Matthew Allen Skillern

Divorce and separation Attorney at Houston, TX

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Excellent, Honest Attorney

stupendous

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NEED A DIVORCE LAWYER TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY AND CHILDREN? SKILLERN LAW IS HERE TO HELP.

Matthew A. Skillern is the founder and lead family law attorney at The Skillern Firm. Matthew is a strong and successful trial attorney known for dominating the opposition in court. In highly contested divorce and child custody cases, his skills in strategy and effective performance in the courtroom set him apart.

Matthew believes being an effective advocate requires aggressiveness tempered with reason, logic, and compassion. In his opinion, blindly going forward out of anger and emotion does not get good results. He handles all cases with professionalism, courtesy, and compassion for his client. Although Matthew has been successfully litigating cases for years, he believes the courtroom is not the only place to resolve the complex and sensitive issues commonly found in family law matters. Recognizing that every client and case is different, Matthew advocates the use of negotiation and mediation to resolve marital and custody disputes. However, when a dispute cannot be resolved through such means, Matthew is unafraid to take the matter to trial.

Matthew grew up in Stafford, Texas with humble beginnings. Upon graduation from high school, he played football at Tyler Junior College, and went on to graduate from Baylor University with a degree in Political Science. He obtained his juris doctorate from South Texas College of Law in Houston. Matthew is a first generation college graduate, and often worked three jobs at once to finance his education. His tenacity, work ethic, and drive are evident in his firm, case management, and advocacy skills. While Matthew started his legal career as a prosecutor for the Smith County District Attorney’s Office in Tyler, Texas, handling a wide range of criminal matters and trying cases to juries, upon moving home to Houston, he switched to the other side of the courtroom, honing his trial and courtroom skills at one of Houston’s premier criminal defense firms.

Matthew is dedicated to his family and passionate about children and child related issues. Clients, colleagues and friends respect him for his dynamic courtroom skills and presence, all the while recognizing his kind heart and compassionate nature. Thus, Matthew founded The Skillern Firm with the idea that he could utilize his strong advocacy skills for the good of others – because it is not just “family law,” it is someone’s life.

Matthew was selected as a Rising Star by the Texas Super Lawyers in 2010, 2011, 2014 and 2015, a distinction awarded to the top attorneys under 40. Only 2.5% of all lawyers in the State of Texas are selected as Rising Stars. Matthew has also been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. In addition, he currently maintains a 10.0 superb rating by AVVO. He is admitted to practice law in all Texas state courts and the United States Distict Court for the Southern District of Texas.

Awards

Client's Choice

2015 2014 2013 + 2 ...

Licensed for 19 years

State TX

Status Eligible to Practice in Texas

Acquired 2003

Updated 01/25/2023

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

Contact Matthew

Skillern Law PLLC

(833) 799-1240 Office

(713) 481-8800 Fax

701 N. Post Oak

Suite 600

Houston, TX, 77024

skillernfirm.com

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Skillern Law Firm

(833) 799-1240 Office

1600 Highway 6

Suite 300

Sugarland, TX, 77478

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Reviews

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4.8 / 5.0

53 customer reviews

5 Star

94%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Matthew received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2015

Posted by Brianne | December 4, 2018

Excellent, Honest Attorney

Matt and Melissa are a superstar team. They are extremely communicative, straight forward and accessible. I appreciate the time and dedication they take to know my case inside and out; no matter how much time passes between our communication they always know the details. Matt gives straight forward advice to help move the case to conclusion swiftly. He seeks a mediated settlement first, but isn't afraid to go to trial. The office staff conducts accurate, fair bookkeeping that's clear.

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Posted by anonymous | August 29, 2018

stupendous

Brilliant execution on our case. There is no word in the dictionary to say about him and his team members. Go with your truth and whole heart. You will never be downhearted. An epic effort by him and his team on our case. Again thanks to him and his team. Godspeed matt and his team. Keep looking your firm to grow in stupendous way. Cemerlang dan terima kasih .... We live in a bewildering world. Stephen

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Posted by Ryan | March 19, 2021

Best Attorney Ever!

Matt and Tina at Skillern law firm are 2 of the best lawyers in Fort bend County and Greater houston area. Matt and Tina were able to defend false allegations against me from my previous spouse which could have resulted in my children being taken away from me. Matt was able to win me 50-50 custody and grant child support in the form of self supporting my children when in my custody. This is what I wanted and prayed for. Matt and Tina are a team by your side, I highly recommend them for anyone going through a divorce with an unreasonable spouse.

