The integrity of the legal profession in Texas hinges on the ethical handling of client funds. For Houston-based personal injury lawyer David Lee Pettus (State Bar Number 15873500), decades of practice ended in 2024 following a high-profile investigation into the alleged theft of client settlement checks.
As of late 2025, his status remains permanently revoked. The Texas Supreme Court officially accepted his resignation in lieu of discipline, a move that is legally equivalent to disbarment.
The Core Allegations: Stolen Settlements and Forged Signatures
The downfall of David Lee Pettus began with a series of investigative reports by KPRC 2 News, which exposed a pattern of misconduct involving injured car crash victims. The allegations included:
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Theft of Settlement Funds: Multiple clients alleged that Pettus settled their insurance claims without their knowledge and pocketed the money.
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Forged Documents: Accusers claimed that Pettus forged their signatures on insurance checks and settlement release forms to facilitate the theft.
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“Ghosting” Clients: Victims reported being unable to contact Pettus for months or years, only to find out later that their cases had already been closed and the funds disbursed to the firm.
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Financial Distress: Many former clients were left with mounting medical bills and collection notices because the money intended to pay their providers was never delivered.
The Legal Outcome: Resignation in Lieu of Discipline
Facing an impending trial and an investigation by the State Bar of Texas, Pettus submitted a motion to resign his license in July 2024.
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Supreme Court Order: On September 13, 2024, the Texas Supreme Court accepted the resignation, concluding it was “in the best interest of the public and the profession.”
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Admissions of the Attorney: In statements to the media, Pettus denied the theft allegations but stated he chose to resign because he lacked the “hundreds of thousands of dollars” required to fight the State Bar, citing potential bankruptcy.
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Current Status: David Lee Pettus is no longer a licensed attorney. He is prohibited from practicing law, representing clients, or identifying himself as a member of the Bar in the state of Texas.
Conclusion: Protecting the Public Interest
The resignation of David Lee Pettus serves as a reminder of the State Bar’s role in protecting consumers from financial exploitation. While some victims expressed frustration that Pettus was allowed to “voluntarily” give up his license rather than facing a formal disbarment trial, the result remains the same: the removal of his ability to practice law.
