David & Stephens LLP launches in Houston to serve Texas public entities

A new Houston law firm has launched to advise and represent Texas cities, counties, districts and other public bodies. David & Stephens LLP brings in former Harris County leaders and focuses on policy advice, land acquisition and constitutional litigation.

Why it matters: - Texas public entities often need legal help that spans governance, property, and litigation. - David & Stephens LLP is built to serve those needs under one roof. - The firm says that structure is meant to reduce the need for clients to search for separate counsel when matters cross multiple legal areas.

What happened: - David & Stephens LLP launched in Houston as a new law firm founded by partners Kate David and Ben Stephens. - The firm serves Texas governmental entities, including cities, counties, transit authorities, water and special districts, higher education institutions, and other public bodies. - Robert Eckels, former Harris County Judge and current chairman of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, joined the firm as Of Counsel. - Mike Stafford, former Harris County Attorney, also joined the firm as Of Counsel. - The firm also includes a team of attorneys and staff focused on Texas public law.

The details: - David & Stephens has three practice areas: Policy Advice, Land Acquisition, and Constitutional Litigation. - The Policy Advice work covers regulatory and governance questions public entities face day to day. - The Land Acquisition practice covers land use and right-of-way matters tied to public infrastructure. - The Constitutional Litigation practice covers constitutional and civil rights challenges to public decisions. - The firm is based in Houston and serves public entities throughout Texas. - The company’s website is More information.

Between the lines: - The launch pairs local public-sector experience with a niche legal model aimed at government clients. - The addition of former county officials signals an emphasis on public-law credibility and relationships in Texas government circles. - The firm’s three-practice structure suggests an effort to handle both routine advisory work and disputes that may escalate into litigation.

What's next: - David & Stephens will begin building its client base across Texas public agencies and special districts. - The firm is likely to lean on its new leadership team and public-law focus as it expands its footprint.

The bottom line: - David & Stephens LLP is entering the Texas legal market with a clear target: public entities that need coordinated advice on policy, property and constitutional disputes.