Skip to main content

David Veenstra

Family Attorney at Tampa, FL

5.0   27 reviews

Call and speak with several attorneys to find best fit for your specific legal issue.
Can't find what you are looking for?
Avvo has 97% of all lawyers in the US.
Find the best ones near you.
Find Nearby Lawyers

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Family
    99%
    Dissolution of marriage, domestic violence, child support, relocation, paternity, and post-judgment family law issues, with an emphasis on military issues in family law matters

    13 years

  2. General practice
    1%
    General civil litigation

    13 years

David Veenstra started his legal career in Tampa, where he has worked on a variety of civil litigation at the trial and appellate level, including foreclosure defense, bankruptcy, contract, landlord/tenant disputes, estate planning, probate, guardianship, qualifying and applying for Medicaid, and virtually all aspects of family law.  Today, his focus is on family law (especially when there is a military aspect of it), and other civil litigation.

He attended the Stetson University College of Law and graduated in the top half of his class.  As a student he served as a Research Assistant for Family Law and in Trial Advocacy.  He also achieved IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance/Tax Counseling for the Elderly Advanced Certification and served as a local site supervisor in the VITA program.

While a student Mr. Veenstra was inducted into the Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honor Society, was awarded the Fred G. Minnis Sr. Bar Association Diversity Scholarship, and received the William F. Blews Pro Bono Service Award.

Military Service

Prior to becoming an attorney, he served in the United States Air Force and attained the rank of Senior Master Sergeant.  During his career he was assigned to nine separate locations, including four overseas tours (in the Pacific, the Far East, Southwest Asia and in Europe).  A combat veteran, SMSgt Veenstra deployed overseas to participate in both Operation DESERT STORM and Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, including leading troops while under fire in Iraq.  He was also responsible for installation security at Andrews Air Force Base, home of Air Force One, and traveled with Air Force One outside the United States.  Additionally, he traveled extensively for the Air Force on other missions, serving in 35 separate countries on every populated continent on earth.

An Honor Graduate of the Air Force Law Enforcement Academy, SMSgt Veenstra served his entire career in the military police.  As an Airman he received the following awards and decorations: Air Force Meritorious Service Medal (4), Air Force Commendation Medal (7), Air Force Achievement Medal (7), Army Achievement Medal (1), Southwest Asia Service Medal with 2 Bronze Star Devices, Air Force Good Conduct Medal (6), National Defense Service Medal (2), Southwest Asia Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Navy Expert Rifle Medal, Coast Guard Expert Rifle Medal, Navy Expert Pistol Shot Medal, Coast Guard Expert Pistol Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal Government of Kuwait.

Personal

Mr. Veenstra was born and raised here in the Tampa Bay area, and graduated from H.B. Plant High School before matriculating at the University of South Florida.  He is an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.  He has been married to Diane Veenstra since 1984.  Mrs. Veenstra is an elementary school classroom teacher who specializes in math and science.  They have a passion for life, a love of children, and a great appreciation for family and friends.

The Veenstra’s son, David Jr., is also an Eagle Scout.

Court Admissions

  • Florida Supreme Court and State Courts in Florida
  • United States District Court Middle District of Florida
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
  • United States Tax Court

 

Professional Organizations

  • The Florida Bar
  • Florida Bar Military & Veterans Affairs Committee
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association Military & Veterans Affais C0mmittee
  • FBI National Academy Associates
  • Professional Association of Diving Instructors

 

Education

  • Juris Doctor, Stetson University College of Law
  • Master of Science, Criminal Justice, University of Central Florida
  • Bachelor of Arts, Criminology, University of South Florida

 

Other Education & Training

  • FBI National Academy, Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • Department of Defense Inspector General School
  • Hostage/Crisis Negotiations
  • Master Instructor, Professional Association of Diving Instructors

 

Photos and videos

Licensed for 12 years
State FL
Status Member in Good Standing
Acquired 2010
Updated 02/23/2023

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

Contact David

Similar lawyers nearby

Hunter Law, P.A.
5025 West Lemon Street
Tampa, FL, 33609

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  27 customer reviews
5 Star
 
