PRO

Licensed for 18 years

DUI and DWI Lawyer at Jacksonville, NC
Practice Areas: DUI & DWI, Criminal Defense, Speeding & Traffic Ticket

About Matthew

Biography

Former Prosecutors, Experienced Advocates.

I have personally handled thousands of criminal charges as a State's attorney and Defense Attorney.

As a former DWI prosecutor, I know how the State is going to come after you.

We handle hundreds of traffic related violations per month. Please let us help you!

Practice Areas

Criminal Defense 35%

19 years | 1,800 cases

35%

DUI and DWI 35%

19 years | 7,000 cases

35%

Speeding and Traffic Ticket 30%

19 years | 10,000 cases

30%

Fees and Rates

We have not found any cost information for this lawyer

Contact for Details

Awards

2025 2024 2023

...

+ 11

2020 2019 2018

...

+ 6

Licenses

Licensed in North Carolina for 18 years

State: North Carolina

Acquired: 2007

Active

No misconduct found

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Location

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

2416 Commerce Road, Jacksonville, NC, 28546

skalawyers.com

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Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

(910) 592-5137

Fax

600 College Street, PO Box 1072, 28329, Clinton, NC, 28328

skalawyers.com

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Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

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

skalawyers.com

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Gallery

Online Presence

Other places you can find Matthew online.

Matthew Vernon Silva's Reviews

Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.

5.0 /5.0

250 Client Reviews

Avvo

5.0

(247)

Lawyers.com

5.0

(3 )

See client reviews from Lawyers.com

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Payment Plans

Posted by Samantha Roberts | April 12, 2017 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

DWI

Mr. Silva was brought to my attention after having to face a DWI case that I could not afford to have on my record. I had no idea what I was going to do considering I am a nurse from Charleston who just graduated, started my career, and just moved out on my own. I could not afford something so troubl...ing on my record so I reached out to Mr. Silva and from day 1 not only was he very informative, but so were his other employees. Prior to hiring him I looked up other reviews and talked to people from the small town, and each and every one of them recommended Mr. Silva. Events leading up to our final court date Mr. Silva and/or his employees contacted me on a monthly basis updating me informing me what I needed to do in order to succeed at this case, worked on a payment plan with me, and were all very understanding. Mr. Silva even recommended for me to contact my witness and have him testify for me to make my case stronger and more secure. Once it came time for the final court date, I was the last case making the pressure build and build causing me to become a nervous wreck considering I was not from the area and only interacted with Silva via phone calls. However, throughout the whole time waiting to be appointed by the judge, Silva constantly and continued to study my case asking me questions and detecting ways to approach the situation in a tactful way. He believed in me when I was at my ultimate low considering this court thing was new to me. However, he had strategy behind my case and when the time came he blew my mind away by how he detected and compared what was being said by the cop opposed to what was written in the cops report. He called upon my witness prior to me talking, and that was very helpful for my case because he was more clear headed than I reminding me of the events of that day of prosecution considering my anxiety had fogged my memory making it nearly impossible to have a clear head. However, his plan to have my witness speak first really helped me within myself to appoint the judge. With all that being said, we won the case with only a speeding ticket charge. I cannot thank Mr. Silva enough for his dedication and the power of freeing the pressure from my shoulders. I can now continue to proceed with my career of a nurse practitioner with this burden off of my chest! I would absolutely recommend him to all!

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Matthew Silva

Replied last April 12, 2017

Samantha: Sorry it took me so long to respond to this review . . . I was on vacation. In any event, I am very happy that we won the case. I know how stressful the process is for my clients and I am very happy that you can move on without all the pressure. I wish you the best in your nursing career and all your future endeavors. If you ever need anything here, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Posted by James (Matt) | June 29, 2016 | Hired Attorney | DUI & DWI

