James Matthews

Background

About James Matthews

I am an educator, housing lawyer, and scholar dedicated to training the next generation of small firm leaders. As Faculty Director of Suffolk Law School’s Accelerator to Practice Program (A2P), I work closely with our Office of Professional and Career Development (PCD) and faculty colleagues to administer this multi-year experiential initiative. A2P prepares students for modern small firm practice while inspiring them to explore innovative practice models capable of closing the justice gap through mission-driven practice. In addition to hands-on legal training, A2P equips students with essential business and technology skills—from practice management and client development to legal tech tools—ensuring they graduate ready to lead and innovate in today’s evolving legal landscape.A2P was honored by Bloomberg Law in 2024 as a “Top Innovator” in legal education and recognized as one of the best programs in the country for career pathing. My work integrates legal education and practice, with a focus on housing justice, access to legal services, and the development of sustainable, community-based legal careers.I am passionate about mentoring students, advancing experiential learning, and building pathways to practice that are both sustainable and impactful.