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Matthew Alan Spivey
also known as Matthew Spivey, Matt Spivey
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About Matthew
Biography
Matthew Spivey was born and raised in Kingsport, Tennessee. After leaving the area for college (University of the South, Sewanee, magna cum laude (2003)) and law school (Emory University School of Law, with honors (2006)), Matthew practiced law in Atlanta, Georgia for six and a half years prior to returning to his hometown and forming the partnership of Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP. Matthew is glad to call the Tri-cities home (again, since 2012) and enjoys protecting the rights of those accused of crimes, as well as dealing with divorce, custody and personal injury cases. Since returning to Tennessee, Matthew has been selected by the Tennessee Bar Association to participate in the Leadership Law Class of 2014, and has also been named as one of the "Top 40 under 40" lawyers in Tennessee Criminal Defense by The National Trial Lawyers from 2014 through 2020, as well as other organizations. In addition, Matthew has been selected as a Mid-South Rising Star from 2016 through 2021 by SuperLawyers in the area of Criminal Defense. From 2022 through 2025 Matthew was selected as a Mid-South SuperLawyer in the area of Criminal Defense. Matthew was honored to receive the Massey McGee Trial Advocacy Award in 2017 from the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. Matthew serves on the Board of Directors for the Northeast Tennessee section of the Federal Bar Association. Matthew served as a Board Member from 2016-2020 as well for the Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (TACDL). Matthew is licensed to practice in Tennessee and Georgia.
Problems? Call and let me help you through the situation. We enjoy trial advocacy, but also understand that our clients want the most efficient resolution to their issues. From First Degree Murder, to Assault, to Drugs, DUI, Divorce, Custody and Personal Injury, help is a phone call away.
Most of us would insist that our greatest accomplishment is, our children. Custody disputes can be heart-wrenching, but honesty, tough discussions and advocacy on your behalf can lead to positive results. If you are involved in a custody dispute, help is a phone call away.
Your right to live a healthy and productive life should not be taken away because of a bad set of circumstances or mistakes. I enjoy defending those accused, and protecting their rights so they can move on with their life. Help is a phone call away.
Your life savings, home and most importantly, your children, should be protected and preserved. These are all issues in every divorce, custody or separation. Let us help advocate for your interests in a professional, yet zealous manner. Help is a phone call away.
Physical pain, emotional trauma and lost opportunities can lead to tough times. A car wreck, product problem or medical mishap can lead to years of suffering. If you have been injured and deserve compensation, let us help guide you through the process. Help is a phone call away.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
60%
Divorce and Separation
20%
Child Custody
15%
Personal Injury
5%
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
Licenses
Licensed in Tennessee for 14 years
State: Tennessee
Acquired: 2012
No misconduct found
Licensed in Georgia for 19 years
State: Georgia
Acquired: 2006
No misconduct found
Location
Gallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Matthew online.
Matthew Alan Spivey's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
14 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (14)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
Showing 6 - 10 of 14 reviews
Posted by Sam | June 21, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Criminal Defense
Great Work!
Upon hiring Spivey Group, Matthew immediately sat down with my family and I explaining the ins and outs of my case and the possibilities of what the outcomes may be. Matthew kept in steady contact with us through the entirety of the case offering support and answering any questions that we had. He wa...
Posted by Jody | June 21, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes
Very professional
I would highly recommend Mr. Spivey as an attorney. From consultation to resolution of my case, Mr. Spivey was informative, supportive, and a voice of calm and reason in a time of enormous stress. He was always available to meet with me to discuss my case or promptly returned calls within reason. Mr...
Posted by anonymous | May 27, 2018 | Hired Attorney
Great review
Matthew may look young BUT the experience he has. We were recommended to hire him and what a BLESSING he was. He informed us from our first meeting what would probably happen , he was right. He said “trust me” and we did. I would 100% hire him again and recommend you do the same I hope to anyone re...
Posted by anonymous | October 17, 2016
An attorney with class.
