David Thompson

David Thompson is a leading authority on Texas public education law. A partner in the Houston office, he has spent decades helping public school districts, junior colleges, and education entities across Texas. His deep understanding of school legislation makes him a trusted voice.

David earned his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law in 1976 and his B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin in 1973. His strong academic foundation supports his effective and long-standing legal practice.

For over 30 years, David has guided key education policy decisions in Texas. He serves as legislative counsel to major school associations and districts. He has also led legal challenges to the state’s public school finance system, securing victories before the Texas Supreme Court.

David’s practice includes school funding, superintendent-board relations, contracts, conflicts of interest, and employment law. He frequently helps boards with policy development, legal compliance, and superintendent searches. His expertise in public school governance is widely recognized.

David is licensed in Texas and admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.

The Best Lawyers in America recognizes David Thompson and has been named a Texas Super Lawyer for School and Education Law many times. He’s also a member of the Education Law Association, the Houston Bar Association, and the National School Boards Association Council of School Attorneys. He serves on the Sam Houston Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America board.

David focuses on Government Relations & Public Policy, General Counsel services, and Litigation, always emphasizing education law and public service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Thompson & Horton LLP
• Member, Houston Bar Association
• Member, Education Law Association
• Member, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas
• Member, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• University of Texas School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Texas at Austin
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges