Matthew A. Sylva

Matthew A. Sylva is the owner and attorney of Akamai Law, LLLC, providing focused representation for clients facing criminal, protective order, juvenile, mental health, and selected civil matters. He approaches each case with practical preparation, courtroom experience, and a commitment to helping clients understand their risks, options, and next steps.

Matthew earned his Juris Doctor from William S. Richardson School of Law in 2017, along with an Environmental Law Certificate. He also completed studies at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, earning degrees in Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences, with honors, and Journalism, building a broad academic foundation for legal analysis. Before founding his firm, he served as a Deputy Public Defender III from 2018 to 2022, gaining extensive courtroom experience across a range of case types.

Matthew’s experience includes more than 100 trials and motion hearings, as well as numerous negotiated resolutions. That background helps him evaluate evidence, prepare arguments, challenge weaknesses, and, with careful attention, pursue favorable outcomes for clients facing traffic offenses, DUI allegations, felony charges, family-related criminal issues, or complex procedural concerns. At Akamai Law, LLLC, he focuses on criminal defense, TROs, juvenile cases, mental health matters, and select civil issues, drawing on training in environmental law.

Matthew A. Sylva helps people by providing direct advocacy in stressful legal situations, especially when liberty, reputation, family stability, or future opportunities may be affected. He works to clarify the process, identify workable strategies, and present each client’s position with care, preparation, informed judgment, and steady focus for clients. His professional involvement includes membership in the Hawaii State Bar Association and the West Hawaii Bar Association. Through public defense and private practice, he provides steady guidance, practical solutions, and committed courtroom representation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Akamai Law, LLLC
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• William S. Richardson School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Hawaii
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges