Matt Schnirel was a bright, ambitious, and talented individual who was determined to have a career in the law field. He set out with a plan, and knew the hard work that being a law student would entail. Matt didn’t let anything stand in the way of his goals, and always gave his best in everything he did. He saw the big picture in life; he was able to balance working his way through school, yet also finding plenty of time to enjoy himself in the company of family and friends.

Matt was one step closer to his dream of becoming an attorney when he found out that he had passed the 2008 New York State Bar Exam on the first try. After having been a law clerk at Doran and Murphy since 2006, he graciously accepted an associate position with the firm. Matt’s vast knowledge and proven ability in the law field made him a great asset. He was well respected by his colleagues and clients, and was known throughout the community. Matt was the youngest associate at Doran and Murphy, and with the guidance he received there he was on the path to a very successful career.

Tragically, Matt’s life was cut short on April 28, 2009 while flying home from working in Cleveland, OH, aboard Senior Law Partner, Mike Doran’s Cirrus SR22 private aircraft. Only four minutes after takeoff their single engine plane crashed in Mayfield Village, OH. Now we will inevitably look back in awe at Matt’s momentous achievements. He accomplished so much in his short twenty-six years, and he lived a very honorable life. We can all aspire to be more like him as we’re headed down our own individual paths to success.

To help carry on Matt’s memory we established a foundation at the University at Buffalo Law School. A scholarship will be awarded each year to a UB Law Student who exemplifies a love of law, a passion for justice, and a charismatic personality. Please explore our site to learn about the Matthew J. Schnirel Foundation and how you can be a part of making Matt’s legacy live on forever.