Matthew O’Malley (“Matt”) is a member of the litigation practice group and advises his clients on litigation strategies, skillfully representing them through all phases of litigation. Matt has a track record of success in both bench and jury trials. He focuses on the client’s resolution goals, whether that is achieved through trial, settlement conference, mediation or arbitration. Matt serves his clients in a variety of complex litigated and non-litigated matters, including actions for breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, indemnity and contribution, professional malpractice, personal injury, general corporate, LGBT issues, employment discrimination and civil rights violations.
He received his J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law with cum laude honors and currently works out of Tressler's Chicago office.
Where are you from?
I was born on the Southside of Chicago and have never lived north of Bridgeport (where the White Sox home games are played). I spent my academic years and first year as an attorney even more south in Champaign and Springfield, respectively. I have since settled in Chicago with my partner and my dog, Gus.
What was your first job?
I herded shopping carts and bagged groceries at my local Dominick's grocery store. I was always put on the night shift since I was in high school. There was not much action in the late evenings so I passed time reading the National Enquirer and eating day-old donuts.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I am your guy when it comes to useless pop culture. "Trivia Newton-John" is still undefeated this year.
What is on your bucket list?
I have always wanted to become fluent in Spanish--that to then travel the Mediterranean and live abroad in Spain for some time.
Why did you decide to become an attorney?
I always loved school and continued following my interests. During my first semester of college, I took a course on the fundamentals of negotiation and never looked back.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Every day is different but somehow I became a morning person (I believe this was around the time I started to drink coffee) so I am most productive before 1 pm. As a litigator, I am in court or engaging in written work. I will finish up whatever I couldn't get done and then dedicate my afternoons winding down with document review, phone calls and other less taxing items. I work remotely often---on those days, I try to get Gus out for a decent walk so I can refresh and relax a bit.
What is your favorite movie?
It's a Wonderful Life.
What is your favorite movie quote?
"Lunch is cancelled due to a lack of hustle. Deal with it." – Heavyweights
Any guilty pleasures?
Ice cream & TV shows on Bravo.
What do you like most about Tressler?
There are a lot of things, but what stands out is the level of camaraderie between all of the employees. Tressler's strengths come from its culture. I have seen Tressler continually "do the right thing" when it comes to how it treats its employees and clients. Leadership is transparent and compassionate. The work/life balance is also fantastic.
What are you most proud of, professionally and/or personally?
As a law student, I was afraid to raise my hand to speak in class. Public speaking is essential to being a successful litigator, so it was time to put up or shut up (literally). The adversity I overcame in my personal life helped me to build confidence and adapt professionally. That confidence fostered my professional growth to always challenge myself & it has been a snowball effect since then. By the time I had turned 26, I helped bring four federal jury trials to successful verdicts.
Matt can be reached at momalley@tresslerllp.com. Learn more about our attorneys by visiting https://www.tresslerllp.com/attorneys.