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Posted by anonymous | July 28, 2020

Excellent Services, Strategic and High Quality Results delivered

Long to short - my divorce case is a mix of international + US assets, immigration issues and custody issue. As a wife, I am making more income than my ex-husband, hence the case is really coming down to protecting my own assets & all of my pension portfolios. As well as my work permit was unfortunately dependent on his visa. After spending sometimes interview 10 top family law firms in Houston, it was not long decision to decide to hire Matthew and his Skillern firm to work on my divorce case from day 0 to finish. Matthew is a top notch lawyer - highly experiences - Ethics - and Strategic. He is not the most easiest lawyer to work with if you are not a good listener (an engineer liked me!) but I learn to trust him on the road. From the start of the case thru the end of mediation, I understand that to be able to lead and win the case, I need a very experience lawyer who understand what and when to negotiate. He gives me the realistic expectation for general divorce case - there is no winner & best practice is to loose minimum. The right timing and the right number in the negotiation process could only be accepted if you have the very experiences lawyer who knows this art. I was always very emotional during the process. Without having the high quality lawyer liked Matthew, my mediation would not come out to be successful on my side. My assets & my daughter assets and some key features on the custody are well protected for today and for her future. Note that his hour rate can be pretty high for some clients but when I calculate my time spending with him, the time to close my case, the lawyer fee and the out come that I have, the returns of this investment turns out to be very efficient. I highly recommend Matthew and his team at Skillern law firm.

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Posted by anonymous | August 23, 2019

great lawyer

The only reason i have an opportunity to be a father to my infant daughter is because of skillern firm. The skillern firm was my shining light thru a very dark time during my divorce. From the very moment i walked in for a consultation every person of the firm cared about my case. From the receptionist to para legals everyone knew all the details about my case. My now ex wife was attempting to permanently remove our new born from usa to a third world country. John Schmude, Matt Skillern, and Alexandia Gwyn assured me that they will do everything in their power to make sure that my daughter will remain in the united states. The skillern firm put in strong provisions in making sure my daughter will remain int the united states. They contacted all the proper authorities including the state department in preventing international child abduction. From mediation to trial they were there all along making sure my daughter has a bright future in United states. Skillern firm has very professional and experienced professionals working on all cases. I will always be grateful and in debt to the skillern firm. Skillern firm has saved my daughter’s life and above all has given me an opportunity to be a father to my daughter with sole custody. Oneday in the future i will tell my daughter all about how she was saved and the names of the people who made sure she stayed in the United States.

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Posted by anonymous | July 7, 2019

Compassionate, Honest, and Wonderful Lawyer and Human Being

Matt Skillern and his team helped me gain primary custody of my 12-month daughter through incredible effort, sharp legal knowledge and skill, and compassion for justice. In the beginning I felt lost, betrayed, and scared. I didn’t know who I could trust but when I met Matt, I knew I wanted him to represent me because he is honest and sincere. He truly cares about you and your family. He has the vision the see the bigger picture and prepares you for realistic outcomes. Inside the courtroom Matt is relentless. He commands the room and is detail oriented. He does not back down and strategically attacks arguments. He will fight for your rights and for justice to be served. Looking back, I appreciated the personal stories and anecdotes Matt shared with me regarding obstacles in marriage or raising kids. He helped me grow into a better parent and person. I cannot say enough about the Skillen law firm. They have stood by my side through multiple hearings that crossed state lines and purposeful delays by the opposing side. Matt is not only the best lawyer in Houston but perhaps more importantly he is a compassionate, honest, and wonderful human being that I am lucky to have as my friend.

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Posted by anonymous | July 3, 2019

Excellent and Outstanding Attorney

I don't have words to thank Matt Skillern and his team for his brilliant and outstanding services in our child custody case. Matt is a very knowledgeable, passionate and straight forward attorney. He genuinely cares about his clients and takes times to understand the case and gives very strategic and sound advise. He worked tirelessly and eagerly knowing each and every detail of the case and did an outstanding job at the trial outlining the truth and getting justice for his client. He is an intelligent and extraordinarily dedicated attorney who is well versed with Texas laws but at the same time very human and compassionate. I don't think I have words to appreciate him and his team for their outstanding performance during the most difficult time of our life. Thank you Matt for everything and may GOD bless you and your family!!

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Posted by anonymous | November 29, 2018

Matt is the best!

