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Matthew Vernon Silva

also known as Matt Silva
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Legal guides written by Matthew Silva

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.

Practice areas

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

    13 years, 1,800 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 35%

    13 years, 7,000 cases

  3. Speeding and traffic ticket: 30%

    13 years, 10,000 cases

Languages spoken

English, Spanish, Romanian

Photos and videos

1745222 1340305370

1745222 1382620991

Contact

2416 Commerce Road
address map

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

2416 Commerce Road
Jacksonville, NC, 28546

Office (910) 333-9833

Website

http://www.skalawyers.com

Article: 2009 Bedford Murder Trial

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

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

Office (910) 592-5137

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

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

Office (910) 343-9862

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

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

Office (910) 333-0939

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
NCActive200702/14/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers4476
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
10 Best in North CarolinaAmerican Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys2015
Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in North CarolinaAmerican Society of Legal Advocates2015
Client Distinction AwardMartindale-Hubbell2015
Judicial Edition AV Preeminent AttorneyMartindale-Hubbell2015
Top 40 Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2015
Top 10 Under 40National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys2015
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
National Dean's ListNational Dean's List1998
Who's Who Among Students In American Universities & CollegesWho's Who1998
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
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

(166)
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!

86/55 + Reckless Driving dropped to infraction

Posted by

I hired Silva's firm to handle my speeding and reckless driving charges. I was told that the most likely outcome would be a reduction to 10 over the speed limit. I recently learned that my case was resolved with a reduction to an improper equipment citation - no license or insurance points and nothing to pay. For such a speeding charge, I never thought that I would end up with something so minor! Everything was handled over the phone or by email, which was important because I live far out of state from North Carolina. The process took a total of 8 months with several court dates that I never had to attend. At first I was concerned that the case was being continued so many times, but now I know that this is just part of the process that you have to trust.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: I am pleased that you had a good outcome. Thank you for choosing my firm to represent you! If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to call!

ALL charges DISMISSED!!!

Posted by

If you are in trouble Matt Silva is the attorney to hire. I met with Mr. Silva after firing my previous attorney. His office got me in same day for free consultation. I had read ALL the amazing reviews Mr. Silva had, but was still skeptical because of what I had just went through with my previous paid attorney. Mr. Silva was very honest about what my chances were in winning each case. He explained the best and worst case scenario. His fees were more expensive than most, but you get what you pay for. I was charged with DWI, wreck less driving, 2nd degree trespassing, and drug paraphernalia. If convicted this would have permanently impacted mine and my families lives. The anxiety I felt was overwhelming at times. I had to put my faith in Mr. Silva. As of today ALL charges have been dismissed. Not 1 or 2 or even 3. Every single one is gone. Danielle and front office staff have also been so patient and kind. Never once did they make me feel like I was a burden when I would call asking question after question. I live out of state and they made sure to update me on court happenings ect. I always knew if I had to drive down to appear at least 2 weeks in advance. Which was great so I could plan accordingly with my husband for my children. If you are in any criminal trouble please call Attorney Silva. Especially if you are charged with DWI for prescribed medication. Not every attorney is well versed in this matter. Even if they lead you to believe so. I learned the hard way.... This man saved my life and I bet he could do the same for you. He is the BEST Onslow county has to offer for legal representation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you for the great review! I am very happy that this burden has been removed from your shoulders and you can move forward freely. I know how stressful this whole situations has been and I am happy that everything was dismissed. If you ever need us, or know someone that does, please reach out!

Best attorney in the area

Posted by

Where to even begin my review for Mr. Silva, in the overall answer, hands down he was the best and well-spoken attorneys in the Jacksonville area. This was my first and last case that I will ever have. Mr. Silva made me feel secure and informed of everything that was happening with my case, as well his staff is very professional and knowledgeable with the needed information when Mr. Silva is not available. For the longest I have been thinking on what to write but his reviews really speak for him on what he offers. If you need representation for any of his qualifications in the surrounding area Mr. Silva is the person to call. Lastly I wanted to say thank you again to you and your staff for your professionalism and great representation during my court.case
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you so much for the positive review! I am very happy that my staff and I were able to handle your situation in a manner that pleased you. If you know anyone that needs help, please have them give us a call!

BEST Attorney Ever - ROCKSTAR!

