About David M.
David M — Whitaker is a partner at Kean Miller LLP in New Orleans, Louisiana. He has been practicing law for over 30 years, focusing on labor and employment matters. His expertise includes defending employers against employment discrimination, harassment, and retaliation claims, as well as advising on compliance with state and federal employment laws. He also drafts employment contracts, non-compete agreements, and workplace policies. Additionally, Mr. Whitaker handles employment-based immigration matters, assisting employers in obtaining work visas and sponsoring foreign workers for permanent residency. Mr.
Whitaker earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of New Orleans in 1988 and his Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Tulane University School of Law in 1991. During law school, he was a member of the Order of the Coif. He has been admitted to practice in Louisiana since 1991 and is also admitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit. Throughout his career, Mr. Whitaker has represented employers in various complex employment law matters. Notably, he defended an employer in one of the first transgender employment discrimination lawsuits filed in Louisiana.
He has also argued a significant Davis-Bacon Act case before the U.S. Department of Labor Administrative Review Board, addressing the payment of employee lodging expenses on out-of-town projects. In recognition of his professional achievements, Mr. Whitaker has been listed in "The Best Lawyers in America" from 2013 to 2026. He was named "Lawyer of the Year" in Employment Law – Individuals in New Orleans for 2022 and 2024. In 2018, he received the "Leadership in Law" award from New Orleans CityBusiness magazine, honoring the top 50 lawyers in the Greater New Orleans area based on legal acumen, professional achievements. Community contributions.
Mr. Whitaker is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association and has been recognized for his contributions to the legal community. He has been featured in Biz New Orleans for his article on whistleblower protections and gender identity. He has also been recognized in "Top Lawyers" by New Orleans Magazine in 2022. At Kean Miller LLP, Mr. Whitaker continues to serve clients in the New Orleans area, providing comprehensive legal services in labor and employment law. His experience and dedication to his clients have established him as a respected figure in the legal community.
