David S. Baker

David S. Baker is an accomplished attorney specializing in civil rights, governmental liability, and state tort claims. With a career spanning decades, he has built a reputation as a leading defense attorney for governmental entities, officials, and employees. Mr. Baker earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Kansas in 1979 and his J.D. from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1982. He is a member of both the Missouri and Kansas Bars and is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Courts for the District of Kansas and the Western and Eastern Districts of Missouri, multiple Circuit Courts of Appeal, and the United States Supreme Court.

Mr. Baker has extensive experience in defending civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, police liability cases, and various state and federal tort matters. A former chairperson of the Defense Research Institute’s Governmental Liability Committee, he has frequently presented at national seminars on topics including qualified immunity, jail liability, and police misconduct defenses. His presentations and publications reflect a deep understanding of complex legal issues and a commitment to advancing the defense of governmental entities.

Recognized for his excellence in legal advocacy, Mr. Baker holds an AV – Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been listed in Best Lawyers in America since 2012. His practice areas extend to employment law, litigation, and labor disputes, providing comprehensive representation to his clients.

In addition to his trial and appellate work, Mr. Baker is a leading voice in the legal community, frequently presenting to organizations including the Missouri Bar Association and the Defense Research Institute (DRI). His deep expertise in qualified immunity and other critical government defense strategies informs how attorneys nationwide defend public entities and officials in complex civil rights and constitutional litigation.

David S. Baker’s dedication to his clients, coupled with his vast knowledge and leadership in governmental liability law, makes him a respected figure in the legal profession.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Fisher, Patterson, Sayler & Smith, LLP
• Member, Missouri Bar Association
• Member, Kansas Bar Association
• Member, Missouri Organization of Defense Lawyers
• Member, Kansas City Claims Association

Licensed State

• Kansas
• Missouri

Education

• University of Missouri-Columbia
  Juris Doctor (J.D.)
• University of Kansas
  Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Awards & Badges