Originally from Rogers City, Mr. Baker is a graduate of Michigan State University and the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. James lives in Kingsley with his wife Julie and is the proud father of twins. He is licensed to practice in all Michigan Courts, including the Federal Courts. Membership includes the State Bar of Michigan, Grand Traverse-Leelanau-Antrim County Bar Association, Michigan Association for Justice, and the Catholic Lawyers Society.

Mr. Baker has enjoyed success as a trial lawyer in personal injury, commercial, and civil litigation. He has previously clerked for the Michigan Attorney General and as an Extern with Michigan Supreme Court Justice, Michael Cavanagh. He has been published twice internationally.

Prior to his legal career, Mr. Baker worked with youth and families here and abroad. He is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as Presidential Honor Guard for two former Presidents. He currently serves as Judge Advocate for the local Marine Corps League detachment, and sits on the Board of Directors for Third Level Crisis Center.

Mr. Baker practices in the areas of civil and commercial litigation, creditor’s rights and bankruptcy, and personal injury litigation.

email: jbaker@smith-johnson.com
phone: 231.946.0700