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Matt A. Sullivan

Criminal defense Attorney at San Francisco, CA

5.0   27 reviews
Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 16 years
    State CA
    Acquired 2007
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Matt

Learn Matt’s areas of practice.

EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY. SUCCESSFUL RESULTS OBTAINED FOR MANY CLIENTS. GET HELP TODAY.

Aggressive, creative, and tireless defense of all criminal charges, from serious felony cases to misdemeanor matters. Mr. Sullivan has successfully defended many clients, including small business owners, business executives, college students, firefighters, police officers, attorneys, nurses, doctors, and regular citizens. Mr. Sullivan is a University of San Francisco Law School graduate. He is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, and the California DUI Lawyers Association. Prior to opening his own office he was a trial attorney in the Marin Public Defender's Office, and he also worked for a private criminal defense firm in San Francisco on serious state and federal criminal matters. 

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Contact Matt

Matt A. Sullivan
1000 Brannan Street, Suite 400
San Francisco, CA, 94103

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  27 customer reviews
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Posted by Eric | September 12, 2012
You are in Good Hands with Mr. Sullivan
Matt came highly recommended to me from a friend of mine. Within an hour of my first call to Mr. Sullivan and a brief overview of my case he was on it. He didn't waste any time getting the information we needed and contacting the other parties to get the ball rolling. He is a extremely resourceful and capable attorney. If something came up that was out of his realm, he would get the answer or someone who had it very quickly. I felt very comfortable working with him and assured that things would work out to my favor, which they did. Matt's confidence is backed by his ability to produce exceptional representation. I will continue to work with Matt when needed and already have recommended him to my friends and family. I feel fortunate to have connected with such an honest, trustworthy and capable attorney.
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Posted by Ben | January 25, 2012
Excellent lawyer
Over the past two years I have experienced extreme legal difficulties. We were unable to get help from anywhere. Within 24 hours of contacting Matt, I felt that I had finally found someone who could assist me in working towards resolving our situation. I highly recommend Mr. Sullivan.
Posted by Marianne | September 11, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent service
Matt Sullivan represented me on a case recently. He was very responsive, organized, and on point. Matt made the process easy for me, with quick responses that actually made sense. Matt was very efficient and went the full distance with my case. One thing that impressed me was Matt’s attitude. He was very positive and kept me updated on my case. Matt also understood my situation and valued my thoughts and the things I had to say. He’s definitely a person you want on your side.
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Posted by anonymous | May 9, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very honest and kind.
Sullivan came highly recommended from a friend and he gave me over an hour of very helpful, specific advice and answered a ton of questions I had during a free consultation and some follow up emails.
Posted by anonymous | December 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Matt is awesome!
I am very satisfied with my experience with Matt Sullivan. It took him 4 1/2 years to get my case dismissed. He worked so hard for so long that I feel like I underpaid for his outstanding efforts! Aside from the outstanding results, working with Matt is a pleasure. He explained everything that was going on, the various outcomes to expect, and strategies we might use, in clear layman's terms. I feel like Matt was very conscientious about not wasting my money. We spent a good amount on private investigators, but all of it was well spent and in the end got us the best possible result. This brings up another point worth mentioning, Matt has put together a great team of investigators and experts to help win your case. I highly recommend Matt Sullivan, not just a great lawyer, a great guy too!
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Posted by Faye | August 8, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Responsive, Knowledgeable, Honest
I was pleasantly surprised by how fast Matt Sullivan responded to me on a Friday late afternoon when I didn't hope to get any legal advice before the following Monday! Within minutes of talking to him, it was clear to me that he knows what he is talking about. He was extremely helpful during a very difficult and stressful time and how patiently he explained the process step by step. His legal advice was right on and my anxiety went away. I am grateful for his professional advice and would highly recommend him and his friendly staff for any criminal case. Thank you!
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Posted by Randall | March 29, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced, Professional and Well Respected Criminal Defense Attorney
