Matthew J. Berns

Drawing on his experience in senior leadership roles in the New Jersey Attorney General’s and Governor’s Offices and as a trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, Matt provides an insider’s perspective when guiding clients through complex government investigations, litigation, and other actions.

As chief counsel to the New Jersey Attorney General, Matt oversaw the Divisions of Law, Consumer Affairs, and Civil Rights, and served as the Attorney General’s most senior advisor on non-criminal matters. He oversaw civil litigation and investigations, including affirmative civil enforcement matters in the areas of antitrust, consumer protection, data privacy and cybersecurity, environmental law, false claims, professional licensure, securities fraud, and worker protections.

As deputy chief counsel to the New Jersey Governor, Matt oversaw the office’s litigation, rulemaking, executive order, clemency, and oversight functions. He also advised the Governor on pending legislation.

During his time with the U.S. Department of Justice, Matt defended the federal government in litigation challenging the constitutionality of statutes and the legality of agency rules and policies. Among other matters, he handled litigation challenging the constitutionality of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and some of the Bureau’s earliest regulations, as well as numerous lawsuits involving the Medicaid and Medicare programs.

Before entering public service, Matt worked for another major law firm, where he represented clients in state and federal litigation, investigations, administrative proceedings, and appeals. As part of his diverse practice, he frequently represented clients challenging federal agency action under the Administrative Procedure Act.