100%
4 Star
 
0%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by Lisa | January 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptional Attorney
David is an extremely knowledgeable, dedicated, and caring professional who exceeded expectations in representing my son's divorce. He went above and beyond on several occasions to communicate and offer expert advice regarding special circumstances associated with our case. Highly recommend.
Posted by Debi | January 12, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Fit
David Veenstra helped me make the best out of a difficult situation. His knowledge and skills as an attorney were spot on of course but for me, it was his attention to detail, showing care for my predicament and his quick response to any questions or concerns that I had. David is very easy to talk with and even added some levity when I needed it. Thank you David, for being there for me. You made a difficult situation easier to walk through.
Read less
Posted by anonymous | January 11, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
The best attorney
I been looking for lawyers for too long and a friend of mine mentioned Mr David and I went to him and gave me the advice and help I was looking for I would recommend him to anyone who needs family attorney
Posted by Rose | August 30, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Dedicated, Caring, & Consummate Professional!
I had the good fortune to work with David on my sister's very complicated Medicaid case. David exhibited not only extreme knowledge of all the legal intricacies involved, but genuine compassion for both my sister's well-being and the ordeal which I encountered attempting to help her. He has a gift for taking the complicated issues of law and distilling them down to layman's terms that can be easily understood. David was always timely in returning phone calls and emails, and he certainly provided the reassurance that I very much needed moving forward with the case. I cannot thank David enough for all he has done for us. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND him as a lawyer who will always have your best interests at heart!
Read less
Posted by Christine | June 9, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Elder Law
We have recently used David Veenstra of the Rosenkranz Law Firm to represent us with my husbands disability. He advised us on his VA disability and we got it increased. He also represented us on a DCF issue. This took great perseverance and much patience on his part. We finally got that resolved to our benefit too. David was a pleasure to work with. He really went above and beyond tackling difficult issues for us. I really felt he had our best interests at heart. I found him to be very competent and knowledgeable. We would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of a family or elder law attorney.
Read less
Posted by Tanya | May 29, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Mike D Hiott - DCF
Mr. Veenstra is a man who is dedicated to his job. He was able to get my disabled brother's benefits upgraded from SLMB to QMB. Working with DCF is not an easy task at all. He had to spend a tremendous amount of time with DCF and my brother and I in order to get all of the documents that DCF was requesting. He was in constant contact me. I felt like I was his only client. Even though I got stressed out, Mr. Veenstra didn't. He was always calm, courteous and respectful. If it wasn't for him, I don't know how I would have been able to get my brother's benefits upgraded. I would recommend him to anyone who wanted to work with a knowledgeable, dedicated and professional attorney. Thank you so very much, Mr. Veenstra. You are greatly appreciated.
Read less
Posted by Carla rodgers | December 16, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A bulldog
I was lost. I’m sure you are as well if you’re reading this review, but I’ve had two different lawyers that would get their retainer and read the notes right before the case. David defended me, protected me legally, and up front showed me how to save money in court costs. Khristin his legal assistant, and Melissa his secretary were a great team to have in the middle of the storm. Thankfully, by accident I found him, and I am so thankful to have him, and his team on my case. He’s a bulldog, he puts his teeth in his work, and he won’t let go, he believes in what he’s doing, and there is no substitute for his experience and his due diligence. 10/10 would never get divorced again, but would recommend him anytime.
Read less
Posted by Samantha | October 19, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Quintessential Choice for excellence represenation
