Criminal Defense For the Pacific Northwest

About

Who we are.

 

Don’t worry. I tighten the knot for court.

Partner

Matthew McGowan

From working behind bullet-proof glass at the front desk of Seattle’s iconic Public Defender Association, to assisting in death-penalty appellate cases during law school, to opening his own practice in 2011, Matthew has worked closely with criminal defendants for over 23 years. He is best-known for a recent seven-month-long quadruple homicide trial in Kitsap County Superior Court. Matthew also knows how to avoid trial. Most cases do not go to trial, and many of those that do, should not. Matthew knows the difference.

 

Education

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON SCHOOL OF LAW
Juris Doctor, 2008

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
B.A., English Literature, 1997

Activities & Affiliations

  • Washington State Bar Association, Member

  • Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association, Committee Member

  • Washington Defender Association, Member

  • WSBA Rule 6 Legal Admissions Mentor

Bar Admissions

  • Washington State Bar Association #41454

 

 
 

Don’t worry. I’ll make sure he tightens the knot before your hearing.

PARALEGAL

Lauren Kutz

An ABA-certified paralegal with nearly a decade of criminal defense experience, Lauren is the eyes, ears, heart and soul Grit City Law. Lauren ensures that our office remains at the forefront of advancements in the legal field to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Lauren’s background in clinical psychology brings an educated perspective on human nature to the office, while her blend of expertise and empathy sets a standard of excellence that benefits every client we serve.

 

Education

TACOMA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
A.A., Psychology, 2021 A.A.S., Paralegal, 2018

Activities & Affiliations

  • American Bar Association

  • Certified Legal Transcriptionist