Phillip McCallum

Phillip McCallum
MEDIATOR AND ARBITRATOR

Phillip McCallum
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Phillip McCallum

A popular and effective mediator, Phillip McCallum brings experience, creativity, and credibility to the mediation table. Litigation attorneys and their clients appreciate Phillip's ability to build relationships and rapport with people from all walks of life.

Phillip brings to every mediated dispute a wealth of experience in litigation and in business and organizational management in facilitating valuable problem-solving for individuals and businesses.

The Birmingham native and past president of the Alabama State Bar attended Auburn University, graduated from the University of Alabama in Birmingham, and received his law degree from Cumberland School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, and West Virginia, and he is a member of the Alabama Academy of Attorney Mediators.

Phillip's value as a mediator is enhanced by his experience in leading a successful trial firm and in litigating disputes on behalf of both businesses and individuals. That experience provides a solid foundation for his effectiveness in achieving settlement in a wide variety of areas, including:

  • Personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death

    Phillip McCallum has over 30 years of experience handling catastrophic personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases and mediations stemming from a wide variety of causes, whether auto accidents, 18-wheelers, product liability, workplace accidents, toxic torts, pharmaceuticals, burns, medical malpractice, medical devices, industrial accidents, exposures, fires, or other causes.

  • Automobile and trucking accidents

    Phillip McCallum has over 30 years of experience handling catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death cases stemming from a wide variety of vehicle accidents, including cars, trucks and 18-wheelers.

  • Fraud and bad faith

    Phillip McCallum has dealt with fraud and bad faith cases and mediations including consumer fraud, bank fraud, insurance fraud, bad faith failure to pay, bad faith failure to investigate, consumer finance, mortgage lending, retail installment contracts, lender liability, collateral protection, warranties, and predatory lending.

  • Class actions, mass torts and complex litigation

    Cases involving multiple claimants present some unique challenges when it comes to settlement.  Having a mediator who can generate creative solutions and help the parties navigate the distinctive pitfalls associated with these cases is important.

  • Insurance and business disputes

    Insurance and business disputes turn on interpreting complex and complicated contracts, but they are a breach of contract cases at their heart.  Regardless of the amount in controversy, exploring the contract terms, the facts at issue, and the applicable law are critical to a thorough analysis and understanding of the issues involved in mediating such disputes.  Phillip uses his many years’ experience in the courtroom to enhance his effectiveness in mediating disputes of this type.  But he doesn’t let either interfere with your ability to negotiate your case.  These types of cases include acquisitions, buy-sell agreements, stock purchase agreements, shareholder agreements, covenants not to compete, insurance coverage disputes, equipment purchases, real estate, leases, and other similar matters.

  • Construction

    Construction cases are never simple.  They often involve multiple contracts, multiple parties, numerous contributing factors, complicated damage calculations, and a multitude of expert witnesses.   Mediating these cases requires a mediator who is experienced in construction matters so that he can quickly understand and assess the issues at play.   Phillip McCallum has managed and mediated numerous large and complex construction disputes, both before and after lawsuits or arbitration demands have been filed. 

  • Employment

    Employment matters are rarely simple to resolve.  They are multifaceted and turn on policies, best practices, laws, regulations, and sometimes contracts, but also emotions, feelings, and relationships.  The ability to connect with people is one of the most important skills in mediating these types of disputes.  Phillip is not only an experienced litigator and mediator, but he has real-world experience as a manager, managing large offices Including a quasi-state entity.  He has dealt with issues including, wage and hour, overtime, leave, Family Medical Leave Act, discrimination, Title VII, sex discrimination, sexual harassment, hostile workplace, race discrimination, religious discrimination, age discrimination, failure to hire, wrongful termination, demotions, employee discipline, employee benefits, hostile environment, workers compensation, employment agreements, and other employment-related matters.

Phillip has also been very active in giving back to his community through his pro bono leadership and civic and charitable causes (listed below).

Calendar Your Next Mediation or Arbitration

Phillip's case manager, Lacey McCaleb, will contact you on receipt of your Appointment Request.


Does your preferred date appear to be booked? Please contact Lacey at her office number 256-734-3542, ext. 6, by her cell number 205-495-1299, or by email to see whether we can accommodate your schedule.

Phillip McCallum on mediation and arbitration

(articles coming soon)

ESG Disputes in ADR – A Strategic Approach to Resolving High-Stakes Issues

April 2, 2025
As Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles take center stage in corporate strategy, disputes related to ESG compliance, sustainability claims, and stakeholder accountability are increasing in both frequency and complexity. These matters don’t just affect a company’s bottom line—they impact brand reputation, investor confidence, and regulatory relationships. As such, they require a dispute resolution approach that is efficient, private, and principled—all strengths of mediation and arbitration. Why ADR is Well-Suited for ESG Disputes Confidentiality & Reputation Management ESG disputes often involve sensitive data, potential allegations of greenwashing, or social responsibility failures. Mediation and arbitration offer private forums, allowing companies to manage conflicts without public litigation that may exacerbate reputational damage. Expert Neutral Guidance ADR allows parties to select neutrals with specific expertise in ESG-related sectors—whether it's environmental compliance, labor relations, or corporate governance. This tailored knowledge leads to better-informed resolutions and reduces the risk of misunderstanding complex regulatory frameworks. Global and Cross-Border Flexibility  ESG obligations often span jurisdictions. Arbitration, particularly under institutions like the ICC or AAA-ICDR, provides cross-border enforceability and process adaptability that litigation cannot match. Preserving Relationships While Resolving Disputes Many ESG conflicts arise between business partners, investors, or community stakeholders. Mediation offers a structured environment to resolve disputes while preserving long-term relationships, a key goal in ESG initiatives. The future of ESG is accountability—and with that comes conflict. Mediation and arbitration offer a modern, effective path forward for lawyers advising clients in this space. As an experienced neutral, I work to resolve these disputes with a deep understanding of the legal, reputational, and ethical implications. 📩 Looking for trusted ADR guidance in ESG-related matters? Let’s talk.

