Lisa Mathewson has defended clients in criminal and related civil enforcement matters for nearly twenty-five years. Having earned a reputation for innovative analysis and outstanding oral and written advocacy on complex legal issues, Ms. Mathewson maintains an active appellate practice spanning multiple federal circuits and the U.S. Supreme Court. In addition, she often co-counsels with colleagues who value her appellate expertise to present and preserve legal issues at the grand jury and trial stage.
The “CA3blog” has identified Ms. Mathewson’s oral argument in United States v. Tynes as one to which aspiring appellate lawyers should listen to hone their skills. Her rebuttal argument in United States v. Wright earned similar recognition (audio from Wright available here: http://mathewson-law.com/audio/09-3467USAv_Wright.mp3).
Ms. Mathewson also has extensive experience trying complex criminal cases to verdict. Her careful preparation and well-honed communication skills ensure that her clients receive a thorough airing of their side of the story. Her clients benefit from her strategic use of motion practice to define the issues and narrow the government's options. And Ms. Mathewson’s trial experience enhances her appellate practice in turn, permitting her to combine exceptional legal analysis with knowledge of the trial process to produce focused, effective advocacy.
In addition to co-chairing WWCDA's Thought Leadership Committee, Ms. Mathewson is a vice chair of the Amicus Curiae Committee of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, a former Co-Chair of NACDL's White Collar Committee; and a member of its board of directors. She is also a member of the Rules Committee of the Third Circuit Bar Association.
Ms. Mathewson is Chambers ranked for white-collar criminal defense. She was voted a Best Lawyers "White-Collar Lawyer of the Year" in 2024, and her solo practice is consistently ranked Tier One in Best Law Firms.
Before forming Mathewson Law (previously The Law Offices of Lisa A. Mathewson) in 2009, Ms. Mathewson was a partner in a boutique Philadelphia white collar defense firm and practiced with a large international law firm. She graduated with highest honors from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 1995, and clerked at the District of Columbia Court of Appeals.