Overview
Matt is an environmental and natural resources compliance attorney with a focus on marine and fresh water resource issues.
He regularly represents public and private sector clients in matters relating to environmental cleanup, due diligence, water rights and project permitting. With more than 30 years of experience practicing law and a strong science and policy background, Matt provides his clients with common sense and perspective to help them achieve their objectives.
Matt has represented municipal entities, utilities, Fortune 500 companies, local businesses, non-profits and individuals. Before joining Foster Garvey, Matt was a partner at environmental and natural resources firm Doll Mack Wells PLLC.
Areas of Focus
Admissions
- Washington
- Oregon
- Oregon Supreme Court
- Washington Supreme Court
- U.S. District Court, District of Oregon
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Washington
- U.S. District Court, Western District of Washington
Education
- J.D., University of Washington School of Law (high honors, Order of the Coif), 1992
- Washington Law Review, Managing Editor
- Master of Marine Affairs, University of Washington, 1986
- B.S., Yale University (cum laude and with distinction in the major), Geology and Geophysics, 1982orado (with distinction), 1996
Honors & Recognition
- Chambers USA (Washington) Leading Individual, Environment, 2024-present
- The Best Lawyers in America©
- Oil and Gas Law, Water Law, 2026
- Environmental Law, 2008-present
- Washington Super Lawyers list, 2008-present
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating
Clerkships
- Judicial Clerk to the Honorable Alan A. McDonald, US District Court, Eastern District of Washington, Yakima, 1992-1994
Professional Activities
- Washington State Bar Association, Environmental and Land Use Law Section, Member
- Environmental and Land Use Law Section, Midyear Meeting and Seminar Program Co-Chair, 2009
- Washington Water Policy Alliance, Member
Community Activities
- Bishop Blanchet High School, Advisory Board Member, 2017-2019
- KCBA Central District Neighborhood Legal Clinic, Volunteer Attorney, 1996-2020
- Leadership Tomorrow, 2004
- Pike Market Childcare and Preschool, Board Member, 2008-2013
- Preston, Gates & Ellis LLP, Pro Bono Coordinator, 2003-2007
- St. John School, School Commission Member, 2012-2015
News & Insights
News
Foster Garvey Recognized Among Nation’s Top Firms in 2026 Chambers USA Guide: 34 Attorneys and 15 Practices Ranked
06.04.26
71 Foster Garvey Attorneys Recognized Among the 2026 Best Lawyers in America; Paul Trinchero Named ‘Lawyer of the Year’
08.21.25
19 Foster Garvey Attorneys Named to the 2025 Washington Super Lawyers Lists; Emily Harris Gant Earns Special Recognition
08.01.25
Foster Garvey Recognized Among Nation’s Top Firms in 2025 Chambers USA Guide; 26 Attorneys and 13 Practices Ranked
06.05.25
Foster Garvey Adds Distinguished Environmental Regulatory, Compliance and Litigation Team from Doll Mack Wells PLLC in Seattle
08.19.24
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