Pro Bono Success: Terry O'Toole Secures Guilty Verdict in First Homicide Trial as a Special Assistant Circuit Attorney
Baker Sterchi attorney Terry O’Toole, Jr., serving as a Special Assistant Circuit Attorney with Assistant Circuit Attorney Tanja Engelhardt, successfully prosecuted a defendant for the shooting death of a man in the City of St. Louis in May 2020. The defendant, who admitted shooting the victim, but claimed self-defense, was found guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and Armed Criminal Action after a two-day trial before St. Louis Circuit Judge Bryan Hettenbach.
O’Toole was appointed earlier this year by Circuit Attorney Gabe Gore, joining a growing team of experienced trial attorneys who chose to return to the City of St. Louis with the mission of addressing the backlog of serious criminal cases. For his part, O’Toole committed to providing his services pro bono to oversee the prosecution of 10 homicide cases. Baker Sterchi maintains a steadfast commitment to pro bono work and community service - core values of the firm - and this case serves as a tangible example of that dedication.
At Baker Sterchi, O’Toole focuses primarily on medical malpractice, personal injury, and general liability defense. He previously served as an Assistant Circuit Attorney in St. Louis and an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and Trial Team Leader in the Violent Crimes Unit in Kansas City. O’Toole earned his law degree from Saint Louis University School of Law and his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri. He is licensed to practice in Missouri and Illinois.