Matthew is an Associate Attorney in the Bellingham office of GLP Attorneys.
Matthew Palmer brings a strong foundation in trial and appellate advocacy to his work at GLP Attorneys, rooted in years of experience as a public defender across multiple states. Originally from the Philadelphia area, Matthew earned his law degree from Washburn University School of Law, where he graduated with distinguished pro bono honors. He also holds a Master’s in Education from Lehigh University and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Maine.
Before joining GLP Attorneys, Matthew served with the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office, where he handled trial, appellate, post-conviction, and civil matters. He later worked in the Federal Defender’s Office in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before making the move to the Pacific Northwest. Most recently, he practiced as a trial attorney with the Whatcom County Public Defender’s Office. Over the course of his career, he has tried nearly 20 cases and argued before appellate courts.
Matthew was drawn to personal injury law as a natural extension of his public defense work. “I became a public defender after seeing vulnerable people exploited by a powerful system,” he explains. “People who have been injured or wronged often face a similar imbalance. I take pride in guiding clients through the legal system and helping them seek justice.”
Matthew is admitted to practice law in Washington and maintains inactive status in Oregon and Missouri. He is an active board member of PFLAG Whatcom and is deeply engaged in civic and community life.
Outside the courtroom, Matthew enjoys the outdoors with his two golden retrievers, Merlin and Glinda—both AKC champions. A passionate participant in conformation events, he earned a career highlight in 2019 when Merlin won “Best of Breed” at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York City. Matthew is a proud member of the Evergreen Golden Retriever Club and the Golden Retriever Club of America.
