Matthew Rossiter

Litigation

Private Client Services

Trust & Estate Litigation

I enjoy the challenge of trying to resolve complicated problems for clients. The objective is always peace, and whether that peace comes through early resolution, intense discovery or trial, achieving it is fulfilling. At all times during the process the client’s emotional perspective matters, and it always guides my advice and approach.

Matthew J. Rossiter brings a wealth of experience to his clients in the areas of fiduciary litigation, civil litigation, estate planning and probate administration at Lathrop GPM. With a strong focus on resolving complex disputes, Matt has built a reputation as a trusted advocate for individuals and businesses alike. A member of the Private Client Services group, Matt has tried nearly every type of case related to trusts, estate planning and administration, including trust contests and appellate matters involving trust interpretation and validity, reformation due to mistake, probate and trust administration, guardianship and breach of fiduciary duty. He has also drafted many estate plans and managed their administration.

Matt’s ability to handle nuanced legal disputes stems from years of trial experience and a deep understanding of the law. His practice spans courts across Missouri and Illinois. Matt represents a diverse client base including:

Beneficiaries

Claimants

Financial institutions

Personal representatives

Trustees

Clients benefit from Matt’s extensive courtroom experience, dedication to protecting their interests and ability to navigate challenging disputes with skill and precision. From guiding families through emotionally charged probate matters to representing business owners in high-stakes civil litigation, Matt approaches each case with care, diligence and a commitment to achieving positive outcomes.

Matt’s legal influence extends beyond the courtroom. A frequent speaker on fiduciary litigation, he has shared valuable insights at seminars and conferences, equipping both attorneys and fiduciaries with practical guidance. He is a founder of the annual Fiduciary Litigation Seminar sponsored by the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, where he has frequently presented or moderated.

When working with Matt, clients gain more than legal representation—they build a partnership with a seasoned attorney who is deeply invested in their success and peace of mind.

Successfully defended a trustee at trial who was sued for breach of fiduciary and prevailed on counterclaim for reformation based upon mistake. The case was upheld by the Missouri Court of Appeals.

Represented a trust beneficiary in two separate cases involving breach of fiduciary duty and trust interpretation, each time prevailing at trial and in the Illinois Court of Appeals.

Represented a defendant sued in Illinois and Tennessee for breach of contract related to an antenuptial agreement and prevailed in both trial courts, successfully resolved case post-appeal.

Twice prevailed at trial on behalf of plaintiffs in trust contests involving lack of capacity, undue influence, and family farms.

Participated in the complex estate planning for a successful real estate investor and business owner with a plan that properly utilized distributions and a no contest clause to achieve the decedent's objectives of providing for his spouse, avoiding unnecessary and costly litigation, and estate tax savings.

Successfully represented a Trust Company in matters involving family acrimony related to a second spouse, loans and alleged improper encroachments upon trust assets. The resolution provided complete vindication of the Trust Company's administration.