Areas of Focus:
“Relating to my clients on a personal level is fundamental to my legal practice. I want clients to know that I understand their issues and can resolve them. I look at the human aspect of each case and find the best solutions to help a business and its people.”
Practical, straightforward, and solution-oriented are traits that embody David’s legal philosophy, where he consistently solves regulatory, litigatory, and financial problems relating to commercial, agricultural, industrial, and residential land matters. His career spans more than 20 years representing small businesses, landowners, and commercial owners in all areas related to real estate, land use, construction, environmental, and business law. His most significant accomplishment comes from his successful advocation for the state of Oregon’s first Goal18 Exception in 2021, exemplifying two decades of land use practice at a high level in the Pacific Northwest. His varied professional background as an engineer allows David to harness a unique perspective concerning environmental compliance, remediation, and land use matters. This background provides valuable insight when evaluating evidence and collaborating with experts in litigation to quickly find solutions concerning complicated cases.
Coming from an extensive line of landowners from Eastern Idaho, David’s love of the land and environment feeds his law practice. He is well-versed in property-related issues such as water rights, surveying, title, and boundary issues. He prides himself on establishing personal connections with clients concerning land use matters. In his mind, cases are complex problems that require unique solutions, and he advocates for all parties to collaboratively work together to find effective resolutions, relying heavily on scientific and engineering experts. His methodology centers around finding common ground between parties that best resolves legal disputes and helps small businesses. Additionally, he advises clients on the interplay between increased government regulations of land use and private business interests that impact local communities.
David’s love for the outdoors shapes his personal life as well. He is a professional offshore fisherman, representing and promoting brands for national and international fishing industry manufacturers. He also enjoys farming, family sports, and spending time with his wife and two children.
Education:
- Northwestern School of Law at Lewis and Clark College, J.D., 2003
- Utah State University, B.S., Environmental Engineering, Cum Laude, 1999
Associations:
- Western Economic Alliance Land Use and Transportation committees
- Western Resources Legal Center
Bar Admissions: