
Robert J. Coleman
Rob Coleman’s practice centers on trusts and estates, with a particular focus on high-net-worth estate planning, complex trust structures, and charitable giving. Rob advises individuals, families, fiduciaries, and nonprofits on strategies that protect assets, reduce tax exposure, and align with long-term legacy goals.
With deep experience in drafting and administering irrevocable trusts, charitable remainder trusts, and family limited partnerships, Rob is a trusted advisor for clients navigating sophisticated wealth transfer and succession planning—especially those with closely held businesses and multigenerational estates.
Before joining the firm, Rob served as an estate and gift planning attorney at Pepperdine University, where he structured charitable trusts, donor-advised funds, and other giving vehicles to help donors achieve their philanthropic objectives.
In addition to his estate planning practice, Rob brings a valuable background in transactional business law. He has served as outside counsel to a wide range of businesses across California and Nevada, advising on corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and real estate transactions. His client roster includes financial institutions, consumer brands, and mission-driven organizations.
Community
Outside of the office, Rob enjoys spending time with his wife and young daughter, is active in his church community, and continues to run marathons—while he still can.
Admissions & Associations
Los Angeles Estate Planning Council (Board Member)
San Gabriel Valley Estate Planning Council
Southern California Council of Charitable Gift Planners
ProVisors
Legatus
Pepperdine School of Law, Dean's Council
Leonine Forum, 2019-2020 Fellow
Representative Matters
- Structure and implement estate plans for high-net-worth clients with multigenerational, closely held business interests.
- Manage complex trust administrations involving diversified real estate portfolios and significant non-liquid assets.
- Develop charitable giving strategies using charitable remainder trusts and other tax-efficient vehicles funded with appreciated real estate, artwork, and business equity.
- Oversee probate and trust administration for large, multi-asset estates with intricate beneficiary structures.
- Advise nonprofit organizations on board governance, charitable trust compliance, and high-value donor transactions.
Practice Groups
Education
Pepperdine University School of Law, J.D.
University of California, Berkeley, B.A.