J. Matthew "Matthew" Kirby

J. Matthew "Matthew" Kirby

Memphis, TN recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2017
Harris Shelton PLLC

32 Best Lawyers awards

Harris Shelton PLLC logo

Awarded Practice Areas

Workers' Compensation Law - Employers
*Named the "Lawyer of the Year" in this practice area in the 2026 edition in Memphis.

Biography

J. Matthew Kirby is a partner with Harris Shelton PLLC in Memphis, Tennessee. He began working with the firm while attending law school and has continued to build his practice representing businesses and institutions in a wide range of legal matters. His work frequently involves advising healthcare providers and other organizations on disputes, regulatory obligations, and day‑to‑day legal issues.

Matthew’s practice includes Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers, professional and healthcare liability matters, insurance disputes, employment and labor law issues, and contract disputes. He regularly counsels clients on compliance and workplace matters involving laws such as the FMLA, ADA, ADEA, and Title VII. He also assists organizations with HIPAA compliance, regulatory considerations, risk management strategies, and legal questions related to emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.

In addition to litigation and dispute resolution, Matthew serves as general counsel to several businesses and faith-based organizations. In that role, he provides ongoing legal guidance on operational decisions, employment concerns, contracts, and liability issues. His practice also includes handling premises liability matters, tort claims, and other business-related disputes for clients in Memphis and throughout Tennessee.

Matthew works with clients both inside and outside the courtroom, helping them evaluate risks, resolve disputes, and move business initiatives forward. His approach focuses on identifying practical solutions that support the client’s long-term goals while addressing immediate legal concerns.

Harris Shelton PLLC

32 Best Lawyers awards

Harris Shelton PLLC logo

Overview

  • Union University, B.A., graduated 1998
  • University of Memphis, Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, J.D., graduated 2001

  • Arkansas, Arkansas Bar Association, 2014
  • Tennessee, Tennessee Bar Association, 2001

  • Arkansas Bar Association - Member
  • Tennessee Bar Association - Member
  • Memphis Bar Association - Member

  • All Tennessee Courts, 2001
  • Arkansas Courts, 2014
  • Tennessee Federal District Court, 2001
  • Arkansas, Arkansas Bar Association, 2014
  • Tennessee, Tennessee Bar Association, 2001
  • Arkansas Bar Association - Member
  • Tennessee Bar Association - Member
  • Memphis Bar Association - Member
  • Union University, B.A., graduated 1998
  • University of Memphis, Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law, J.D., graduated 2001
  • All Tennessee Courts, 2001
  • Arkansas Courts, 2014
  • Tennessee Federal District Court, 2001

Client Testimonials

Awards & Focus

Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2026 - Workers' Compensation Law - Employers Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2022 - Workers' Compensation Law - Employers Lawyer of the Year Badge - 2019 - Workers' Compensation Law - Employers
Named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers® for:
  • Workers' Compensation Law - Employers, Memphis (2026)
  • Workers' Compensation Law - Employers, Memphis (2022)
  • Workers' Compensation Law - Employers, Memphis (2019)
Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
  • Workers' Compensation Law - Employers
Awards:
  • AVVO
    • Superb rating
  • Martindale Hubbell

    • AV Preeminent Peer Review Rating 2013-present
    • Preeminent Client Review Rating 2013 present
  • Mid-South Super Lawyers
    • Rising Star 2011 – 2015
    • Super Lawyer 2025

Additional Information

  • Publicity

Matthew regularly speaks to various organizations, including health care providers, on topics including civil commitment laws, risk management, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation.

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