I had placed my situation on AVVO and chose some local attorneys to contact me, Mr. Spivey being one. I did not hear a response from Mr. Spivey, but was able to procure the services of another attorney. Much to my surprise, I received a response from Mr. Spivey weeks later, explaining that he had not...
Posted by anonymous | April 17, 2016 | Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney
I've retained Matthew Spivey on a couple of occasions. Each time, I have been impressed with his knowledge, experience and the time he took aiding me in the understanding of my case and what would take place and why. If I had a question, I could call and not feel as if I was a bother. He certainly h...
Matthew Alan Spivey's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Spivey zealously represents his clients and always handles himself in a professional manner."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"Matt is one of the most intelligent, knowledgeable, and insightful attorneys that I know. I endorse him without hesitation."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Matthew is extremely bright, dependable, responsive and always a great advocate for his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. It was an honor to mentor Matthew, and I hope he returns to Atlanta so that we can work together again."
"Matthew Spivey is a superb lawyer with whom I had the pleasure of working for several years. He pays great attention to detail but never loses sight of the big picture. He is a tireless advocate who cares about his clients, and I would not hesitate recommending Matthew to anyone."
"I endorse Matthew Spivey without reservation. As a mediator I have worked with Matt and can state unequivocally that he is an outstanding lawyer in every respect. He is very professional and thorough in his approach to legal problems. He makes an excellent appearance on behalf of his clients, and he possesses obvious talent as a litigator."
Nate Evans
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer Mid-South (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2024
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer Mid-South (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2023
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer Mid-South (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2022
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2021
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2021
Mid-South Rising Star (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2020
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2020
Mid-South Rising Stars Criminal Defense, SuperLawyers
2019
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2019
Top 40 Under 40 (Criminal Defense), National Trial Lawyers
2019
Mid-South Rising Star (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2018
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2018
Mid-South Rising Stars (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2018
Top 40 Under 40 (Criminal Defense), National Trial Lawyers
2018
Top 10 Attorneys Under 40, National Academy Of Family Law Attorneys
2017
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2017
Massey McGee Trial Advocacy Award, Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
2017
Mid-South Rising Star (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2017
Top 40 under 40 (Criminal Defense), National Trial Lawyers Association
2016
Mid-South Rising Star (Criminal Defense), Super Lawyers
2016
Top 40 Under 40 - Criminal Defense, National Trial Lawyers
2016
Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers, American Society of Legal Advocates
2016
Rising Star, Super Lawyers
2015
Top 40 under 40, National Trial Lawyers Association
2015
Top 10 Under 40, American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys
2015
Top 10 Attorney Award, National Academy Of Personal Injury Attorneys
2014
Top 40 Trial Lawyers Under 40, The National Trial Lawyers
2014
Top 40 Lawyers Under 40, American Society of Legal Advocates
2013
Leadership Law Class of 2014, Tennessee Bar Association
2005
Dean's Award-Professionalism and Ethics, Emory University School of Law
