Matthew Fornaro: Providing Legal Stability for South Florida Entrepreneurs

A business law attorney combining deep legal experience with real-world business insight to support local companies in Broward and beyond. Umbrella Local Heroes

For more than two decades, Attorney Matthew Fornaro, founder of Matthew Fornaro, P.A., has been a trusted legal advisor for South Florida’s small business owners and entrepreneurs. With over 22 years of legal experience, he helps local companies navigate complex business challenges so they can focus on growth and long-term success. Umbrella Local Heroes

Matthew’s practice is built on a blend of exceptional legal skill and deep understanding of what it takes to run a business. Because he has operated and managed his own firm for over a decade, he doesn’t just provide legal advice — he offers practical counsel rooted in real-world experience. Umbrella Local Heroes

“Many attorneys from large firms give advice from a clinical setting without hands-on business experience,” Matthew explains. “Having run my own practice, I understand the pressures, decisions, and day-to-day realities my clients face. I don’t just handle their legal issues — I help them succeed as business owners.” Umbrella Local Heroes

Comprehensive Legal Services for Business Owners

At Matthew Fornaro, P.A., legal support is tailored to the needs of Florida entrepreneurs — whether they’re just starting out or navigating litigation. The firm’s services include:

Business Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Litigation comprises the majority of the firm’s work, representing businesses in a wide range of legal disputes. Whether defending against claims or pursuing remedies on behalf of clients, Matthew brings a thoughtful and strategic approach to litigation.

Transactional and Advisory Services

In addition to courtroom work, Matthew provides essential transactional support, including:

• Business entity formation

• Operating agreement drafting

• Contract creation and review

• Compliance guidance

For new business owners, choosing the right structure and preparing documents correctly from the start can prevent future legal complications. Umbrella Local Heroes

He frequently collaborates with accountants and financial professionals to ensure clients make well-informed decisions about their business setup and ongoing operations. Umbrella Local Heroes

Business Development & Community Engagement

Matthew’s commitment to professional excellence extends beyond client work. He has completed respected business development programs such as the FastTrac program by the Kauffman Foundation and the Jim Moran Entrepreneurship program through Florida State University. Today, he serves as a legal expert and instructor for both programs, mentoring new entrepreneurs just as he once was supported early in his career. Umbrella Local Heroes

He also applies modern technology — including artificial intelligence — to streamline legal processes, allowing him to spend more time developing meaningful client relationships and enhancing service delivery. Umbrella Local Heroes

Community Involvement & Personal Life

Deeply rooted in South Florida, Matthew has served on local boards and commissions, contributing his expertise to the Broward County Historical Commission, Consumer Protection Commission, and the Broward County Bar Association. Umbrella Local Heroes

Closer to home, he and his family are active in community and synagogue activities, and his children’s sports and school events. Outside work, Matthew enjoys Florida’s vibrant sports scene — he’s a dedicated Panthers season ticket holder and an enthusiastic Inter Miami CF supporter — and occasionally relaxes with a Lifetime movie. Umbrella Local Heroes

Matthew also holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest recognition for legal ability and ethical standards, and he is a qualified arbitrator and mediator — credentials that reflect both peer respect and professional excellence. Umbrella Local Heroes

A Legal Partner for South Florida’s Entrepreneurs

What sets Matthew apart is not only his technical legal skill but his commitment to business success. He understands that legal strategy is integral to growth — not just litigation and paperwork. His collaborative approach, working with accountants, bankers, and trusted advisors, ensures entrepreneurs receive comprehensive support.

For local small business owners seeking an attorney who understands both the law and the entrepreneurial journey, Matthew Fornaro provides experienced, technology-enhanced legal counsel grounded in business reality. Umbrella Local Heroes