Over 37 Years Of Environmental Law Experience

About My Law Practice

I’m attorney Matthew Wolford. By the time I opened Wolford Law in 1999, my years working in environmental law had convinced me of one thing – this area of the law is not for the novice attorney. Whether I am representing individuals, organizations, or businesses, I bring my entire focus to the work.

Prior to launching my private practice, I worked as an environmental crimes prosecutor for the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, which handles criminal enforcement for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).  I also served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania and was a member of the U.S. Attorney’s Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee for the Western District of Pennsylvania, where I sat on the steering committee for the Subcommittee on Environmental Crimes. I later served as an Assistant Counsel for the DEP, and was subsequently promoted to Regional Counsel of the DEP’s Northwest Regional Office.

Outside of the courtroom, I have shared my knowledge of environmental law by serving on the Council and later as Chair of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Environmental and Energy Law Section, where I currently serve as Chair of the Programs and Publications Committee.  I am also a member of the Environmental Hearing Board Rules Committee, and the State Water Plan Statewide and Great Lakes Regional Committees. I have lectured extensively as an adjunct professor at Gannon University, Allegheny College, and Thiel College.

To learn more about my background as an attorney, click on the profile link below.

My Approach To Representing You

I understand the nuances of environmental law because I have successfully represented the government, plaintiffs, and defendants in enforcement actions and lawsuits. When you work with me, you will receive experienced, strategic representation that will help you achieve your goals in your legal matter.

My objective in representing my clients is to ensure that they comply with mandatory requirements, as failing to do so will have adverse consequences.  However, if the law is unclear or silent on an environment issue, I strive to protect my client’s private property rights and other Constitutional protections.

Bringing my entire focus to your case means that you will work with me directly. I am a solo practitioner, and I am the one who answers your phone call and responds to your e-mail. Because I handle every aspect of your case personally, I am able to partner with you to understand your case thoroughly and to ensure you are fully informed so you can make intelligent decisions regarding the disposition of your case.

Contact My Office To Set Up A Free Initial Appointment

If you are impacted by an environmental law matter, don’t hesitate to contact my office in Erie at 814-409-7277. I provide free initial phone and in-person consultations by appointment only. You may also send me an e-mail using my online contact form to request your appointment.