PALO ALTO, November 11, 2020 – Baker Botts L.L.P., a leading international energy, technology and life sciences law firm, has formed an affinity group for military veterans, called “BB Vets.” The group will serve as a network and resource for all firm personnel who served in the military, provide opportunities for professional and personal growth through mentorships, client engagement and community outreach, and raise awareness of the issues unique to veterans and military families.

BB Vets is comprised of approximately 40 attorneys and staff across the firm’s U.S. and international offices. The group is open to lawyers and staff who served in the Armed Forces of the United States or other nations, including current members of the National Guard and Reserve, as well as military family members and other personnel who are supportive of the mission.

“Baker Botts has long been committed to fostering diversity on all levels, which brings valuable perspectives, backgrounds and talents to the firm,” said Corporate partner Brendan Dignan, a former combat-arms officer in the U.S. Army who serves as chair of BB Vets. “Veterans bring unique insights to the firm through their military service, but may also face struggles when reintegrating to civilian life. BB Vets is here to support our veteran lawyers and staff in that effort – and also to help coordinate the firm’s work in the community using the distinct experience of our veterans.”

The firm introduced BB Vets at an internal Veterans Day commemoration event today. Former U.S. Secretary of State, James A. Baker III, the firm’s partner and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served as the keynote speaker.. In addition to supporting veteran employees through mentoring and other programs, BB Vets plans to hold a series of firm-sponsored events and initiatives focused on service in the community throughout the year. Consistent with that effort, the affinity group will help coordinate the firm’s veterans disability pro bono program.

BB Vets also aims to serve our clients by collaborating with them in their veterans service initiatives and identifying veteran lawyers whose experience may be helpful in representing our clients’ interests. Lastly, BB Vets will also assist the firm in identifying veteran talent by coordinating with law school veterans groups, JAG programs, and employee recruiting events focused on military veterans.

Baker Botts is committed to fostering diversity in the firm, allowing it to be more creative, effective and ultimately successful in the practice of law and service to its clients. Other Baker Botts affinity groups include the Asian Pacific American, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Affinity Groups, as well as the Global Women’s Forum and office-specific parents groups.

ABOUT BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.
Baker Botts is an international law firm whose lawyers practice throughout a network of offices around the globe. Based on our experience and knowledge of our clients' industries, we are recognized as a leading firm in the energy, technology and life sciences sectors. Since 1840, we have provided creative and effective legal solutions for our clients while demonstrating an unrelenting commitment to excellence. For more information, please visit bakerbotts.com.