Matthew W. George

Matthew W. George is an accomplished trial attorney and partner at Messner Reeves LLP, where he represents businesses, healthcare professionals, medical institutions, and individuals in complex civil litigation and professional liability matters. With more than a decade of litigation experience, Matt has developed a sophisticated practice encompassing medical malpractice defense, commercial disputes, legal malpractice, employment litigation, and general liability claims. His work includes significant jury trials, binding arbitrations, and appellate proceedings in state and federal courts.

Known for his analytical approach, meticulous preparation, and creative problem-solving abilities, Matt brings both strategic judgment and practical business insight to his representation of clients. His practice spans the full spectrum of litigation, from early case assessment and investigation through discovery, dispositive motions, settlement negotiations, trial, and appeal. He has obtained favorable jury verdicts and appellate decisions in complex matters involving substantial financial exposure and significant professional and reputational consequences.

A substantial component of Matt’s practice involves defending physicians, hospitals, medical practices, and other healthcare professionals against allegations of medical negligence and professional liability. These cases frequently involve complicated medical evidence, disputed standards of care, and claims of catastrophic injury. Matt works closely with medical experts and institutional clients to develop comprehensive defense strategies, evaluate potential exposure, and present complex clinical issues effectively to judges and juries.

Matt’s recent trial accomplishments illustrate his effectiveness in high-stakes medical malpractice litigation. In 2026, Matt and fellow Messner Reeves partner Douglas Wolanske obtained a defense verdict in a dental malpractice case involving allegations that a dental procedure caused a cheek injury and subsequent hospitalization. The plaintiff sought $500,000 in damages. Following trial, the jury found in favor of the defendant dentist. In 2025, Matt and Doug successfully defended a psychiatric hospital in litigation involving allegations of medical negligence and an initial damages demand exceeding $20 million. Through extensive pretrial preparation and litigation strategy, Matt substantially reduced the scope of the plaintiff’s claimed damages before trial. Following a seven-day jury trial in Colorado Springs, the jury returned a defense verdict after less than two hours of deliberation. Matt played a central role in the courtroom presentation, conducting the direct examination of the hospital’s representative and cross-examining the plaintiff’s nursing expert. Also in 2025, Matt and Doug secured a complete defense verdict following a three-week jury trial involving an orthopedic spine surgeon accused of improperly placing a pedicle screw during surgery. The plaintiff alleged permanent foot drop and sought more than $2 million in damages. The jury returned a verdict in favor of the defense.

Beyond medical malpractice defense, Matt maintains a diverse commercial and civil litigation practice. He represents both plaintiffs and defendants in disputes involving business dissolution, shareholder liability, construction defects, contractual obligations, personal injury, and other complex business matters. His experience across multiple industries enables him to approach litigation with a broad perspective, identifying both the legal issues and the underlying commercial considerations that influence successful outcomes. Matt also has experience serving as general counsel to hospitals and medical practices, advising on risk management, contract negotiations, crisis response, and corporate planning. This work provides him with insight into the operational and financial realities facing healthcare organizations and allows him to counsel clients proactively, helping them manage risk and address legal challenges before they develop into costly disputes.

Matt’s professional achievements have earned recognition from Colorado Super Lawyers, which selected him as a Rising Star in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2027. The designation recognizes attorneys who have demonstrated professional achievement and earned recognition from their peers. His selection reflects his growing reputation as a skilled litigator and an emerging leader within Colorado’s legal profession. In May 2024, Matt was featured in Law Week Colorado in an article highlighting Colorado’s Rising Stars, their professional accomplishments, and their perspectives on the future of legal practice. His recognition reflects a career distinguished by significant litigation responsibilities, successful trial outcomes, and a commitment to continued professional development.

Matt earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Colorado Law School in 2015. During law school, he participated in the National Mock Trial Team, further developing the advocacy skills that would become central to his practice. He also served as Secretary of the Health Law Society and President of the Sports and Entertainment Law Student Association, demonstrating an early commitment to professional leadership and engagement across diverse areas of the law.

He received his undergraduate degree in Political Science, magna cum laude, from the University of Colorado in 2010. During his undergraduate studies, Matt worked for the University of Colorado Honor Code as the director of Faculty Education, helping to foster an environment of academic integrity across the undergraduate studies programs at the University. He is admitted to practice in Colorado and is a member of the Colorado Bar Association.

In addition to his professional responsibilities, Matt has demonstrated a commitment to community service through his involvement with organizations supporting children and families. He has served as an Associate Board Member of Every Child Pediatrics, an organization dedicated to expanding access to pediatric healthcare, and has participated in the Rose Andom Center Young Professionals Council, supporting collaborative services for individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

A Denver resident, Matt enjoys skiing, golfing, and exploring the Colorado mountains with his wife and their Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Throughout his career, Matt has distinguished himself through a combination of analytical rigor, courtroom advocacy, and a genuine commitment to understanding his clients’ needs. His broad litigation experience, demonstrated success in high-exposure trials, and practical approach to legal problem-solving have established him as a valued member of Messner Reeves’ litigation team and a trusted advocate for clients facing complex legal and business challenges.