Matthew G. Novak

Matthew G. Novak is a seasoned trial attorney with more than four decades of experience in civil litigation, personal injury, workers’ compensation, and insurance defense. Known for his integrity and professionalism, he has earned recognition for his effective representation and commitment to justice across complex legal matters in both state and federal courts.

Matthew began his academic path at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he earned his B.A. in 1979. He continued to St. Louis University School of Law, obtaining his J.D. in 1982. During law school, he was a staff member and Assistant Managing Editor of the St. Louis University Law Journal, building early skills in legal writing and research.

Matthew is licensed to practice before the Iowa Supreme Court, the U.S. Supreme Court, multiple U.S. District Courts—including the Northern and Southern Districts of Iowa—and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. With proven strength in both appellate and trial advocacy, he has secured numerous favorable results for clients involved in complex, high-stakes litigation.

Matthew holds the AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, the highest rating for legal ability and ethics. He is a Fellow of both The American College of Trial Lawyers and the Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers—honors extended to a select group of trial lawyers. He also served as Past President of the Dean Mason Ladd American Inn of Court, reflecting his leadership within the profession.

Matthew is active in several professional associations, including the American Bar Association, Iowa State Bar Association, Association of Trial Lawyers of America, Iowa Trial Lawyers Association, and Linn County Bar Association. His involvement reflects his dedication to advancing the profession and mentoring new attorneys through the Judge David R. Hansen American Inn of Court.

Matthew G. Novak has spent his legal career advocating for clients with determination and skill. His experience, honors, and deep commitment to the law make him a trusted name in Iowa’s legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Pickens, Barnes & Abernathy
• Fellow, Association of Trial Lawyers of America
• Fellow, Iowa Academy of Trial Lawyers
• Member, Iowa Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, Iowa Association of School Boards
• Member, Iowa State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, Linn County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Iowa

Education

• St. Louis University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Coe College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges