O'Brien, Keith G

Keith G. O'Brien is a Partner at Baker & Miller, PLLC specializing in transportation law and related environmental and safety issues.  He represents state agencies, rail oriented public authorities, shortline railroads, shippers, and other transportation related interests before the Surface Transportation Board (STB); Department of Transportation (DOT); Federal Railroad Administration (FRA); Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Federal Maritime Commission; and the US Appellate Courts.

Mr. O'Brien also provides counsel and advice regarding transactions involving acquisitions of transportation property and development, interpretation and modification of operating agreements.

Mr. O'Brien began his career with the US Navy as a Judge Advocate serving with the Marine Corps in Okinawa and Vietnam and with the Judge Advocate General in Washington, D.C.  After Navy service he joined the staff of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) in 1968 concentrating on motor carriers issues, and in 1970 was selected to be an attorney advisor to Chairman George Stafford.

In 1973, Mr. O'Brien joined the Washington law firm of Rea, Cross & Auchincloss as a Partner.  His practice included serving as a lead counsel in representing the interest of the State of Ohio, a regional rail carrier, and two other clients in the Conrail Acquisition Proceeding before the STB and the courts of appeals.  He represented major shipper in rate proceedings before the ICC, the bankruptcy courts, and U.S. Court of Appeals.  He also effectively limited the exposure of a prominent construction company that was designated a potentially responsible party in a super fund proceeding before the EPA.

Mr. O'Brien has been involved in developing complex environmental issues before the STB and represented motor carrier clients on issues involving certification, training, and compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Safety and hours of Service Regulations and with DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations.  He has represented a client in securing authority as an Ocean Transportation Intermediary.  His practice also involves providing advice and counsel on legislative matters and participation on behalf of clients interests in rulemaking and oversight proceedings before the STB.