I felt very protected with Matt and his practice. He was very knowledgeable and covered all aspects of my divorce.

Posted by Rudy | February 5, 2018

Top Notch Family Law Attorney! Father Awarded Primary Custody!

If you or anyone you know is about to go through one of the toughest things to deal with in life such as a divorce and/or seeking legal custody for children, I highly recommend Matt Skillern and his team. Not knowing where to start, I was very anxious to get things going when I made the difficult decision to seek Primary custody of my son. As soon as I started working with Matt and his legal team, they quickly put me at ease and helped me every step of the way. At first, I was eager to learn all about the process and honestly, somewhat impatient, just because I was unfamiliar with the terminology and procedures. I would call several times and ask tons of questions. I quickly realized that Matt and his team are very strategic at what they do and of course, extremely intelligent and knowledgeable. Once I learned that Matt and his team are very methodical, and for a good reason, I realized I needed to trust their expertise and trust the process. David Medina, Paralegal, was also very helpful and I respect his work ethic for providing me with answers to my questions or concerns within a timely manner. Associate Attorney Tina Floridia is extremely smart and will be in your corner to fight for you. Overall, my experience with Matt and his legal team was more than what I could have ever asked for. They treated my case with the utmost respect and dignity. With their help and expertise, I was successful in the outcome I was hoping for which was to be the primary custodial parent. Matt and his team are extremely diligent when it comes to fighting for what is moral and right. They work eagerly and tirelessly for what is in the best interest of their clients. I highly recommend them and plan to continue to seek their counsel in the future if needed. As a father, I knew going for primary custody was not going to be an easy task. Trust Matt and his legal team and trust their process. It is worth every penny. Thank you Matt!!

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Posted by Sid | October 2, 2017

Excellent legal service

Mathew Skillern and his team provided superb legal services on a very difficult and complicated custody case. He was absolutely at the top of his game. He understood Texas law and the legal processes as it is applied in Harris County. He was able to devise a clear, effective strategy for my wife and me, communicated it with us and help us maintain the course of action for a year. The result was a great success at the end of a long, difficult road.

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Posted by Kyle | April 20, 2017

Great Lawyer - Great Man

There are no words to describe how great of a lawyer and person Matt is. He truely cares about his clients and their families. If you are in the unfortunate position where you need a family attorney, hire Matt.

Posted by Crystal | March 10, 2017

Caitlin is amazing!

I hired Caitlin for a modification case. Caitlin was very knowledgeable and honest. She was bold and helped me thru the process, she explained everything so I was never lost. I'm so glad I hired her she made sure the results came out the way she said they would. If I needed to I would hire her again!

Posted by anonymous | January 2, 2017

Matt Skillern - "...an avenger who carries out God’s wrath on the wrongdoer".

For my divorce proceedings, I retained the services of a high powered “River Oaks” attorney off San Felipe/Mid Ln. Soon into my case I found out all that mattered was how much billable I was. After their lackluster performance at my temporary order hearing, I sought new counsel. Because of the complexity of my case I interviewed 4 different attorneys resulting in the selection of Skillern Law. Upon meeting Matt, I knew I had landed at the right place. Matt immediately puts you at ease and lets you know he’s your empathizing advocate. Within a couple of hours he had a good grasp of my case and off to the battlefield we were. Mine was a contentious case filled with allegations and false lies crossing international boundaries involving eastern traditions and customs. Add to that an opposing counsel from a large firm with unlimited resources. I was delighted to observe; “it was not the size of the dog in the fight, but rather the size of the fight in the dog”. One by one Matt shut it down! He argued emphatically and with conviction. I set five conditions for victory and Matt fought to where I got four out of five. Needless to say Matt is backed by an astute and dedicated team, from the detail oriented David Medina to the articulate and forceful Tina Floridia to Tonya D. to Adrienne C… the list goes on – I was well represented. I highly recommend Skillern Law PLLC for they ARE a force to be reckoned with.

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Posted by anonymous | September 8, 2016

The best lawyer in Houston!

I hired Matt for my complicated divorce case and he outperformed. He is very knowledgeable, honest and passionate. He cares about people. With his great human and analytical skills he was able to resolve my case and get me more than what I asked for. He takes time to listen and understand your problems. He will deliver what he promised. Matt and his staff will return calls the same day. They are very professional, attentive, caring and supportive. Matt deserves more than 5 star review. I would highly recommend Matt and his staff!

