David Payne Housel Jr.

I hired David Housel after realizing I needed a stronger, more experienced attorney to navigate a complex SAPCR. With my prior attorney, I encountered significant pushback from the other side over what should have been a straightforward agreement. I needed an attorney with the experience and support ...to move things forward efficiently and decisively. ONDA is a large firm with deep resources, and David is sharp, strategic, and not afraid of legal battle. While our initial consultation felt a bit rushed, I ultimately chose David based on referrals and reputation — and I’m glad I did. David listens carefully and acts with purpose. He keeps momentum going without unnecessary delay, and when it’s time to move, he and his team execute with precision. He doesn’t sugarcoat things — and that’s exactly what you want in high-stakes litigation. He’s not a yes-man. He’s a tactician who takes your input, processes it, and implements a plan. I liken him to the family law version of Dr. House — brilliant, blunt, and always working. He’s kept me informed at every stage — I’ve received every filing, motion, and development promptly. I’ve seen some reviews suggesting cases are dragged out — that has not been my experience. David has moved swiftly, while ensuring every step is thoughtful and effective. He also explained his billing philosophy to me: he'd rather ten clients pay him $100 than one pay him $1,000. That mindset is reflected in both his responsiveness and his respect for client costs. He’s even communicated with opposing counsel about ways to streamline and reduce unnecessary costs — unfortunately, that courtesy wasn’t reciprocated. His team — especially paralegals Emma and Ashley — have been phenomenal. They’ve worked hard behind the scenes, from identifying witnesses and preparing subpoenas to reviewing discovery and helping shape the case narrative. Communication has been seamless and professional. At this point, I feel fully prepared — based on the facts and evidence so far — to resolve this case through final negotiations or, if necessary, trial. I’ll update this review at the conclusion of my SAPCR, but for now, I’m confident in the representation I have moving forward.

His site says " He wants to make sure that children are protected, their feelings are taken into account, and that their situation brings as little stress as possible into their lives," however he fails to take into account their actual feelings. He is a little weasel who will weasel all your money. ...He's rude and doesn't do his own work. Tries to take shortcuts. Would never recommend him. He looks like a rat and probably smells like one.

David Housel was referred to me by family friend. When I reached out to him, I desperately needed someone who was going to fight for my family. He did not disappoint. He listened to all the information provided. Analyzed it. Knew the law well. And executed a plan of action that provided the best ou...tcome for my family. We owe him everything.

I hired David to represent us with problems with an ex. First of all, he sends paperwork to the opposing attorney had his old clients names on it! That should have told us what we needed to know. ***His “advise” does nothing to resolve the matter, and only causes you to continue to go through him ...which hikes up your bill. He jumps to conclusions and doesn’t listen. His actions and language toward the ex’s counsel doesn’t work to resolve or work in your benefit either. It angers the opposition and looks horrible in court! Frankly, he is arrogant and for no reason. If you are a woman, stay away from this guy. He will make promises and only make your problems worse. Scott Palmer needs to remove this guy.

I had retained another attorney as an exploratory situation. She had my husband served after I asked her not to, and the papers were filled with evil lies about him. When I asked her to nonsuit the case once I saw the papers she had him served with, she blatantly refused to help me. A friend of mine ...found David on Google and I am so glad that she did. He had the entire case nonsuited in less than a week and wrote an amazing letter to my husband explaining that she did what she did without my knowledge or consent. Finally, a lawyer that actually cares for the people they represent.