Sean L. Phelan, Construction Attorney in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For almost two decades, Sean has helped his clients achieve highly advantageous and cost-effective outcomes - whether it’s early (and aggressive) case dismissal, settlement on favorable and risk-efficient terms, or, where needed, a jury trial, bench trial or alternative dispute resolution.

His areas of practice include commercial and general litigation, casualty defense, as well as insurance subrogation, coverage, real estate and landlord tenant matters. His clients primarily include commercial and residential real estate companies, commercial motor vehicle carriers, mom and pop hard-working business owners, as well as regional and national insurance carriers.

Prior to joining the firm, Sean worked at two of the largest insurance defense firms in Philadelphia, defending cases involving catastrophic loss, products liability, construction accidents, liquor liability, premises liability and commercial motor vehicle claims. He has extensive experience independently litigating cases at both the major jury and arbitration levels, and has obtained numerous successful results on behalf of clients, including more than fifteen defense verdicts and entries of summary judgment over the past few years alone. Sean takes pride in litigating cases on a personal level and treating all clients’ cases as if they were his own.

While in law school, Sean was a managing editor of the Villanova Sports & Entertainment Law Journal. He also served as a judicial extern for the Honorable Gene E.K. Pratter of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. After law school, he served as a judicial law clerk for Justice James J. Fitzgerald, III of the Pennsylvania Superior Court.

Honors

•AV Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rated
•Selected for Inclusion in Pennsylvania Super Lawyers - Rising Stars
•Elder Justice and Civil Resource Center - Honor Roll Volunteer
•Certified Arbitrator for Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas

News & Case Results

5 Defense Verdicts for Property Owner & Property Management Company in Philadelphia County

All Claims Dismissed in High-Exposure Construction Accident Case

Philadelphia County Slip & Fall Matter Dismissed

Defense Verdict in Commercial Litigation Trial

Summary Judgment in High-Exposure Crane Accident Case

Coatsworth and Phelan Secure $250K Settlement for Tenant, a Nonprofit Youth Org

Sean Phelan Secures Dismissal with Prejudice in Philadelphia County

Speaking Engagements

•“Nuclear Verdicts: Why They Happen and a Practical Guide to Avoiding Them,” PAMIC (Pennsylvania Association of Mutual Insurance Companies) Claims Summit (April 19, 2023)

Client Testimonials

“You help make their lives easier and our jobs more enjoyable to be able to connect you with them.”

“Sean is a consummate professional - he is a warrior for all of his clients; no matter how large or small.”

“That is fantastic! Thank you so much! I am delighted by this outcome.”

“This is fantastic news! Thank you for working your magic and getting the insured dismissed from this.”

“I am thoroughly impressed with, and greatly appreciative of, the diligent defense in this matter.”

“I’m so grateful to you and for all of your help. I’m speechless.”

“Outstanding, indeed. NICE job!”

“Acted on directions, communicated well!”

“Thank you for your time and commitment toward clearing [our company] from this wrongful lawsuit.”

Civic & Community Activities

•Honor Roll Volunteer 2023-2025 for Philadelphia Elder Justice Civil Resource Center
•Board Observer for St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children