Matthew R. Hess

Matthew R. Hess is the founder and principal of Hess Law Firm, LLC in Naperville, Illinois. He brings more than two decades of complex litigation experience to his practice. He primarily represents clients in contested estate and trust litigation, probate, trust administration, estate planning, civil litigation, appeals, and small business matters. He serves individuals, families, fiduciaries, heirs, beneficiaries, and business owners throughout the Chicagoland area and across Illinois.

Matthew earned his B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2000, where he double-majored in Political Science and Finance. He earned his J.D. from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2003. He maintains memberships in the Illinois State Bar Association, DuPage County Bar Association, and Will County Bar Association.

Matthew began his career representing injured patients and their families in complex medical malpractice cases. He handled those claims at the trial and appellate levels in state and federal courts. He later worked at a large Chicago law firm, where he defended physicians, hospitals, and their insurers in malpractice litigation. He also served as lead trial counsel in defamation litigation and handled medical malpractice cases that produced favorable jury verdicts.

Matthew spent 13 years litigating medical malpractice and nursing home negligence matters before opening his own practice. He now uses that courtroom background to represent clients when disputes arise after a loved one’s death. He handles will and trust contests, fiduciary disputes, guardianship proceedings, and other contested estate matters. He also helps clients administer estates and trusts, prepare estate plans, and address legal needs affecting small and medium-sized businesses.

Matthew R. Hess combines extensive trial experience with a focused understanding of estate, trust, and probate disputes. He provides assertive representation while recognizing the emotional and financial strain that often accompanies conflicts among family members, heirs, beneficiaries, and fiduciaries. He evaluates each matter, explains the available legal options, and prepares cases for negotiation, trial, or appeal when necessary. His background representing both plaintiffs and defendants gives him insight into opposing arguments and litigation strategies. He brings detailed preparation, practical judgment, and compassionate guidance to clients seeking to pursue or protect important rights.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder & Principal, Hess Law Firm, LLC
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, DuPage County Bar Association
• Member, Will County Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• Chicago-Kent College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
  BA in Political Science & Finance

Awards & Badges