By Chris Tietgens on January 1, 2026
For over a decade, Attorney Matthew Fornaro has been the steady legal hand guiding South Florida’s small businesses, entrepreneurs, and startups through the complexities of business law. His firm, Matthew Fornaro, PA, specializes in helping local business owners build solid foundations and navigate legal challenges, allowing them to focus on what they do best—growing their enterprises.
A Florida resident since childhood, Fornaro brings a unique dual perspective to his practice: the sharp legal mind of a seasoned attorney with 22 years of experience, combined with the real-world understanding of a business owner who has successfully run his own firm for 10 years. This blend of expertise allows him to offer practical, business-savvy legal counsel that resonates with the local entrepreneurial community.
“Many attorneys from large firms give advice from a clinical setting without hands-on business experience,” Fornaro explains. “Having run my own practice, I understand the pressures, decisions, and day-to-day realities my clients face. I don’t just handle their legal issues—I help them succeed as business owners.”
Fornaro’s services are split between litigation (90%) and transactional work (10%). On the litigation side, he represents businesses that are involved in lawsuits, whether they need to defend against a claim or pursue one. His transactional services are equally vital: he assists new and established businesses with entity formation, operating agreements, contract drafting, and compliance matters. He often collaborates with accountants to ensure his clients choose the right business structure from the start.
A strong advocate for continuous improvement, Fornaro has completed business development programs such as the FastTrack program by the Kauffman Foundation and the Jim Moran Entrepreneurship program through Florida State University. Today, he serves as the business law expert for both programs, guiding new entrepreneurs just as he was once guided.
Technology plays a key role in Fornaro’s modern practice. He has thoughtfully integrated artificial intelligence to streamline operations and enhance service delivery. “AI has been a massive force multiplier,” he notes. “It allows me to operate efficiently while maintaining a high standard of personalized service.” This innovation enables him to focus more on building meaningful client relationships.
Deeply rooted in the community, Fornaro has served on several local commissions and boards, including the Broward County Historical Commission, Consumer Protection Commission, and the county bar association. These days, he focuses his volunteer efforts closer to home, supporting his wife at their synagogue and participating in his children’s activities, including lacrosse, Girl Scouts, and band events.
When he’s not in the office or courtroom, Fornaro enjoys Florida’s vibrant sports scene as a dedicated Panthers season ticket holder and fan of Inter Miami CF. An avid college football follower, he also admits a fondness for Lifetime movies—a quiet contrast to his dynamic professional life.
Fornaro holds an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest recognition for legal ability and ethical standards. He is also a qualified arbitrator and mediator.
What truly sets Matthew Fornaro apart is his commitment to the success of local business owners. “I’m passionate about helping entrepreneurs alleviate legal burdens so they can concentrate on running their businesses,” he says. “I often work as part of a team with my clients’ accountants, bankers, and other professionals because I believe holistic support is key to their growth.”
For small business owners in South Florida seeking an attorney who understands both the law and the entrepreneurial journey, Matthew Fornaro offers experienced, technology-enhanced legal counsel grounded in real-world business acumen.
11555 Heron Bay Boulevard Suite 200 Coral Springs, FL 33076-3362
Phone: 954-324-3651 or 888-FLA-LAWYER
Email: mfornaro@fornarolegal.com
Website: fornarolegal.com
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