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Matthew Vernon Silva

also known as Matt Silva
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Avvo Rating10
Matthew Vernon Silva
Matthew Vernon Silva
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About Matthew

Former Prosecutors, Experienced Advocates.

Mr. Silva is a former Superior Court Prosecutor for Onslow and Jones counties. Having spent several years with the District Attorney's office, Mr. Silva gained tremendous trial experience in all areas of criminal law. In the final three years of Mr. Silva's time as Prosecutor, he completed more jury trials and maintained the highest conviction rate in all of District Four (Onslow, Jones, Duplin and Sampson counties).

 

Mr. Silva is thorough, yet efficient, when evaluating each case. He has a strong ability to evaluate complex factual scenarios. Mr. Silva is committed to achieving optimal results for his clients through an aggressive litigation strategy.

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Practice areas

Speeding and traffic ticketDUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 35%

    14 years, 1,800 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 35%

    14 years, 7,000 cases

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket: 30%

    14 years, 10,000 cases

Languages spoken

English, Spanish, Romanian

Photos and videos

1745222 1340305370

1745222 1382620991

Contact

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

2416 Commerce Road
Jacksonville, NC, 28546

Website
http://www.skalawyers.com 

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

101 West Main Street
PO Box 1072, 28329
Clinton, NC, 28328

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

201 North Front Street
Suite G104
Wilmington,, NC, 28401

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC - Real Estate
825 Gum Branch Road, Suite #135
Jacksonville, NC, 28546

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
NCActive200705/31/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers4580
Legal guides2
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
10 Best AttorneyAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2017
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2017
Top 100 DWI Attorneys in North CarolinaNational Advocacy for DUI Defense2016
Top 100 Trial LawyersNational Trial Lawyers2016
Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2016
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2016
Top 40 Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2015
10 Best in North CarolinaAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2015
Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2015
Judicial Edition AV Preeminent AttorneyMartindale-Hubbell2015
Client Distinction AwardMartindale-Hubbell2015
Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in North CarolinaAmerican Society of Legal Advocates2015
Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2014
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
Top 100 DWI attorneys in North CarolinaThe National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC2014
Who's Who Among Students In American Universities & CollegesWho's Who1998
National Dean's ListNational Dean's List1998
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Chairman of Attorney StandardsOnslow County Bar2015 - Present
Managing PartnerSilva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC2014 - Present
Managing PartnerSweet-Silva Investments, LLC2012 - Present
Board MemberAlbert Ellis Airport Advisory Commission2020 - 2020
PartnerSilva & Sweet, PLLC2012 - 2013
Chief Legal OfficerB2G Holding Company, Inc2012 - 2013
Chief Legal OfficerDawg Food, Inc.2012 - 2013
PartnerSilva, Sweet & Kiernan, PLLC2012 - 2013
Chief Executive OfficerDeppe Pines Memorial Park, LLC2012 - 2014
Managing PartnerSilva and Sweet, PLC2012 - 2013
Superior Court ProsecutorDistrict Attorney's Office2008 - 2012
Chief of District Court for the 4th DistrictDistrict Attorney's Office2008 - 2009
District Court ProsecutorDistrict Attorney's Office2007 - 2008
Chief DWI Court ProsecutorProsecutor's Office - 4th District2007 - 2009
Assistant District AttorneyDistrict Attorney's Office, 4th Prosecutorial District2007 - 2012
Summer AssociateTerry N. Grimes, PC2006 - 2006
Student AttorneyElder Law Clinic, Wake Forest University School of Law2005 - 2005
Assistant Manager & Formulation ChemistZeco, Inc.2003 - 2004
Quality Control ChemistTeva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (formerly Barr Laboratories)2001 - 2002
Research TechnicianUniversity of New Mexico Cancer Research Facility1996 - 2001
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
4th Circuit Court of AppealsMember2013 - Present
United States District CourtMember2013 - Present
North Carolina State BarMember2007 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember2007 - Present
Onslow County Bar AssociationMember2007 - Present
North Carolina Bar AssociationMember2007 - Present
Sigma Chi Alumni AssociationMember2000 - Present
Deppe Pines Memorial ParkPresident2012 - 2014
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Journal of Peptide ResearchNovel Cyclic Peptide Inhibits Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1-mediated Cell Aggregation.2001
Abstract. Blood. 94 (Supplement): 429aDevelopment of Cyclic Peptide Inhibitor of LFA-1 Binding to ICAM-11999
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Impaired Driving Specialists - SFST Instructor's CourseNHTSA Certified Standardized Field Sobriety Test Instructor2020
NHTSAAdvanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement2019
National Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationCertificate in DWI Detection and SFST2019
NC Bar AssociationCLE2014
Consumer Financial Protection BureauCLE2013
NC State BarCLE2012
NC State BarCLE2012
State Bureau of Investigation, Office of Attorney General & Secretary of StateCLE2011
NC Conference of District AttorneysCLE2008
Wake Forest University School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2007
University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of LawCertificate2005
University of New MexicoBS - Bachelor of Science2000
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Coastal Carolina Paralegal StudiesLaw Practice Management2016
Consigliere NightCriminal Defense, Family Law, & Corporations2014
BLET Mock TrialsBLET Mock Trials2013
North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement TrainingCourtroom Skills: Proving Your Case2012
BLET FinalsBLET Mock Trials2012
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
State of North Carolina v. Jyree Dominic NoelWe prevailed on every issue presented to the Court of Appeals. This case also changed the law on evidence and indictments in North Carolina.
State of North Carolina v. Kenis Ray JohnsonWe won on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.
State v. DobbsWe prevailed on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.

