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Matthew A Leyba

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Matthew A Leyba
Matthew A Leyba
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About Matthew

Repeatedly recognized as one of the best Criminal & DUI Lawyers in Seattle. Free consultation 24/7!

My name is Matthew Leyba and I'm the firm owner of Leyba Defense PLLC. In 2010 I started Leyba Defense PLLC after working at the largest criminal defense law firm in Seattle. I chose to focus my practice on criminal defense because I love the area of law and the idea that I can truly help people in their time of need.

I have been repeatedly recognized as one of the best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Seattle by the Seattle Met Magazine's annual "Best of" edition. I have represented clients from all walks of life in every courthouse in Western Washington. I know every Prosecutor and Judge and have seen every kind of case imaginable. My motto is I will not rest until I’m able to get an outcome that a client is happy with.

A Washington DUI and Criminal Arrest is a serious matter.  Let Matthew’s experience and as an accomplished Seattle Criminal Defense & DUI trialattorney work for you, call (206) 357-8454 for a free consultation. 

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Practice areas

DUI and DWICriminal defense
  1. Criminal defense: 50%

    5,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI: 50%

    5,000 cases

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

37063 1270595823

Contact

Leyba Defense PLLC

3326 160th Ave SE Ste 215
Bellevue, WA, 98008

Website
www.leyba-defense.com 

Leyba Defense, PLLC

1700 7th Ave., Ste 2100
Seattle, WA, 98101

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
WAActive200607/08/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers124
Legal guides6
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Rising StarSuper Lawyers Magazine2020
Rising StarSuper Lawyers Magazine2019
Rising StarSuper Lawyers Magazine2018
Rising Star Criminal DefenseSeattle Metropolitan Magazine2017
Rising Star Criminal DefenseSeattle Metropolitan Magazine2016
Rising Star DUI/DWI DefenseSeattle Metropolitan Magazine2015
Top 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2015
Rising Star DUI/DWI DefenseSeattle Metropolitan Magazine2014
Trial Presenter - Trial Advocacy ProgramWSBA2013
Rising Star DUI/DWI DefenseSeattle Metropolitan Magazine2013
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI'sWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2012
Trial presenter - Trial Advocacy ProgramWSBA2012
Certificate of completion - Defending DUIsWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2011
Certificate of Appreciation - Trial Advocacy programWSBA2011
Certificate of Appreciation - Trial Advocacy ProgramWSBA2010
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUIsWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2010
Certificate of Excellence - 2 DUI jury trials in same weekAssociated Counsel for the Accused2009
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in WashingtonWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2009
Certificate of Completion - NHTSA Field Sobriety TestingLa Pier Associates2009
Certificate of Completion - Challenging blood draw evidenceWashington Defender Association2008
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in WashingtonWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2008
Certificate of Completion - The Basics of DUI DefenseWashington Defender Association2007
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in WashingtonWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2007
Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in WashingtonWashington Foundation for Criminal Justice2006
CALI Award for Excellence - Legal Writing IIIGonzaga University School of Law2005
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
Managing PartnerLeyba Defense PLLC2010 - Present
AttorneyAssociated Counsel for the Accused2006 - 2010
Rule 9Spokane County Public Defender's Office2004 - 2006
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
King County Bar AssociationAttorney2010 - Present
Washington State Bar AssociationAttorney2006 - Present
Washington Association of Criminal Defense LawyersAttorney2006 - Present
Washington Defender AssociationAttorney2006 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
EZ ArticlesHow to use a public disclosure request in a DUI case2012
EZ ArticlesGetting into Canada after a DUI conviction2012
EZ ArticlesConducting Voir Dire in a DUI case from the Defense Perspective2012
EZ articlesWhat effect Marijuana legalization could have on DUI laws2012
The Seattle TimesNot-Guilty verdict a setback to nightclub sting operation2008
The Seattle PIBar Sting, 8 months later2008
The StrangerStinging Rebuke2008
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Gonzaga University School of LawJD - Juris Doctor2006
University of UtahBachelor of Science2003
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program CommitteeTrial Notebook & Organization2013
Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program CommitteeTrial Notebook Skills2012
Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program CommitteeTrial Notebook2011
Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program CommitteeTrial Notebook and Jury organizational skills2010
ACAHow to cross examine the arresting officer in a DUI case2009
ACAHow to Analyze a DUI incident report2008
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
April 2014 Criminal case dismissedDismissed
May 2014 Criminal case dismissedDismissed
May 2014 BUI reduced to infractionBoating infraction
May 2014 MIP dismissedDismissed
August 2014 DUI Dismissed!!!DUI dismissed
November 2012Prostitution Loitering Dismissed during Jury Trial
December 2010DUI reduced to traffic infraction
March 2011DUI Dismissed
June 2013 DUI DismissedDUI Dismissed
October 2013 Assault DismissedAssault 4 dismissed
November 2013 DUI DismissedDUI Dismissed
October 2014 DUI dismissedDismissed
October 2014 DUI dismissedDUI dismissed!
November 2014 Assault 4 DismissedAssault 4 Dismissed
December 2014 Minor DUI DismissedMinor DUI dismissed!
July 2007DUI Dismissed
September 2007DUI Dismissed
November 2007Not Guilty after jury trial
March 2008Not Guilty after jury trial
April 2008Not Guilty after jury trial
June 2008Reckless Driving reduced to traffic infraction
June 2008DUI Dismissed
August 2008Dismissed
November 2008Not Guilty after jury trial
February 2009Not Guilty after jury trial
March 2009DUI Dismissed
May 2009Dismissed
May 2009Not Guilty after jury trial
July 2009DUI Dismissed
August 2009Not Guilty after jury trial
October 2009Reckless Driving reduced to traffic infraction
December 2009DUI reduced to traffic infraction
December 2009Not Guilty after jury trial
February 2010Dismissed
March 2010DUI reduced to traffic infraction
July 2010DUI Dismissed
April 2011Felony Dismissed
June 2011Hit/Run dismissed
November 2011Theft dismissed
December 2011DUI Dismissed
January 2012DUI reduced to traffic ticket
February 2012DUI Not Guilty after trial
April 2012DUI Dismissed
June 2012DUI Dismissed