Matt Sullivan was hired to defend serious criminal charges filed. Upon contacting him, it was immediately apparent that he had the experience necessary to identify the issues and how to approach them. He was familiar with all the players involved and provided invaluable insight and guidance throughout the process. Mr. Sullivan listened to my concerns and took my priorities into consideration. He kept me apprised of all the details in the case and provides the information necessary to make informed decisions on how to proceed. Mr. Sullivan is well respected by the Court and his peers, which is highly beneficial to any client he serves. Such reverence only comes with years of experience and a consistent demonstration of knowledge and professionalism. Due to COVID and other unforeseen circumstances, my case took longer than expected to resolve. Mr. Sullivan was incredibly patient throughout and never faltered in his rigorous defense. Despite how busy he is, I always felt like my case was a priority and at any given time, he was up to date on all related issues and would convey them usually before I even asked. I have worked with hundreds of attorneys in a professional capacity and I have noticed these qualities are exceedingly rare. Mr. Sullivan was incredibly intuitive in his evaluation of situations as they occurred, which is a huge advantage to his clients. He takes great pride in his position and will go to great lengths to get the best outcome possible. I hope his services are never needed again, but if anyone I know does need such services, I will certainly recommend Matt Sullivan. He has earned my complete trust.
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Posted by anonymous | May 10, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Sex Crime
I contacted Mr. Sullivan for a consultation. He was very professional , helpful, but also compassionate. He was extremely patient and answered all of my questions. He responded through email or phone calls very quickly. Mr.Sullivan was able to gave me hope. Thank you Mr.Sullivan
Posted by anonymous | March 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best of the Best
Matt went above and beyond to help me out with an issue that arose from a prior arrest that was hindering my ability to pass a background investigation with my current employer that was required by FINRA for securities licensing. Matt was able to provide me with the required documents to satisfy the background check, had my case sealed to prevent future issues, and answered any and all questions I had. Matt is a great guy and has his clients best interests in mind. I highly recommend his firm.
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Posted by Brett | April 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Straightforward excellent lawyer.
I recently had a second DUI case against me end with the charges being dropped thanks to Matt. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone I know if they hit any kind of legal trouble. I have had bad experiences with lawyers in the past and Matt was completely different. He was always punctual and showed up early to court. He always promptly responded to any email communications we had. I really appreciated that he was very straight forward with no BS. He was able to give me a clear understanding of realistic outcomes and expectations for my case and the possible ways to proceed. I was impressed by how well he handled every part of my case from dealing with the DMV and the DA, to building a strategy to get the charges against me dropped. I'm extremely grateful for the hard work he did to keep my life from being screwed over.
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Posted by David | August 3, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Responsive and intuitive
Matt was extremely helpful when my friend was accused of a serious crime. Based on his feedback, my friend's case was dismissed. Matt gave me a detailed description of the possible outcomes, the various steps that would happen before and during a court appearance, and the potential outcomes. Although my friend declined to hire a private attorney, Matt's advice was insightful, spot-on and reassuring. I would definitely recommend consulting Matt when looking for a criminal defense attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | January 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Stellar Criminal Defense Attorney
Matt Sullivan is a stellar criminal defense attorney. I contacted him based on others reviews that I read online including his stated experience and credentials. When I contacted him I was in a state of panic, because my mother was charged with two felony strikes in light of a domestic dispute. He returned my call immediately and took the time to listen and gather all the information that I had at-hand. I retained his services without any reservations based on his keen listening and dissection of the presented information. He provided clear and guided expertise throughout the very complicated case, which we truly appreciated. Early into the process he set the expectations and end goal, which was a dismissal of all charges. Based upon the complexity of the case it was in court for nearly one year, however in the end all the charges were dismissed due to Matt's expertise and diligence. I recommend Matt Sullivan to anyone that requires the expertise of a criminal defense attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | January 12, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
My world was turned upside down in October 2011 and was a constant nightmare for four years. Sometimes it takes something so challenging to appreciate how easy going our life once was. While lots of prayers, and keeping myself surrounded by positive family & friends, kept me half way sane, Matt Sullivan saved me. There are no words to thank him all for his hard work, dedication and such caring and compassionate support when I needed it the most. There is no doubt in my mind that he is the absolute BEST! Thank you Matt for everything!! NS
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Posted by anonymous | November 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Man of few words, but an attorney with great results
I was accused of three felony fraud convictions and because I chose to work with Matt, my case never went to trial and was dismissed in a preliminary hearing. He has excellent respect and relationships with the Bay area DA's and is one of the most professional people I have ever worked with. While no one ever really wants or expects to spend money on a private attorney, Matt is beyond worth every dollar.
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Posted by anonymous | August 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He saved my life
Waking up the morning after being arrested, I was encouraged to get a hold of a defense attorney immediately by a close friend. One of the first names I came across was Matt. After reading his excellent reviews, I sent him an email and within minutes, he wrote back and said he could meet with me that morning. A few hours later, we met in his office. Although still incredibly anxious and scared, he put me at relative ease. He told me not to worry so much and that he felt like maybe he could get the case dismissed. I was far from convinced, but I left the matter in his hands. Four agonizing weeks later, he wrote back to say that indeed, the case had been dismissed. I was in shock. The defense he put on was true and accurate, but I never imagined that this would be the ultimate outcome. To say that Matt saved my life is not an exaggeration. I cannot recommend him enough. Throughout the time between arrest and court date, he was communicative, honest, and patient with my myriad questions and concerns. As another reviewer stated, I do believe that it is his reputation and perhaps personal relationships with those in the DA's office that made a big difference. That, and he is of course highly competent professionally. I can never thank him enough for what he did for me and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anybody who finds their lives turned upside down by a criminal complaint. He is an incredible person and lawyer. Thank you once again, Matt.
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Posted by Hector | January 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Experience
Upon calling Matt I had a free consultation and he seemed like a good pick. I had called many lawyers beforehand but he was someone that when talking to him I felt sure he was the right lawyer and said all the right things. Matt was hired by me for a domestic violence case. Throughout the whole way Matt walked me through everything so I knew what was going on and I felt very comfortable with Matt not only in his legal practice but as a person too so I felt relaxed in the courtroom as anxious as I was about this case and especially being the defendant being accused of something I hadn't done. I would definitely recommend Matt to anyone who is looking for a criminal lawyer. During all the months Matt was very punctual and informative as well as helpful with reminding me of dates and times of the court dates & times so I wouldn't forget through emails or texts. Thankfully my case was won, well technically dismissed in both the criminal and civil court but to me it was a win because I had been stressing over this for a while now and it was so much weight off my shoulders finally. Thank you Matt!
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Posted by Floyd Lu | September 11, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Clear, Concise, on Point
Matt was very efficient. He knew exactly when to contact me, what to focus on, and he was not afraid to go into a full trial with the prosecutor. I hired Matt to sub for a lawyer who did not move my case for 5 months. Within a few weeks, Matt subbed him out, and got me a favorable deal and my anxiety went away. I liked his attitude the whole way through. It was the total opposite of that prior lawyer I dealt with. Matt was effective in hitting the correct targets, he listens, and when he said something they were all meaningful. I was really impressed with Matts work.
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Posted by Aaron | July 21, 2015
Great attorney
Matt Sullivan is a very professional, hardworking, and all around good man. He was able to represent me and successfully get me off of all the charges brought against me. I would highly recommend him to anyone for any criminal case - thank you Matt!
Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2015
Great lawyer and empathetic human being
I was wrongly arrested on serious charges. The case got dismissed but the arrest record lingered. I decided to file for Factual Innocence. After talking to numerous attorneys, reading online reviews and extensive research I decided to hire Matt to help me with the petition. After talking to him for the very first time I realized he was a very friendly person and understands the plight of a wrongly accused person. He was honest about the fees and the course of action. He was meticulous in the petition and kept me in the loop throughout the process. He took my inputs in the case positively and was never hesitant to suggest changes in our approach or the reality of situation at hand. We filed the petition and he ensured that I get the best defence given my circumstances. He ensured that we were well prepared before any hearing and he was pro-active in arranging documents pertaining to the case. Although it took few months before the motion was granted but it is worthwhile to mention that we went prepared and his arguments were convincing and were nothing but the truth about my situation. The process was tiring and pretty draining but he were prepared for everything and anything. I would unhesitatingly recommend Matt to anyone in need of a professional counsel. Keep up the good work!
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Posted by anonymous | March 27, 2014
My experience with Matthew Sullivan
Mr. Sullivan helped me out during a very difficult time for me personally, and I am very satisfied with the outcome. He, unlike other attorneys that I spoke to, wasn't dramatic or falsely enthusiastic, and that was reassuring. He was savvy and realistic, experienced, a listener, flexible and affordable.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 60 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Law Office of Matt Sullivan
  • 2011 - Present

