About Matthew Albert

Matthew Albert Coles practices law at the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. He has been an active member of the California State Bar since 1977. The firm, located in San Francisco, focuses on legal education and advocacy, contributing to the development of future legal professionals. He earned his J.D. from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco in 1977. Prior to that, he completed his undergraduate studies at Yale University, where he received a B.A.

in History in 1973. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his legal career, emphasizing critical thinking and historical context in legal matters. Matthew has held various roles throughout his career. He became a faculty member at UC Law in 2016, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with students. His previous positions include serving as the Deputy National Legal Director in 2010 and as a staff lawyer starting in 1987. These roles have allowed him to engage with complex legal issues and contribute to significant legal advancements.

His practice areas include legal education, advocacy, and public policy. Matthew has been involved in various legal stages, from litigation to policy formulation. He has also been admitted to several courts, including the Superior Court of California for the County of San Francisco, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, all in 1977.

This breadth of experience enables him to navigate complex legal fields effectively. In addition to his teaching and legal practice, Matthew serves on the Board of Directors for the Guttmacher Institute, an organization focused on advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights. His involvement in this organization supports his addressing critical social issues through legal frameworks — Matthew's contributions extend beyond the classroom, influencing policy and advocacy at a national level. With decades of experience, Matthew Albert Coles continues to shape the legal field through education and advocacy. His work at UC Law and his involvement with the Guttmacher Institute demonstrate his dedication to fostering a more informed and equitable legal system. He remains an active participant in the legal community, contributing to both the education of future lawyers and the advancement of important legal issues.

Education

University of California College of the Law, San Francisco

J.D. (1977)

1974

Yale University

B.A. (1973) | History

1969

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Faculty has membership

UC Hastings College of the Law
2016

Deputy National Legal Director

American Civil Liberties Union
2010

Staff Lawyer

ACLU of Northern California
1987

Accepted Jurisdictions

California

Court Admissions

Superior Court of California for the County of San Francisco State Trial Court · Admitted 1977
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California U.S. District Court · Admitted 1977
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit U.S. Circuit Court · Admitted 1977

Types of Cases Handled

legal education advocacy public policy

Legal Services Scope

Litigation Policy formulation

Professional Associations

Guttmacher Institute

has membership, Board of Directors 1999 - 2016

Office Locations

Main Office

 200 McAllister Street San Francisco CA 94102