May 29, 2025, St. Louis, Missouri – Lashly & Baer, P.C. is pleased to announce the expansion of its government and litigation practice groups with the addition of attorneys Michael McGinley, Kathryn Warren, and Trent Carriger. The team brings deep experience in both public agency representation and complex litigation, further solidifying Lashly & Baer’s commitment to growing its Illinois and Metro East presence.
Michael McGinley joins the firm as a Shareholder. He brings a wealth of experience in public agency law, litigation, and municipal counsel. He currently serves as City Attorney for Highland, Wood River, and Litchfield, Illinois, where he advises on ordinances, real estate development, public policy, and litigation. McGinley is also a seasoned litigator, particularly in asbestos defense, consumer collections, and commercial disputes, representing clients from entrepreneurs to companies of all sizes across Illinois and Missouri.
“Mike is a great addition to our growing government practice group,” said President Lisa O. Stump. “His entrepreneurial mindset and local government expertise make him a strong asset to our clients.”
“Mike, Katie, and Trent bring deep experience in the Metro East,” said Stuart J. Vogelsmeier, Executive Vice President. “We’ve made a commitment to grow our Illinois practice. Mike was born in Highland—he knows Illinois. Katie and Trent live and work in the Metro East. This is a huge addition for us.”
“Mike is a great counselor for governmental bodies, as well as a skilled litigator,” said Patrick Foppe, a Lashly & Baer Shareholder who also resides in the Metro East. “I’m excited that he’s joining our team.”
“I’m thrilled to join Lashly & Baer and introduce my clients to a firm with such a well-established and respected government law platform,” said McGinley. “Our shared commitment to client service and municipal excellence makes this a great fit.”
Kathryn Warren joins Lashly & Baer with extensive government and litigation experience. She served 15 years in the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office, most recently as Chief of the Criminal Division, where she led high-stakes felony prosecutions including homicide, police-targeted offenses, and white-collar crimes. Warren is recognized for her trial success and is frequently sought after for training on courtroom advocacy. Her civil practice includes representing public entities in litigation, employment, and municipal matters.
Trent Carriger joins as an Associate in the firm’s General Liability practice. Based in Madison County, Illinois, Carriger adds depth to the firm’s litigation services and will support clients across the Metro East in complex defense matters.
About Lashly & Baer, P.C.
Celebrating 113 years in business in 2025, Lashly & Baer, P.C. has offices in Downtown St. Louis and Belleville, Illinois. The firm has been recognized as one of the Best Law Firms by U.S. News & World Report, receiving national ranking in Health Care Law and top St. Louis rankings in Corporate Law, Employment Law – Management, Health Care Law, Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants, and Personal Injury Law – Defendants. Lashly & Baer represents a broad range of government clients, including but not limited to Bi-State Development Agency, Ferguson-Florissant School District, Rockwood School District, City of Crestwood, City of Ellisville, City of Festus, City of Glendale, City of Normandy, City of Wentzville, St. Louis County Library, and St. Louis Public Library.