Darren Patz

Darren Patz is a corporate and regulatory lawyer with more than 25 years of experience advising public companies, private equity sponsors, and global enterprises on complex legal, legislative, and compliance matters. As a Partner in DLA Piper's Government Affairs and Public Policy practice, he combines deep corporate experience with strategic government relations capabilities across Washington, D.C. and state capitals nationwide.

Prior to joining DLA Piper, Darren spent 21 years in-house at a publicly traded national healthcare company in various legal and executive roles, ultimately serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Government Affairs Officer. Throughout his tenure, he oversaw litigation, employment matters, securities compliance, corporate transactions, and operations—experience that gives him a general counsel's perspective on the intersection of law, business, and government. In his final role, he built a federal and state government affairs department that delivered significant legislative and regulatory wins, adding measurable value to the organization.

His practice today spans healthcare, financial services, shipping and transportation, gaming, and technology. He advises clients on federal and state legislative strategy, regulatory compliance, corporate governance, internal investigations, executive compensation, employment matters, and crisis management. Darren leverages DLA Piper's global platform to provide clients access to world-class capabilities across corporate transactions, regulatory matters, and government affairs—serving as a strategic advisor who can quarterback complex, multi-disciplinary engagements.