One on One
Lawyer Speak
December 8, 2021
Early influences and experiences paved the way to who Matt Binninger is today.
Matt grew up as an only child in Fairfax, Virginia and his parents, Pam and Gill, were major influences in his life.
"My father was a nuclear weapons engineer and my mother was a career counselor. They have always been highly motivated, educated, and outgoing people. They instilled in me the values of hard work, treating others with respect, and showing compassion for those in need. As soon as I was old enough to work, they encouraged me to do so, and to choose a position where I can help people. "
While studying at the University of Virginia, Matt's internship at the non-profit Opportunities, Alternatives, and Resources Inc. (OAR) introduced him to the struggles of the criminal justice system. OAR offered a variety of services for individuals transitioning from incarceration to their old lives back in the community and Matt worked with the Employment Director to assist clients in developing employment skills and pursuing job referrals. "I heard many tough tales of life behind bars, and the great difficulty that comes with returning to society."
"I also experienced the thrill of helping someone find gainful employment. I knew then and there that I wanted to help people affected by the criminal justice system. That internship was the reason that I applied to go to law school. "
Today, Matt brings that same passion that led him to his career as a lawyer to the clients he serves. He feels very strongly about criminal justice reform, including ending solitary confinement, minimum mandatory punishments, and lowering the amount of time people face for non-violent offenses. He supports and serves on the board of directors for the California Innocence Project Foundation which raises money for the California Innocence Project, a non-profit which provides pro bono legal services and has freed more than 34 wrongfully incarcerated individuals since its inception in 1999.
"After a long day, I like to unwind by listening to music while I cook."
Matt's clients would describe him as a fighter. Whether at trial, a motion hearing, or a sentencing hearing, he advocates aggressively for his clients. His typical Friday nights involve court, jail visits, and office time to prep for trial or write motions. So, when the weekend arrives, he seeks out activities that recharge his batteries. You can find him catching early morning surf, enjoying long runs along Sunset Cliffs (a hobby he picked up during quarantine), going hiking or camping, picking out plants at a nursery or just spending time with friends, likely grabbing a beer at South Beach in OB.
"My friends would describe me as a kind, funny, and easy-going guy who is always there to help someone in need."
Last concert you went to?
Phish
Favorite band?
311
Currently binging?
Squid Games
Book you're currently reading?
An Elegant Defense by Matt Richtel
Favorite type of food?
Mexican
Favorite country visited?
South Africa
Place you want to visit?
Tokyo, Japan
Favorite San Diego restaurant?
Turf Supper Club
Favorite San Diego neighborhood?
Ocean Beach
How do you take your coffee?
Black. Period.
Most controversial opinion?
The possession of controlled substances should be decriminalized.
Fun
Facts
"Something most people don’t know about me is that I was in an improv comedy group in college. "
"I studied Spanish for eight years and lived in Valencia, Spain, for one summer in 2004, so I know enough of the language to get by on the street. But when it comes to working with Spanish-speaking clients, I use an interpreter."