Matthew L. Stauffer – Dedicated Attorney Serving Southwest Florida

“Never forget where you came from, and always remember, your past does not dictate your future. This country still stands for the idea that if you work hard enough, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Never let anyone tell you that you cannot do something. Your destiny is in your own hands. All you have to do is get after it.” 

Experienced in Real Property, Probate, Trust Law, and Civil Litigation

Attorney Matthew L. Stauffer is a committed legal professional at the Martin Law Firm, offering comprehensive legal services to clients in Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, Lehigh Acres, and surrounding Southwest Florida communities. With a distinguished background in the U.S. Army and a steadfast dedication to upholding constitutional principles, Matthew provides knowledgeable and personalized representation in Real Property, Probate, Trust Law, Probate Litigation, Civil Litigation, Administrative Law, and Constitutional Law.

Military Service and Leadership

Matthew’s extensive military career spans over twenty years of honorable service in the U.S. Army. Beginning his journey as a Private, he ascended to the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). Demonstrating exceptional commitment and skill, Matthew earned his Ranger Tab and later achieved the prestigious Green Beret after completing training at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School. A combat veteran Matthew has been awarded both the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) and the Combat Action Badge (CAB).

Throughout his service, Matthew operated across various continents, supporting U.S. national objectives. He attended Officer Candidate School, graduating as the Col. Aaron Nett Distinguished Leadership Graduate, and received a commission as a U.S. Army officer. In his later assignments, Matthew served near Stuttgart, Germany, as the Signal Detachment Commander and Executive Officer of a Special Forces Company, undertaking multiple peacetime and combat deployments.

Educational Background and Legal Training

Following his military service, Matthew continued to contribute to national defense as a civilian contractor for the Department of Defense. He then pursued legal studies at the Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Florida, where he distinguished himself academically by earning placement on the Dean’s List and serving as a member of the Moot Court Board. Matthew also published an article in the school’s moot court journal, “The Gavel,” reflecting his analytical skills and commitment to legal scholarship.

Legal Philosophy and Practice Areas

Matthew is deeply committed to the support and defense of the United States Constitution and the Florida Constitution. He views these foundational documents as contracts between the people and the government, emphasizing that governmental powers are limited to those explicitly enumerated. Matthew believes that individual rights to liberty, property, and contract are fundamental to the nation’s prosperity and freedom, principles he diligently upholds in his legal practice.

At the Martin Law Firm, Matthew focuses on:

• Real Property Law: Assisting clients with matters related to real estate transactions, property disputes, and land use issues.

• Probate and Trust Law: Guiding clients through estate planning, administration of trusts, and probate proceedings to ensure the orderly transfer of assets.

• Probate Litigation: Representing clients in disputes arising from wills, trusts, and estate administration, striving to resolve conflicts effectively.

• Civil Litigation: Advocating for clients in various civil disputes, including contract issues, personal injury claims, and business conflicts.

• Administrative Law: Navigating the complexities of government regulations and representing clients in administrative hearings and appeals.

• Constitutional Law: Defending clients’ constitutional rights and addressing legal issues involving governmental authority and individual freedoms.

Personal Interests and Community Engagement

Outside of his legal practice, Matthew values quality time with his wife, Mindy, whom he regards as the best person he knows. He enjoys bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee, riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, and playing occasional rounds of golf. Matthew’s diverse interests reflect his appreciation for both the tranquility of nature and the thrill of adventure.