International law firm Baker Botts assigned Patricia Stanton as top partner in the firm’s Dallas office, effective this summer, according to a press release.

The firm’s leading commercial real estate attorney will assume the job title and position of “Partner in Charge” of the Dallas office in July of this year.

For the Dallas legal job, Stanton succeeds Jack Kinzie, who directed the office’s sizable growth – which could have included legal recruitment efforts – since 1998.

“Pat’s complex transactional practice, along with her knowledge and experience, is a true compliment to the Dallas office,” managing partner Andrew M. Baker with Baker Botts said. “She is also the first woman to be named Dallas Partner in Charge and the second to hold a managerial position at this level at the firm.”

Stanton serves the firm as its chair of the real estate section while also chair of the Global Projects Department. Her service includes representation of owners, investors and developers of U.S. and international commercial real estate.

A Baker Botts veteran of 26 years, Stanton holds a law degree from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. She also volunteers with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas.