SWMW Law, one of the top plaintiffs law firms in the country focusing on representing victims of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, is proud to announce the promotion of Matthew S. Nelke to Partner.
“Matthew’s leadership, experience, and competitive drive make him a vital part of our team. His combination of legal acumen, strategic foresight, and relentless drive has made a lasting impact – not only on our clients’ outcomes, but on the very way we operate as a firm,” said Member Lauren Williams. “From streamlining workflows across departments to leading improvements in training and case management systems, Matthew has never shied away from a challenge. He leads by example and elevates those around him. Promoting him to Partner wasn’t just the right choice – it was the obvious one. We are proud to have him on our team.”
Nelke joined SWMW Law as an associate attorney in 2023, focusing his practice on helping individuals and families affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. As a member of the Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Department within the firm’s Asbestos Practice, Nelke works with other team members to maximize recoveries from companies that have petitioned for bankruptcy and are known to have manufactured, supplied, and distributed asbestos-containing products. Since joining the firm, he has made a meaningful impact – channeling his energy, initiative, and client-first mindset into every facet of his work, In addition to his contributions in the courtroom, Nelke quickly took on broader firm initiatives, playing a key role in enhancing operational efficiency, cross-departmental collaboration, and the refinement of internal protocols. His efforts to advance training resources and strengthen the strategic development of bankruptcy trust cases have significantly elevated the firm’s capabilities and cohesion.
Nelke’s dedication to SWMW Law and its clients is mirrored by his commitment to the community, where he devotes his time to philanthropic organizations that serve some of the city’s most vulnerable residents. In 2024, he was recognized by Missouri Lawyers Media as an Up & Coming Lawyer for making a positive impact in his practice and in his community.
Before joining the firm, Nelke worked in asbestos litigation for four years, both as a deposition attorney and as a lung-cancer associate. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance. He earned his J.D. from the Saint Louis University School of Law and was the recipient of the Dean’s Select Scholarship.