Education

  • U of San Francisco SOL
  • law
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • New trial motion, DNA case, Serious Felony Sex Charges
  • Client was facing 32 years to life. Our office won a new trial motion for this client, ultimately leading to the dismissal of several felonies and his release from jail.
  • Domestic Violence, Injury Alleged
  • Complete dismissal of all charges. Client exonerated.
  • Domestic Violence, Battery on Spouse
  • Case Dismissed
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Bar Association of San Francisco
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • California DUI Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Bar Association of San Francisco, Criminal Justice Section
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Bar Association of San Francisco, Barristers Club
  • Attorney Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member-Fourth Amendment Advocacy Committee
  • 2011 - Present
  • California Attorneys for Criminal Justice
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • California Public Defender Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Marin County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2008 - Present
View all associations

Honors and Awards

  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • Northern California Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Top 40 under 40
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2013
  • Certificate of Attendance, Opening Statements
  • Trial Lawyer's College
  • 2011
  • Admission to Practice
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of California
  • 2011
  • Letter of Appreciation, Moot Court Judge
  • USF Law School
  • 2010
  • Certificate of Attendance, Discovering the Story
  • Trial Lawyer's College
  • 2010
  • Letter of Appreciation-Moot Court Judge
  • Marin Superior Court
  • 2009
  • Admission to Practice
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of California
  • 2009
  • Certificate of Appreciation
  • San Francisco Public Defender
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

  • USF Law School Forum Newspaper
  • "No Place to Hide"
  • 2006

Speaking Engagements

  • USF Criminal Law Society Meeting
  • Focus Group Presentation
  • 2013

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)
Given (23)
Endorse Matt
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Matt Sullivan is a dedicated and passionate criminal defense attorney. He seems to never stop thinking of creative ways to tackle challenging cases and get the best result for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I would not hesitate to refer a client to Mr. Sullivan. He is a very hard-working and bright defense lawyer. He has obtained great trial results in seemingly impossible cases. He also talented in obtaining creative and favorable case settlements."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 03
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I strongly endorse this lawyer's work. I have worked with him on numerous criminal matters. His work on behalf of clients, his insight and passion have been invaluable. He is aggressive, smart, and committed to the defense of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Matt is in a rare class of attorneys that never backs down from a challenging case and this is one of the reasons for his success. His willingness to take these matters and successfully defend them separates him from the rest in a competitive environment."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Sullivan has the legal skills and practical experience needed to excel at Criminal Defense."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community, I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone looking for a lawyer who knows the law and truly cares about protecting the rights of his clients and getting them the most favorable result possible."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Matthew. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Sullivan is a smart, tough, thorough and practical advocate for his clients. His local knowledge of the courts in the SF Bay area and surrounding counties make him a valuable resource. Most importantly, he knows how to take a case to trial if needed. I strongly endorse Matt Sullivan."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I am a plaintiff-side civil litigator who has known Matt for over 10 years. I trust referring clients or other individuals to Matt for all of their criminal defense needs. Matt is an experienced and savvy criminal defense attorney who is singularly devoted to protecting the rights of his clients. If you need a passionate and shrewd attorney advocating on your behalf, Matt is your guy."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jul 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is smart, motivated, cares deeply, and works hard. This winning combination makes him a force to reckon with."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jan 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is a fantastic advocate, a straight shooter, and an all around trustworthy guy. He fights for his clients when the going gets tough. He's knowledgeable, honest and hard working. I have known Matt since I was 10 years old. I recommend him highly for any criminal matter you are faced with."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is a fantastic Attorney! I don't say that about many and reserve such comments for few. Matt is the type of Attorney that becomes married to his clients. He will work day and night on your case and is not afraid to take on anyone, including Judges, if he feels in any way that his client is getting screwed!! His passion for his work is solid, his commitment to his clients is without question and his knowledge of the law is unsurpassed! If you are thinking of hiring Matt for your case, don't hesitate, consider yourself lucky if he has the room to take your case!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"Matt is tenacious, dedicated, and highly intelligent. I would be happy to have him represent me if I needed a criminal lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is a great criminal defense lawyer with a sharp mind and solid courtroom skills. He is also creative and well-versed in the law, and goes into court with prepared to obtain the best possible results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse Matt Sullivan. He has repeatedly shown his dedication to his clients in many aspects of criminal defense. He is careful and thorough in his analysis of difficult situations. His clients are pleased with his representation. He is an intelligent, experienced, and skilled attorney who is there for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Matthew is an excellent attorney who fights hard for his clients. I am impressed by his trial skills and he knows how to win cases for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known Matt Sullivan for a few years now. He is, at the same time, both creative and tenacious. From watching him inside and outside the courtroom, I have grown to known him as passionate and fierce advocate."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Matt is the classic bulldog-type lawyer that is, sadly, the minority these days. He takes a case and beats the heck out of it. He has no fear of Judges, DAs, or anyone else. I have referred clients to him without reservations, and he has repeatedly made those cilents very happy."
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is an outstanding attorney. As a former deputy public defender with the Marin County Public Defender's office, he has significant criminal defense experience in the courtroom, at trial, in front of the same judges who will be hearing your case. That is simply invaluable. In addition, Matt is a stand-up guy, a straight shooter who's not afraid to tell it like it is. A smart guy with integrity. I highly recommend him."
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