Matthew J. Schaap

Matthew Schaap is a shareholder at Dougherty Molenda and serves on the firm's board of directors. He focuses on personal and business litigation, offering clients seasoned guidance in and out of the courtroom. Starting his career as a Judicial Law Clerk to Judge Elizabeth Hayden in Minnesota, Matthew supported judicial decision-making with crucial research and writing. He gained valuable experience assisting in jury trials across criminal and civil contexts, observing winning trial techniques firsthand. Joining Dougherty Molenda in 2004 post-clerkship, Matthew dedicated his practice to litigation and trial advocacy. He aims to be a zealous advocate, ensuring thorough research on all pertinent issues and helping clients understand the legal process to make informed decisions. He has developed practical guides to aid clients, particularly in understanding the discovery process, and offers early case analysis to assess litigation risks and devise effective trial strategies. Matthew's commitment to legal writing excellence began in law school when his appellate brief was chosen as the best by faculty. As an attorney, he has authored numerous appellate briefs leading to affirmed client outcomes and has successfully argued before high-level courts including the Minnesota Supreme and Federal Circuit Courts. His extensive experience includes leading numerous jury trials to successful outcomes, and engaging effectively in mediations, arbitrations, and motion hearings. Recognized as a top young attorney in Minnesota Law and Politics, Matthew has been listed in Minnesota Rising Stars® and Minnesota Super Lawyers.