This gentleman is the perfect example of stellar representation and professionalism. He is without a doubt the most concerned, compassionate, and astute attorney, in this field, and his communication skills are outstanding. They are unparalleled. He not only won my case, but his experience, acute litigation skills, and affable demeanor, are just the icing on the cake, when it comes to his keen observation and communication skills. Mr. David Veestra is the quintessential example of all superiority in the courtroom, and the ability to be a bulldog with integrity and a very high moral compass. I would ALWAYS defer to him for legal guidance and expertise. In addition, he is the attorney you wish you always had, but took years to find! What a spectacular gem! Extremely on top of his game!
Read less
Posted by Audie | June 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassion and Dedicated to Clients
Attorney Veenstra helped me tremendously. He and the Hunter Law firm went above and beyond, especially at a very stressful time. He is compassionate and caring, while taking his client's needs seriously. I have known and worked for a lot of attorneys for decades. This allows me to know when I am working with an attorney that not only knows exactly what to do to help you but to do it with a great heart. I cannot thank him enough and I would recommend both Attorney Veenstra and Hunter Law to anyone (and I already have). -Audie
Read less
Posted by Mark | December 28, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Divorce Attorney in Tampa
I would never wish the divorce process on anyone, but if you face divorce I would 100% recommend David Veenstra as your attorney. He was honest and educational about the divorce process. He made me feel like I was not just a paying client throughout the process. He listened to my needs and we talked through each and every step of the process. He is not your typical stuffy lawyer with so many cases that he doesn't have the time of day for you as his client. He is involved every step of the way and was by my side when I needed him the most. David and I built a trust and rapport that was invaluable to me during my divorce. David is well prepared and puts his client first and foremost every time. If you are faced with a divorce I highly recommend hiring David Veenstra as your advocate and divorce attorney.
Read less
Posted by Phil | December 26, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family Law
David came recommended to me by a mutual friend that we both served in the military with. I can attest David was the right man for the job. You always want someone who is tough and fighter as an attorney and David was both. No one wins in a divorce but David and his team made it a little easier.
Posted by Tina | December 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Determined!
I choose David Veenstra because he was the only one honest with me from the beginning. He knew it would be a long hard road, but we were both shocked at the lengths my ex would take to make this rather simple divorce turn into three years of our lives. The entire time, David never wavered in his determination to make it right for me and my kids. They say, no one wins in a divorce, but with David's continued help I came out the other end unscathed. Mrs. Hunter runs a great firm with wonderful people who really make it their business to care for those they are fighting for. David can help anyone going through with a divorce, but can especially help those in the military! Thank you to David and the firm for everything!
Read less
Posted by Del | December 11, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Effortless, competent, efficient
David handled my recent divorce. He made an otherwise difficult experience effortless and manageable. He and his staff were respectful, kind and efficient. He even managed to save me some money. I never felt a single fee was unfair or unnecessary. I would recommend David to anyone of my family or friends.
Posted by Daniel | December 11, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Simply a Rock Star!!!
