James Baker is engaged in the general practice of law, with a strong emphasis on criminal defense.
Criminal Law: James Baker has represented individuals accused of crimes at all levels of the Criminal Justice System, from the most serious felonies, including Capital Murder, to minor traffic infractions.
He has been trained and certified by the New York State Capital Defender's Office to represent individuals charged with Capital Murder in New York State, and has been directly involved in two death penalty cases, once as lead counsel.
He has been appointed Special Prosecutor by the Tompkins County Court on several occasions. In his capacity as Special Prosecutor, Mr. Baker obtained a murder conviction in one of New York State's first prosecutions to use DNA profiling to identify the defendant (
People vs. Vann, reported at 216 A.D.2nd 599).
James Baker's criminal trial experience is extensive, and includes the defense of homicides, felony assaults, serious drug charges, arson, burglaries, robberies, sex crimes, and driving while intoxicated charges.
James Baker has argued criminal appeals in the New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, as well as in the New York State Court of Appeals.
James Baker has been an invited speaker at continuing legal education programs and seminars, speaking on issues concerning DWI defense.
Miscellaneous: In addition to his criminal defense practice, James Baker maintains a general practice of Law, representing buyers and sellers in residential real estate transactions, drafting Wills and Trust Agreements, and assisting individuals and small businesses with a wide range of legal problems