Kostolnik, Matthew P

In the dynamic and often challenging landscape of business and personal disputes, having a skilled and strategic litigator on your side is paramount. For businesses, individuals, and out-of-state counsel in Minnesota, navigating complex civil actions, contract disagreements, or professional liability claims demands an attorney who is not only knowledgeable but also a seasoned trial lawyer. This is precisely the expertise that Matthew P. Kostolnik, a prominent attorney and Chair of the Litigation Practice Group at Moss & Barnett in Minneapolis, brings to the table.

Matthew P. Kostolnik is a highly regarded litigator and trial lawyer dedicated to successfully defending and prosecuting civil actions at all stages, from the initial filing of a case through trial, appeal, or settlement. His practice is deeply rooted in providing advice to businesses and individuals across a variety of matters, with a strong focus on resolving disputes effectively and efficiently. As part of Moss & Barnett, a well-established and respected law firm in Minnesota, Matthew Kostolnik leverages the firm's extensive resources and collaborative environment to deliver comprehensive legal solutions.

Known among his legal peers as collegial and responsive, Matthew Kostolnik is frequently relied upon as local counsel for out-of-state lawyers whose clients have cases located in the state and federal courts of Minnesota. This recognition highlights his deep understanding of Minnesota's legal landscape and procedural nuances. He is also an integral member of Moss & Barnett's professional liability defense team and creditors' remedies department, further showcasing his versatile litigation capabilities. Matthew Kostolnik's commitment to delivering favorable outcomes, whether through aggressive trial advocacy or strategic settlement, makes him a formidable advocate for anyone in Minnesota facing a significant legal dispute. His recent election to Moss & Barnett's Board of Directors further underscores his leadership and respected standing within the firm and the broader legal community.

Matthew P. Kostolnik practices at Moss & Barnett, P.A., a distinguished law firm centrally located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. His office is situated within the Fifth Street Towers, specifically at 150 S 5th St UNIT 1200, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA. This prominent address ensures high accessibility for clients throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area and across Minnesota.

Being located in a major office complex like the Fifth Street Towers offers significant advantages. The building is exceptionally well-served by Minneapolis's robust public transportation network, including multiple bus routes and light rail stations within a comfortable walking distance. This makes it a convenient option for clients who utilize public transit for their commute from various parts of the state. For those traveling by car, numerous parking garages and metered street parking options are typically available in the immediate vicinity of the building, facilitating smooth and stress-free visits to the office for consultations and meetings.

Furthermore, a downtown Minneapolis presence places Matthew P. Kostolnik and Moss & Barnett in close proximity to key legal and governmental institutions, including federal and state courthouses, which are often central to civil litigation matters. This strategic location can be highly beneficial for efficient case management, court appearances, and interactions with other legal professionals. For Minnesota businesses and individuals, having a highly experienced litigator situated in such a convenient and strategically important area within the state's legal framework provides an added layer of assurance and practicality.

Matthew P. Kostolnik, as Chair of Moss & Barnett's Litigation Practice Group and a seasoned trial lawyer, provides a wide array of legal services focused on successfully defending and prosecuting civil actions for businesses and individuals. His primary areas of practice include:

• Business Litigation: Representing clients in various business disputes, including contract disputes, partnership disagreements, shareholder conflicts, and general commercial litigation.
• Civil Litigation: Handling a broad spectrum of civil disputes, both in defense and prosecution, encompassing a wide range of legal issues that arise between parties.
• Employment Litigation: Defending employers against claims such as breach of non-solicitation agreements, employee disloyalty, theft of trade secrets, and other post-employment litigation. He also advises on unfair competition issues.
• Estate & Trust Litigation: Providing representation in disputes related to estates, trusts, wills, and probate matters.
• Professional Liability Defense: Defending professionals, such as accountants (CPA firms), against claims of negligence or malpractice, including complex cases involving allegations of fraud or failure to detect schemes.
• Insurance Issues: Advising and representing clients on various insurance-related disputes and coverage matters.
• Liability Claims: Handling defense and prosecution of various liability claims.
• Contract Drafting and Negotiation: Providing legal advice and drafting services related to contracts, as well as assisting with negotiations to prevent future disputes.
• Trial and Appellate Advocacy: Representing clients effectively through all stages of litigation, including jury trials, arbitration panels, and appeals in state and federal courts.
• Local Counsel Representation: Frequently serving as local counsel for out-of-state lawyers with cases in Minnesota's state and federal courts.

Matthew P. Kostolnik's practice is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore his expertise and value to clients in Minnesota:

• Chair of Litigation Practice Group: Matthew serves as the chair of Moss & Barnett's litigation practice group, demonstrating his leadership and strategic direction within the firm's core dispute resolution area.
• Seasoned Litigator and Trial Lawyer: He is a highly experienced litigator who successfully defends and prosecutes civil actions at all stages, from initial case filing through trial, appeal, or settlement. His trial successes include significant defense verdicts in complex trade secret and professional liability cases.
• Consistent Super Lawyers Recognition: Matthew P. Kostolnik has been consistently selected to Minnesota Super Lawyers (since 2024-2025) and previously to Rising Stars (2005-2009, 2011-2012). This peer recognition and independent research confirm his high degree of professional achievement and standing among the top 5% of attorneys in the state.
• In-Depth Business and Individual Dispute Expertise: He provides advice to both businesses and individuals in a variety of matters, with a common focus on business disputes, negotiations, contracts, and liability claims.
• Trusted Local Counsel: Known among his legal peers as collegial and responsive, he is often relied upon by out-of-state lawyers whose clients have cases in Minnesota, highlighting his deep understanding of local courts and procedures.
• Member of Key Firm Departments: Matthew is an active member of Moss & Barnett's professional liability defense team and creditors' remedies department, showcasing his versatile skill set.
• Proven Case Results: His public record includes successful defense of an $8 million claim for theft of trade secrets and a complete defense verdict for a CPA firm in a $116 million Ponzi scheme audit negligence claim after a two-week trial. He also achieved successful resolution of a non-compete and non-solicitation dispute for a top executive.
• Firm General Counsel: Matthew also serves as Moss & Barnett's General Counsel, indicating the trust and confidence his own firm places in his legal judgment and strategic counsel.
• Board of Directors Member: Effective January 1, 2025, Matthew was elected to a three-year term on Moss & Barnett's Board of Directors, further solidifying his leadership role and influence within the firm.

In the realm of sophisticated business and civil litigation services provided by a firm like Moss & Barnett and an attorney of Matthew P. Kostolnik's caliber, "promotions" typically manifest as valuable strategic insights, accessible initial discussions, and a commitment to efficient resolution rather than traditional discounts. Matthew P. Kostolnik offers key benefits that serve as compelling "offers" to potential clients in Minnesota:

• Initial Consultation: While specific details on a "free" consultation are not always explicitly stated, it is common practice for attorneys in this field to offer an initial meeting to discuss a potential client's litigation needs. This allows businesses and individuals to outline their situation, receive preliminary insights, and understand how Matthew P. Kostolnik can provide legal assistance, without an immediate financial commitment for the full scope of services. Interested parties are encouraged to contact the firm directly to schedule such a consultation.
• Strategic Problem-Solving and Efficiency: Matthew P. Kostolnik’s experience in navigating complex civil actions through trial, appeal, or settlement, as well as his focus on providing "advice to businesses and individuals in a variety of matters," underscores his commitment to efficient and effective resolution. This strategic approach, aimed at achieving desired outcomes and mitigating risks, can lead to significant long-term savings for clients by avoiding prolonged and costly litigation.
• Local Counsel Resource: His established role as local counsel for out-of-state attorneys is a valuable "offer" for law firms nationwide with clients needing representation in Minnesota courts, demonstrating his responsiveness and in-depth knowledge of local procedures, which can save time and resources.

These aspects highlight Matthew P. Kostolnik’s dedication to delivering strategic, client-focused legal services that aim to resolve complex disputes effectively and efficiently for businesses and individuals in Minnesota.

For businesses, individuals, and out-of-state counsel in Minnesota seeking expert legal assistance with business, civil, employment, or professional liability litigation, you can contact Matthew P. Kostolnik through his firm, Moss & Barnett, P.A., using the following details:

Address: Fifth Street Towers, 150 S 5th St UNIT 1200, Minneapolis, MN 55402, USA

Phone: (612) 877-5334

Mobile Phone: +1 612-877-5334

You can also find more information about Matthew P. Kostolnik and Moss & Barnett, including their full range of services and online contact options, on the official Moss & Barnett website.

For businesses and individuals across Minnesota facing the often daunting prospect of litigation, Matthew P. Kostolnik at Moss & Barnett, P.A. stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly advantageous legal partner. His suitability for locals is deeply rooted in his specialized expertise, proven track record, accessible location, and significant leadership within a respected Minnesota law firm.

Firstly, Matthew P. Kostolnik's extensive experience as a litigator and trial lawyer is a critical advantage for Minnesota clients. His role as Chair of Moss & Barnett's Litigation Practice Group underscores his leadership and strategic insight in handling complex civil actions. Whether it's a business dispute, an employment-related claim, or a professional liability defense, his deep understanding of Minnesota's legal framework and courtroom procedures ensures highly effective representation. His public record of achieving favorable outcomes in challenging cases, such as a full defense verdict in an $8 million trade secret claim and a $116 million Ponzi scheme audit negligence case, provides concrete evidence of his capabilities, instilling confidence in local clients.

Secondly, his office location within the Fifth Street Towers in downtown Minneapolis (150 S 5th St UNIT 1200) offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility for clients throughout the Twin Cities and beyond. This central location, well-served by public transportation and with ample parking options, minimizes logistical burdens for individuals and business representatives needing to consult with their attorney. Being strategically close to state and federal courthouses further streamlines legal processes, which is a significant practical benefit for anyone involved in litigation.

Moreover, Matthew Kostolnik's consistent recognition as a Minnesota Super Lawyer speaks volumes about his professional achievements and ethical standing. This peer validation assures local clients that they are working with a top-tier attorney. His reputation as "collegial and responsive" among his legal peers, and his frequent role as local counsel for out-of-state firms, further demonstrates his collaborative spirit and deep understanding of Minnesota's legal environment.

Finally, as an integral part of Moss & Barnett, a firm known for its comprehensive services and established reputation, Matthew Kostolnik ensures clients benefit from broader resources and a collaborative legal team. His role as the firm's General Counsel and his recent election to the Board of Directors highlight the trust and respect he commands within his own organization. For Minnesota locals, this translates into a powerful combination of individual excellence and institutional support, making Matthew P. Kostolnik an ideal choice for navigating their most critical business and civil litigation needs.