Reviews

(181)
5 Star
97%
4 Star
1%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
0%
Review Matthew Silva

Even Police Officers Say He’s the Best!

Posted by

Mr. Silva represents people from all walks of life. I am someone who has never been in trouble with the law, so when I got my DUI I was beyond devastated and scared. Mr. Silva was honest from the beginning about my options and what he could do for me. He fought hard from the beginning to the end. I was recently rear-ended and the cop ran my license as a formality. Of course my pending charge showed up and he asked who my attorney was. I told him Silva and he goes, “you’ll have no problem. He’s the best”. Well, I found out why they say Mr. Silva is the best. He got my case completely dismissed! If you ever find yourself in legal troubles, Silva is your guy. You won’t regret it.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Kaitlyn: This review made me laugh. Thank you so much for enduring this long process. You were completely awesome to work with and I am happy that your case was finally dismissed. If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to call. Also, (not on this forum) if you get a chance, let me know who the officer was . . . I would like to thank him!

Best attorney hands down!!!

Posted by

The charges I was facing would have devastated my family and I considering the chargers were FALSE. I was facing DUI, reckless driving, child endangerment/ child abuse and I got my license taken away. I contacted Mr. Silva immediately, and I was tied up in court for almost a year for serious charges. Mr. Silva went above and beyond to get my charges reduced but he did better than that by getting my case thrown out of court and I was able to walk out. Both Mr. Silva and his office were extremely friendly and professional, My family and I are eternally grateful for the work he has done! And I highly recommend this law firm if you find yourself in any legal issues. Thank you again Matt! Thomas
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thomas: I am so happy the case against you was dismissed. I knew from the beginning that you were actually innocent and I did not want circumstantial evidence to lead the judge in the wrong decision. I enjoyed representing you and thank you for choosing our firm! I wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

Matt Silva is a BEAST!!!

Posted by

Whew! Where do I start, lol, okay, so December of 2020, I was at Walmart on Yopp Rd in Jacksonville, NC, where I was faced with a woman who yelled obscenities at me, then proceeded to stick her head in my vehicle. I pepper sprayed her and I was charged with the frivolous assault on a female charge. I called Mr. Matt Silva and from the moment I reached out til this day, Mr. Silva and his office have been phenomenal. He was honest, upfront, and was very professional. Mr. Silva knows the LAW and his performance in the courtroom leaves everyone’s jaws to the ground. Today, because of Mr. Silva’s representation, I was found NOT GUILTY! If I were working for the state, I would be scared to go up against Mr. Silva. Thank you, SIR! I am forever grateful for you. Seriously! He also got a window tint violation for me dismissed completely. If you ever find yourself in trouble, call Matt Silva.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Mr. Jackson: Thank you so much for all you have done to report this incident. You did extremely well from the witness stand and I think you carried the day! I am more than willing to help you, or those you know, with any issue. I hope you can move past this situation stress free. Best of luck to you and all your endeavors! I follow your facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/TheNCBeat, and I will continue to share it with my friends!

Jakevious Hardon

Posted by

One of the greatest attorneys I’ve ever met in my life. Knows how to do his job Extremely well. Thank you so much Mr Silva!!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you, my friend. I hope you are able to get your life back on track. Best of luck with your upcoming son and business ventures.

The Man for the Job

Posted by

I was previously represented by another attorney and I felt the entire time he was pointing me toward the least amount of work on his end possible. Mr. Silva was found by my family through research, and I can wholeheartedly say it was well worth the switch. The entire time Mr. Silva was up front about everything and he went into my case saying he wanted to win the case, being honest and professional about every possible contingency. Everywhere I searched he was well regarded and he did what was said would never get done in Onslow County. All in all, I would recommend his representation through sheer experience and professionalism alone.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you for the review! I wish I could say I knew who you were, but I have a lot of clients that switch to me from other attorneys. I am assuming that we won the case and because you seem satisfied with the outcome. Thank you very much for choosing us! Your review means a lot to me as this is one of the ways people find me. I hope the stress of your situation has been lifted and you are able to move on with your life. Best of luck in all your future endeavors. If you, or someone you know, needs help, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Persistent & Patient A+ service!

Posted by

Mr. Silva's office has always been on top of anything ai brought there way, a few speeding tickets, and unfortunately for me a D.U.I. I highly recommend Mr Silva if you're looking for one of the best out there! They won't let you down! Jacqueline
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: I appreciate the positive review and your business. I hope all is well with you!

