Phillip A. Cole / Retired
Former Areas of Practice: Legal Malpractice, Professional Liability, Medical Malpractice, Commercial Litigation, Business Litigation, Intellectual Property Litigation, Shareholder/Owner Disputes, Wrongful Death
Phillip A. Cole / Biography
Before his retirement, Phil Cole used his extensive litigation experience in handling personal injury cases, commercial disputes, business torts, class actions, medical malpractice claims, and the defense of all types of claims brought against lawyers. Mr. Cole has been a frequent lecturer and a published author in the areas of trial strategies and professional liability subjects. Mr. Cole was a board certified civil trial advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy before retiring.
He has been a qualified neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice and included on the civil neutrals rosters for both facilitative/hybrid and adjudicative/evaluative panels. Mr. Cole was selected as the Minneapolis Best Lawyers Legal Malpractice Lawyer of the Year for 2011 and as the Minneapolis Best Lawyers Legal Malpractice Lawyer-Defendants of the Year for 2014 and again in 2019. Cole, a member of the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys until his retirement, was certified as a specialist in the litigation of both legal and medical professional liability claims (this national organization is not accredited by the Minnesota Board of Legal Certification).
Mr. Cole has also been recognized in the International Who’s Who, Who’s Who in American Law, the National Registry of Who’s Who, and as one of The Best Lawyers in America© by U.S. World & News Report. He has been repeatedly listed as a Minnesota Super Lawyer and has been listed as a Top 100 Minnesota Super Lawyer for over a dozen years. Before his retirement he was rated AV Preeminent® for the highest level of professional excellence by Martindale-Hubbell.
Education
- University of Maryland, B.A., 1961
- Georgetown University, J.D., 1964
News + Articles
Small Business Legacy: Estate Planning Traps to Avoid for Family and Closely-Held Companies
Small business owners have poured your blood, sweat, and maybe even a few tears into building your own business. Pressing questions about supply chain, quality control, and even payroll demand your attention daily. As a business owner, much of your attention and...
Tariffs and the Minnesota Trucking Industry: How Trade Policy Hits Home
When we hear about tariffs, it’s easy to picture distant trade talks and high-stakes negotiations between world leaders. But the reality? The ripple effects of those decisions reach places much closer to home—like right here on Minnesota’s roads, loading docks, and...
Common Divorce Misconceptions: What You Should Know
Separating fact from fiction—and why having the right legal team matters. Divorce is a deeply personal and often emotionally charged experience. Whether you’re exploring your options, currently navigating the process, or simply want to understand more about how...
If My Spouse Does Not Agree to a Divorce, Can We Still Get Divorced?
Divorce is rarely easy—but it becomes even more complicated when one spouse doesn't want it. If you're asking, “Can I get a divorce even if my spouse won’t agree?”—the answer is yes. In Minnesota and Wisconsin, you can still get divorced even if your spouse disagrees....
Christopher Scott Named to National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 for a Second Year
We’re proud to share that Christopher Scott has once again been recognized by the National Black Lawyers Association’s Top 40 Under 40 for Minnesota. Christopher’s thoughtful approach to advocacy and commitment to making a difference for his clients and community...
Fresh Start, Fresh Plan: Estate Planning After Divorce
Divorce marks a significant turning point, a time for rebuilding and redefining your future. While you're navigating the emotional and logistical aspects of this transition, one critical area demands your immediate attention: estate planning. Failing to update your...