"David is a highly respected and accomplished lawyer who advises institutional real estate companies, private equity funds and sovereign wealth funds on complex and cross-border transactions," said Paul Didomenico, chair of Reed Smith's Real Estate Group. "He brings a wealth of knowledge, relationships and leadership to our team and our clients worldwide."

Phelps rejoins the legal profession after retiring from Goodwin Procter in May 2024. Before that, he was a partner at Akin, where he served as head of real estate, and at Paul Hastings, where he served as co-chair of the firm’s hospitality and leisure practice for eight years, among other roles.

"I am thrilled to be part of Reed Smith’s real estate team and a part of the firm’s global practice," Phelps said. "I have a long-standing friendship and professional rapport with John Simonis and many other colleagues at the firm, and I look forward to working with them and supporting our clients' goals and challenges. I am also eager to mentor the next generation of real estate lawyers and to contribute to the firm's pro bono efforts."

Phelps has a diverse and sophisticated practice that covers the full spectrum of real estate matters, including acquisition, disposition, development, financing and restructuring of commercial properties across various core real estate sectors, including office, industrial, retail, multi-family (both senior and student housing) and hospitality assets. Phelps has extensive experience in representing institutional real estate companies and capital providers in the acquisition, development, financing and operation of hotels, resorts and other hospitality assets throughout North America and parts of Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East.

"David is a great addition to our Century City office and our California platform," said Ashok Mukhey, Century City office managing partner. "He has a strong reputation and track record in the market and enhances our capabilities to serve our clients in key industries and regions."

Phelps is also committed to pro bono service and has previously assisted organizations such as Equality California and KIPP Public Charter Schools.

He earned his J.D. from the University of Southern California Law Center and graduated with a B.A. from Stanford University.