Ethical Considerations in AI-Assisted Mediation

March 26, 2025
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mediation is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it's reshaping the way we resolve disputes. AI tools are increasingly being used to streamline case management, assist with document review, and even provide insight into settlement trends. While these tools can enhance efficiency and decision-making, they also raise critical ethical questions that mediators and legal professionals must address head-on. Fairness and Impartiality in an AI-Driven Process At the heart of mediation lies neutrality and trust . When introducing AI into the process, we must ensure that its use does not inadvertently introduce bias or compromise impartiality . AI algorithms are trained on historical data—data that may reflect systemic biases. If left unchecked, these tools could reinforce unfair patterns or influence outcomes based on flawed assumptions. Confidentiality and Data Security Mediation depends on confidentiality . AI platforms that store or process sensitive information must adhere to rigorous data security standards. ADR professionals must vet vendors thoroughly and ensure that any digital tools used in mediation comply with ethical obligations surrounding privacy and privilege. Transparency and Informed Consent When AI is part of the process, parties must be informed . Transparency about how tools are being used, what data is being analyzed, and how that information may shape recommendations is essential. Informed consent isn’t just a legal standard—it’s an ethical imperative in maintaining the integrity of the mediation process. The Role of the Mediator Remains Human AI can enhance how we work, but it should never replace the human judgment, empathy, and adaptability that defines a skilled mediator. It is our role to ensure technology remains a servant of fairness , not a substitute for it. 📩 Interested in exploring ethical, effective tech-assisted mediation? I’m happy to share insights or help with your next dispute.

Technological Advancements in Construction Arbitration – The Future of Efficiency in ADR

March 19, 2025
Construction disputes are among the most complex in alternative dispute resolution (ADR), often involving high-value contracts, technical evidence, and multi-party litigation . As technology evolves, construction arbitration is undergoing a transformation , leveraging digital tools to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance case management.  Key Technological Advancements in Construction Arbitration 🏗️ Virtual Hearings & Digital Case Management With the rise of online arbitration platforms, virtual hearings have become a standard rather than an exception . Tools like Zoom, Webex, and dedicated arbitration platforms allow for seamless video testimony, digital evidence submission, and real-time transcription. The ability to conduct multi-jurisdictional arbitrations remotely significantly reduces time and travel expenses for all parties. 📑 Electronic Document Management & AI-Powered Evidence Review Construction cases involve massive volumes of contracts, blueprints, and regulatory documents . AI-driven legal tech tools like Relativity, Everlaw, and CaseText help streamline discovery by automating document review, identifying key clauses, and flagging inconsistencies . This ensures faster and more precise decision-making while reducing the manual workload. ⚙️ Building Information Modeling (BIM) & Digital Twin Evidence BIM and Digital Twin technology allow arbitrators to visualize construction disputes in 3D models , helping clarify design defects, delays, and construction quality issues. These tools provide fact-based, real-time project data , making expert testimonies and evidentiary reviews more efficient and persuasive. 🔒 Blockchain for Contract Integrity & Smart Contracts Blockchain technology is revolutionizing contract integrity , ensuring that construction contract changes, milestones, and payments are securely recorded and tamper-proof . Smart contracts can automate dispute triggers , making arbitration more efficient and reducing procedural disputes over payment schedules and deliverables. The Impact on ADR Professionals & Lawyers As technology transforms construction arbitration , ADR professionals must adapt: ✔ Embrace digital tools – Familiarity with virtual arbitration platforms, AI-driven discovery, and digital contract review tools is now a necessity. ✔ Enhance expertise in tech-driven evidence – Arbitrators must understand BIM, digital records, and AI-assisted document analysis to remain effective in resolving construction disputes. ✔ Ensure cybersecurity compliance – As more data moves online, arbitrators and law firms must invest in security protocols to protect sensitive project information. The future of construction arbitration is here. For lawyers, working with technologically proficient ADR professionals is now a strategic advantage —ensuring that disputes are resolved efficiently, cost-effectively, and with a higher degree of accuracy than ever before.
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Professional Memberships

American Bar Association

Alabama State Bar: Past President (2012-2013)

Alabama Academy of Attorney Mediators

Birmingham Bar Association

National Conference of Bar Presidents

Southern Conference of Bar Presidents

Recent Presentations

"Mediation: Mistakes to Avoid - Beginning to End" (CLE webinar co-presenter), Alabama Defense Lawyers Association, April 18, 2023

"Mistakes to Avoid from Beginning to End in ADR/Mediation" (CLE webinar co-presenter), Birmingham Bar Association, October 28, 2022 | Member comments

Bar Admissions

Alabama, 1988

Texas, 2002

Oklahoma, 2003

West Virginia, 2004

Education

J.D., Cumberland School of Law, Samford University, 1987

B.S. (Political Science), The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1984

Community Leadership

Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Foundation: Past Board Member

City of Vestavia Hills Substance and Abuse Committee: Past Chair

Triumph Services: Past Board Member

Vestavia Hills Club Wrestling coach

An Environment Conducive to Settlement

While we function effectively via Zoom or other online settings, our conference rooms provide a peaceful, comfortable setting for your in-person mediation or arbitration. Take a virtual tour.

Conference room 4
Conference room 6
Conference room 8
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