What a great professional! I have had some significant challenges with actions after a divorce concerning Military retirement dispersion. David has been nothing but an absolute professional with genuine concern and support for what is/was going on with my case. Not sure how to put this so its understood correctly...David is simply a professional! He knows what he is doing, he educates himself on the dynamics of your case, then presents his opinion to you. He doesn't do anything half way!!! He's just simply good! VERY GOOD! He is definitely 'no nonsense' professional that provides you the options and alternatives in a very straight forward way. He explains legal terms in an easy to understand manner and presents his professional opinion to you in a very clear an concise manner that makes it easy to understand and digest. He will not sugar coat a thing for you; you will completely understand the facts as they are, without 'what-ifs' or 'maybe's' and that is something that is truly helpful to someone in very stressful circumstances such as divorce or Military retirement division. His demeanor, competency, professionalism and compassion are truly rare. You will genuinely feel (rightfully so) that you have legal counsel that is accomplished, professional, capable, prepared and ready to support you...and you will know he cares and understands you! I can not recommend him strongly enough...if you need counsel or legal advice, talk to David!!! You will not be disappointed!!!
Read less
Posted by Blake | December 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best Family Law Lawyer
Always upfront and honest, billing was always correct, and ALWAYS looked out for my best interest... Not many man who go through divorce receive a good verdict if it has to go to trial... I walked out with EVERYTHING!!! She left with her only her maiden name. This speaks volumes!!! Mr. Veenstra came prepared for trial and executed. Even the trial judge praised his attention to detail with the exhibits presented during trial. Best family law lawyer in the Tampa Bay area..
Read less
Posted by Randy | December 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Job!!!
David was very prompt, in returning my calls, which is really important when working with a attorney on a divorce case. He was very professional and handled the negotiations well and got things done. Nice work...
Posted by anonymous | May 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Success
I would like to thank David for working with me through this divorce. I appreciate his honesty and straight forwardness with me and I was very comfortable talking to him. There was never a time where I had trouble getting in touch with him and his response times were prompt. Additionally, he worked my case even with a 6-hr time difference between us. His military background was a plus as well and I'm so happy we were able to settle in a timely matter. David and his staff have my recommendation if I ever need them again.
Read less
Posted by CHRISTY | December 11, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Family law/Military specialist - He's your guy!
Not only is David competent, knowledgeable and proactive, he has the gift of a listening ear and sense of humor. He made a very trying period of my life (divorce),less stressful and I was fully informed every step of the way of the process. He handles opposing counsel with finesse, but is not afraid to go to bat for his client. I can't say the whole situation was a great experience, but I feel with his guidance, I had the best possible outcome. His prior military background is an added bonus. Highly recommend!!
Read less
Posted by Jack Seal | May 29, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Lawyer
Firstly, like many, my case was very ugly from the opposing side and I felt hopeless and lost. David not only told me what to do and how to present myself, the end result was literally, mind blowing. His professionalism and knowledge of family law is truly the only reason I have my kids today. If you’re searching for someone to fight for you 100%, look no further!
Read less
Posted by Michael J | March 30, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Done!
I started my journey almost four years ago with David. A divorce that involved Military, children, and retirement was not easy to contest with. However, David took the time, explained everything step by step and even humored me with the "what if's." I told him what I wanted and we did not deviate from that course. He dotted every "I" and crossed every "T" and checked that punctuation. The exclamation point being me getting my kids! I then went back to David because I was moving and needed to request permission to leave the state. Once again, he told me the truth, that it was not guaranteed even if I had majority "time sharing." Again, we stayed the course and with other circumstances that arose that benefited my position, David took full advantage of them putting to an end an almost 4 year battle. A battle which has blessed me with my kids, holding my ex accountable to her financial obligation to our kids, and the ability to move with them with out issue from my ex or the state. I am thankful for his hard work and dedication to my case and I am even more thankful that he helped secure my children and my continued growth in my career. Thank you.... v/r, Michael J
Read less
View less reviews

