David W. Baer

As lead trial counsel with the Hartog, Baer & Hand APC law firm in Orinda, California, principal attorney and partner David W. Baer brings over 40 years of experience to his clients facing complex litigation involving estate and trust disputes, fiduciary litigation, financial elder abuse charges, spousal property claims, no content clause claims, estate planning malpractice, and other matters.Along with handling probate and trust litigation, Mr. Baer has extensive experience in a variety of other areas, including taxation, real estate law, corporate and partnership law, and appeals. A certified mediator, he also has the skills and resources necessary to help his clients resolve their conflicts and reach agreements without the need for expensive, time-consuming court battles, and he has achieved notable success negotiating and drafting complex, multiparty settlements.A 1978 honors graduate of Reed College, Mr. Baer attended the UC Law SF (formerly Hastings College of the Law), where he obtained his Juris Doctor in 1981 and graduated Order of the Coif and as a member of the Thurston Honor Society. Along with practicing before all California state and appellate courts, he is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Courts for the Northern, Eastern and Central Districts of California, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, and the U.S. Tax Court.Widely regarded as a leader in his field, Mr. Baer has published numerous articles and conducted dozens of lectures and seminars throughout California on various legal topics. He also authored chapters for the Matthew Bender Practice Guide: California Trust Litigation, a definitive reference guide, and offers authoritative testimony at trial for other attorneys.Active in his legal community, Mr. Baer is a former member of The State Bar of California Trusts and Estates Executive Committee, and served as chair for both the organization's Litigation and California Law Revision Commission Subcommittees. He also serves as probate mediation panelist for the Marin and Alameda County Superior Courts, and he is a member of the probate and trust sections of several other local and regional bar associations.