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Posted by Steve | May 6, 2016

Family law recommendation - Skillern Firm

I recently went through a divorce and had the Skillern Firm represent me. The team of lawyers I worked with included Matt Skillern and Caitlin Thorpe. Both Matt and Caitlin did a great job of keeping my case on track and keeping me informed on all important details. The case was settled recently and I am very happy with the results. I continue to stay in touch with Caitlin and am always treated with respect and as a valued client. Overall it has been a great experience working with the Skillern Firm and I would highly recommend Matt and Caitlin to anyone needing representation with a family law issue.

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Posted by Troy | April 8, 2016

Outstanding Divorce Lawyer

I really appreciated working with Matt and Melissa. Matt has a great attitude towards a difficult situation and did a great job of talking through things logically when all I could focus on was the emotions! ;) I highly recommend Skillern Law to anyone going through divorce.

Posted by Rosemary | April 7, 2016

Simply the Best

Matt Skillern was not just my divorce lawyer. He was my corner coach championing, guiding, nudging, helping me stay strong, stay focused, stay all in. Matt and Melissa operated with a positive mindset, leading me through the labyrinth of forms, court proceedings, more forms, gathering massive amounts of necessary information—always moving forward, always providing insights and understanding along the way. Matt is honest and straightforward. No hidden costs. No surprise turns. The process was laid out clearly. The challenges he foresaw, the behaviors we encountered, the end he anticipated were carefully and caringly explained and achieved. You need a lawyer if you’re getting a divorce. You need to have someone who’s in your corner and by your side through the journey. You need the best. And that’s Matt.

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Posted by Eric B. | December 17, 2015

Wipes the floor with the opposition.

Absolutely the best group of family lawyers in Houston. Mr. Skillern was prepaired and ready for a long fight when we went to court, after making our arguments, the judge ruled in my favor and had our opposition pay the majority of the fees and charges. It was easy and a pleasure to work with Mr. Skillern. He is very knowledgeable and has the experience one hopes for when your life is turning end over end. If you live in the Houston area and needs family law help, call Mr. Skillerns office.

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Posted by anonymous | December 17, 2015

Helped get it done.

Had previously used a different lawyer who left my case in a mess. Skillern law firm cleaned up the mess and got it done. Thanks for helping me love on with my life. Sincerely, Pleased client

Posted by anonymous | December 15, 2015

Excellent!

Matt and his team were EXCELLENT from day one. They LISTENED TO ME and helped me to make the process of divorce as painless as possible. I never felt like Matt had an agenda other than to help me to achieve the best outcome. I selected Matt based on other excellent reviews, even though I was an out of town Client. The distance was never an issue and his team was always very responsive, and represented me well when working with my ex's counsel. At times, my ex even said he wished his attorney was as responsive and helpful as Matt and his team. I am a tenured marketing executive, so my expectations on communication and professionalism are very high. Matt and his team MET AND EXCEEDED ALL OF MY EXPECTATIONS. The result, I had a quick and painless divorce that DID NOT COST ME A FORTUNE... and yes I had children and community assets to be considered. If you want the BEST REPRESENTATION, call Matt Skillern now!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
The Skillern Firm
2014 - Present

Partner
Midence & Skillern, PLLC
2010 - 2014

Partner
Collins & Skillern
2005 - 2006

Of Counsel
Law Office of Grant M. Scheiner, P.C.
2005 - 2010

Attorney
Smith County District Attorney
2003 - 2004

View all work experience

Education

South Texas College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2003

Baylor University
BA - Bachelor of Arts
2000

Legal Cases

Driving While Intoxicated
Not Guilty

Associations

Houston Bar Association
Member - Family Law Section
2005 - Present

Fort Bend County Bar Association
Member
2005 - 2007

Houston Young Lawyers Association
Committee Chair
2005 - 2007

Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association
Member
2004 - 2007

Smith County Bar Association
Member
2003 - 2005

South Texas Law Review
Assistant Managing Editor
2002 - 2003

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2019

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2018

Top Lawyers
Houstonia Magazine
2018

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2017

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2016

Super Lawyer
Super Lawyers
2015

Rising Star
Texas Super Lawyers Magazine
2011

Rising Star
Texas Super Lawyers
2010

Smith County Outstanding Pro Bono Award
Smith County Bar Association
2004

Langdell Scholar
2003

South Texas Merit Scholarship
2002

Dean's List
2002

View all awards

Speaking Engagements

Advanced Trial Series
Course Director
2007

Top Gun DWI
Opening Statement
2007

Smith County Family Lawyer's Association
You just won custody and now your child in in juvenile lockup
2005

Attorney endorsements

Received (30)

Given (20)

Endorse Matthew

Kathleen LeFevre

Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 10
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"I endorse this lawyer. Matt is one of the brightest family law attorneys practicing in the counties where I practice. He is honest, ethical and keeps his word."

