Matthew Rhett Cook
Matt Cook developed his litigation skills by initially representing small, locally owned businesses, defending them against various types of workers’ compensation claims. In time, his practice expanded to include both national and global companies. Today, as an experienced workers’ compensation litigator representing third party administrators, insurance carriers, large corporations, small businesses and individuals, Matt approaches each case with an understanding of the many nuances surrounding workers’ compensation litigation. He understands that being involved in litigation is a complex and unsettling experience for individuals and businesses alike, and with that in mind, he works closely with clients to accommodate their needs and objectives, determining the most effective and efficient way to quickly resolve a case through prompt communication and aggressive legal strategy.
Matt’s legal concentration is devoted solely to the area of workers’ compensation law. His familiarity with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act combined with his knowledge of the operations of his clients’ businesses enables him to counsel his clients on the best ways to approach each case. Matt is very aware of the high stakes involved in workers’ compensation cases, from traumatic brain injury, complicated spinal injuries, reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), insurance coverage issues with multiple employers, occupational exposure, repetitive trauma, third party claims, appeals, depositions, mediation, among others, and works with clients to quickly assess their specific situation so their case can be quickly resolved.
Matt’s ties to South Carolina go beyond his statewide legal experience; he is a lifelong resident of the state. He is a member of the Pilgrim Lutheran Church. When Matt is not practicing law, he enjoys spending time on the lake and traveling.
“Albert Einstein said, ‘Our defense is not in our armaments, nor in science, nor in going underground. Our defense is in law and order.’ It is through the law that my clients are afforded protection of their rights.”
Representative Matters
Workers’ Compensation
- Represented a national trucking company in an alleged workplace accident filed by a claimant who contended that she was injured while entering her work truck. Matt worked closely with the third party administrator and employer, and he conducted discovery that revealed contradictory evidence. Through rigorous cross-examination, the claimant was found to be not credible and her claim for benefits was denied.
- Defended a local manufacturing employer in a repetitive trauma claim that resulted in a favorable outcome for Matt’s employer/carrier. An appeal was filed and mediation ensued. Matt worked closely with the local employer representative and was able to reach a successful resolution at mediation.