Best lawyer around

Posted by

He helped me with a felony marijuana charge. I previously had 4 felony drug charges on my record and couldn’t afford another felony. He got my charges dropped to misdemeanor possession and unsupervised probation. He is the best lawyer I’ve had. Very easy to get in touch with and very professional. He’s the only lawyer I’d ever use from here on.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you so much! I remember your case and I am happy with the outcome. Thank you for selecting our firm. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to call me!

Excellent and Personable

Posted by

I am extremely happy Mr Silva was recommended to me. He made the whole process easy and was very nice. He fought for me and helped me get through it. I even witnessed him go beyond for another person at the court house and it was very pleasant to see. He is serious and driven in the court room but an awesome man with values and respect as well.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Wow. Thank you for the amazing review! I really wish I knew your name so I could thank you in person. In any event, I hope your case worked out well. If you ever need our help, please do not hesitate to contact us! Thanks again for the kind words!

THE MAN

Posted by

Got me everything he promised. Communication was fantastic, best money I ever spent. Helped me through the worst time of my life, and, made sure I’m not a felon. CANNOT THANK YOU ENOUGH!!!!! You are the man!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Courtney: I am very happy with the result. Thank you so much for choosing our services! I want you to know that it was a pleasure to work with you and I hope you never have to deal with a situation like this again. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors!

Seamless Experience in Resolving My Case

Posted by

I had a very pleasant experience with the entire Silva team, beginning from their legal assistant Hannah taking the details of my case, getting all the paperwork situated to a final phone call stating that Mr. Silva had resolved both my cases. I was very pleased with the resolution a well.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: I am very happy that you had a great experience with my firm! I am also very happy that you mentioned my staff . . . they are my backbone. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact us!
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(50)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Grayson Cheek, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 13, 2018
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I had the pleasure to work opposite of Matt when he worked in the District Attorney’s office. We tried a 2-day jury trial. At all times Matt was professional and, honestly, friendly. He knew the strengths and weaknesses of his case and I knew mine. As a career defense attorney, I appreciated his demeanor and I knew it would serve him well if he ever ventured into private practice. Now that Matt is practicing criminal defense, I feel comfortable and I have full confidence in referring those seeking my help to him for matters in Onslow County. He’s one of the great ones.

Mark Rowe, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 13, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Attorney Matthew Vernon Silva is a powerful advocate for his clients. He is always prepared and very successful in the courtroom. The client who trusts his case to Matthew makes a wise decision, and I highly recommend his work.

Channika Desilva, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 7, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Silva is a well-regarded and driven attorney who has provided exceptional legal representation to numerous clients throughout the U.S. With his extensive knowledge, broad experience and impressive professional skills, he is bound to invest his time and energy into achieving the best outcome for each case, regardless of its level of complexity.

Gregory Cade, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 9, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matthew is undoubtedly a top notch attorney who has skillfully mastered his primary area of practice over the course of his professional experience. His sharp critical thinking and flawless work ethic are perhaps the key qualities which ensured the success of a remarkable number of his cases. I endorse this lawyer and encourage anyone who needs superior legal representation to opt for his services.

George Collins, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 4, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. We are members of the local bar and I have watched Mr. Silva in practice since he began. He is one outstanding lawyer, gentleman and scholar. I endorse him with greatest of confidence.

James Jordan, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 18, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. It is my understanding that having worked in the district attorney's office is highly beneficial to any criminal defense attorney. I endorse this lawyer for his skill and thoughtfulness to clients.

Mark Clay, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 23, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly endorse Mr. Silva. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first.

Jonathan Lacour, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 27, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Quality representation and exceptional attentiveness to clients. One of the absolute best for DUIs

Donald Christian, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 23, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is a former prosecutor who excels at representing his clients. He is an excellent attorney.

John Elbert, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 12, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is an experienced, highly respected attorney who always represents his clients with the utmost of skill,knowledge and understanding.i can readily endorse him without hesitation or reservation.

Mark Murad

I endorse this lawyer. He is a great attorney!

Dane Scalise, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 2, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Every now and again, you meet someone that you just KNOW has it all together. Mr. Silva is one of those people. It is clear that he is both very intelligent and capable. I certainly endorse him for a variety of practice areas, including criminal defense.

Eric Kopka, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 15, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Silva is a true professional who devotes countless time and effort in zealously representing his clients.

Elizabeth Carpenter

I endorse this lawyer.

Cheryl Wulf, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 6, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Judd Nemiro

This lawyer is aggressive, knowledgeable and provides excellent services.

Michael Birchmore, Criminal defense Attorney on Oct 11, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Silva is well known for his experience and ability to get great results for his clients. I highly recommend him to those in need of an effective lawyer.

Vance Davis

Mr. Silva is a skilled and talented lawyer as is demonstrated in his many fine contributions to the Avvo community. Having read many of his comments in the Avvo Q&A forum, I would not have any hesitation relying on his legal services and professional guidance.

Dmitriy Shakhnevich

I endorse this lawyer.

Kenneth Love, Criminal defense Attorney on Aug 19, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Silva spends a great deal of time sharing his legal expertise with the community. He is a first choice selection for anyone needing representation in Eastern North Carolina.