Cost

Rates
  • Hourly Rates $ 200-300 per hour
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Rosenkranz Law Firm
  • 2022 - Present
  • Partner
  • Hunter Law, P.A.
  • 2020 - 2022
  • Associate Attorney
  • Hunter Law, P.A.
  • 2012 - 2020
  • Associate Attorney
  • The Thorpe Law Firm, P.A.
  • 2010 - 2012
  • Research Assistant
  • Stetson University College of Law
  • 2008 - 2010
  • Senior Master Sergeant
  • U.S. Air Force
  • 1984 - 2007
View all work experience

Education

  • Stetson University College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2010
  • University of Central Florida
  • MS - Master of Science
  • 1998
  • University of South Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1996

Legal Cases

  • U------ v. U------
  • Order granting enforcement against the other party, reunited parent with children
  • J.----- v. J.-----
  • Judgment for the client allowing the relocation
  • S.----- v. S.-----
  • Judgment for the client, including an award of $15K in back alimony, $148K in back child support, and entitlement to reimbursement of attorneys fees.
View all legal cases

Associations

  • Florida Bar, Military Affairs Committee
  • Attorney Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • HCBA Military and Veterans Affairs Committee
  • Attorney Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Hillsborough County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • United States District Court Middle District of Florida
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • United States Tax Court
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - Present
  • FBI National Academy Associates
  • Graduate Member
  • 2001 - Present
  • Professional Association of Diving Instructors
  • Master Instructor
  • 1987 - Present
  • Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - 2022
  • St. Petersburg Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - 2014
  • Clearwater Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2010 - 2014
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • 2020 Florida Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2020
  • 2019 Florida Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2019
  • 2018 Florida Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2018
  • 2017 Florida Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2017
  • 2016 Florida Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers Magazine
  • 2016
  • 2015 "10 Best" Client Satisfaction
  • American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
  • 2015
  • Exceptional Pro Bono Service Lapel Pin, 2011
  • Supreme Court of Florida
  • 2012
  • Best Pupilage Group 2011-2012
  • Family Law Inn of Court, Tampa
  • 2012
  • William F. Blews Pro Bono Service Award
  • Stetson University College of Law
  • 2010
  • Diversity Scholarship
  • Fred G. Minnis, Sr., Bar Association
  • 2009
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • MacDill AFB Chief's Group Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2018
  • MacDill AFB Chief's Group Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2017
  • First Sergeants Council
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2017
  • Stand Down for Homeless Veterans
  • General Legal Issues
  • 2016
  • Operation: REVEILLE, Ending Homelessness for All Veterans
  • Military and Veterans Issues
  • 2016
  • First Sergeant's Council Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2015
  • Chief's Group Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2015
  • Annual Meeting
  • Statutory Review Subcommittee Report
  • 2014
  • Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa Monthly Meeting
  • Professionalism & Civility
  • 2013
  • Family Law American Inn of Court of Tampa Monthly Meeting
  • Attorneys Fees
  • 2013
  • MacDill Chief's Group Luncheon
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2012
  • First Sergeants Annual Training
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2012
  • First Sergeant's Council Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2012
  • First Sergeant's Council Meeting
  • Family Law in Florida
  • 2011
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (35)
Given (50)
Endorse David
Family Attorney | Jan 05
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"David and I were co-counsel on a very high conflict family law case. I can personally attest to David's knowledge and his professionalism. I am happy to endorse David and hope to work with him again in the future."
Family Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"David is an excellent litigator and I endorse him highly to handle the most complex of legal issues."
Family Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have opposed Mr. Veenstra in family law cases. Mr. Veenstra is very passionate, very well prepared, handles himself well in court, and advocates zealously for his clients. All of these qualities and skills makes Mr. Veenstra a skilled litigator, negotiator and a great family law attorney."
Family Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have consulted with Mr. Veenstra on several of my own cases. He is a brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I know David from the legal community and I've also been involved in cases where David was the opposing counsel. David is professional in all aspects, he is knowledgable in family law, and most importantly, David zealously advocates for his client's rights and best interests at every turn. I am happy to endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David's knowledge of military law, specifically how it relates to family law, is phenomenal."
Family Attorney | Oct 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of having David as an opposing counsel in family law matters. He has always been knowledge, professional and a strong advocate for his clients. Rather than taking an unnecessarily aggressive legal stance, he'd pick up the phone to talk through an issue in an effort to find a solution when possible. I look forward to working with him again."
Family Attorney | Oct 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known David since lawschool. He is hardworking and incredibly intelligent. I am proud to endorse this attorney."
Family Attorney | Jul 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer, great friend and wonderful person, but what I appreciate most about him is his honor and ethics"
Unknown Attorney | Jul 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Mar 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Friendly and easy to work with and knowledgeable."
Family Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known David since 2010 look forward to working with him to resolve many cases together in the future! He is also good at poker!"
Family Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known attorney Veenstra since law school. He is honest and works hard on his clients' behalf. I endorse him wholeheartedly."
Family Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse attorney David Veenstra for his experience (legal and 20+ years in the Military), professionalism and attention to detail to every case and client. His knowledge and preparation is unparalleled, as is his realistic and human approach to his client's needs. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Veenstra to any of my friends, family or colleagues."
Family Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"It is a pleasure to have David as a colleague. You should consider David if you are searching for a results oriented attorney."
General practice Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I gladly endorse David. He is professional and knowledgable. David possesses an unparalleled passion for his work and clients, is dedicated and works diligently for them."
Family Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David is an excellent attorney. David's knowledge shows both, in his work and the relationships he has with his clients."
Family Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David Is an outstanding attorney. If you are looking for a fair and honest attorney, who will fight for your rights David Veenstra is the attorney for you."
Family Attorney | Oct 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"David is a hardworking thoughtful advocate who can be very pragmatic in his advice."
View more endorsements