About Frederick D.
Frederick D. Baron is an attorney based in Palo Alto, California, with an extensive career spanning over four decades in employment law and litigation. He earned his Juris Doctor from Stanford Law School in 1974, a prestigious institution known for its rigorous legal education. Prior to that, Baron graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts from Amherst College in 1969, further establishing a strong academic foundation. Admitted to the California State Bar in 1975, he has dedicated his professional life to navigating complex legal fields. Since 1983, Baron has served as a partner at Cooley LLP, a prominent law firm recognized for its focus on high technology companies.
His practice areas include employment and labor law, as well as alternative dispute resolution—fields that are increasingly vital in today’s fast-paced business environment. At Cooley LLP, Baron has provided litigation and counseling services, helping clients manage their legal challenges effectively. His experience in these areas has made him a trusted advisor to many technology firms in Silicon Valley. In addition to his private practice, Baron has held significant roles in government service. In 1995, he was appointed by Attorney General Janet Reno as the Director of the Executive Office for National Security. In this capacity, he coordinated Department of Justice activities related to national security and foreign intelligence—a role that underscored his expertise in high-stakes legal matters.
This experience not only broadened his legal acumen but also enriched his understanding of the intersection between law and national security. Baron’s contributions to the legal field have not gone unrecognized. From 2007 to 2016, and again from 2018 to 2020, he was named a Super Lawyer, an accolade that highlights his excellence in practice. His commitment to the legal profession is further evidenced by his memberships in the American Bar Association and the Santa Clara County Bar Association. These affiliations reflect his dedication to staying current with legal developments and contributing to the legal community. As of February 2026, Baron's license status is "Not Eligible to Practice Law" in California.
Despite this status, his legacy in employment law and litigation continues to influence the field. Residing in Palo Alto, California, Baron remains a respected figure among his peers and clients, embodying the values of integrity and professionalism that define the legal profession. His career serves as evidence of the impact that dedicated legal practitioners can have on both their clients and the broader community.