A cut above the rest

Last summer I was traveling down to Topsail, NC from my home state of WV. About an hour away, I arrived at one of the most sophisticated “check points” I’ve ever encountered, in the middle of nowhere might I add. I was asked to pull over, step out of the car, and submit to a breathalyzer test. I had ...had a couple of beers when I stopped to fuel up and grab a bite to eat, this resulted in me blowing a 0.08, which is the limit but in NC that’s a DWI on the spot. I couldn’t believe I found myself in handcuffs in BFE, needless to say the vacation was lackluster knowing that my life had just taken a turn for the worse. When I arrived back home I had countless letters from lawyers all over NC waiting for me. By total chance Matt Silva was the first and last lawyer I checked out on Avvo, and after reading pages of reviews, it sounded like Matt was a perfect fit to help me tackle this thing head on. A huge concern of mine was that I lived nearly 8 hours away in WV and there was no way I’d be able to continually make that trip to deal with things. I was very impressed with Matt Silva from our very first telephone consultation. He assured me that he would be able to show up on my behalf to court and file various continuances for me, until a final court date was set. He listened to every thing I had to say, never made me feel rushed, took as much time as was needed to comb through all details in my case, and ultimately made me feel a loads better about my situation. His fees were very reasonable and I was able to make payments each month until my balance was paid in full (this was huge, no way did I have that kind of money to put upfront all at once). I was always contacted when something was happening with the case and when the date for my trial was set. When it was finally time for me to head back down to Jones County, NC, I felt very prepared and in the loop as Matt took the time to once again go through everything with me and assured me that we had a good chance with our case. It wasn’t until I saw Matt in action, that I realized he was a cut above the rest and REALLY knew what he was doing in the courtroom. Ultimately we won and the charges were dropped against me!! Life changer in the biggest way, I was nearly speechless when the judge announced that he was siding with the defense. Granted I had about as good of a case as you could ask for when it comes to DWI charges, but it could have just as easily gone the other way for me if I had some less qualified lawyer. Matt Silva cares about your case and it shows from start to finish in the way that he handles the case - highly motivated to win - Matt I can’t thank you enough for everything that you did for me, you’re one hell of a lawyer. Cheers!

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Matthew Silva

Replied last June 29, 2016

James: Thank you for the great review. I was very pleased with the outcome. You were a great client to have! I know this was a stressful event for you and I appreciate all the effort you put forth toward the case. I hope that now this is behind you, you can move on with your life without the burden of being charged with a DWI. If you ever want to file an expunction, please let me know. Also, if you or anyone you know needs legal assistance please contact us. Again, thank you for the positive review and best of luck in all your future endeavors! - Matt

Posted by Jordan | August 12, 2015 | DUI & DWI

Could not be happier

I contacted Mr. Silva shortly after I was arrested for a DUI. He promptly scheduled me for a free consultation and fit me in within a 2 days. This was my first arrest and I had no previous experience in talking to a lawyer or dealiing with the court system so I was pretty nervous. During my consultat...ion, he seemed to be very knowledgeable and explained everything that he would do to fight my case for me. He explained that he would begin reviewing the details and would pick out any little detail that he thought could help us dispute the officers findings and made sure that they followed procedure to a tee. After consulting with two other lawyers in Jacksonville, I decided that Mr. Silva was the best option. He was very open to any questions I had and didnt mind taking the time to explain anything that I did not understand. Since I had no prior experience in dealing with the court system, I put 100% faith in Mr. SIlva and let him come up with a strategy. I wont go into detail but he stuck to his plan and kept me informed along the way. Although the case took a while to resolve, the end result concluded with me not being convicted for the DUI and pleading guilty to a careless and wreckless citation which was only a small fine and court cost. I could not be more pleased with the outcome of my case. In addition to his excellent work, he also allowed me to pay him on a payment plan, which was abosoluty great as I am a student and could not afford to pay any attourney outright. While he may be a little more expensive than some other attourneys in the area, you get what you pay for and he delivered. I would not hesitate to hire him again should the occasion ever arise.

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Matthew Silva

Replied last August 12, 2015

I am sorry it took so long for me to comment on the review . . . In any event, I am very happy with the outcome of your case. It was a tough situation and I know you had to appear in court a few times more than we had originally anticipated. Getting the DWI dismissed was totally worth it though. I hope you have a great career and if there is anything we can help with, please give us a call. Best of luck in all your endeavors!

Posted by Lindsey | August 06, 2015 | Criminal Defense

He is the attorney you want by your side in court!

Wow, I dont know where to start. I am not one to usually write and leave reviews but the least I can do for this man is leave a great one! A few months ago I got myself into some trouble and was facing a charge that could have made it hard for me to get my nursing liscense. I read online about numero...us lawyers and when I found Mr. Silva, that second, I knew he was the one for me! I had never been in trouble before in my life and was always a straight A student and was worried how he would look at me for my mistake. When I contacted his office the girl on the phone was BEYOND nice and helpful, Mr. Silva actually met with us after office hours on a weekend before a holiday. When I finally met him I couldn't stop thinking how thankful I was for him to be my attorney. When I had lost all hope in everything else I did have hope in him. He was so professional, intelligent, and confident. I had a tricky case but he had a good and was not going to give up on me. I left his office feeling relieved for the first time since this has happened. To sum things up, I went to court once and later that evening received a phone call from Matt saying he got my case dismissed!!!! Wow I was speechless! He truly is amazing, has changed my life, I will always remember him and be great full for the hard work and dedication he showed me. If anyone is reading this wondering wether he is the attorney you are going to hire, please do me a favor and hire him! It was the best decision I've ever made. I had no idea what a lawyer would cost and to be honest I imagined them being triple what he actually was. His team is very willing to work with you and accept an easy month payment. In my opinion he was worth much much more than what he charged!! I hope this review can help others like the ones I read about him have helped me. One thing I can assure you about this man is that he is THE absolute best and you WON'T want any other attorney handling your case!! May God bless you Mr.Silva and your office for all your help!

