HOUSTON, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Andrew M. Baker was today elected to be the next Managing Partner of Baker Botts L.L.P., succeeding current Managing Partner Walter J. Smith as the 14th person to hold that position in the firm's 172-year history.
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"I have practiced law with Andy for more than three decades, and I am confident that he possesses the qualities necessary to continue the tradition of leadership that has served the firm and our clients well throughout our history," said Smith, who was elected Managing Partner in March 2002 and will retire at the end of this year.
Baker joined the Houston office of Baker Botts in 1979, shortly after graduating from Cornell Law School. In 1985, he moved to Dallas to help open the firm's office there. He has practiced corporate law throughout his career and currently serves on the firm's Executive Committee. He will be based in Houston once he assumes the Managing Partner position in April.
"I am honored that my partners have placed their confidence in me to continue building on Baker Botts' reputation as a 'best in class' law firm representing clients globally in complex matters," Baker said. "During my career, I have been privileged to participate in the firm's growth, while at the same time gaining a genuine appreciation of its heritage and the importance we place on contributing to the quality of life in the communities where we work and live."
Baker's corporate practice includes counseling public and private companies on deal execution in connection with mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, securities and other finance transactions. He also represents companies, boards and audit committees in corporate and SEC investigations and counsels on corporate governance, crisis response, dispute resolution, strategic planning and communications.
Additional background on Baker is available here.
About Baker Botts L.L.P.
Baker Botts is an international law firm with over 725 lawyers and a network of 13 offices around the globe. Based on our experience and knowledge of our clients' industries, we are recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology and life sciences sectors. Throughout our 172-year history, we have provided creative and effective legal solutions for our clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. For more information, please visit www.bakerbotts.com.