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

• 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