How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a energy case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some energy attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.

How long do energy cases in Pennsylvania typically take?

Simple energy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Erie?

Matthew is licensed in Pennsylvania. Matters governed by Pennsylvania law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Matthew?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Matthew accepting new energy clients right now?

Matthew's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Matthew David Rak, Energy Attorney in Erie

Quick answer

Matthew David Rak is a partner based in Erie, PA. The practice focuses on Energy, Estate Planning, and Probate. Matthew has over 22 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Leech Tishman. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Erie, PA
Experience: over 22 years
Known for: Energy · Estate Planning · Probate

Handles Energy, Estate Planning, and Probate matters from Erie, PA.
Over 22 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with Peer Reviewed.

Areas of practice

Matthew's practice areas in Erie

Matthew concentrates on energy, estate planning, probate, tax, and trusts. Each area below outlines the kind of case Matthew handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Energy cases in Erie, Pennsylvania

Matthew takes energy matters in Erie, Pennsylvania. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Estate Planning cases in Erie, Pennsylvania

Matthew takes estate planning matters in Erie, Pennsylvania. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Probate cases in Erie, Pennsylvania

Matthew takes probate matters in Erie, Pennsylvania. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Tax cases in Erie, Pennsylvania

Matthew takes tax matters in Erie, Pennsylvania. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Trusts cases in Erie, Pennsylvania

Matthew takes trusts matters in Erie, Pennsylvania. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Biography

Matthew David Rak, energy attorney serving Erie

Matthew David Rak is a partner based in Erie, PA. The practice focuses on Energy, Estate Planning, and Probate. Matthew has over 22 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Leech Tishman. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review. Matthew works from Erie, Pennsylvania and takes on energy matters across the region.

Matt Rak works closely with clients to design practical plans addressing business succession, asset protection, and tax efficiency, as well as resolving family conflict. He brings an array of planning tools and strategies to elegantly resolve client conundrums both before and after death. Matt is also experienced in the varied aspects of estate and trust administration, including post-mortem tax planning and fiduciary liability.

Matt is licensed in Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Charitable Organization Experience

• Catholic Cemeteries Association of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

• Former President and Director, current member of Finance Committee and reputation management

• Catholic Family Security Association; Former Director

• Pittsburgh Foundation; Professional Advisors Committee

• Franklin Park Borough; Civil Service Commissioner; Former Judge of Elections

• Wheeling Jesuit University; Former Development Board Member

• Mental Health and Recovery Board of Belmont Harrison and Monroe Counties, Ohio;

• Former Board Member

• Outside General Counsel to charitable organizations

• Charitable trust reformation and approval with Attorney General’s office and Orphans’ Court

• Charitable trust management

• Family reputation management and privacy protection

• Private Foundation and Private Operating Foundation compliance through organization life cycle, including terminations

• Tax-Exempt Status rehabilitation and excise tax management

• Advise charities and donors regarding development and cultivating planned gifts

• Draft and negotiate Naming rights agreements for both donees and donors

• Draft guides for charities regarding effective planned giving techniques

• Asset protection and wealth management strategies

• Dynasty trusts focused on long-term sustainability using real estate and business interests

• Pre-transaction planning for business owners encountering liquidity events and business exits

Working with Matthew on a energy matter

Matt Rak works closely with clients to design practical plans addressing business succession, asset protection, and tax efficiency, as well as resolving family conflict. He brings an array of planning tools and strategies to elegantly resolve client conundrums both before and after death. Matt is also experienced in the varied aspects of estate and trust administration, including post-mortem tax…

Who Matthew represents

Matthew reviews new inquiries case-by-case for energy, estate planning, and probate matters in Erie and the surrounding Pennsylvania area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Matthew studied and practices

Catholic University of America
J.D. · 2004
Wheeling Jesuit University
B.S. · 2001

Jurisdictions

Matthew's state bar admissions

Ohio
2013 · ACTIVE
Pennsylvania
2009 · ACTIVE
West Virginia
2004 · ACTIVE

Matthew studied at J.D. in Catholic University of America and B.S. in Wheeling Jesuit University.

Law school and academic background

Matthew completed J.D. in Catholic University of America and B.S. in Wheeling Jesuit University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Matthew runs in Pennsylvania is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Matthew's legal honors and published work

Matthew has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Peer Reviewed

Legal awards and honors

Peer Reviewed.

Locations

Matthew David Rak's office in Erie

Matthew's primary office is at 100 State Street, Suite 103B, Erie, PA, 16507. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Leech Tishman

100 State Street, Suite 103B

Erie, PA 16507

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Matthew David Rak — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

Every review below is from a verified client of Matthew. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing energy attorneys in Erie.

5.0

1 client review

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Matthew David Rak claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Matthew David Rak — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new energy attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Matthew usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Matthew charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Matthew will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a energy attorney in Erie, Pennsylvania

A short list to run through before you commit: How many energy matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Matthew

Matthew discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in energy practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every energy matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Matthew confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Matthew's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many energy practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Matthew David Rak

How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a energy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Matthew offer a free consultation?
Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some energy attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.
How long do energy cases in Pennsylvania typically take?
Simple energy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Erie?
Matthew is licensed in Pennsylvania. Matters governed by Pennsylvania law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Matthew?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Matthew accepting new energy clients right now?
Matthew's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Pennsylvania residents in the last few months, answered by energy attorneys like Matthew David Rak. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Are There Legal Protections For Energy Consumers In Pennsylvania?
I’m a homeowner in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I've been receiving constant marketing calls from energy suppliers trying to sell me a fixed-rate plan. It feels invasive and misle
1 verified answer · Energy · Pennsylvania
Can I Sue An Energy Company For Unfair Practices In Delaware?
I live in Wilmington, Delaware, and have encountered numerous issues with my electric provider, including billing errors and poor customer service. I’m considering legal action. Wh
1 verified answer · Energy · Delaware
What To Do If My Phone Provider Is Also Charging For Utilities In North Carolina?
I live in Charlotte, North Carolina, and my phone company has started charging me for 'utility-like' services that I never agreed to. I feel like I’m being scammed. Is this even le
1 verified answer · Energy · North Carolina
Are There Regulations For Renewable Energy Providers In Massachusetts?
I'm interested in switching to a solar company in Boston, Massachusetts, but I've heard about some bad practices from other consumers. Are there specific regulations in place that
1 verified answer · Energy · Massachusetts
Is My Electric Company Allowed To Disconnect During Winter In Minnesota?
After living in Minneapolis for years, my electric company is threatening to shut off my power during the winter months because of unpaid bills. I am worried about my family's safe
1 verified answer · Energy · Minnesota
Can I Challenge An Energy Audit In South Carolina?
I'm a business owner in Columbia, South Carolina, and I received a notice that my energy usage is being audited by the utility company. I believe their calculations are incorrect a
1 verified answer · Energy · South Carolina

Areas served

Energy attorneys serving Erie, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania

Matthew handles energy matters throughout Pennsylvania. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified energy attorneys in that community.

Matthew David Rak, Energy Attorney in Erie, Pennsylvania

Quick answer