Matthew Ritter

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Age: 32

Title at work/what do I do: Attorney/associate at Shipman & Goodwin LLP and state representative (D-Hartford). I practice in the areas of public finance, municipal law and election law. I am also in my second term as a state representative. As a legislator, I am currently the vice chairman of the Judiciary Committee and also a member of the Planning and Development and Banks committees.

Town where I work: Hartford

Town where I live: Hartford

College I attended: Colby College

My passion, hobby or special talent: I love sports. I particularly love UConn/college basketball, the Red Sox, and the New York Giants.

Twitter handle: @mattritter308

No. of LinkedIn connections: 1,472

Favorite place to network: Salute or Damon's Tavern

Favorite drink at a networking event: Sam Adams Summer Ale

How do I create connections in my professional life?

I have found that a great way to create connections with people is to meet with them in person over coffee or lunch. It can take some time but I find that it often works better than electronic communication or telephone conversations.

What's been my biggest challenge professionally?

Like so many other people, I find that balancing family, work, and free time can be challenging. I am fortunate to have a great wife, Marilyn, a wonderful one-year-old son, Jack, and the most loyal and squirrel-chasing goldendoodle on the planet, Dublin. Marilyn and I cover for each other and make it work. I am also thankful to Shipman & Goodwin for allowing me to take the time to serve previously on the Hartford City Council and currently as a state representative.

What is the best advice I received?

My father likes to quote this quote a lot: “Listening is not waiting for your turn to speak.” I think this is particularly true in politics.

What do I want my legacy to be?

I would like my legacy to be that I cared deeply about the city of Hartford and the state of Connecticut and that I made a positive impact on the present and future of both. Hartford means a great deal to me. I was born and raised in Hartford, and I will raise my family here as well. I absolutely love the city, the people, and the sense of community.

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