James Gilbreath

Divorce and separation Attorney | Aug 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I think Matt is one of the best trial lawyers in the Houston area. I enjoy having him as an opponent. He does a phenomenal job for his clients."

Robert McInvale

Family Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer, Matt Skillern, very strongly.I have had a number of cases on the opposite side of Matthew Skillern. In each case he managed to do what lawyers usually cannot: fight hard for his client while acting as a professional and a gentleman. Most recently, we ended up settling the case after a contentious court hearing wherein Matt fought hard and effectively for his client. I know Matt fights for his clients. I heartily recommend Matt as a family law attorney."

Philip Cave

Family Attorney | Feb 26
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Fran Brochstein

Family Attorney | Feb 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have mediated difficult family law cases for this attorney and he always comes prepared. Attorney Skillern is a strong advocate for his clients. He has extensive courtroom experience & is not afraid of appearing for a hearing/trial."

James Evans

Family Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer."

Robert von Dohlen

Family Attorney | Nov 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Great asset to the legal community."

Thomas Graham

Divorce and separation Attorney | Sep 11
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Matthew is a highly skilled attorney who successfully strives to achieve the utmost success for his client."

Tristan Longino

Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Worked for lawyer

"Matt's a hard working litigator who advocates for his client's interests, takes the time to learn his client's cases, and properly prepares for hearings. A fantastic attorney. His criminal law background is manifest in his trial skills."

Michael Waddington

Family Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Matthew. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."

Anne Kennedy

Family Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Matt is very ethical and negotiates hard for his clients! He is knowledgable, professional and a good lawyer."

Curtis Bickers

Family Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you are involved in a family law matter and you need a real trial attorney who actually knows what the inside of a courtroom looks like, Matt Skillern is the first family law attorney you should call. I have known Matt for over 10 years and have referred numerous close friends and clients to Matt. He pays attention to detail and is extremely organized. If you are looking for a family law attorney, I highly recommend Matt."

Jose Ceja

Divorce and separation Attorney | May 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Matt Skillern. He is one of the most intelligent, hard-working, effective advocates I have ever met. The results he obtains for his clients speak for themselves. I would never think twice about referring any matter to Matt Skillern. Top notch attorney."

Eric Nordstrom

Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Other

"I'm a civil trial lawyer in Houston. I was on a jury panel for a criminal case in which Mr. Skillern represented the Defendant. He conducted an outstanding voir dire. Although I wasn't selected, I later learned that he obtained a directed verdict on behalf of his client shortly after the jury was empanelled."

Todd Fox

Family Attorney | Jan 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I recently needed legal counsel in Texas for my Michigan client. I am involved in a complicated Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement act matter. I located Matt and spoke with him at length. Matt was spot on with his knowledge and very personable. I instructed my client to hire him and proceed with the Texas end of our litigation. I have been practicing for 18 years and endorse Matt without hesitation."

Barbara Schnack

Family Attorney | Nov 15
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Matt Skillern is a fine family lawyer, and I endorse him wholeheartedly. His practical approach to family law is very refreshing, and his honesty and integrity is without question. I look forward to our next case together."

Jennifer Carpenter

Family Attorney | Sep 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Skillern is thorough, professional and never backs down from a worthy fight!"

Thomas Conner

Family Attorney | Sep 12
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"Matt is an outstanding lawyer and very creative. He devotes his boundless energy on behalf of his clients."

Nicholas Westbrook

Family Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I've known Matt since law school. He is honest, trustworthy and a great trial lawyer. If you need help with a criminal matter or family law issue, he is the attorney to call. He is aggressive inside and outside of the courtroom. He likes tough cases -- and doesn't back down when things heat up and are highly contested. I endorse Matt 100%."

Phillip Slaughter

Family Attorney | Jan 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have more trust in Matt than any other attorney I have worked with in Houston. I refer family law clients to him and have received thanks from those clients. We have worked together on cases in the past as well. I have seen his dedication to our clients and passion for doing what is right."

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