Professionals

Biography

John Baker is one of the Founding Partners of Baker | Moran. He also serves as the firm’s Managing Partner. John is a distinguished eminent domain attorney with a strong track record of representing oil and gas pipeline companies, electric transmission line companies and cooperatives, and governmental entities in complex legal matters. With extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, John has earned a reputation for his unwavering commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for his clients.

As a leading authority in eminent domain law, John possesses a deep understanding of the complex legal and regulatory frameworks that govern land acquisition and rights of way for infrastructure projects. His expertise extends to navigating the intricacies of eminent domain law at both the state and federal levels, allowing him to provide comprehensive legal counsel tailored to the unique needs of his clients.

Throughout his career, John has successfully negotiated and litigated numerous high-stakes cases on behalf of his clients, earning the trust and respect of his peers and clients alike. His strategic approach to eminent domain issues, coupled with his unwavering dedication to protecting his clients’ interests, has positioned him as a trusted advisor in the field.

In addition to his legal practice, John is a sought-after speaker and thought leader, frequently sharing his insights at industry conferences and seminars. He is committed to staying at the forefront of emerging trends and legal developments in eminent domain law, ensuring that his clients benefit from the most current and effective legal strategies.

John earned his Juris Doctor from SMU Law School in Dallas. He served as a law clerk on the Dallas Court of Appeals before entering private practice. John is an active member of several professional associations, including the Texas Bar Foundation, International Right of Way Association, IRWA Pipeline Committee, and The Pipeliners Association of Houston, where he contributes to the advancement of eminent domain law and best practices.

When he is not advocating for his clients, John enjoys smoking meats on one of his three different styles of smokers and spending time with his family.

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Professional Affiliations and Honors

Member of The Texas Bar Association

Member of the New Mexico Bar Association

Member of The Midland County Bar Association

Life Fellow of The Texas Bar Foundation

Member of The Texas Utility Lawyers Association

CLIMB Certified Instructor and Member of the International Right Of Way Association

Member of The National Order of Barristers

Recognized as a Super Lawyer and Rising Star by Texas Super Lawyers, a Service Publication of Thomson Reuters

Southern Methodist University Law School Moot Coach of the Year

Project SOAR, Board Member and Mentor

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Educational and Professional Background

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Southern Methodist University School of Law, Juris Doctor

University of Texas at Dallas, Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude

SMU Law School’s Computer Law Review, Articles Editor

Texas Fifth District Court of Appeals, Law Clerk

International Right of Way Association, Certified Instructor

Texas Real Estate Commission, Certified Instructor

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Publications and Speeches

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Current Issues in Eminent Domain, with Brad Anderson and Roy Brandys, CLE International Eminent Domain Super Conference, The Game of Give and Take, 2016

Eminent Domain Issues Related to The Oil and Gas Industry, Published in the Journal of The Center for American and International Law’s Institute on Planning, Zoning, and Eminent Domain, 2009

Procedural Issues in Eminent Domain, published by The Texas Wesleyan Law Review, Volume 18, Number 1, Fall 2011

How Easements are Created, Law of Easements: Legal Issues and Practical Considerations, 2008

Overview of Easements, Law of Easements: Legal Issues and Practical Considerations, 2008