How much does it cost to hire Phil for a adr case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Phil walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Phil offer a free consultation?

Phil charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Phil's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Phil's current terms during booking.

How long do adr cases in California typically take?

Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Phil gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Phil take my case if I'm outside San Diego?

Phil is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Phil will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Phil?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Phil will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Phil accepting new adr clients right now?

Phil's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Phil Coleman, ADR Attorney in San Diego

Quick answer

Phil Coleman is an attorney based in San Diego, CA. The practice focuses on ADR, Alimony, and Bankruptcy. Phil has over 39 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Goldberg Jones | Divorce For Men. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 8 client reviews.

Based in: San Diego, CA
Experience: over 39 years
Known for: ADR · Alimony · Bankruptcy

Handles ADR, Alimony, and Bankruptcy matters from San Diego, CA.
Over 39 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with BV Distinguished.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Phil takes on

Phil concentrates on adr, alimony, bankruptcy, business, and child custody. Each area below outlines the kind of case Phil handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

ADR cases in San Diego, California

Phil takes adr matters in San Diego, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Phil agrees to represent you.

Alimony cases in San Diego, California

Phil takes alimony matters in San Diego, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Phil agrees to represent you.

Bankruptcy cases in San Diego, California

Phil takes bankruptcy matters in San Diego, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Phil agrees to represent you.

Business cases in San Diego, California

Phil takes business matters in San Diego, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Phil agrees to represent you.

Child Custody cases in San Diego, California

Phil takes child custody matters in San Diego, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Phil agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Phil Coleman — adr lawyer in San Diego

Phil Coleman is an attorney based in San Diego, CA. The practice focuses on ADR, Alimony, and Bankruptcy. Phil has over 39 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Goldberg Jones | Divorce For Men. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 8 client reviews.

Phil's 20+ years of varied and complex litigation experience, coupled with his exclusive practice of family law since 2002, serves his clients very well. "His litigation experience gives him an edge in the court room against lesser advocates who frequently do not fully know the trial procedures or rules of evidence", says San Diego Managing Attorney Zephyr Hill. Phil has handled hundreds of cases to conclusion and helps clients with his straightforward honest approach. At Goldberg Jones, he has handled a large variety of cases involving business ownership, complex custody matters, domestic violence, and much more. Phil is a respected advocate and a superior family law attorney.

Phil chose family law to aid his clients not only with winning cases, but to help husbands and fathers through a tough time. He directs his clients to focus on important matters when emotions run high. According to Phil, "representing men almost exclusively has its advantages. We know the ins and outs of the system, have the relevant research and know how to win cases. We emphasize advocating for men and are very familiar with the issues that men deal with when it comes to divorce or custody." The most rewarding part of my career at Goldberg Jones is to be able to help clients meet their needs and to win cases.

Phil is a native to southern California and when he is not at work he enjoys cycling, live music, skiing with his kids, cooking, and a good glass of scotch.

Working with Phil on a adr matter

Phil's 20+ years of varied and complex litigation experience, coupled with his exclusive practice of family law since 2002, serves his clients very well. "His litigation experience gives him an edge in the court room against lesser advocates who frequently do not fully know the trial procedures or rules of evidence", says San Diego Managing Attorney Zephyr Hill. Phil has handled hundreds of cases…

Who Phil represents

Phil reviews new inquiries case-by-case for adr, alimony, and bankruptcy matters in San Diego and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

California Western School of Law J.D.
—
UCSD, John Muir College B.A. Sociology
—

Jurisdictions

Phil's state bar admissions

California
1987 · ACTIVE

Phil studied at — in California Western School of Law J.D. and — in UCSD, John Muir College B.A. Sociology.

Law school and academic background

Phil completed — in California Western School of Law J.D. and — in UCSD, John Muir College B.A. Sociology. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Phil runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Recognition and thought leadership

Phil has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

BV Distinguished

Legal awards and honors

BV Distinguished.

Locations

Phil Coleman's office in San Diego

Phil's primary office is at 3111 Camino Del Rio North, Ste. 950, San Diego, CA, 92108. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Goldberg Jones | Divorce For Men

3111 Camino Del Rio North, Ste. 950

San Diego, CA 92108

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Phil Coleman — 4.3/5 rating from 8 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Phil. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing adr attorneys in San Diego.

4.3

8 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Phil Coleman claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Phil Coleman — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new adr attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Phil usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Phil charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Phil's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Phil will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a adr attorney in San Diego, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many adr matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Phil

Phil discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in adr practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every adr matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Phil confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Phil's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many adr practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Phil Coleman

How much does it cost to hire Phil for a adr case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Phil walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Phil offer a free consultation?
Phil charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Phil's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Phil's current terms during booking.
How long do adr cases in California typically take?
Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Phil gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Phil take my case if I'm outside San Diego?
Phil is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Phil will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Phil?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Phil will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Phil accepting new adr clients right now?
Phil's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by adr attorneys like Phil Coleman. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Mediate A Child Custody Dispute In California If We Agree?
I live in Los Angeles, CA, and my ex-partner and I have agreed to some terms regarding child custody after our separation in June 2023. We think mediation could help finalize our a
1 verified answer · ADR · California
Can Mediation Be Used To Resolve A Workplace Harassment Claim In Illinois?
I reported a workplace harassment issue in Chicago, IL, but I want to avoid a lengthy legal battle. My HR department suggested mediation as a way to resolve the issue amicably. I’m
1 verified answer · ADR · Illinois
Is Mediation Confidential For Business Disputes In Nevada?
I’m involved in a business dispute in Las Vegas, NV, and I’m thinking about mediation. I’m concerned about privacy and what might happen if the details get out. Is mediation confid
1 verified answer · ADR · Nevada
Can Mediation Help Resolve A Debt Dispute In South Carolina?
I live in Charleston, SC, and I’m dealing with debt collectors regarding an unpaid medical bill. I really want to resolve this without going to court. I’ve heard mediation can be a
1 verified answer · ADR · South Carolina
Can Mediation Help Resolve An HOA Dispute In Arizona?
I’ve been having issues with my homeowners association in Scottsdale, AZ, over some unfair fines. I feel like we could reach a compromise, but I don’t know if mediation is an optio
1 verified answer · ADR · Arizona
What Should I Do If Mediation Fails In Minnesota?
I've been trying to mediate a separation agreement in Minneapolis, MN, but it feels like we’re not making any progress. If mediation fails, I’m worried about what my next steps sho
1 verified answer · ADR · Minnesota

Areas served

ADR attorneys serving San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco in California

Phil handles adr matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified adr attorneys in that community.

Phil Coleman, ADR Attorney in San Diego, California

Quick answer