Atty. David A. Colson
David A. Colson focuses his practice on advising governments and international petroleum companies on maritime boundary issues across the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.
Litigation Attorney · Serving Washington, DC · 51+ Years Experience
Profile Summary
About David A. Colson at a Glance
David A. Colson is an Of Counsel based in Washington, District of Columbia, practicing at Greenberg Traurig Llp. They have 51+ years of legal experience, licensed to practice since 1975. Their practice focuses on litigation. Admitted to practice in California (1975) and District of Columbia (1979). Educated at University of California at Berkeley School of Law (Boalt Hall) (J.D., 1975) and California State University, East Bay (B.A., 1966). Recognitions include BV Distinguished. Serves clients in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area.
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About David A. Colson
- David A. Colson focuses his practice on advising governments and international petroleum companies on maritime boundary issues across the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America
- David has deep experience in government, having served as deputy assistant secretary for oceans in the U.S
- Department of State with the rank of Ambassador from 1991, among other roles
- Experience Representative Matters • Served as deputy agent for the United States in the World Court case with Canada to determine the maritime boundary in the Gulf of Maine/Georges Bank area.° °The above representations were handled by Mr. Colson prior to his joining Greenberg Traurig, LLP. Government Experience • U.S
- Department of State, 1975-1996 o Ambassador, 1990-1996 o Deputy Assistant Secretary for Oceans, 1991-1996 o Assistant Legal Advisor, International Affairs, Legal Adviser’s Office, 1987-1990 o Assistant Legal Advisory, Oceans, Environment and Science, Legal Adviser’s Office, 1981-1987 o Attorney Advisor, Oceans, Environment and Science, Legal Adviser’s Office, 1975-1981 Military Experience • U.S
- Marine Corps, 1969-1971 • U.S
- Peace Corps, 1966-1968 Recognition & Leadership Awards & Accolades • Listed, Chambers Global Guide, Public International Law, 2013-2016
Practice Areas Explained
David A. Colson's Areas of Legal Practice
Each practice area below reflects the types of cases David A. Colson handles, with a practical overview of what that area of law involves and how it may apply to your situation in Washington.
Civil Litigation in Washington
Civil litigation attorneys for breach of contract, business disputes, civil rights, and class action lawsuits.
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Jurisdictional Context
Why Local Counsel Matters in Washington
Practicing law in District of Columbia. Legal matters in District of Columbia are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Washington are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate District of Columbia state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in District of Columbia brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in District of Columbia courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.
Washington Courts and Legal Process
Choosing a Washington-based attorney means your counsel already knows the local docketing timelines, preferred filing formats, and how individual judges typically rule on procedural motions — details that only come from practicing in this jurisdiction day after day. That local familiarity can translate to better strategy, faster filings, and fewer costly surprises.
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Professional Profile
Why Clients in Washington Choose David A. Colson
Selecting an attorney is one of the most consequential decisions you can make when a legal matter arises. Below are the core qualities that distinguish David A. Colson's practice in the field of litigation.
Decade-Tested Legal Experience
David A. Colson brings 51+ years of hands-on legal practice — enough to have navigated the recurring fact patterns, procedural traps, and negotiation dynamics that shape case outcomes.
Multi-State Bar Admission
Licensed in California and District of Columbia, David A. Colson can represent clients in cases that span state lines or require counsel in multiple jurisdictions.
Focused Litigation Practice
Concentrating on litigation means David A. Colson's knowledge of relevant statutes, case law, and procedural nuances stays current — unlike generalist practices that spread attention across unrelated fields.
Local Presence in Washington
A Washington-based practice means David A. Colson attends hearings in the same courthouses, knows the local clerks, and understands the unwritten scheduling norms that affect every case filed here.
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