeable, Ethical and Resourceful

I am an immigrant with no knowledge on US legal system. When I received my court summon for child custody I have no clue on what to do with that. I got reference for him through my colleague. He helped me on child custody and child support case. On all of the occasions, he educates me, list all of the choices, gives his view on each choice and advises me on the best one. At every instance he gets my consent before replying to my spouse attorney. More specifically I need to mention one of his quality that I believe is not common with other attorneys: He is always considerate about the legal fees that I spent. At every junction, he advises me whether it is worth to pursue that option for the amount I will be spending on the legal fees. His paralegal Caity is very helpful. There are many instance where they gave me an option to do things myself so that I could save on the legal fees.(At such instances, really I was surprised as they are not running a non-profit. Every $ you save is helpful when you are in an unknown terrain) Overall, Matt and his paralegal Caity are very professional, ethical, reasonable and helped to navigate me over my tough situation.

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Posted by anonymous | May 2, 2019

Very Professional Attorney

I worked with Mr. Smith and his assistant Ms. Wilkinson for about year for a very complicated international divorce case. Mr. Smith was always very professional and very prompt to respond to all my questions in a timely fashion. He is a very knowledgeable attorney and I am very happy that I had the chance to work with him and his team. I will return back to him in the future for any family law cases.

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Posted by anonymous | August 16, 2018

Consummate Professionals

I hired Matt to address the legal matters associated with my divorce after a friend recommended him. Matt and Caitlin Wilkinson (paralegal), were professional, responsive, and supportive throughout the process. I was pleased to have had no concerns regarding my legal representation while I was addressing the numerous other matters that divorce entails. If you find yourself in a similar situation, I sympathize, but know that I would absolutely recommend Matt and Caitlin.

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Posted by Mark | June 25, 2018

A Great Decision

I hired the law firm, Livesay & Myers, P.C., when I was going through a complicated divorce. It was a great decision, and there has not been one moment that I regretted it. The lawyer from the firm that worked with me is Matthew Smith. I also worked a lot with Caitlin, a paralegal. From day one, Matt and Caitlin were very professional and efficient, as was everyone else I came into contact with there. They always patiently listened when I had questions or wanted to explain something. It seemed like there were always problems coming up in getting the final divorce agreement signed. They just handled everything that came up, I really didn't have to do much. A couple of times I had become so frustrated that I was ready to go straight to court. Matt helped me see that it would be better to resolve things outside of the courtroom if possible, although he was always ready to go to court if things came to that. I've always felt that the best recommendation a person can give is when they would use the person that they are recommending again themselves. If I ever need a lawyer again I wouldn't look around. I would just call Matt again. Thank you Matt, Caitlin, and the rest of Livesay & Myers...

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Posted by anonymous | March 28, 2018

Great and Knowledgeable Lawyer

Mr. Matthew Smith is a wonderful and knowledgeable divorce lawyer, and his paralegal Ms. Caity Wilkinson is very responsible too. My case was completed unexpectedly smoothly and fast. I am very satisfied with their services. Highly recommend.

Posted by Anonymous | May 25, 2017

WINNER WINNER!

So I usually do not write reviews but I have to say He was great, he answered all my questions, stayed on top of things, helped me stay calm, corrected me in a good way (which I needed). He took control of everything and made me feel safe and he was just very confident. So THANK YOU AGAIN MATTHEW SMITH! His whole team was a honor to work with again. Caitlyn was very good as soon as she got paperwork she would send them to me. She was on top of everything. A million words can't explain how I feel and I am so happy I found Matthew I will be referring him.

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Posted by Kimberlyn | April 18, 2017

Highest recommendation for Matthew Smith

I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Matthew Smith and Ms. Caitlin Wilkinson for my case. They demonstrated the utmost professionalism and exuded compassion and excellence. I recommend Mr. Smith and his paralegal (Ms. Wilkinson) without reservation, and with my highest regards.

Posted by Jenny | March 9, 2017

A trusted advisor who is compassionate for client, excellent representation

Matt was hired as a divorce attorney to represent a military service member who was indisposed and had to communicate remotely. In addition to successfully guided the client through a not-so-pleasant divorce proceeding with a military spouse, Matt's patience in overcoming communication barriers and compassion to the client set him apart from all other attorneys. There were a number of incidents that infuriated the client, but the client was able to rely on Matt's expert legal experience and mature judgment in handling tough situations. Setting up an advantageous negotiation position while managing client's knee-jerk reaction! Working in a team with his paralegal, Caitlin Wilkinson, they were kind and sensitive to the hardship experienced by the service member. He was also protective of the client's non-legal and privacy interests. With Caitlin and Matt, the client was treated as a whole person, more than just a case. Caitlin and Matt were attentive, responsive, professional, and kind at all time. Thank you, Caitlin and Matt for giving the client an excellent financial start to the next chapter.

