Matthew Wade believes in leveling the playing field for injured Oklahomans and defending every client's Seventh-Amendment right to a trial by jury. His unique approach draws from seven years as in-house counsel for State Farm Insurance, where he learned the tactics and strategies insurers use to minimize claims—knowledge he now leverages exclusively for the people they're up against. Since joining Abel Law Firm in 2014 and being elevated to Managing Attorney in 2022, Wade has built his practice around fearless advocacy, combining strategic negotiation with courtroom tenacity while keeping compassion at the core of every case. He believes in being the "fighter for the underdog," ensuring that insurance companies can't simply outspend or outlast his clients. A dedicated educator and community leader, Wade shares his expertise as an adjunct professor in the University of Oklahoma College of Law's Department of Paralegal Studies and serves on the boards of the Oklahoma Association for Justice and CASA of Oklahoma.
Notable Case Victories
Matthew uses his deep understanding of insurance defense tactics to secure justice for those facing catastrophic life changes. His significant recoveries include:
Boswell v. [Cement Truck Manufacturer] (U.S. District Court, W.D. Okla.): Matthew secured a confidential settlement for a concrete worker who was dragged 25 feet by a defective cement truck. The case involved complex product liability claims regarding a design flaw in the truck's tag axle system. By utilizing expert witnesses and courtroom animation to demonstrate the dangerous mechanics of the vehicle, Matthew illustrated the necessity of lifetime medical care for his client, leading to a successful mediation.
Timothy Fisher v. [Trucking Company] (U.S. District Court, W.D. Okla.): Represented a client involved in a massive multi-vehicle pileup on I-40 caused by several semi-tractor trailers in heavy fog. The accident resulted in over 20 collisions and left the client with traumatic orthopedic injuries. Matthew successfully resolved the case via confidential settlement agreements with multiple defendants just prior to the start of trial.
Zubia v. [Oil and Gas Company]: Represented a husband and wife who were severely injured in a motor vehicle collision caused by an intoxicated oil field employee operating a company work truck. Matthew reached a confidential settlement agreement on behalf of the couple shortly before the trial was set to begin.
Professional Recognition & Awards
Matthew’s commitment to legal excellence and his reputation for high-stakes advocacy have earned him the industry’s most prestigious honors:
- AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating – Martindale-Hubbell®: The highest possible rating for both ethical standards and legal ability.
- Super Lawyers: Selected from 2021–Present.
- National Trial Lawyers: Top 100: Recognized as one of the premier trial lawyers in the state.
