Matthew and Patrick McNicholas Recognized on 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers List
Partners Matthew McNicholas and Patrick McNicholas were recognized in Lawdragon’s 2026 500 Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers list for their impactful work in personal injury, wrongful death, and sexual abuse. Matthew was specifically highlighted for his work representing first responders, a first-of-its-kind callout in Lawdragon.
Matthew has worked to hold California police and fire departments accountable for misconduct, harassment, and discrimination for over 25 years. His efforts encourage employees to speak up and foster safer workplaces, leading to improvements in public safety. His cases often yield large verdicts and settlements that drive institutional reforms. In 2025, he won over $34 million in employment disputes, cementing his status as a top advocate for first responders.
Patrick has taken on major California retailers, automobile manufacturers, resorts, casinos, utility providers, and local governments. He has secured over $3 billion in resolutions for his clients, holding large corporations accountable and driving changes that have positively impacted thousands of lives and reduced the risk of deadly incidents. His dedication to justice continues to make a significant difference across multiple sectors.
For more than three decades, McNicholas & McNicholas has built a reputation as one of California’s leading law firms, handling a wide range of cases including personal injury and employment law matters. Founded by a family of attorneys spanning three generations, John McNicholas and sons, Patrick and Matthew, have tried hundreds of cases to jury verdict on behalf of clients. Learn more about McNicholas & McNicholas.