Matthew Davis is an experienced family law attorney with a difference—his experience in teaching and mentoring students gives him a practical understanding of the daily challenges facing families. Matthew’s client relationships today are based on the compassion and empathy he drew upon as a teacher working with students and families going through tough times.

Matthew holds a doctoral degree in law, as well as an undergraduate degree in education and a Master of Arts in Classical Studies & Christianity and Culture. He and his wife, now a mental health therapist, began their teaching careers as newlyweds. They left the profession together nine years later to pursue careers that would expand their scope of service to others. “These are difficult times for families. We witnessed it every day in education and wanted to help people in a broader way,” Matthew says.

Family law was a natural fit for Matthew, and – as it turned out – so was Nichols Zauzig. During his seven years with other law firms, Matthew found it challenging to come up against Nichols Zauzig as opposing counsel. “But it was a pleasant challenge, with a high level of character, integrity and professionalism.” As part of the team since early 2024, Matthew says “it is a different echelon here at Nichols Zauzig because of the work they have put into the firm and their institutional knowledge.”

In addition to his busy family law practice, Matthew is also referred by judges and peers to advocate for children as a Guardian ad Litem. He pursued that role early in his career to further serve the community in cases with difficult custody, adoption or abuse and neglect issues. “This is where we live and I want to help,” he says. 

Matthew repeatedly earns the respect of his peers, as evidenced by his awards in the legal community. He has been named: a Rising Star by Super Lawyers since 2021; a “Ones to Watch” by Best Lawyers in America since 2023; and a Top 10 Family Lawyer Under 40, by the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys since 2020. 

With a 10.0 Avvo Client Rating, clients seem to agree with his peers, that Matthew Davis excels in helping people through some of the hardest seasons of their lives.

• Rising Star, Super Lawyers, Family Law, Virginia and Washington D.C., since 2021
• Ones to Watch, Best Lawyers in America, since 2023
• Top 10 Family Lawyers Under 40, National Academy of Family Law Attorneys, since 2020
• 10.0 Avvo Client Rating, since 2019

“I hired Mr Davis to represent me in my divorce case at a very difficult time of my life. From the very first day he listened and made me feel like a human being not a case. His advice was clear, precise and useful. Every exchange with him and his team was respectful and mindful. Thanks to his gentle and professional approach, I was able to put my life back together by gradually sleeping better, eating better and getting my focus back on my career. Ultimately, he helped me find my freedom and I’ll be forever grateful to him for this. Thank you Mr Davis.” – Divorce client, 2019

“Matt is an outstanding lawyer who is very committed to representing the interests of his clients at a high level. His knowledge of the area, ability to break down the process in a concise manner and his professionalism is definitely an asset not to look over.”- Divorce client, 2019

“Mr. Davis was extremely helpful to me. I was in a situation where I felt completely out of control of my child’s life… If I ever have an issue again he will be the first person I call. Mr. Davis is compassionate and kind. Look no further. This guy is amazing.” – Susan, 2019

“Mr. Matt Davis, thank you for all your hard work, support and efficiency provided during my divorce case and resolving the matter.”  – Sak, 2019

“Matthew Davis served as the court appointed ad litem for our grandchildren in a long and contentious custody case. His professionalism and compassion in representing our grandchildren was instrumental in resolving this very complicated and sensitive custody dispute. We were fortunate to have Mr. Davis appointed to our case because he was fair and unbiased and represented the children well. We highly recommend Mr. Davis.” – Anna, 2021

“Mr. Davis represented my family in a very complicated and emotional CPS/custody case. Mr. Davis was not only an expert in the legalities but he has earned an excellent reputation with the Judges, caseworkers and other attorneys. His ability to work with the other parties as well as navigate the ubiquitous and harrowing issues was invaluable. Mr. Davis was determined to find and secure the best possible outcome for all involved. Mr. Davis is also kind, empathetic, and a man of undeniable integrity. He was generous with not only his time but also his compassion and kindness. Mr. Davis is an asset and exemplary member of his profession! I could not recommend Mr. Davis enough!.” – JGA, 2021

“Mr. Davis was very efficient!! He researched information for my case and was able to show that they did not follow guidelines. Mr Davis knows his stuff. He should definitely be a lawyer you should hire. If ever I need a lawyer again I definitely would hire Mr. Davis. He is EXCELLENT!!!!” – M.S., 2021

“Matt’s professionalism and meticulousness was palpable from the moment we had the first contact via phone. I was impressed by Matt’s thoughtfulness and how he handled this case in the courtroom. I was very pleased with the outcome of our case, and I am grateful that Matt represented my family.” Client, 2019

“Legal Philosophy and Religious Liberty,” Lipscomb University, 2017

“Classical Legal Philosophy,” King’s College, New York City, 2017

“Law School Admission Process,” Joint Black and Hispanic Pre-Law Conference,  New York University, 2017

“Classical Legal Philosophy,” John Jay Institute, 2016

“The Perfect Little Family” Family Restoration Blog, Regent University, 2015