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Matthew Cino

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“Practicing law can be a lot like theatre. The hard work and intense preparation takes place behind the scenes, and when the lights come on the best performers rise to the occasion. As a litigator, you’re telling someone else’s story, and you have to do it justice.”
– Matthew Cino

Matthew Cino

Partner
Matthew Cino may have taken an unconventional career path to become a lawyer, but he is right where he wants to be. Born and raised in Hamilton, Matt started out as a high-performance trainer for OHL hockey players before moving to the UK to earn his law degree. “Not everyone follows the same path, and I think there’s value in that – there’s more than one way to achieve a goal, in life and in practice. I’m not afraid to be a little uncomfortable, I see it as an opportunity to grow.”

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Education: McMaster University, B.Sc. (Hons), 2011; University of Southampton, LL.B, 2014

Called to the Bar: 2016

Memberships: Ontario Bar Association, Hamilton Law Association

Areas of Practice

A cool, calming presence.

A civil and commercial litigator with the Valente & Yamashita team, what sets Matt apart is his calm and collected demeanour. He thrives when challenged and appreciates the importance of keeping a level head for his clients. “The litigation process can be a really vulnerable and stressful time for our clients. I like to be that calming presence and somebody they can trust and rely on to take on that mental and emotional burden for them.”

In his first year of practice, Matt was instrumental in securing a successful decision in a very long and difficult arbitration – it remains one of the highlights of his career. “It was a fraud case. It’s a serious allegation, and it was emotional and very contentious. I learned you can get a lot out of yourself when you just push the boundaries a little bit. You’re capable of much more than you give yourself credit for.”

Q: A personal quality that has served you well?
A: I'm pretty easygoing, even-keeled, and I don't get fazed by a lot. I also take pride in listening when people talk. We learn much more by listening than by talking.
Q: Favourite saying/words to live by?
A: Pressure is a privilege. When you feel pressure, it’s because someone has put their trust in you to perform. And it’s a privilege to have that trust, especially from clients.
Q: Your greatest role model?
A: My parents. They’re first-generation Canadians and came from nothing but worked so hard and always instilled the importance of being respectful and polite. They also told me never to be satisfied with how much you know - there’s always room to learn more.
Q: Favourite saying/words to live by?

A: Pressure is a privilege. When you feel pressure, it’s because someone has put their trust in you to perform. And it’s a privilege to have that trust, especially from clients.
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