Kell Alterman & Runstein, LLP

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Matthew Ellis

At first glance, it might not seem like the most natural transition. Shakespearean actors tired of the low pay are supposed to become graphic designers or teachers, not lawyers, right?

Not necessarily, says Kell, Alterman & Runstein litigator Matthew Ellis. The Emerson College graduate - who followed his 1998 BFA in acting with a five-year stint in New York - says the progression from acting to litigation was remarkably fluid. "Actors are at their best when they're authentic and believable," the Seattle-raised Matthew explains. "I think that's also what makes a good trial lawyer. ... It's not just being conscious of your voice and movement, it's about telling a story that resonates with people on a very basic, true, and honest level."

Matthew's acting experience has served him well, as he won the mock trial competition while attending Lewis & Clark Law School and earned ample praise as a law clerk for his work at a Portland public defender office and as an extern law clerk to U.S. District Court Judge Robert E. Jones. Thus, it was no surprise when Kell, Alterman & Runstein hired him as a litigator in 2007, citing his comfort in the courtroom and impressive clerkships as major factors.

Just as importantly, Matthew boasts a receptive, open-minded approach that makes him popular with clients. "A lot of times, people come to attorneys when they are at their worst," he says. "Often, no one has truly listened to them. I try to focus on listening and being present, because everyone has a story to tell."

Matthew's conversion from actor to attorney wasn't immediate. While trying to put together a piecemeal acting career in New York and Boston, performing mainly Shakespearean roles, he worked as a writer at a rock music website in Brooklyn that went under during the tech crash, and as a content manager/technical project manager in the marketing group at Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. After a post-September 11th bout of soul searching, he and his modern dancer wife moved to Portland so he could attend law school and she could pursue a career as a high school counselor. Choosing to accept Kell, Alterman & Runstein's offer was among his easiest post-acting decisions, as the firm enjoys a strong and progressive reputation in Portland, especially with the plaintiff's bar, says Matthew.

Specializing in employment law, criminal law, general litigation, and estate litigation, Matthew and his wife spend much of their spare time working on their home in Southeast Portland, cooking, backpacking, and attending local cultural events.

Professional and civic activities

Oregon State Bar
Multnomah Bar Association
Oregon Trial Lawyers Association

Admitted to practice

Oregon

Education

B.F.A., Acting, Emerson College, 1998
J.D., Lewis & Clark Law School, 2007

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