Jordan Matyas
Jordan Matyas is a litigator an administrative law attorney a lobbyist and more.
Litigation, Employment Law, and Practical Solutions
Jordan Matyas (pronounced “matches”) is the founding principal of 1818 Legal, a litigation and employment law firm focused on protecting the businesses, careers, and reputations of Illinois professionals.
Jordan represents employees in workplace disputes, including wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, wage and compensation issues, whistleblower cases, and severance and separation agreements. He helps clients understand their rights and options so they can make clear, confident decisions at difficult moments in their careers.
In addition to his employment work, Jordan handles business and commercial disputes and plaintiff‑side professional malpractice matters, particularly cases involving attorneys, accountants, architects, and other professionals whose subpar work caused financial harm. His litigation practice also includes real estate, financial, and other complex disputes where strategy and careful case development matter.
Whether a client is defending a license, a livelihood, or their name, Jordan focuses on practical solutions and strong advocacy.
Litigation, Employment Law, and Practical Solutions
Before founding 1818 Legal, Jordan spent nearly 30 years working in and around government. His experience includes roles with the White House, the Illinois Legislature, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), the City of Chicago’s Law Department, and the Regional Transportation Authority.
That background gives Jordan a deep understanding of how government agencies operate, how decisions are made, and how to navigate regulatory and administrative processes that can affect a client’s career or business.
Many professionals retain Jordan for his experience in financial and professional license defense. Drawing on his time at IDFPR and other agencies, he represents clients in investigations, enforcement actions, and licensing issues that can significantly impact their ability to work and practice.
Administrative Law, Lobying, and Government Relations
Since 2014, Jordan and his team have used their government knowledge and legal skills to help clients with regulatory and administrative challenges at the state and local levels. That work includes representing clients before agencies, boards, and commissions; addressing enforcement and compliance issues; and guiding clients through complex administrative processes.
Jordan is also a registered State and City lobbyist. He assists clients with government relations, legislative and policy concerns, and public affairs strategies. He works with businesses and organizations that:
- Have existing government contracts and need help navigating ongoing obligations;
- Are pursuing new procurement opportunities; or
- Seek legislative or regulatory changes that affect their operations.
As both a lawyer and a lobbyist, Jordan is uniquely positioned to help clients connect legal strategy with government realities.
Approach to Client Work
Clients describe Jordan as direct, accessible, and creative. He listens carefully, explains the law in everyday language, and builds strategies around each client’s goals and risk tolerance.
In every matter—whether an employment dispute, a malpractice claim, a licensing issue, or a business conflict—Jordan aims to:
- Identify the core problem and the client’s real objectives.
- Provide an honest assessment of risks, strengths, and likely outcomes.
- Recommend practical paths forward, including negotiation, administrative action, or litigation when necessary.
Jordan believes that good lawyering combines sound legal analysis with clear communication and a willingness to pursue solutions that fit the client’s broader life and business.
The Story Behind 1818 Legal
The firm’s name, 1818 Legal, pays homage to the state where Jordan was born, raised, and has lived most of his life. The year 1818 marks the date when the State of Illinois was admitted to the Union.
That connection reflects the firm’s focus on serving Illinois employees, professionals, businesses, and communities in matters that often intersect with state and local government.
Education
- The John Marshall Law School – Juris Doctor (2004)
- The George Washington University – Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy (2001)
Board Memberships
- Illinois English Bulldog Rescue – Founder & Co‑Director
- Former Old Town Triangle Association – Board Member
Bar Admission & Professional Registrations
- Illinois Supreme Court
- Registered State & City Lobbyist
Jordan Matyas
In the News
Agency Sues American Airlines Over Tax Break, Columbia Tribune
“We’re saying whatever work is being done there is a sham,” Jordan Matyas, the RTA’s chief of staff, said ahead of the lawsuit being filed.
Napster Gets a Hearing, WIRED
“The main goal isn’t to try to shut down Napster, but to ensure that the people that use this technology use it properly,” said Jordan Matyas, a spokesman for the PPI.
Illinois Issues Fines Under New Payday Loan Law, Chicago Business
Jordan Matyas, supervisor of consumer credit for the division.
Shortened Illinois legislative session casts doubt on more licenses and regulatory changes, Grown In
“Licensed craft growers are having trouble getting financing at the current 5,000 square foot canopy limit,” said cannabis lobbyist Jordan Matyas, who is advocating for the Illinois Independent Craft Growers Association.
Illinois Transit Agencies To Fight Against Guns On Buses, Trains, CBS Chicago
RTA chief of staff Jordan Matyas said that no other major transit agency allows guns aboard its trains or buses.
Bill banning gas chambers for animals sent to governor, The Intelligencer
Illinois state director for HSUS Jordan Matyas was also happy to hear the measure had passed. “The Illinois legislature has spoken clearly that in those unfortunate situations where an animal must be euthanized, they deserve that it be done humanely.”
RTA Hires New Head of Government Affairs, Regional Transportation Authority (press release)
The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) announced today the hiring of Jordan Matyas as the agency’s Deputy Executive Director.
Airlines Accused of Gaming Tax Rules in Chicago, Wall Street Journal
“This is a tax-dodging scheme. It’s not like the law allows this,” said Jordan Matyas, chief of staff at the RTA.
Illinois considers ban on owning monkeys, QC Times
Illinois considers ban on owning monkeys – “People don’t know how to take care of primates,” said Jordan Matyas, Illinois director of the Humane Society.
Quincy Humane Society celebrate its 130th year, whig.com
Jordan Matyas, one of the leading proponents of animal welfare in the state, will help Quincy Humane Society celebrate its 130th year, whig.com
Ex-Illinois marijuana regulator and Cook County Board member offered paid help to weed shop hopefuls, Chicago Sun-Times
Former IDFPR employee Jordan Matyas is lobbying for V3 Holdings Illinois LLC, the registered manager of one of the firms represented by ACFB Incorporated, state records show. Matyas, House Speaker Michael Madigan’s son-in-law and former assistant legal counsel, worked as a supervisor in the agency’s consumer credit section between 2005 and 2007, long before the medical cannabis program launched.
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Success Stories
See how 1818 helped Illinois businesses, communities, and professionals get the results they needed
Success Stories
See how 1818 helped Illinois businesses, communities, and professionals get the results they needed
Hire 1818 Legal to navigate your legal needs and government goals.
Our firm uses unique tactics and strategies for Illinois corporations, professionals, and communities.