David M. Wells
Partner
Education & Early Career
David M. Wells is an American lawyer, born in Decatur, Illinois. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Northwestern University in 1965 and a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center in 1971. Admitted to the State Bar of California in 1972, he began his legal career at Pillsbury, Madison & Sutro in San Francisco, where he focused on corporate law, securities law, and international project financing. His early exposure to high-profile transactions laid the foundation for his future work in international finance and cross-border legal matters.
Corporate & Transactional Law Expertise
Wells has built a distinguished career specializing in corporate and transactional law, with extensive expertise in project finance, mergers and acquisitions, commercial law, joint ventures, foreign investments, civil litigation, and arbitration. Recognized in Who’s Who of Project Finance Lawyers from 1999 to 2010, he has played a pivotal role in major project structuring and implementation across various industries.
International Legal Practice
Between 1980 and 1983, Wells served as a partner at Morrison & Foerster in San Francisco, specializing in international banking, financial law, and corporate transactions. His work in international law positioned him as a trusted legal advisor in complex global deals.
Legal Career in Saudi Arabia
In 1977, Wells expanded his legal practice to Saudi Arabia, where he became the longest-serving Western attorney in the country. Over nearly four decades (1977–2016), he advised on all aspects of Saudi Arabian law, including corporate and project financing, corporate acquisitions, joint ventures, foreign investments, and major government contracts. His work extended to litigation and dispute resolution in virtually every Saudi court, reinforcing his reputation as a leading expert in corporate law and international dispute settlements.
Legacy & Influence
With a legal career spanning the United States, Saudi Arabia, and global financial markets, David M. Wells remains a highly respected figure in corporate law, project finance, and international arbitration. His legacy includes advising multinational corporations, financial institutions, and government entities on high-stakes transactions and dispute resolution strategies.
