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Matthew Ian Terry

also known as Matt Terry
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Avvo Rating9.3
  • San Diego, CA
  • Licensed for 10 years
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About Matthew

 

After enlisting in the Marine Corps, Mr. Terry went back to school and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Finance from California State University, Chico in 2003. He obtained his Juris Doctor from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in May 2009 and passed the California Bar Exam two months later.

Mr. Terry began working with one of the high-volume top-tier DUI defense firms after spending the entire summer following his first year in law school watching jury trials in the San Diego courthouse. Throughout law school, he worked full time at the firm while attending Thomas Jefferson School of Law in the evenings.

Eager to get in the thick of the action, Terry began arguing DMV administrative hearings daily – literally cross-examining dozens of police officers & civilian witnesses every month. As he sharpened his advocacy skills, he began winning DMV hearings that many considered to be un-winnable. Word of his ability spread: local firms began to approach Mr. Terry, asking him to train their employees in his unique approach; other firms hired him outright, to argue on behalf of their clients on a per-hearing basis.

Mr. Terry continued to excel at oral advocacy, becoming certified by the State Bar under the PTLS program, arguing (and winning) multiple motions to suppress evidence (resulting in full dismissals), writs of mandamus in civil court (against the DMV) and even arguing before the Court of Appeals – the very day he found out he passed the California Bar Exam. He second chaired multiple DUI trials; misdemeanors and felonies.

In July of 2010, Terry graduated from the National College of DUI Defense Summer Session, held at Harvard Law School. He has since graduated from the rigorous summer program in the following two years: 2011 and 2012. He actively participates in continued training with the various NCDD events. In April of 2011, Terry graduated from La Pier’s rigorous DWI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing course; he is certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Tests under NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

 

Terry Becomes Partner Within Five Months of Becoming an Attorney

 

Once an associate attorney and trial lawyer for Cole Casey’s firm, Mr. Terry continued to argue the gamut: jury trials, DMV license suspension hearings, pre-trial motions and appellate matters for the firm. In May of 2011, the associate became partner: the two lawyers decided to create Casey & Terry, LLP – an exclusive DUI Defense practice.

Terry Launches His Own Firm

 

Though both attorneys never lost a jury trial in the following months, Mr. Terry decided to step out on his own and launch the Law Offices of Matthew Terry, APLC. The focus continues to be on DUI cases, jury trials with an expanded approach to appellate matters and writs of mandamus. His practice continues to be fully committed to excellence in advocacy. He is usually found in the midst of a DUI jury trial.

The Terry Firm is now re-writing the rules of client representation in terms of comprehensive, rigorous advocacy. Attorney Terry has been described as “obsessively diligent” and “committed to excellence.” He describes his life path as being a never-ending pursuit in mastery of craft and person.

* Terry was nominated for the San Diego Daily Transcript “Outstanding Attorney” award in both 2011 and 2012.

 

