Matthew Gaughan

Matthew Gaughan

Chief Counsel

Matthew Gaughan is a proud Californian and an advocate for his state’s values and diverse heritage.

Starting from a young age, Matthew worked in various industries such as construction, retail, and grocery, often taking night shifts to put himself through college and later law school. He earned his degree in English from the California State University, Sacramento, and then pursued a career in accounting. However, fueled by a lifelong dream, Matthew eventually enrolled at Lincoln Law School, where he balanced his full-time accounting job with evening classes, determined to achieve his goal of becoming a lawyer and embodying Lincoln’s commitment to accessible legal education.

During his time at Lincoln, Matthew interned at the Placer County Public Defender’s Office, honing his skills in legal writing and trial advocacy. After passing the bar exam, he transitioned to a full-time role as a Public Defender, where he focused on guiding clients through challenging legal processes with empathy and striving for positive outcomes.

Matthew’s dedication to California led him to serve the state in various capacities, including as an Administrative Law Judge with the Department of Social Services and at the Alcohol Beverage Control, where he started as an Attorney in 2016. In 2023, Matt took on the role of chief counsel, eager to contribute his values of respect and professionalism to the department’s mission, while cultivating an inclusive workplace environment.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Matthew treasures time spent with family and friends. He is passionate about promoting inclusivity for individuals with special needs and stays informed about developments in this area. In his leisure time, Matthew enjoys biking along the American River Trail, exploring his creative side through painting and gaming, and participating in local community events like the Sacramento Film Festival and 2nd Saturday.