David A. Searles

David A. Searles is of counsel at Francis Mailman Soumilas, P.C. in Philadelphia, where his work centers on consumer protection and class action litigation. His background includes consumer law, bankruptcy, creditors’ rights, and complex appellate matters. He has represented consumers in significant federal cases and has argued before the US Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. His practice combines long-term litigation experience with a strong focus on consumer rights and financial disputes.

David graduated from the American University School of Law in Washington, D.C., where he served on law review. His academic background supported a career that developed around consumer and bankruptcy law. He later taught advanced bankruptcy law at Rutgers University School of Law–Camden, business law at Widener University, and bankruptcy law at Pierce Junior College in Philadelphia. This teaching experience reflects the depth of his work in consumer finance and bankruptcy matters.

David began his legal career with Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, specializing in consumer and bankruptcy law. In 1990, he argued Pennsylvania v. Davenport before the US Supreme Court. He later practiced Chapter 11 bankruptcy and creditors’ rights at Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP and then concentrated on consumer class action litigation. His work has included numerous class actions and appellate matters involving consumer protection, credit reporting, debt collection, and related financial issues.

David A. Searles has received the Equal Justice Award from Community Legal Services and has contributed to publications addressing class action and Pennsylvania consumer law. He has served in leadership roles connected to bankruptcy education and has been selected to Pennsylvania Super Lawyers in multiple years. Admitted in Pennsylvania and several federal courts, he brings substantial litigation, appellate, teaching, and consumer-law experience to matters involving individual and class-wide rights.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Francis Mailman Soumilas, P.C.
• Member, Pennsylvania Bar Association
• Past Co-Chairperson, Education Committee, Eastern District of Pennsylvania Bankruptcy Conference

Licensed State

• Pennsylvania

Awards & Badges