** Terry was featured as “Rising Star of the Month” in June 2012 by Attorney Journal San Diego.

Practice areas

Criminal defenseMilitary lawAppealsDUI and DWI
  1. DUI and DWI: 25%

    11 years

  2. Appeals: 25%

    11 years

  3. Military law: 25%

    11 years

  4. Criminal defense: 25%

    11 years

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

3343728 1342630102

Contact

11622 El Camino Real
address map

Law Offices of Matthew Terry, APLC

11622 El Camino Real
1st Floor
San Diego, CA, 92130

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      CAActive201002/12/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers5
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Rising StarSuperLawyers2019
      Rising StarSuperLawyers2018
      State Delegate - CaliforniaNational College of DUI Defense2012
      Rising Star of the MonthSan Diego Attorney Journal2012
      Nominated for Outstanding Young Attorney AwardSan Diego Daily Transcript2012
      Nominated for Outstanding Young Attorney AwardSan Diego Daily Transcript2011
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      Attorney / OwnerLaw Offices of Matthew Terry, A.P.L.C.2010 - Present
      Attorney (former Law Clerk)Law Offices of GCC, A.P.L.C.2006 - 2010
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      DUI Defense Lawyers AssociationFounding Member2014 - Present
      San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyers AssociationMember2014 - Present
      San Diego Criminal Defense Bar AssociationMember2013 - Present
      National Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember2012 - Present
      National College of DUI DefenseMember2010 - Present
      California DUI Lawyers AssociationMember2010 - Present
      San Diego Bar AssociationMember2010 - Present
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Terry Defense BlogPresumed Innocent - Unless You're Poor2013
      TerryDefense BlogForced Blood Extractions, DUI Arrests and the Right to Bear Arms?2012
      TerryDefense Blog300 Convictions, 300 Innocent People2012
      TerryDefense BlogLive Free or Die? The Nanny State in America2012
      TerryDefense BlogMaster Your Craft2012
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      National Criminal Defense CollegeJURY TRIAL ADVOCACY2012
      LaPier DWI Detection & Standardized Field Sobriety Testing Certification ProgramCertification in NHTSA-Standardized FST's2011
      National College for DUI Defense at Harvard Law SchoolDUI DEFENSE2011
      National College for DUI Defense at Harvard Law SchoolDUI DEFENSE2010
      Thomas Jefferson School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2009
      California State University, ChicoBS - Bachelor of Science2003
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      Valley Center High School Graduating Seniors PresentationDUI, Drugs & What Will I Do With My Life2012
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      People v. HodgesCase Dismissed (All Charges)
      People v. (Former Military - Private)Military diversion - no conviction
      People v. MaddenCase Dismissed (All Charges)
      People v. D.C.Case Dismissed (All Charges); Restraining Order denied.
      People v. WeinbergHung Jury on All Counts
      People v. TownselDry Reckless
      People v. S.B.Not Guilty
      People v. WardNot Guilty, All Counts
      People v. MartinHung Jury - all counts.
      People v. AAll Charges Dismissed, Won DMV Hearing
      People v. Feltes (Chula Vista)Won DMV hearing & client accepted "Dry Reckless" plea bargain moments before jury selection.
      People v. Kirra M.Trial - Not Guilty; DMV - Win (Set Aside suspension)

      Reviews

      (32)
      5 Star
      		97%
      4 Star
      		0%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		3%
      Review Matthew Terry

      Dui client

      Posted by

      Matt represented me to the full extent. He helped get me through a really tough time and gave me excellent advice and made me feel like all was good as things were falling apart around me
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      DUI help

      Posted by

      Matt was a huge help with my duI. I’ve used a couple lawyers and was recommended Matt Terry to handle my case. As much as it is a pain getting a duI, Matt’s energy and proactive approach was a huge breath of fresh air. He was extremely helpful in breaking down my situation and explaining the steps needed to complete my case. I would completely recommend Matt Terry.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Great guy, awesome results!

      Posted by

      I received 2 duis within the first 6 months of living in San Diego, 3 months apart from each other. I was referred Matt by a friend and he was able to help me get the cases combined and the end result was that I only have 1 dui showing up on my record. I was very happy with his professionalism, attitude and candor when discussing the case. It could have gone a lot worse, but I’m extremely grateful for Matt’s help with the case.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Amazing

      Posted by

      As difficult as it was professionally and personally, I contacted Mr. Terry to represent me....as a law enforcement officer with a DUI. Matt provided excellent services and helped me through the most trying time of my life. I don't know where I'd be without his legal expertise.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Professional and remarkably knowledgeable

      Posted by

      When my son got his DUI it was going to ruin his career that he worked so hard to start. To say we didn't know what to do or where to turn was an understatement. Matt Terry came highly recommend by a friend. During our initial consultation Matt treated us with respect and relieved some of our undeniable fears. We could tell right away that he wasn't just knowledgeable in his profession but that he really did care and took our case seriously. Matt went to bat for us like we were his only client and took the time and effort to not only get the charges dropped but most importantly make sure our son was able to keep his job with no future repercussions. We couldn't have hired a better lawyer for my son and are forever grateful to Mr. Terry.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      When you need an expert...