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Posted by EC | December 13, 2016

Excellent

Matt Smith is a personable and highly ethical divorce attorney who knows his stuff. I retained Matt to counsel me through a difficult divorce that, at times, seemed to go on forever. His sound judgement, compassion and humor were most appreciated especially during the rough patches. Communication was prompt and thorough. His paralegal, Caitlin Wilkinson was outstanding. Highly recommended.

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Posted by Jesse | August 24, 2016

Divorce

Mr. Smith, and his paralegal Caity helped me tremendously with my divorce. I was always aware of what was going on, and where we were in the process. Any questions I had were answered very quickly, and clearly. With their help, I was divorced in a little less than 3 months. I was very impressed with the amount of professionalism, and care they put into my case. If I ever need legal assistance again, these guys will be the first one I call.

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Posted by anonymous | June 2, 2016

Separation Agreement Services

I hired Mr. Smith to assist me in formalizing a Separation Agreement. Due to my unique situation, I requested that my agreement contain specific items. I also requested that my agreement not contain items that are typically found in such an agreement. In other words, I needed an agreement that was not "cookie-cutter". Mr. Smith drafted an agreement within a few short weeks and after my review, it required no adjustments. He listened to each of my requests and followed through accordingly. I appreciated his attention to detail. I also appreciated the responsiveness from Mr. Smith and other firm staff members. While working with Mr. Smith, I was in constant communication with staff members and I felt that I could ask questions at any time. After my Separation Agreement was finalized, I received paper documents as well as electronic files containing all of the work that was completed. Once my separation concludes and I can begin the divorce process, I will definitely seek the services of Mr. Smith and his team.

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Posted by Amber | March 29, 2016

Smith & Wilkinson are a Dynamic Team

To handle my divorce I worked with Mr. Smith and his paralegal Ms. Wilkinson. Upon the first meeting with Mr. Smith, he was very attentive to what I was looking for, answered my questions and made me feel comfortable. He didn't talk to me like a lawyer, but as a friend that wanted the best for me and my situation. I did inform him I looked up the law firm online and saw that I could get a divorce for a low rate and that was the direction I wanted to take. Most Law Firms are in the money making business, but Mr. Smith took the time and advised me of my options and helped me decide what was best for me. Ultimately, I was able to take the less expensive route. Before starting the divorce process, I had this idea it would be stressful and too much to handle by myself. I was definitely wrong with that assumption. Ms. Wilkinson kept me informed, answered my questions and got back with me within a reasonable amount of time. As much as we emailed back and forth you would have thought I was their only client. Mr. Smith and Ms. Wilkinson are a dynamic team that I would highly recommend to someone else.

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Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2015

Recommendation of Matt Smith

I enjoyed working with Matt. He was informative, gave me good options and helped me get the best outcome possible in my divorce settlement.

Posted by Chris | October 14, 2014

Divorce after 40 years of marriage

Matt is a true professional. Never having any prior need for an attorney I could not have made a better choice than going with Matt Smith. He was always compassionate, understanding and ready to do whatever was needed to get the job done in my favor. I would highly recommend him as one of the best in Fairfax County. Thank you Matt for your professionalism.

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Posted by anonymous | November 4, 2018

Horrible experience

Unfortunately, Matthew Smith did not represent any of the qualities mentioned in previous reviews. He is a good talker, but that is where it ends. I had a very complicated divorce and custody case, and I really believed that Matt Smith would make the right choices and I trusted him. I had a very complicated divorce and custody case, and it was after over 25K spent I found out that the opposite party’s attorney was Matt’s good friend. There were multiple decisions made without my authorization and on multiple occasions he lead me to do things that were not in my best interest. Eventually, my debt grew to 40k by the time the case was over with ZERO results. Yes, I mean it. Since the day I left my husband I gained NOTHING from working with Matt. No child support (even though he had me hire accountants to do income discovery for my ex) he never fought for my custody rights (when I had more than enough proof that I should be a primary custodian for multiple reasons). I was just another number, another dumb client for him who believed in him and was ready to invest every last penny. Lesson learned, I think of this experience as the biggest mistake in my life.

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Response from Matthew Smith November 6, 2018

Livesay & Myers, P.C. emphatically disagrees with your assessment of the events in your case. However, this is the first we've heard of your dissatisfaction, and we’re disappointed that you didn't allow us the opportunity to address your concerns before now. We pride ourselves on our consistently high client satisfaction, and would welcome the opportunity to discuss these matters with you directly at your convenience.

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Posted by Chris | March 19, 2017

Poster Child for Attorneys Who Care for Nothing but Their Fees

Matt Smith might be the worst attorney I've ever met. He regrettably represented my wife in a child custody case 5 years ago that continues to plague us to this day. He strung us along, totally unprepared, and we were forced to settle to a completely unrealistic agreement when he thought 8pm the night before our hearing was the appropriate time to start preparing for taking the stand. He is smug, arrogant, and *highly* unknowledgeable about the family courts in Virginia. I wouldn't use him to fight a parking ticket.