Posted by

Mr. Silva was hands down amazing! I was convicted of a DUI and previously hired another attorney who represented me at district court and was found guilty. Mr. Silva was highly recommended to me by an attorney who is now a judge in Onslow county to take the case to trial. I retained Mr. Silva and he was very open and honest about our chances of beating this charge. He was able to get me a quick trial and worked very hard to get my case heard ASAP so I didn't have to take off work, travel back and forth and waste my time waiting for my case to be heard (THANK YOU SO MUCH for that Mr. Silva.) My trial was this week and the there was a lot of tough evidence the prosecutor presented against me, including the cops testimony and taking any chance to try and twist and turn statements and verbiage - she was tough! Mr. Silva collected all the facts, was very aware of exactly what he was dealing with in advance, anticipated hurdles and ultimately destroyed the prosecutions case against me resulting in a "NOT guilty" verdict. Mr. Silva was a bulldog in court and his closing arguments were compelling the jury was left in awe. This man is simply the best and will fight for you as if he were fighting for himself. Thank you so much Mr. "Rockstar" Silva.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Jennifer: I want to truly thank you for selecting my firm to handle your Superior Court matter. I know that this situation was probably one of the most stressful situations you have had to endure, but you did a great job. Your testimony was a crucial factor that helped us win! I know you will never need me again, but if you know someone that does, please have them give us a call! PS. Thank you for the great review and best of luck in all your future endeavors!

DWI

Posted by

Mr. Silva and his staff were great to work with. I had a number of court dates and they handled each one without me having to go. In the end, we met several times and he got me ready for the most nerve racking thing I have ever had to do . . . testify in my own defense. I was ready and he told me just about everything the prosecution was going to ask. We won the entire case and I didn't even have to pay court costs. This literally saved my career! I would go back to him in a heartbeat.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Thank you so much for the positive review. I know trials can be incredibly stressful, but it turned out great! Also, I am happy that you will be able to continue your career in the USMC! Thank you for your service! If you ever need help, or know someone that does, make sure to give us a call.

One Of Best Eastern North Carolina Has To Offer

Posted by

I want to thank Mr. Silva and his team for all their help during my life challenges. Upon contacting the office the reception returned my call with an appointment with Mr. Silva to discus my case. Everyone were welcoming and supportive. Mr, Silva help me to understand the case charges to include the different outcomes that could take place. Through every meeting he provided encuragement, as I took the time to think about every area of my live. Mr. Silva I sincerely thank you for all your support during my so real life challanges. I'm able to lift my head and move forward.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Darnell: Thank you for the great review. I know this has been a difficult couple of years, but I am happy that everything was dismissed. It isn't easy to have those sort of charges looming over your head, but I am glad you persevered. I hope you and your family can now move on with your lives. I don't know if you still plan on moving, but if you do, I wish you the best of luck!

Exceeded my expectations

Posted by

I was charged with Felony Fleeing to Elude. Reckless driving to endanger. Speeding 140 in a 55. And many other things that would have had a much larger impact on my life if it weren’t for Mr Silva. I went into his office and he told me that I would not come out of this as a convicted felon. And he would do his best for me. AND HE DID. I only had to show up to court one time. And my case was completed in a month. With the felony dropped to a misdemeanor. Reckless driving was dropped. And the speeding was dropped to 100 in a 55. Along with a few other charges being dismissed. I couldn’t have asked for a better man for the job, and I cannot thank mr Silva enough.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: Travis: I am very happy with the outcome in your case and especially the timeline. I cannot promise the same outcome for other people, but I am happy we were able to do it for you. If you ever need anything, or know someone who does, please do not hesitate to call. I wish you the best in your military career and future endeavors!

Great job by a great attorney.

Posted by

His experience with handling DWIs showed throughout the process, which was very assuring. By following his recommendation to remain patient and wait for the correct time to go to trail I ended up with a positive outcome. I would be happy to use his services in the future.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Matthew Silva's response: I know it was frustrating to have the case continued so many times, but I think it was necessary to get everything to line up just right. I am very thrilled that we were able to prevail against the DWI. Thank you so much for the positive review and I hope that some stress is taken off your shoulders!
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(50)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Grayson Cheek, Criminal defense Attorney on Nov 14, 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, Mesothelioma and asbestos 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, Mesothelioma and asbestos 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, Mesothelioma and asbestos 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, Estate planning 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, Military law 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, Immigration 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, Employment and labor Attorney on Apr 28, 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

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, Immigration Attorney on Mar 6, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. He is a great attorney!

Dane Scalise, Business 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, Military law 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, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 9, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Cheryl Wulf, Divorce and separation Attorney on Dec 7, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Judd Nemiro

This lawyer is aggressive, knowledgeable and provides excellent services.

Michael Birchmore, Divorce and separation Attorney on Oct 12, 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, Elder law Attorney on Oct 3, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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, Criminal defense Attorney on Sep 29, 2014
Relationship: Other

I endorse this lawyer.

Kenneth Love, Litigation 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.

Legal guides written by Matthew Silva