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Matthew A Leyba

Criminal defense Attorney at Bellevue, WA

5.0   88 reviews
  • Licensed for 16 years
    State WA
    Acquired 2006
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Matthew

Learn Matthew’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas

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 for a free consultation. 

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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  88 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Experience
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.
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Posted by anonymous | December 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Responsive, courteous, and professional
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.
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Posted by Andrew | March 28, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Prompt. Attentive. Seasoned professional!
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
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Posted by anonymous | January 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exactly what I needed
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.
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Posted by anonymous | November 13, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best possible lawyer for a worst case scenario
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.
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Posted by anonymous | October 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent defense
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.
Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Experience
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.
Posted by Bo Adekoya | October 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Legal Advice
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.
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Posted by anonymous | June 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I could not ask for a better lawyer, Matt is a true advocate
I was arrested for Reckless Driving charge for speeding and accidentally going down the wrong way on a 1-way street. The prosecutor recommended a 15-day jail sentence, even though there were no drugs/alcohol involved and I had no criminal background. In retrospect, this may have been some racial profiling by the police.. Anyways Matt was able to get this dropped down to a simple $250 traffic ticket, despite us dealing with an extremely uncooperative and non-responsive prosecutor. Not only does he deliver results, but Matt is a very honest and empathetic person. He kept me up-to-date every step of the way and ensured the process was as stress-free for me and my family as possible. In the end, everything worked out, and like I said, I cannot recommend him enough
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Posted by Jordan | June 16, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent professionalism, work ethic. Genuinely compassionate and honest.
I hired Matt on the spot; after having previously consulted with two other lawyers. He was candid about the situation that I had put myself in, but unlike the previous two he was lacking the overtly pessimistic attitude towards me given the charges I faced. He answered questions I had that the other two lawyers claimed constituted legal council, and ergo would require me to hire them. Given his advice I completed a drug and alcohol assessment, educational class and victims panel to get prepared for the D.O.L. hearing and court case. When the D.O.L. hearing came around he outlined a his plan with me and using a legal precedent he won my case and I was able to keep my license ( I was informed in all three of my consultations that revocation occurs 80% of the time). During my court hearings, Matt expertly argued my case and at the second hearing secured removal of the requirement for an I.I.D. imposed at the first. He stayed in regular contact with me and promptly returned my calls if he missed them at all. Most importantly, Matt circumvented, lets say an unfavorable prosecutor for my last hearing ( they shuffle around frequently in the King County court system) and secured the best possible deal I could get. The results are: the minimum sentence, a reckless driving charge dropped, and my saving $2,400 through being spared probation. All in all, Matt was extremely personable, straightforward and skillful in handling my case. Every decision made was mine, I never felt pressured but I could tell he had my best interest in mind both financially and legally. P.S. If your gonna screw up, best not to do it in King County.
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Posted by anonymous | March 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Better results than I had expected
Hiring Matt was the best legal decision I made during the whole process. He laid out clear and realistic expectations from the beginning, and had a solid game plan that worked. The charge was reduced, and I was able to keep my license. Couldn’t ask for more given the circumstances.
Posted by Heydy G | February 11, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend
Suddenly I found myself in the middle of a nightmare, I was accused of driving without a license and driving without the IID, I had violated my probation, Matthew was one of the first to answer my email, he explained the seriousness of my situation, he saved me of spending days in jail and managed to convince the judge to lower my crime to a traffic infraction.
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Posted by anonymous | February 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Professional to work with
I had a nightmare situation in June where I was arrested for a DUI. I interviewed up to 7 lawyers in 3 days and Matt was the standout from the beginning. My case looked like I was gong to get a DUI no matter what, as the prosecutor was pretty adamant throughout the process. Matt's advice was not to plead guilty and let the case go to trial, I was hesitant because at that point I just wanted the case to be closed an move on with my life. I'm very glad I took his advice, 2 days before my court date for pre-trail I got a call from him and the prosector decided to give me reckless driving. I would highly recommend Matt to anyone in this situation he gives clear information about the process, and is easy to contact whenever you may have a question/concern.