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Matthew Silva

Replied last August 06, 2015

Lindsey: Thank you for the awesome review. I am very pleased that the case was dismissed. I know it was a stressful time, but now you can move on without any worries! I hope you have a great career as a nurse! If there is anything I can do for you or someone you know, please do not hesitate to contact my office. Take care and best of luck in all your endeavors!

Posted by Alvaro Lopez | June 22, 2015 | Criminal Defense

Amazing Lawyer and Person

I had seen Mr. Silva in court previous to my own case and He really showed passion but overall concern for his client (My best-friend). I was involved in an accident and given 7 different charges including a Felony hit and run. The events were nothing like the officer at the scene had painted and tha...nks to Mr Silva who not only defended me but did so while I was away ( I live In MA) , I was only given fines. He was very understanding about my economic situation and worked a plan with me that allowed the already horrible situation go a lot smoother. Mr. Silva is very professional and will go the extra mile to seek justice for you. Having him represent Me is one thing I will never regret.

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Matthew Silva

Replied last June 22, 2015

Mr. Lopez: thank you for the positive review! I know this case seemed to drag on forever but I think the result was worth the wait. I hope you are able to move on with your life and put this terrible situation behind you. If you ever need anything, or any of your USMC brethren, make sure to give me a call.

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Matthew Vernon Silva's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Matthew

Grayson Cheek

Criminal defense lawyer | Nov 13

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 lawyer | Apr 13

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 lawyer | Mar 07

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 lawyer | Feb 09

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 lawyer | Oct 04

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 lawyer | Mar 18

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 lawyer | Aug 23

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 lawyer | Apr 27

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 lawyer | Apr 23

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 lawyer | Mar 12

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

Unknown lawyer | Mar 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. He is a great attorney!"

Dane Scalise

Criminal defense lawyer | Mar 02

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 lawyer | Dec 15

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

Unknown lawyer | Dec 08

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Cheryl Wulf

Criminal defense lawyer | Dec 06

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Nov 24

Relationship: Other

"This lawyer is aggressive, knowledgeable and provides excellent services."

Michael Birchmore

Criminal defense lawyer | Oct 11

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

Unknown lawyer | Oct 03

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

Unknown lawyer | Sep 28

Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Kenneth Love

Criminal defense lawyer | Aug 19

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."

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Grayson Cheek

Criminal defense lawyer

George Collins

Personal injury lawyer

Channika Desilva

Mesothelioma and asbestos lawyer

Gregory Cade

Mesothelioma and asbestos lawyer

James Jordan

Criminal defense lawyer

Casey Starling

Real estate lawyer

Mark Clay

Immigration lawyer

Jonathan Lacour

Business lawyer

Donald Christian

Criminal defense lawyer

John Elbert

Criminal defense lawyer

Dane Scalise

General practice lawyer

Bobby Bollinger

Workers compensation lawyer

Elizabeth Carpenter

Criminal defense lawyer

Judd Nemiro

Divorce and separation lawyer

Michael Birchmore

Criminal defense lawyer

Vance Davis

Elder law lawyer

Jay Finnecy

Criminal defense lawyer

Eric Kopka

Military law lawyer

Kenneth Love

Litigation lawyer

Brandon Roseman

Criminal defense lawyer

Experience

Rating: 10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2017

10 Best Attorney, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys

2017

Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates

2016

Top 100 DWI Attorneys in North Carolina, National Advocacy for DUI Defense

2016

Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers

2016

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2016

AV Preeminent Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Top 40 Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates

2015

10 Best in North Carolina, American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys

2015

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2015

Judicial Edition AV Preeminent Attorney, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Client Distinction Award, Martindale-Hubbell

2015

Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in North Carolina, American Society of Legal Advocates

2014

Top 10 Under 40, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys

2014

AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell

2014

Top 100 DWI attorneys in North Carolina, The National Advocacy for DUI Defense, LLC

1998

Who's Who Among Students In American Universities & Colleges, Who's Who

1998

National Dean's List, National Dean's List

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Work Experience

2015 - Present

Chairman of Attorney Standards, Onslow County Bar

2014 - Present

Managing Partner, Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

2012 - Present

Managing Partner, Sweet-Silva Investments, LLC

2020 - 2020

Board Member, Albert Ellis Airport Advisory Commission

2012 - 2013

Partner, Silva & Sweet, PLLC

2012 - 2013

Chief Legal Officer, B2G Holding Company, Inc

2012 - 2013

Chief Legal Officer, Dawg Food, Inc.

