David Phillips is Senior Counsel in Crowley Fleck’s Oil and Gas Practice Group, with a practice that also encompasses natural resources, environmental matters, and commercial litigation. He represents clients before the North Dakota Industrial Commission, including preparing applications and representing them in administrative hearings.
David brings valuable firsthand experience to his Industrial Commission practice. Before joining Crowley Fleck, he worked in the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office and served as a hearing examiner for the North Dakota Industrial Commission. That experience provided him with insight into the administrative hearing process and the legal and regulatory issues that arise in matters before the Commission.
David approaches legal problems from multiple perspectives and looks for practical solutions tailored to each matter. One of the most valuable lessons he took from law school was the importance of examining an issue from different angles rather than assuming there is only one way to solve a problem.
He also believes that involving an attorney early can make a significant difference. Clients sometimes wait until a disagreement has developed into a larger legal dispute before seeking counsel, when earlier legal guidance may have helped identify potential issues, clarify obligations, or prevent the dispute altogether. David enjoys helping clients address those issues because the work is both intellectually interesting and important to the people and businesses involved.
For David, becoming an attorney was a goal from an early age. He decided while still in high school that he wanted to practice law, and that interest never wavered. He continues to genuinely enjoy the profession and the opportunity it gives him to work through challenging problems on behalf of clients.
David grew up in a military family and lived in several places, including Kansas, Germany, Washington, D.C., Bismarck, and Fargo. His father, a surgeon, was an important influence and helped shape David’s approach to his professional and personal responsibilities.
Outside the office, David enjoys working out and spending time outdoors. He and his wife enjoy walking and hiking together, including exploring the trails and outdoor areas around Bismarck. Above all, David values his family and considers being a positive role model for his children one of his most important goals.