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Posted by anonymous | January 30, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Experienced, Trustworthy and Professional
Matt worked hard to get me the best possible outcome with my case. He kept me abreast during the entire process and handled everything on my behalf which was a great relief during a stressful time. I would highly recommend his services.
Posted by anonymous | January 19, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Matthew is the only defense attorney I would trust!
Matthew was the best attorney I could have asked for with my case. After reading many reviews on different defense attorneys, I decided to contact Matthew. He called me quickly and answered all of my questions. He was very thorough with my case and advocated for the best possible outcome in my case. My case took over a year and there were many hearings but he was at every one of them. He truly cared about my case and about me personally which was exactly what I needed through this process. At the end of the day my charges were dismissed. He is the only defense attorney I would ever trust with any other criminal cases. Although I hope I don't have any other criminal cases! Excellent person and excellent attorney! You will not regret your decision if you make Matthew your attorney!
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Posted by Misty | December 5, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expert Help Navigating the Legal System
This was the first time we have ever needed help navigating the legal system and couldn't have been more nervous and scared. Matt was super patient with all our questions and concerns and made it less scary by explaining all the options and possible outcomes. He was professional and has a great reputation in the court system (which we heard unsolicited from several different people we met at court). He was able to help get a first (and hopefully ever) DUI reduced to reckless driving which was a good outcome. We just randomly found Matt on an internet search and felt like he was the answer to a prayer.
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Posted by anonymous | April 23, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
DUI Dropped to Reckless Driving
Matt was such a great attorney. He was always there to help if had any questions regarding my case or my next step. Matt got my DUI dropped to reckless driving. He checked up to make sure I had everything I needed or to see if I have completed anything the judge told me to do. Overall, I was pleased with the out come of my case.
Posted by anonymous | February 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best!
Matt was so wonderful I don't even know where to start. I reached out to him as he was the first lawyer I found online that was available via phone at the late/early hour I was needing assistance. I'm so glad I contacted him. Before Matt had even taken our case he was incredible, offering assistance, guidance and support. Matt was ultimately hired by my husband but was a huge support to me through this scary process. He was very professional yet warm and understanding. Matt was able to answer all of my questions both big and small. He was available at the drop of a hat and never made me feel like a bother. Matt made us both feel very supported and comfortable in a very uncomfortable time. Matt was able to get our case dismissed completely when we were otherwise told this would be impossible. We could not have been happier with our experience with Matt. If you hire Matt you will not be disappointed. He is professional, kind, knowledgeable, through, and gets results. I really cannot say enough good things about him.
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Posted by anonymous | January 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Responsive with Great Results
Got my first and hopefully last DUI in the second half of 2016. Needless to say it was a nerve-racking experience. The first thing on my mind was getting a lawyer. I was pulled-over on the weekend and so it was a challenge connecting with any lawyers on the weekend. That wasn't the case with Matt. Matt answered his phone on the weekend and has been responsive throughout the process. This was extremely important to me to know that I could contact my lawyer whenever I needed. In the end Matt was able to get me a deal and got my DUI dropped to a lesser charge.
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Posted by anonymous | December 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Honest, thorough, trustworthy.
I was pulled over and arressted in Kirkland under suspicion of DUI for marijuana, they put me in handcuffs and took me to Evergreen to draw my blood. Immediately I went on the search for a lawyer. Seeing as I had never been in trouble before, no record, no run ins/interaction with the police, EVER, I was freaking out. Thinking I'd be convicted, and worse, go to jail. After meeting with a few lawyers I wanted to give up, then out of nowhere I came across Leyba Defense on Google, he has experience with Kirkland which was a plus, so I called to set up a consultation. Just after 15 minutes of talking to him I knew he was the right lawyer for my case. I was facing a DUI with multiple drugs in my system(though most were unbeknownst to me) and I was prepared to be convicted with a DUI after everything had played out, but nope! Matt somehow convinced the prosecutor to lower the charge to reckless driving with a 30 day license suspension and a defensive driving class. Not only were the results better then they were expected to be, Matt was very honest and upfront thoughout the process and always kept me in the loop. I know I got lucky, but I also know Matt worked his butt off to do everything he could to keep me from being charged with a DUI. Needless to say I am extremely satisfied with the outcome.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 90 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Managing Partner
  • Leyba Defense PLLC
  • 2010 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Associated Counsel for the Accused
  • 2006 - 2010
  • Rule 9
  • Spokane County Public Defender's Office
  • 2004 - 2006

Education

  • Gonzaga University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2006
  • University of Utah
  • Bachelor of Science
  • 2003

Legal Cases

  • April 2014 Criminal case dismissed
  • Dismissed
  • May 2014 Criminal case dismissed
  • Dismissed
  • May 2014 BUI reduced to infraction
  • Boating infraction
View all legal cases

Associations

  • King County Bar Association
  • Attorney
  • 2010 - Present
  • Washington State Bar Association
  • Attorney
  • 2006 - Present
  • Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Attorney
  • 2006 - Present
  • Washington Defender Association
  • Attorney
  • 2006 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2020
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • Rising Star Criminal Defense
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2017
  • Rising Star Criminal Defense
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2016
  • Top 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers Under 40
  • American Society of Legal Advocates
  • 2015
  • Rising Star DUI/DWI Defense
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2015
  • Rising Star DUI/DWI Defense
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2014
  • Trial Presenter - Trial Advocacy Program
  • WSBA
  • 2013
  • Rising Star DUI/DWI Defense
  • Seattle Metropolitan Magazine
  • 2013
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2012
  • Trial presenter - Trial Advocacy Program
  • WSBA
  • 2012
  • Certificate of completion - Defending DUIs
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2011
  • Certificate of Appreciation - Trial Advocacy program
  • WSBA
  • 2011
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUIs
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2010
  • Certificate of Appreciation - Trial Advocacy Program
  • WSBA
  • 2010
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in Washington
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2009
  • Certificate of Completion - NHTSA Field Sobriety Testing
  • La Pier Associates
  • 2009
  • Certificate of Excellence - 2 DUI jury trials in same week
  • Associated Counsel for the Accused
  • 2009
  • Certificate of Completion - Challenging blood draw evidence
  • Washington Defender Association
  • 2008
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in Washington
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2008
  • Certificate of Completion - The Basics of DUI Defense
  • Washington Defender Association
  • 2007
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in Washington
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2007
  • Certificate of Completion - Defending DUI's in Washington
  • Washington Foundation for Criminal Justice
  • 2006
  • CALI Award for Excellence - Legal Writing III
  • Gonzaga University School of Law
  • 2005
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program Committee
  • Trial Notebook & Organization
  • 2013
  • Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program Committee
  • Trial Notebook Skills
  • 2012
  • Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program Committee
  • Trial Notebook
  • 2011
  • Washington State Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Trial Advocacy Program Committee
  • Trial Notebook and Jury organizational skills
  • 2010
  • ACA
  • How to cross examine the arresting officer in a DUI case
  • 2009
  • ACA
  • How to Analyze a DUI incident report
  • 2008
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (21)
Given (22)
Endorse Matthew
Criminal defense Attorney | May 12
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 09
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. I've known Matt for many years. Nice guy and a great attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Dec 23
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 13
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!"
Criminal defense Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Hardworking, professional and dedicated to achieving the best outcome for his client's."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jul 02
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Jun 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 01
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!"
DUI and DWI Attorney | Sep 21
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Aug 15
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Matt is a great attorney. He is always prepared and gets the right results for his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 22
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."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Dec 08
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I've seen Matt win consecutive jury trials. I endorse this lawyer's work."
DUI and DWI Attorney | May 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer's work."
DUI and DWI Attorney | Apr 08
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 05
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 26
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."
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 25
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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DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
Criminal defense
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
DUI and DWI
Criminal defense