Reviews

(88)
5 Star
99%
4 Star
1%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Matthew Leyba

Positive outcome and personal treatment

Posted by

I initially called Matt on a Sunday morning after being charged with a DUI the night before and was feeling helpless. He not only answered his phone on that Sunday, but he took the time to talk to me and give me some advise for what to do the next couple days. I met with 2 other attorneys the week proceeding being charged and decided to use Matthew Leyba over some of the larger firms because he would handle my case himself and not put me through an assembly line treatment. He was very thorough throughout the entire process and kept me abreast of what to expect at each turn. We were able to get my charge down to a Neg1 with minimal community service. I really apprecaite Matt and what he did for me and my family to help get us through this terrible situation.

Thorough, Personable and Trustworthy - I would definitely recommend Matt's services!

Posted by

This was the first time I needed a lawyer and I was scared and unsure about the entire process. I met with several lawyers to evaluate which one would be the best fit and ended up choosing Matt. Looking back now, I am so happy with my decision and wouldn't have it any other way. Throughout the entire case, Matt thoroughly explained every step in the process, patiently answered all of my questions (even if I asked them multiple times), and kept me well informed of all updates. He made the process feel very personal and was extremely responsive - I never once felt like my case was unimportant to him. As someone with a busy work schedule, I was also grateful that he was able to be flexible with his time by talking with me later at night or on weekends when I had more free time. Matt is an excellent, trustworthy and reliable attorney and just an all-around great guy. I would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of his services!

Great Experience

Posted by

contacted Mr. Leyba for a legal issue. He was extremely personable and professional in walking me through the process and making me aware of what would happen. Multiple times I had to call him late at night and at other odd hours and he was always patient and very responsive. Mr. Leyba also gave me a very good idea of the upfront costs that would go into the process, and made it clear what would and would not be included in that. From the time that I hired him, till the end of my case, he guided me through the process, and set the right expectations so that nothing unexpected happened. I was also able to talk to him and have him reason all parts of the case and explained to me the parts that were flexible, vs required by law. Our case was delayed significantly because of Covid, and he worked with me through the delay, as well as kept me informed of any future dates and prepared me every step of the way. I had a great experience, Although I wish I never have to speak to him again. If I ever do need help with legal matters, I would not hesitate to call him again.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Responsive, courteous, and professional

Posted by

Matthew helped me reduce a DUI charge where I had blown a 0.06 to a negligent driving 1st degree - the prosecutor was not willing to let go that I had a passenger with me when I was pulled over. During the process, Matthew was clear, responsive, proactive, and flexible to meet or call when needed. He also did not make any extreme claims to what he could do. I had contacted a big DUI lawyer beforehand who said he'd be willing to take my case to court to get it cleared, which felt like a pretty high risk to me. Matt said he would go to court if I wanted to, but laid out the pros & cons clearly. I felt like I received the service and counsel I expected with the fees. I'd recommend Matt if you are seeking legal services from someone who is straightforward, professional, and careful.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Prompt. Attentive. Seasoned professional!

