David Black, a litigator with more than 25 years of experience trying complex cases in state and federal courts across the country, has joined the national law firm Baker Donelson as a shareholder in the Firm's Columbia, South Carolina, office.
Mr. Black's litigation practice has a particular emphasis on breach of contract, fraud, tort, defamation, and other complex litigation matters. He has handled high-stakes bet-the-company litigation ranging from investigations, temporary restraining orders, and injunctive proceedings through discovery, trial, and appeal. He also represents electric cooperatives and broadband initiatives throughout the Southeast on governance, regulatory, territorial, and infrastructure matters critical to rural communities and economic development.
J. Ashley Cooper, managing shareholder of Baker Donelson's Columbia and Charleston offices, said, "David is a dedicated advocate who provides practical, business-oriented counsel in the boardroom. His significant leadership and litigation experience complements our Columbia office and our expanding South Carolina team."
Mr. Black is the latest addition to Baker Donelson's growing presence in the Carolinas. Beyond its Columbia location, established in 2016, the Firm has launched offices in Raleigh (2021), Charleston (2022), Charlotte (2024), and Winston-Salem (December 2025). With notable hires – such as former U.S. Attorney Robert J. "Bobby" Higdon Jr., former Assistant United States Attorney John David "J.D." Koesters, and former federal prosecutor Nathaniel "Tyler" Lemons in Raleigh, as well as veteran trial attorney G. Gray Wilson in Winston-Salem – the Firm now has nearly 60 attorneys in the Carolinas.
"I have long admired Baker Donelson's workplace culture and commitment to client-centric solutions. Joining Baker Donelson is an exciting opportunity to be part of a firm that is deeply committed to delivering exceptional client service and strategic legal guidance," said Mr. Black. "The Firm's collaborative approach and deep litigation bench provide an outstanding platform for helping clients navigate complex challenges. I'm also energized by the Firm's continued investment and growth in the Carolinas and look forward to helping strengthen its presence and service offerings throughout the region."
Mr. Black, who earned his J.D. and his bachelor's degree from the University of South Carolina, serves as outside general counsel to several electric suppliers and broadband companies. He is also a member of the South Carolina Bar Association's Practice and Procedure Committee, serves on the Advisory Committee of the South Carolina Public Service Commission, is a member of the Electric Cooperative Bar Association, and serves as chairman of Caro Federal Credit Union. He is listed in The Best Lawyers in America® for Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions – Defendants (2021 – present) and Litigation – Trusts and Estates (2021 – present); is recognized in Columbia Business Monthly's Legal Elite of the Midlands (2024 – present); and is AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell.