Mathew A. Work | Founder & Equity Partner

Attorney Mathew Work is a Nevada trial lawyer, legal scholar, and community leader based in Reno, Nevada. As the founding partner of Carlson & Work, Mathew built the firm on a mission to make legal services more approachable, responsive, and effective for clients facing life-altering legal challenges. 

Legal Experience Built on Results and Integrity

Mathew’s career spans high-stakes litigation and public service. After serving as a criminal prosecutor for the City of Reno, where he litigated numerous cases to verdict, Mathew launched his own firm and quickly earned a reputation for tough courtroom advocacy and client-focused service.

He’s been recognized for his legal excellence by multiple national legal organizations, including:

• Top 40 Under 40 by the National Trial Lawyers (2017–2021)
• Top 10 Trial Attorney by the Nevada Trial Lawyers Association (2019, 2020)
• Nevada Attorney of the Year by Top 100 Registry Inc. (2020)

His deep knowledge of litigation strategy and trial advocacy continues to drive major wins for his clients in Reno and throughout Nevada.

Education and Background

Raised in Henderson, Nevada, Mathew comes from a working-class background. He was raised by his single mother and grandparents — an upbringing that shaped his work ethic, resilience, and drive to fight for others.

• University of Nevada, Reno — B.A. in Economics, summa cum laude
  (Also a student-athlete in lacrosse and football)
• Thomas Jefferson School of Law — J.D., magna cum laude
  • Full academic scholarship
  • Recipient of the Jefferson, Wilkins, and Cali Awards
  • Teaching Assistant and Dean’s List honoree

After passing the Nevada Bar Exam on his first attempt, Mathew launched into trial work as a city prosecutor.

Before focusing exclusively on civil litigation, Mathew served as outside General Counsel to PSR, the nation’s largest NFL agency. In this role, he negotiated contracts for elite NFL coaches, executives, and personnel — giving him a rare edge in complex negotiations, dispute resolution, and high-pressure legal strategy — a foundation that still powers his success in litigation today.

Local Leadership and Community Commitment

Mathew currently serves as:

• President of the Reno Charter Committee, representing Mayor Hillary Schieve
• A board member of Montreux, Axiom Group LLP, and Nevada Moot Court

He also shares his knowledge as a professor of law and advisor to political leadership throughout Nevada.

Life Beyond the Courtroom

Mathew is a devoted husband to Kalie Work, a respected elected official in Washoe County, and a proud father to their daughter, Kennedy. Outside of work, Mathew enjoys exploring Nevada’s outdoors, mentoring law students, and investing in causes that improve access to justice across Northern Nevada.

Contact Carlson & Work

If you need legal respresentation, Attorney Mathew Work is ready to help you pursue justice and full financial recovery. With proven trial experience and a commitment to client advocacy, he brings unmatched dedication to every case.

Awards and Recognition:

• American Institute of Attorneys – National Top 10 Trial Attorney 
• Nevada Trial Lawyer Association – Top 10 Trial Attorney 
• The National Trial Lawyers – 2019 Top 40 Under 40 – Criminal Defense 
• The National Trial Lawyers – 2019 Top 40 Under 40 – Family Law 
• American College of Trial Lawyer – Top 100 Nationally 
• Perfect 10 – AVVO Rating 
• American Academy of Attorneys – Top 40 Under 40 – Trial Attorney 
• American Institute of Legal Advocates – Rising Star
• Adjunct Law Professor – TMCC 
• Adjunct Mock Trial Lecturer – University of Nevada, Reno