2012 - 2013

Partner, Silva, Sweet & Kiernan, PLLC

2012 - 2014

Chief Executive Officer, Deppe Pines Memorial Park, LLC

2012 - 2013

Managing Partner, Silva and Sweet, PLC

2008 - 2012

Superior Court Prosecutor, District Attorney's Office

2008 - 2009

Chief of District Court for the 4th District, District Attorney's Office

2007 - 2009

Chief DWI Court Prosecutor, Prosecutor's Office - 4th District

2007 - 2008

District Court Prosecutor, District Attorney's Office

2007 - 2012

Assistant District Attorney, District Attorney's Office, 4th Prosecutorial District

2006 - 2006

Summer Associate, Terry N. Grimes, PC

2005 - 2005

Student Attorney, Elder Law Clinic, Wake Forest University School of Law

2003 - 2004

Assistant Manager & Formulation Chemist, Zeco, Inc.

2001 - 2002

Quality Control Chemist, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd (formerly Barr Laboratories)

1996 - 2001

Research Technician, University of New Mexico Cancer Research Facility

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Associations

2023 - Present

Onslow County Bar Association

President

2013 - Present

4th Circuit Court of Appeals

Member

2013 - Present

United States District Court

Member

2007 - Present

North Carolina State Bar

Member

2007 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

2007 - Present

Onslow County Bar Association

Member

2007 - Present

North Carolina Bar Association

Member

2000 - Present

Sigma Chi Alumni Association

Member

2012 - 2014

Deppe Pines Memorial Park

President

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Sample of Legal Cases

State of North Carolina v. Jyree Dominic Noel

We 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 Johnson

We won on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.

State v. Dobbs

We prevailed on every issue addressed by the Court of Appeals.

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Education

2020

Impaired Driving Specialists - SFST Instructor's Course

NHTSA Certified Standardized Field Sobriety Test Instructor

2019

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Certificate in DWI Detection and SFST

2019

NHTSA

Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement

2014

NC Bar Association

CLE

2013

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

CLE

2012

NC State Bar

CLE

2012

NC State Bar

CLE

2011

State Bureau of Investigation, Office of Attorney General & Secretary of State

CLE

2008

NC Conference of District Attorneys

CLE

2007

Wake Forest University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2005

University of Florida, Fredric G. Levin College of Law

Certificate

2000

University of New Mexico

BS - Bachelor of Science

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Speaking Engagements

2016

Coastal Carolina Paralegal Studies

Law Practice Management

2014

Consigliere Night

Criminal Defense, Family Law, & Corporations

2013

BLET Mock Trials

BLET Mock Trials

2012

North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training

Courtroom Skills: Proving Your Case

2012

BLET Finals

BLET Mock Trials

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Publications

2001

Journal of Peptide Research Novel Cyclic Peptide Inhibits Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1-mediated Cell Aggregation.

1999

Abstract. Blood. 94 (Supplement): 429a Development of Cyclic Peptide Inhibitor of LFA-1 Binding to ICAM-1

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Languages

English

Spanish

Romanian

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Activity

4655

Legal Answers

Legal Guides

Top Contributor

Matthew earned significant contribution points in 2020.

Legal Answers

Q&A

Wife owned guns- Husband charged with firearm by felon.

12 Jan 2026

Q&A

Judge says no 2 times when asked to appoint another attorney even attorney said there was a conflict

12 Jan 2026

Q&A

How can I settle 2 cases with just mine?

13 Jan 2026

See More Legal Answers

Matthew Vernon Silva

About Matthew

Biography

Former Prosecutors, Experienced Advocates.

I have personally handled thousands of criminal charges as a State's attorney and Defense Attorney.

As a former DWI prosecutor, I know how the State is going to come after you.

We handle hundreds of traffic related violations per month. Please let us help you!

Practice Areas

Fees and Rates

Awards

Licenses

Licensed in North Carolina for 18 years

Location

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

Silva, Kiernan & Associates, PLLC

Gallery

Online Presence

Matthew Vernon Silva's Reviews

Overall Rating This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.

Matthew Silva

Matthew Silva

Matthew Silva

Matthew Silva

Matthew Silva

Matthew Vernon Silva's Lawyer Endorsements

Experience

Honors

Work Experience

Associations

Sample of Legal Cases

Education

Speaking Engagements

Publications

Languages

Activity

Legal Answers

Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.