Michael Coleman ’97
Schools Since WES
Episcopal High School, Bethesda Chevy-Chase High School, New York University, University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law
Current Occupation
Partner at Gavrilov & Brooks, a full service California law firm. Michael’s practice is focused on corporate litigation, corporate governance, contract disputes, employment law, real estate related matters, and trade secret misappropriation. Michael has prevailed in numerous trials, arbitrations, and appeals. In addition to his extensive trial and appellate experience, Michael has successfully guided clients through mediation and other methods of alternative dispute resolution.
Michael represents a broad range of clients, including institutional banks, governmental entities, private equity lenders, trucking companies, construction companies, real estate developers, Hollywood producers, and legal professionals. Michael takes a hands-on approach to assist his clients in minimizing risk and legal exposure. When legal action is unavoidable, he aggressively litigates cases to protect his clients’ interests. Michael places a premium on client communication and implementing cost-effective litigation strategies.
Future Career Goals
To continue to grow our law firm in California and throughout the United States
Favorite WES Activity
I loved being a part of creating the Middle School mural. As the first Middle School class, each one of us played a part in leaving our mark. Over the years, it has been fun coming back to campus, looking at the wall, and reliving the memories of my time at WES.
Favorite WES Memory
The 7th grade class trip to Italy. The entire class went together, and though I had been friends with my classmates for many years prior to the trip, I think that experience created a bond that lasts to this day.
How did WES prepare you for your future?
WES taught me how to learn and how to prepare my projects with care and precision. Literally every one of my teachers at WES played an important role in helping me to become a critical thinker. The skills I learned at WES provided me with a solid foundation as I entered high school, and I have been able to build on those skills ever since.
