Matthew C. Binninger

Matthew C. Binninger is an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney with over 12 years of experience dedicated to protecting the rights of the accused. Having handled over 1,000 cases—including more than 600 felonies—he has built a reputation for providing skilled, compassionate, and effective representation in both state and federal courts.

Matthew earned his Juris Doctor from California Western School of Law in 2009, where he was active in the California Innocence Project, Moot Court Honors Board, and Trial Team. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Virginia. These academic achievements provide a strong foundation for his legal career and trial advocacy.

From 2011 to 2019, Matthew served as a Trial Attorney for the Federal Defenders of San Diego, Inc., where he represented hundreds of indigent clients in federal court. His advocacy led to dismissals, favorable plea bargains, diversionary programs, and victories at both trial and appeal. In 2019, he established his own law office in Little Italy, focusing on federal criminal defense and personal injury cases.

Matthew is dedicated to serving his community through his work on the Criminal Justice Act (CJA) panel, where he defends indigent clients in federal court. Outside the courtroom, he has served as an adjunct professor at California Western School of Law, coaching trial teams and teaching practical trial advocacy skills to the next generation of attorneys.

At the core of his practice is a deep understanding of the stakes Matthew’s clients face when charged with criminal offenses. Whether handling cases involving drug crimes, fraud, immigration violations, violent offenses, or federal investigations, he approaches every matter with determination and personalized attention.

Matthew C. Binninger’s career reflects a balance of trial experience, academic excellence, and genuine care for his clients, making him a trusted advocate in San Diego’s legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Matt Binninger Law
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, The State Bar of California

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Georgetown University Law Center
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Georgetown University
  Bachelor of Arts

Awards & Badges