Today, we’re getting to know attorney Matt Meyerkord, who founded the beginnings of MRH Law in 2008 to help those who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. Matt loves what he does and sees himself as a counselor, an advisor, and a fighter. Learn what’s behind his passion for justice, his inspiration to practice law, and his favorite KC spots.
What inspired you to become a personal injury lawyer?
I have many lawyers in my family, including my dad and brother, so I grew up with a good yet naïve idea of what a personal injury lawyer does. It wasn’t until I went to college that I realized what good one can do as a personal injury lawyer while also making a good living. My family and desire to make a positive impact is what inspired me to be a personal injury lawyer.
What types of personal injury cases are you most passionate about handling?
The ones where a clear wrongdoing occurred. Whether it’s a car crash, slip and fall, or any other case, I am drawn to those where someone acts carelessly or recklessly and causes someone injury or death. Bonus points if the wrongdoer refuses to accept responsibility for their negligence.
In your opinion, what sets a great personal injury attorney apart from others?
The ones who are willing to dig deep, to do the work needed to be done to maximize your client’s recovery. Lawyers can sometimes fall into routine or complacency. They don’t do the work to fully investigate a case. This can leave money on the table that could have been used to provide additional compensation to the client. You must be willing and able to go the distance in your cases so that your clients can be compensated.
What advice would you give to someone who has never worked with a personal injury lawyer before?
Don’t lie, exaggerate, or leave anything out. Your personal injury lawyer is on your side and shares your goal to maximize your compensation (at least at my law firm we do). You may want to tell your lawyer only the information you think will help your case and omit or lie about the things you think will hurt your case. Don’t do it! It’s safe to assume the “other side” will know the whole truth. It’s impossible to rebut a bad fact we don’t know about. Doing so can end your case or tank its value.
Why did you decide to practice as a personal injury attorney in Kansas City?
I chose Kansas City because I love it. I was born and raised in St. Louis but went to law school in Kansas City. When I came here for law school, I fell in love with the place. I also fell in love with a lovely lady from Kansas City. When I decided to open my own practice in 2008, Kansas City was the only choice.
What is your favorite thing to do in Kansas City?
I’ll give several. KC Current games at CPKC Stadium, Sporting KC games at Children’s Mercy Park, going out to dinner, disc golf (favorite courses are Waterworks Park, Rosedale, Hobby Hill, Wyandotte County Park), hiking (favorites are Wyandotte County Lake, Weston Bend, and Smithville Lake), The Museum of Kansas City, specifically the old-school soda fountain in the basement, street car rides, and the Nelson Atkins art museum.
What do you like most about having your office in the River Market?
Great food, street car stop right outside my office, close to several courthouses.
Outside of your work as a personal injury attorney, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Crossfit, cooking, cycling, disc golf, reading, hanging with my family, video games, movies, sports of any kind.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“Is the juice worth the squeeze?”