2005
Dean's Award-International Law, Emory University School of Law
2004
Dean's Award-Contracts, Emory University School of Law
2004
Dean's Award-Constitutional Law, Emory University School of Law
2003
Academic All District (2nd team), Verizon CoSida
2003
National Honors Society, Pi Sigma Alpha
2002
Academic All Conference, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
2002
Academic All Conference, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
2001
Academic All Conference, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
2000
Academic All Conference, Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference
Work Experience
2012 - Present
Partner, Spivey, King & Spivey, LLP
2006 - 2012
Attorney, Foltz Martin, LLC
2005 - 2005
Summer Associate, Foltz Martin, LLC
2004 - 2004
Research Assistant to Professor Robert Schapiro, Emory University School Of Law
Associations
2015 - Present
National College of DUI DefenseMember
2014 - Present
Tennessee Bar AssociationLeadership Law Class of 2014
2012 - Present
Kingsport Bar AssociationMember
2012 - Present
Tennessee Bar Association, Tort and Insurance Law SectionMember
2012 - Present
Tennessee Bar Association, Criminal Justice SectionMember
2012 - Present
Tennessee Bar Association, Family Law SectionMember
2012 - Present
Tennessee Bar AssociationMember
2006 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember
2006 - Present
State Bar of GeorgiaMember
2015 - 2019
National Academy Of Personal Injury AttorneysMember
2014 - 2020
Tennessee Association of Criminal Defense LawyersBoard of Directors
2014 - 2019
National Trial Lawyers AssociationMember
2011 - 2012
Associated General ContractorsMember
2011 - 2012
Atlanta Council of Younger LawyersBoard Member
2010 - 2012
Atlanta Bar AssociationLeader (Firm Leader Fundraising)-Foltz Martin
2006 - 2012
Atlanta Bar Association, Construction Law SectionMember
2006 - 2012
Atlanta Bar Association, Litigation SectionMember
2006 - 2012
Associated Builders and ContractorsMember
2006 - 2012
Construction Forum-American Bar AssociationMember
2006 - 2012
Atlanta Bar Association, Atlanta Council of Younger Lawyers SectionMember
2006 - 2012
Eleventh Circuit Historical SocietyMember
2006 - 2012
Atlanta Bar AssociationMember
Sample of Legal Cases
Not Guilty - 1st Degree Murder and all lesser Offenses (Jury Trial)
Not Guilty of All Charges (1st Degree Murder, 2nd Degree Murder, Voluntary Manslaughter, Reckless Homicide, Criminally Negligent Homicide)
Possession of Marijuana for Resale Within 1000 Feet (Dismissed) Judicial Diversion
No Contest Plea to Simple Possession (Misdemeanor) (Judicial Diversion Granted)
Divorce and Award of Alimony in Futuro (Periodic Alimony)
Award of approximately 60% of marital estate and Alimony In Futuro for Client
Custody Modification (Prevented Relocation of Minor Child-Client remained Primary Parent)
Prevented Relocation of Youngest Child (Client Remained Primary Residential Parent)
Aggravated Assault; Reckless Endangerment-Felony; Handgun (Judicial Diversion on misdemeanor charges)
Judicial Diversion on Misdemeanors- 11/29 probation and chance to dismiss and expunge all charges
Not Guilty-Jury Trial (Violation of Registry Requirements)
Not Guilty (Acquittal)
DUI - Not Guilty After Trial (Acquittal)
Not Guilty of DUI - Acquittal
Alimony Modification (Reduced Alimony in Futuro to 20% of Original Award)
Client's Petition Granted-Alimony Reduced drastically to 20% of original amount
Driving Under Influence (DUI) - BAC .108 - Reckless Driving (diversion)
Reckless Driving (Diversion, dismissal and expungement upon completion)
Robbery, Reckless Endangerment, Introduction of Contraband (Robbery Dismissed, Judicial Diversion on Reduced Charges)
Robbery Dismissed; Judicial Diversion on Reckless Endangerment and Reduced charge of Attempt to Introduce Contraband
Attempted Murder, Evading Arrest, Aggravated Assault, DUI (Judicial Diversion on reduced charges)
Judicial Diversion-1 year probation on Evading Arrest (all other charges dismissed)
DUI - Not Guilty
Not Guilty
Aggravated Statutory Rape, Solicitation of Minor (Judicial Diversion on reduced charges)
Judicial Diversion, Expungement & Dismissal upon completion of probation