Posted by

I needed a seasoned DUI attorney to help me out during a tough time in my life. I've never had an encounter with law enforcement so I had no idea what to do or where to go. I read through all of the reviews on other lawyers in the Seattle/Bellevue area and came across Matt! From beginning the process of hiring a lawyer to the settlement in court, Matt was always there for me when I needed him. I could tell from our consultation that Matt was a no BS, straight shooting guy so I decided to hire him. Being a college student with little funds, he even allowed me to put half down and the rest of his fee on a monthly plan until I paid the sum amount. Every time that I contacted him he would answer my questions and explain everything clearly and promptly. It's obvious that Matt cares for each of his clients because throughout the 6 month process I never felt like I was alone or had any questions unanswered. That being said, let's get to the most important part. Matthew Leyba. gets. results. He got me a great settlement in court and got the charge dropped from DUI to a reckless driving with some community service. WORTH. EVERY. PENNY. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Matt to anyone. Thank you Matt for helping me get my life back on track! :D
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Exactly what I needed

Posted by

Due to circumstances that don't matter, I was involved in a DUI case. Out of the attorneys I talked to and researched, Matt was the best. From my initial contact I had a direct line to him. Any time I reached out to him via phone or email I had a quick, if not immediate, response. He very clearly explained every step of the process, always made sure to address any concerns and worked to get me the best resolution possible. He always contacted me before every court appearance just so I knew exactly what to expect. In the end, I wish I didn't have to know him, but I'm glad I do.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Best possible lawyer for a worst case scenario

Posted by

Long story short, ended up with a dui after a night out with some coworkers. Feeling helpless did some quick research on google and found matt. There’s no way you can fight this without a lawyer, so might as well hire a very solid one. Matt was quick to respond to questions/concerns, but kept expectations real and didn’t make empty promises. Ended up with a reduced charge. Better than a dui. One of the most expensive experiences of my life but easier with a good lawyer like matt.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent defense

Posted by

I worked with Mr. Leyba on a suspicion of DUI case in 2018. He was quick to respond, made the entire process very clear to me, kept every promise he made and helped me resolve the issue quickly, affordably, and without any unnecessary confusion.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Experience

Posted by

I contacted Matt Leyba right after he was recommended to me. The recommendation came with high expectations for what he could do. I hired him right away and he made it real easy for me. In the end he was able to drop the charge to a lesser charge and reduced the penalties significantly. I'd recommend him to anyone.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Legal Advice

Posted by

Matt was very honest and professional during the entire legal process. From the beginning, he was able to put my mind at ease which was very important as this was my first DUI pending charge. Through the 6 month process Matt was able to present our evidence and was able to negotiate with the prosecutor to get my charge lowered to reckless driving. I would highly recommend Matt for anyone dealing with a DUI charge.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(21)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Christopher Anderson, Criminal defense Attorney on May 12, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As a supervising Prosecutor in District Court I handled hundreds of cases with Mr. Leyba. I found him to be tireless advocate for his clients and an exceptionally skilled trial attorney. His combination of diligence and hard work coupled with his ability to connect with a jury translated time and time again into favorable results for his clients.

Brian Beattie, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 9, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Leyba and I worked at the same defense firm for several years. He has the reputation of being intelligent, industrious, and a great trial lawyer. I know that he is especially knowledgable about DUI matters as we attended a field sobriety test training together. Matt also successfully completed several matters that we worked on together.

David Bingaman, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 20, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I've known Matt for many years. Nice guy and a great attorney.

Sonja Jacobsen, Criminal defense Attorney on Dec 23, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is a stellar attorney. He's not only a fantastic courtroom advocate but he's also terrific to work with. He's extremely dedicated to his clients and knows the law inside and out. I highly recommend him.

Chris Jackman, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Matt is a very knowledgeable and talented defense attorney. I've sought his advice many times and he's proven to be a great resource. Highly recommended!

Mark Blair, Criminal defense Attorney on Feb 12, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Hardworking, professional and dedicated to achieving the best outcome for his client's.

Jon Fox, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jul 2, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt has earned a reputation as a tireless and effective advocate for his clients. He is respected by his peers and his clients are very well served. I am happy to endorse Matt.

Benjamin Hiltzheimer, DUI and DWI Attorney on Jun 25, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michelle Scudder, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 1, 2013
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Matt for a number of years and have always been impressed with his excellent advocacy on behalf of his clients. Matt has a true talent for being persistent and aggressive on behalf of his clients while also maintaining credibility and respect with both opposing counsel and the court. Matt's clients clearly trust and like him and I would not hesitate to refer any clients his way. You are in excellent hands with Matt!

Samantha Leage, DUI and DWI Attorney on Sep 21, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is a very experienced trial attorney and a nice guy to boot. I can recommend his services without reservation.

James White, DUI and DWI Attorney on Aug 15, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. I know Mr. Leyba from court and by reputation. His courtroom presentation and reputation are both sterling. Mr. Leyba is an excellent choice as your attorney.

David O, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 25, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is a great attorney. He is always prepared and gets the right results for his clients.

Henry Chae, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 22, 2012
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer. When I was a prosecutor, I had numerous cases and trials against Mr. Leyba. Fortunately, for me now, we are now colleagues on the same side. Simply put, he is a Super Lawyer. He is very likeable, personable, and highly knowledgeable in all areas of criminal law, but most especailly in DUI defense. His legal skills and analytical skills are top notch and his command of procedural laws is very strong. He is very articulate and well spoken and thinks quickly on his feet. He excels in the area of trial law. He is one of the Best Trial attorneys I know in this state and one of the best DUI Defense attorneys. He is a dangerous opponent for prosecutors and Judges and jurors love Mr. Leyba and when he speaks, they listen. His actions and results speak for themselves I recommend Mr. Leyba without reservation. A 10, no doubt about it.

Chad Eubanks, DUI and DWI Attorney on Dec 8, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matthew is an oustanding advocate for clients facing DUI charges. He is a highly competent attorney. I refer criminal cases to him with confidence.

Christopher Anderson, Criminal defense Attorney on May 12, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As a supervising Prosecutor in District Court I handled hundreds of cases with Mr. Leyba. I found him to be tireless advocate for his clients and an exceptionally skilled trial attorney. His combination of diligence and hard work coupled with his ability to connect with a jury translated time and time again into favorable results for his clients.

Timothy Chiang-Lin, Criminal defense Attorney on Jun 2, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I've seen Matt win consecutive jury trials. I endorse this lawyer's work.

Nors Davidson, DUI and DWI Attorney on May 25, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer's work.

Brian Beattie, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 9, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Leyba and I worked at the same defense firm for several years. He has the reputation of being intelligent, industrious, and a great trial lawyer. I know that he is especially knowledgable about DUI matters as we attended a field sobriety test training together. Matt also successfully completed several matters that we worked on together.

Stefanie Dorn, DUI and DWI Attorney on Apr 8, 2010
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

I endorse this lawyer's work. Matthew is an exception attorney. I've handled probably 50 or so cases set for trial with him. He is consistently diligent, prepared, knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate. He has an incredible wealth of knowledge on DUI laws and issues and is incredibly bright. He has substantial trial experience and is always a passionate advocate for his clients.

Kirsten Walsh, Criminal defense Attorney on Apr 5, 2010
Relationship: Co-worker

I endorse this lawyer's work. I worked with Matt at the Associated Counsel for the Accused. He is a great lawyer. He is always professional and well prepared. He is an amazing advocate for his clients and gets great results. He is diligent and knowledgeable in the law. I strongly recommend him as an attorney.

Diego Vargas, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 26, 2010
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I have had the pleasure of working on several matters with Matt. He is an excellent attorney and I highly recommend him.

Kennet Phillipson, Criminal defense Attorney on Mar 25, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Matt is a great trial lawyer. He represents his clients with skill and passion, both in and out of the courtroom.

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