David Louis Swartz, FAIA, IIDA, LEED AP, NCARB, is the founder of DSE Experts.
With over 40 years of experience in architecture and more than 30 years as a principal and partner for various architectural firms, David provides deep technical expertise and strategic insight to attorneys handling complex building-related litigation.

David has worked on a broad range of challenging and technically sophisticated projects throughout his career, bringing a rare ability to align design excellence with code compliance, constructability, and risk mitigation. His knowledge spans both current and historical building codes, and he has a profound understanding of how those codes intersect with the duties and responsibilities of architects, consultants, and other parties involved in construction. His reviews of architectural drawings focus on code adherence, detailing competence, and the professional standard of care—providing clear, credible opinions that withstand legal scrutiny.

A recognized national leader in technical architecture, David was awarded the AIA National Young Architect Award in 1998 for his exceptional technical portfolio—the only recipient honored specifically for technical achievement. He was later elevated to the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects, one of the profession’s highest honors, in recognition of his sustained contributions to advancing technical excellence and professional standards.

David’s commitment to the architectural profession extends beyond private practice. He has played an influential role in shaping public policy and professional development. Notably, he led a successful effort to prevent California from adopting the NFPA model code, ensuring the state aligned with the International Building Code—a key step in preserving consistency across U.S. jurisdictions. He also worked with the National AIA, California Architects Board, and Florida leadership to reform continuing education standards, helping align them with national expectations and reinforcing the importance of lifelong learning in architecture.

In addition to his professional and advocacy work, David is deeply involved in architectural education and licensure reform. He serves on the Board of the USC Architectural Guild and is a member of USC’s NCARB Integrated Path Initiative Committee, which is piloting a program that allows students to begin licensure before graduation. For more than 23 years, he has contributed to the development of the California Supplemental Exam, where he continues to advocate for greater accessibility and equity for licensure candidates, including those seeking reciprocal registration from other states.

David also contributes his expertise at the community level. He serves as Chair of the Planning and Land Use Management (PLUM) Committee for the West Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, where he also holds a seat as a Board Member. In this role, he helps shape responsible development and planning decisions that reflect both community needs and professional best practices.

At DSE Experts, David brings this comprehensive background—spanning technical architecture, public policy, education, and community planning—to every legal case. Attorneys rely on his ability to break down complex technical issues, provide honest and defensible analysis, and support their legal strategies with precision, integrity, and over four decades of architectural leadership.