      Posted by

      Matthew Terry's expertise is exactly what I needed. He is a professional every step of the way and I felt comfortable in his hands. He was well prepared for my case and knew exactly what to do and expect at all times. I strongly recommend him for anyone in their time of need.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      A consummate, trustworthy professional

      Posted by

      We found ourselves with the very scary and intimidating need to consult an attorney we could trust to effectively represent our interests. We were very fortunate to have been referred to Mr. Terry. He immediately made us feel comfortable with his genuine concern for our situation and for doing the best for us. He is clearly knowledgeable and experienced but what most impressed us was his down-to-earth approach. He did not talk down to us and explained our options in terms we could understand. He embodies all the qualities one desires in an attorney. We are very grateful to him and would highly recommend his services.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Best Attorney

      Posted by

      First of all, this is the 2nd time I have hired this attorney. The first time Matt Terry was able to reduce my sons DUI to a wet wreck less, which only stays on your record for 3 years which is much better than a DUI. The 2nd time we hired Matt Terry, he had a felony reduced to a misdemeanor. The best part of all is once classes are taken for 3 months he will have no criminal record, he also got the least amount of probation for this case. If you want a winning attorney I would highly recommend Matt Terry he is the best in town and will give you the best outcome for your case.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Outstanding Professional Attorney with a Personal Touch

      Posted by

      I could not recommend or thank Matt enough for the outstanding representation I received... After one conversation, I knew hiring Matt was the right thing to do and I was blown away by the results. I knew I was getting an established attorney with a deep experience level, but what sets Matt apart is how he combines his professional skill with the personal touch and care you'd expect from family. I made a bad decision, and decided to drive after drinking and was arrested at a checkpoint with a BAC of .12. I called Matt and he was frank, yet optimistic about reducing the charge and ultimate dismissal so I could move past this dark spot on my record. Matt delivered, getting my dui reduced to a wet reckless with a probation of 3 years... After 18 months, Matt filed a motion to early terminate probation and dismiss the charge (all included in his initial hiring). It was a very dark time for me but I was able to move forward because of the above and beyond services that you'll only get with Matt Terry.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Creative thinker and great advocate

      Posted by

      Matt is a fantastic attorney. I was referred to Matt by my first attorney, who ended leaving his firm. From day 1, Matt was more engaged in my case than my prior attorney (who was a very highly rated former prosecutor). Matt took the time to understand my situation, and negotiated a great deal with the court, over the prosecutor's objections. If you need someone that will listen to you situation, fight vigorously for your rights, and come up with creative strategies to resolve your case favorably, Matt is your guy.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (25)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

      Charles Millioen, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 18, 2017
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt Terry is one of the best DUI attorneys in San Diego, hands down. It's always a pleasure seeing him in court fighting for clients. He is not one of those lawyers out to take your money and run; he wants to see you get the absolute best result possible. His passion and drive for his clients, coupled with his legal knowledge (especially on DUIs) makes him a destructive force in the courtroom.

      Troy Owens, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 22, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt possesses the most knowledge about DUI cases than any other attorney I have met with. This knowledge creates a fear in the prosecutors and administrative agencies when they see his name. As an attorney, I use Matt as a resource. He is definitely an asset to our legal community!

      Daniel Klett, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jan 6, 2016
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt is a fierce advocate and I endorse this lawyer.

      Travis Newton, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 3, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Zachary McCready, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 27, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt Terry is an incredibly smart attorney. If your case is an easy one, than most good attorneys can win it. If your case has a few curveballs, loose screws, etc., then you need a master craftsman on the case. Mr. Terry is a master of his trade. Hire him and win.

      Jennifer Gerstenzang, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 20, 2015
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt is one of the most creative and brilliant attorneys you will find in San Diego. He is constantly challenging the government. He takes the time to go through your case with a fine-toothed comb. If there is an issue, he will spot it, identify it, and make it work to your advantage. He is a very talented writer and litigator. If you have the opportunity to see him argue in court, you will know that he is a well-researched and well-educated advocate for his clients, and certainly holds his loyalty and duty to his client above all else.

      Philip Gagnon, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 23, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Beware AVVO ratings. Mr. Terry's rating bears no relationship with the quality of his skills. He is a true legal scholar with a deeper knowledge of the law than attorneys practicing twice as long. More importantly, he matches that scholarship with the passion of a true client advocate. Too many attorneys do their best work selling a client, rather than working for their client. Mr. Terry is one of the top DUI attorneys in town. I strongly endorse this attorney.

      William Nimmo, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 4, 2014
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I endorse this lawyer. I am a long time criminal defense lawyer in San Diego. Recently, I asked Matt Terry to assist me in a complex DUI case involving license suspension issues and some aggressive conduct on behalf of law enforcement. His assistance was invaluable and his enthusiasm was boundless. He did a great job. He handled the DMV hearing portion of the case and to my surprise we won. He is an excellent and a dedicated lawyer in DUI cases and I can't wait to work with him again.

      Dod Ghassemkhani, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 4, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer.

      James Dicks, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 22, 2013
      Relationship: Co-worker

      I endorse this lawyer.

      Mark Deniz, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 2, 2013
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I echo the sentiments of my colleagues in regard to Matt. He refuses to be outworked. His knowledge of DUI is top shelf. As a former prosecutor I have seen him in trial and if there was a stone he turned it over. You will get quality representation. I strongly recommend.

      James Balagia, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 15, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Matt without hesitation. I met Matt a few years ago at one of the national DWI seminars and was immediately impressed by his commitment to excellence and his desire to be the very best. Matt also paid attention during the presentations and attended all of the sessions which told me he is serious about taking care of business and he cares about his clients. In today's tough on DWI/DUI courtroom attitude - you need a well trained and experienced trial attorney. Matt is definitely one of my "go to guys" when I need to refer a case to the West Coast. Tell Matt that the Dude sent you his way and my endorsements don't come easy. Jamie "DWI Dude" Balagia

      Marc Applbaum, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 27, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Matt is a tireless worker and advocate. Further, his wealth of knowledge regarding DUI law in California is first rate. He will fight for you. I have worked with Matt on the defense side and have tried cases against him when I was a prosecutor. I know how strong he is in and out of the courtroom. I endorse him highly.

      James Fox, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 20, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Firestorm - that is what Matt Terry is. He out works, out learns, and out lawyers the opposition. He is a dedicated and fierce advocate who truly is about mastering his craft. His approach to lawyering is something he was born with - it cannot be learned. You can learn the law, you cannot learn passion. Matt Terry was born to be a lawyer. To his client's benefit - he has chosen DUI as his area of practice. San Diego is lucky to have him as part of our legal community

      Justin McShane, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 27, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I know Attorney Terry. I can attest to the fact that Attorney Terry uses his reputation, knowledge and experience to minimize or eliminate the consequences that may come as a result of being accused of a crime. He has a well-earned and true reputation for being a professionally aggressive trial lawyer. Most of all I trust him. I know you will too.

      James Smith, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 25, 2012
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      This attorney immediately casts a spell over the room when he performs. One of the most striking communicators I’ve ever seen. I worked daily with Mr. Terry on cross-examination and closing arguments. You can’t teach what he is able to do. Despite obvious talent, this guy does not stop working. It would be unsettling if he didn’t look like enjoyed it so much. Very talented trial lawyer. I endorse Matt Terry without any reservation. 

      Donald McMullen, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 4, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. Matt is a positive, forthright, and enthusiastic person. These attributes have obviously carried over into his practice and, combined with his intelligence, determination, and practicality, make Matt a fabulous lawyer and advocate.

      Harley Wagner, DUI and DWI Attorney on Mar 20, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Being a (lifetime) member of the National College for DUI Defense, and WV State Delegate, for over a decade now, I have been privileged to work with and get know many of the finest dui defense attorneys in the country. Matthew Terry is indeed a rising star in our industry heading straight for this status as well. He has excellent work ethic and desire to learn, grow and passionately defend his clients. I proudly endorse Matthew Terry and do so without hesitation. Sincerely, Harley O. Wagner, Esq. - WestVirginiaDUILawyers.com

      Craig Sturm, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 8, 2012
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I endorse this lawyer. Matt Terry is an exceptional criminal defense and DUI attorney. He is a fellomw member of the National College of DUI Defense and really makes sure he has mastered the latest defenses and trial tactics available to defend his clients. I would not hesitate to recommend his services to a close friend or family member.

      Joseph Rome, DUI and DWI Attorney on Feb 23, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Terry at the Standardized Field Sobriety Test practitioner’s course in Irvine, California. Mr. Terry demonstrated a mastery of the subject matter. I also know Mr. Terry to be very involved with the National College for Dui Defense. Mr. Terry is well known to be an excellent attorney and a trustworthy person. If every in the need of a highly qualified DUI attorney I would not hesitate in contacting him. I highly recommend Mr. Terry.