Dean W. Baxtresser

Dean W. Baxtresser represents clients in major government litigation, investigations, and contract disputes. His work often involves False Claims Act matters, bid protests, audits, and government inquiries. He helps companies understand risk, respond to claims, and manage complex issues linked to federal contracting and funding programs with clear, practical guidance.

Dean earned a JD from the University of Michigan in 2010, graduating magna cum laude and Order of the Coif. He also earned a BA from Rice University in 2007, cum laude, and a BMus from Rice University in 2007, cum laude, completing a strong academic foundation for his practice.

Dean advises clients on compliance duties related to government contracts, including domestic preferences, procurement integrity, small-business rules, and cost accounting requirements. He also guides companies on disclosure duties for Federal Supply Schedule contracts. In transactions, he helps identify government contracting risks, notice needs, approval issues, and intellectual property factors.

Dean has been recognized for his work on government contracts. Law360 named him a Rising Star in Government Contracts in 2020. Legal 500 US 2025 described him as well versed in government investigations, compliance obligations, and disputes. These honors reflect his role in important matters for major clients across industries.

Dean brings prior government acquisition experience to his practice. Before joining the firm, he served as a lead program attorney at Marine Corps Systems Command. He advised on military equipment and weapon systems, source selection, bid protests, contract terminations, procurement fraud investigations, policy reviews, contract management, and technology support services.

Dean W. Baxtresser serves on the Federal Circuit Bar Association Board and regularly presents on government contracting topics. He maintains an active pro bono practice, advising nonprofit organizations on government grants. His work spans government contracts, litigation, white-collar defense and investigations, mergers and acquisitions, and the Saudi Arabia Practice.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Latham & Watkins LLP
• Member, Bar Association of the District of Columbia
• Member, State Bar of Michigan

Licensed State

• District of Columbia
• Michigan

Education

• University of Michigan
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Rice University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges