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Chris Darby

Associate
Admitted in Illinois
Not admitted in New Jersey but being supervised by a licensed New Jersey Bar member
About

Chris Darby's primary practice is representing investment funds clients, predominantly alternative asset managers and sponsors. Chris focuses on representing real estate investment trusts, both private and non-traded REITs.

Chris also maintains a robust practice advising domestic, foreign and multinational clients on development, construction and joint venture project issues, owed to his prior experience in general contracting. Representative matters include data center, student housing and logistics center developments. From first dollar in the fund, to first day on site, Chris represents clients' needs in shaping the built environment.

Drawing on his long history of community service, Chris' pro bono practice focuses on corporate governance matters related to, and obtaining 501(c)(3) status for, charitable organizations.

Bar admissionsIllinois

NOT-FOR-PROFIT INVOLVEMENT

Chris serves as a Director of the Kellogg Real Estate Alumni Network (KREAN), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization focused on promoting real estate education, cultivating a vibrant real estate industry, and providing opportunities for fruitful interaction between students and real estate professionals. He chairs the Nominating and Governance Committee as part of his KREAN board service.

Chris is a proud alum of the Golub Capital Board Fellows Program, a rigorous 20-month program which provides training in not-for-profit board governance and placement as an ex-officio director in a Chicagoland not-for-profit, during his time at the Kellogg School of Management.

Education
  • J.D., Northwestern University
    cum laude
  • M.B.A., Finance, Northwestern University
  • M.A., History, Seton Hall University
    cum laude
  • B.A., History, Seton Hall University
    magna cum laude

Memberships and Affiliations

For the 2025 – 2026 bar year, Chris serves on the Section Council of the Business & Securities Law Section of the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA). Each of the ISBA's sections focus on an area of substantive law and provide practice area information, continuing legal education, and forums for professional discussion.

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