David J. Petersen
About David J. Petersen
David J. Petersen is a lawyer based in Portland, OR and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2013. David J. Petersen is recognized in the following practice areas:
- Portland, Oregon
- Energy Law
- Land Use and Zoning Law
- Real Estate Law
Current Firm: Tonkon Torp LLP
Education: University of California Berkeley, J.D., graduated 1998 and Syracuse University, B.A., graduated 1991
Location: Portland, OR
Nearby Lawyers
Kevin Mapes is a commercial litigator with more than 25 years of experience in state and federal courts in Oregon, Washington, and California. He represents plaintiffs and defendants in a wide variety of business disputes involving commercial lending, partnership disputes, general contract matters, construction disputes, and a wide variety of commercial real estate disputes. Mr. Mapes is also an experienced environmental litigator, and has represented clients in matters involving the federal ...
Angela Ferrer is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Individuals and Employment Law - Management. Angela, who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Angela is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Robert B. Lowry is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Environmental Law and Litigation - Environmental. Robert B., who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2021. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Robert B. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Marisa Meltebeke is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Nonprofit / Charities Law and Tax Law. Marisa, who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Marisa is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
David Connell is a Shareholder in Buchalter’s Portland office and a member of the Firm’s Corporate Practice Group. Mr. Connell has extensive experience in the emerging growth, technology, nonprofit and social enterprise, energy, and healthcare sectors and often serves as general counsel to business and nonprofit enterprises. He began his career as a tax attorney with an international accounting firm, and brings his tax and finance experience to the table when advising clients.
Joe Traylor is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Construction, Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants and Product Liability Litigation - Defendants. Joe, who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2023. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Joe is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Michael Wiswall is a native Oregonian. He began his legal career at Hart Wagner LLP in 1994, and became a partner of the firm in 1999. For nearly 20 years, Mike’s practice has primarily focused on defending medical malpractice lawsuits throughout the Northwest. Mike also assists hospitals and clinics with pre-litigation evaluations, as well as with their early disclosure and resolution programs. Mike frequently represents physicians, dentists, pharmacists and nurses before state licensi...
Tara's practice emphasizes bankruptcy, creditors' rights, and commercial litigation. She represents all types of parties in all types of bankruptcy matters including unsecured creditors' committees, business debtors in reorganization proceedings, creditors including banks and other financial service providers, bankruptcy trustees and receivers. She protects clients' interests and represents them on a national level in multiple bankruptcy jurisdictions. Tara is certified by the American Board ...
P. Andrew McStay is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Commercial Litigation. P. Andrew, who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2024. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which P. Andrew is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Susan D. Pitchford is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Advertising Law, Copyright Law, Litigation - Patent, Patent Law and Trademark Law. Susan D., who practices law in Portland, Oregon, has been recognized since 2015. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Susan D. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
The Family Law Loophole That Lets Sex Offenders Parent Kids
by Bryan Driscoll
Is the state's surrogacy framework putting children at risk?
Holiday Pay Explained: Federal Rules and Employer Policies
by Bryan Driscoll
Understand how paid holidays work, when employers must follow their policies and when legal guidance may be necessary.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer
Unenforceable HOA Rules: What Homeowners Can Do About Illegal HOA Actions
by Bryan Driscoll
Not every HOA rule is legal. Learn how to recognize and fight unenforceable HOA rules that overstep the law.