Matthew J. Rifino is a Commercial Litigator whose practice focuses on corporate bankruptcy and restructuring matters, commercial disputes, corporate counseling, and pre-suit risk assessment across a broad range of industries, including financial services, oil & gas, and manufacturing.
Matthew represents lenders, equipment lessors, and retailers in Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, in which he has assisted clients interested in acquiring the assets of debtors, facilitated the assumption of contracts, obtained payment of pre- and post-petition debts, and gained relief from the automatic stay to allow for the exercise of state law remedies. His bankruptcy practice also includes the representation of a Chapter 7 Trustee where he has overseen the marketing and sale of assets and negotiated financial settlements for the benefit of the bankruptcy estate. In addition, he has obtained monetary judgments in state court proceedings against defaulting borrowers and guarantors on behalf of secured creditors.
Matthew also represents companies embroiled in commercial disputes. Relying on his knowledge of Delaware law, in which he has authored numerous articles for the Delaware Corporate and Alternative Law Group, Matthew has litigated disputes concerning, among other things, the interpretation and enforcement of term sheets, asset purchase agreements, and formation agreements.
Further, Matthew works with clients to identify areas of risk in their business practices which could expose them to financial liability. He offers clients a wealth of knowledge based on his experience litigating disputes in state and federal court, and he has written numerous articles published in Law360, Lexology, and JD Supra, which offer common-sense solutions to complex legal issues. Matthew favors a practical approach to problem solving, which reflects a respect for the clients’ resources and capabilities.
Finally, Matthew lends his time to various legal aid organizations in the region. He has counseled small businesses through his participation in the Philadelphia VIP Small Business Clinic. He has represented victims of domestic abuse in protection from abuse proceedings and custody disputes through his work with Delaware Volunteer Legal Services, Inc. Matthew also assists the Office of Child Advocate as a guardian ad litem for children in foster care to ensure that they receive the necessary social, medical, and financial support.