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Posted by anonymous | February 27, 2017

Unexperienced/easily intimidated/weak on mitigation

Matthew s the second lawyer I hired from this firm. HE is is very inexperienced and it was proved by the bad advice he gave me which ended up with me paying for unnecessary work from him and alimony I should not be paying. He shies away from difficult tasks required to have a favorable outcome on my behave and will not take the time to really work for you. He will take your money in a hard beat but he will not have your bet interests at heart. Stay away from him and his firm!!!! Hire Karen C. Davis instead... he was intimidated by her....

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Junior Partner
Livesay & Myers, P.C.
2016 - Present

Associate
Livesay & Myers, P.C.
2010 - 2016

Associate
Condo Kelly & Byrnes, P.C.
2005 - 2010

Education

American University, Washington College of Law
J.D.
2005

University of Notre Dame
B.A.
2002

Legal Cases

Fairfax Custody Case
Denial of Opposing Party's Motion to Modify Custody

Associations

American Society of Legal Advocates
Member
2014 - Present

United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
Admitted to Practice
2012 - Present

American Bar Association
Member
2006 - Present

United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
Admitted to Practice
2006 - Present

Arlington County Bar Association
Member
2005 - Present

Fairfax County Bar Association
Member
2005 - Present

Prince William County Bar Association
Member
2011 - 2015

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

29th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
Best Lawyers
2023

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2022

28th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
Best Lawyers
2022

27th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
Best Lawyers
2021

Rising Star
Super Lawyer
2020

26th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
The Best Lawyers in America©
2020

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2019

25th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
The Best Lawyers in America©
2019

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2018

24th Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
The Best Lawyers in America©
2018

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2017

Top 40 Under 40 Family Lawyers in Virginia
American Society of Legal Advocates
2017

23rd Edition, The Best Lawyers in America©, Family Law
The Best Lawyers in America©
2017

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2016

AV Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2016

National Academy of Family Law Attorneys
Top 10 Under 40 Attorney Award
2016

Top 40 Under 40 Family Lawyers in Virginia
American Society of Legal Advocates
2016

Top 40 Under 40 Family Lawyers in Virginia
American Society of Legal Advocates
2015

Rising Star
Super Lawyers
2015

BV Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2014

View all awards

Publications

DivorceHQ
Five Ways to Save Time and Money in Your Divorce
2013

The Livesay & Myers Blog
Three Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Family Lawyer
2013

The Livesay & Myers Blog
Five Reasons To Avoid Litigating, If You Can
2012

The Livesay & Myers Blog
Establishing Date of Separation in a Virginia Divorce
2010

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Attorney endorsements

Received (17)

Given (57)

Endorse Matthew

I. Horowitz

Divorce and separation Attorney | Oct 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Mr. Smith is a highly-experienced, impeccably ethical attorney who brings discretion to every aspect of his practice. He is reasonable and cool-headed, but does not budge when it comes to protecting his clients' interests and pursuing their goals. I endorse this lawyer without hesitation."

Caitlin Higgins

Family Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Co-worker

"I highly endorse Mr. Smith. He is a knowledgeable and experienced family law attorney, especially in the areas of divorce and custody. I recommend Mr. Smith to anyone seeking counsel in Northern Virginia for family law matters."

Michael Poe

Child custody Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

David Marquardt

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jun 25
Relationship: Co-worker

"Matt Smith is an intelligent, hard-working and honest lawyer, who is well-versed in the intricacies of divorce and family law. I highly endorse Mr. Smith."

Jonathan McHugh

Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 24
Relationship: Co-worker

"Experienced and knowledgeable, Mr. Smith has many years of experience trying family law cases across many jurisdictions in Virginia. Mr. Smith combines his command of the relevant statutes and laws with a strong courtroom acumen. I give Mr. Smith my highest endorsement."

Anneshia Miller Grant

Family Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Co-worker

"Mr. Smith is an extremely knowledgeable and highly respected family law attorney. He is patient and understanding while also a superb advocate for his client's best interests."

Danielle Snead

Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 05
Relationship: Co-worker

"I endorse this lawyer without hesitation. Matt is an experienced attorney who uses the knowledge and skills he has honed over the years to relentlessly fight for his clients. He is not only well respected by his clients, but by the Northern Virginia legal community."

H. Eugene Oliver

Unknown Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Co-worker

"I strongly endorse Matthew for clients with high stakes family law matters in Fairfax and across Northern Virginia. His experience with the courts is extensive and he is passionate about getting the best outcomes for his clients."

Spencer Baumgardner

Family Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Co-worker

"I strongly endorse this lawyer. Matthew Smith is one of the finest divorce or family lawyers in Northern Virginia, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone in need of a diligent, knowledgeable attorney in a divorce or family law case."