Theft of Property/Possession of Stolen Property over $1,000 (Dismissed all charges)
Dismissed and Expunged
Attempted Rape, Aggravated Burglary, Assault
Judicial Diversion on misdemeanor charges
Dismissal-DUI, Felony Reckless Endangerment, Drug Paraph., Simple Possession
Dismissal of all criminal charges
Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Assault Dismissed
Dismissal of Aggravated Burglary and Domestic Assault (Diversion-Potential Expungement and Dismissal of remaining charges)
Sexual Battery
Diversion (charge reduced to misdemeanor and will be dismissed and expunged)
Dismissal - DUI, Simple Possession (Affirmed by Court of Criminal Appeals)
Dismissal of all charges, costs to State on appeal
Not Guilty-Drugs and Drug Paraphernalia
Not Guilty After Trial
DUI-Dismissed
DUI and Driving charges dismissed
DUI-Not Guilty Verdict After Jury Trial
Not Guilty After Jury Trial
Reckless Endangerment (firearm and motor vehicle), Evading Arrest, Aggravated Assault, Multiple Drug Charges, Vandalism
Judicial Diversion Granted with four year probationary sentence
Aggravated Assault
Diversion and Potential Expungement and Dismissal
Order of Protection-Defense
Order of Protection Dismissed After Trial
Drugs for Resale-Diversion and Expungement
Informal Disposition and Expungement After Hearing
Criminal Defense-DUI Not Guilty After Trial
Not guilty after trial
Criminal Defense-Theft & Assault
Not guilty on Theft, Assault reset for 1 year dismissal
Criminal Defense-Possession of Firearm in Airport/Public Area
Not Guilty after trial
Criminal Defense-Indecent Exposure
Not Guilty After Trial
Criminal Defense-Aggravated Burglary/Felony Theft
Dismissal after hearing
Personal Injury
Favorable settlements and resolutions
Criminal Defense-Aggravated Assault
Not guilty After Jury trial
Criminal Defense-False Police Report
Dismissal
Criminal Defense-Criminally Negligent Homicide
Dismissal After Hearing
Criminal Defense-Aggravated Assault
Dismissal after preliminary hearing
Criminal Defense-Suppression of Evidence (Drugs)-w/in 1000 feet of drug free zone
Dismissal of all charges after suppression hearing
Criminal Defense-DUI
Not Gulity
Criminal Defense-Assault
Not Guilty after trial
Criminal Defense-Public Intoxication
Not guilty after trial
Aggravated Assault Multiple Counts (Dismissed) -Reduced to Reckless Driving
Dismissal and Reduction
DUI - Not Guilty
Not Guilty
Alimony Reduction - Post Divorce- Reduction of Approximately 80%
Large Reduction of Alimony in Futuro
Order of Protection - Defense
Trial Court Dismissed Order of Protection After Trial
DUI-Not Guilty
Not Guilty After Hearing
Criminal Defense-Drug Charges
Dismissal
Small Listing of Divorce/Custody Cases
Felony Child Abuse/Neglect Allegations
Dismissed-Costs taxed to State
Not Guilty (Animal Cruelty) (Trial)
Not Guilty (Trial)
Education
2006
Emory University School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor, With Honors
2003
University of the South
BA - Bachelor of Arts, Magna Cum Laude
Speaking Engagements
2019
Anatomy of An Aquittal (presentations on How To Achieve Not Guilty) -Nashville, TN
Criminal Defense (Motions Matter)
2017
TBA Courthouse Square Series CLE
Criminal Defense-Fourth Amendment
2015
C.A.S.E.S (Criminal Appeals Civics Education for Students)
Criminal Appeals Civics Education for Students (Dobyns Bennett)
Publications
2008
Construction-Today
"A Closer Look: Can the Construction Team Apply Traditional Contracts?"
2008
Construction-Today
"All In The Family: How Mixed Generations Can Sustain Business"
2008
2008
Construction Business Owner
"Risky Business: Preventing Safety Non-Compliance Through A Team Approach"
2008
2008
2008
Construction-Today
"Safe Game Plan: Safety Programs and the Bilingual Work Force"
2008
Construction-Today
"Safety Insured: Balancing Insurance and Indemnification Agreements"
2008
Construction-Today
"Seeing Both Sides: Immigration and Balancing the Workforce"
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
So I have simple domestic assault charge
08 Jan 2020
Q&A
Can red eyes b enough for a search
25 Jul 2019
Q&A
What will happen with my boyfriend at his court date?
26 Jul 2019