Matthew McDonald
Matthew McDonald, born and raised in San Francisco, is an attorney licensed to practice law in California. Matthew previously worked at three catastrophic personal injury firms in San Francisco, Rouda Feder Tietjen & Mcguinn, The Veen Firm and Rains Lucia Stern, before pursuing his interest in business and obtaining his LL.M. in taxation.
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Prior Working Experience
Matt subsequently worked in public accounting at Ernst & Young in multi-state taxation for 5 years as a tax consultant learning how large public companies were structured and how they made money. He then transitioned to Zeisler, Zeisler Rawson & Johnson as a business manager specializing in financial statements for artists or bands that tour and athletes' tax returns.
Trial Lawyer Work
Matthew has spent his last three years working with Trial Lawyers University, specifically planning conference logistics and managing vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors for those events.
Through his involvement with Trial Lawyers University, Matthew has access to co-counsel cases with several hundred top litigation attorneys across the country. Matthew's latest commitment is to build a national traumatic brain injury conference focusing on cutting edge treatment and recovery.
Personal Interests
Matthew additionally is a founding member and owner of Hawkline Video, a video production company that focuses on elevating marketing performance for lawyers and vendors in the legal industry.
Matthew also is a founding owner of a wellness retreat in Joshua Tree, focusing on helping people access nervous system recovery through breadth work, sound bathing, meditation, yoga, hot and cold water therapies, mindfulness and integration practices. Matthew is also committed to making the physical world a better place, supporting initiatives to up-cycle plastics and lumber, thereby reducing global warming through sustainability initiatives. Matthew is dedicated to helping the underserved, he mentors young adults and volunteers locally in his community. Matthew is an avid traveler, basketball player, snow skier and water-skier. In his spare time, he additionally loves to hike, play ping pong and pickle ball. More than anything else, Matthew loves building relationships and connecting with people.
Empowering Others Through Trial Lawyers University
Today, I am a proud contributor to Trial Lawyers University. This innovative platform connects experienced trial lawyers with the next generation of legal professionals. Through workshops, conferences, and online resources, we equip attorneys with the essential trial skills and strategies needed for success in the courtroom.
Beyond legal strategy, Trial Lawyers University emphasizes the art of connection.
By fostering meaningful interactions with juries and clients, attorneys can truly advocate for their positions with greater effectiveness. Witnessing the growth and success of fellow attorneys within this collaborative environment is an incredibly rewarding aspect of my work.
From Incarceration to Inspiration: My Journey of Perseverance and Building Connection in the Legal Field
A story of transformation and how overcoming adversity fueled my passion for justice and connecting with others in the legal world.
A Foundation Built on Second Chances
My professional journey is an unconventional one, shaped by a pivotal moment of self-reflection during a period of incarceration. Facing a second jail sentence at a young age forced a critical reevaluation of my path. It was a harsh lesson, but it ignited a burning desire for education, personal growth, and a commitment to contributing positively to society.
Academic Tenacity and a Passion for Learning
Leveraging this newfound determination, I embarked on a rigorous academic journey. Beginning at a community college, I excelled in my studies, earning an Associate's Degree and transferring to prestigious universities like UCLA. This experience not only equipped me with a strong academic foundation but also fostered a lifelong love of learning that continues to fuel my professional development.
From Student to Mentor: Cultivating Connection Through Service
Throughout my academic pursuits, I actively sought opportunities to give back to the community. Volunteering with underprivileged youth programs and participating in environmental cleanup initiatives instilled in me the importance of social responsibility and human connection. Mentoring disadvantaged youth became a particularly rewarding experience, allowing me to share my experiences and empower others to navigate their own paths.
Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Legal Aspirations
Law school presented a unique set of challenges due to my past. However, I approached these hurdles with unwavering resolve. While diligently pursuing my legal education, I also took proactive steps towards expunging my record. This dedication ultimately led to graduation with a Juris Doctorate and successful completion of the California Bar exam, allowing me to finally achieve my legal aspirations.
The Power of Connection in Effective Advocacy
My experiences on both sides of the legal system have instilled in me a profound appreciation for the importance of human connection in the courtroom. Effective legal advocacy goes beyond simply knowing the law; it requires the ability to connect with juries, clients, and opposing counsel. This understanding has guided my professional trajectory, leading me towards opportunities that allow me to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
A Testament to Perseverance
My story serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance. It is a journey from adversity to purpose, fueled by a commitment to education, social responsibility, and building meaningful connections. While challenges may arise, it's the unwavering determination to navigate them that defines our professional identity. Sometimes, the most unexpected detours lead us to the most fulfilling destinations, allowing us to use our experiences to empower and inspire others.
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