Chris works with businesses and their owners on matters that evolve over time, where early structuring decisions, transactions, and changes in ownership are interconnected and must function cohesively in practice. Over the course of his career, he has developed a practical understanding of how businesses are formed, operated, and ultimately transitioned.
At Agnew Law, Chris serves as Of Counsel, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, corporate matters, and commercial transactions. He frequently represents buyers in acquisitions and advises founders on exit transactions. His experience includes asset and equity transactions, seller-financed deals, and SBA-backed acquisitions, primarily advising founder-owned and closely held businesses. Over the past four years, he has advised on transactions with an aggregate value exceeding $50 million, ranging from Main Street acquisitions to middle-market businesses, including companies with multi-state and international ownership structures.
Chris works closely with founders, operators, and business owners to move transactions forward in a way that reflects how the business actually functions. Much of his work involves coordinating among lenders, brokers, landlords, franchisors, and other third parties, where clarity, responsiveness, and steady execution are essential to maintaining momentum and reaching closing. He has experience in transactions involving regulated industries, such as healthcare and franchised businesses, including working with franchisors to represent prospective franchisees.
In addition to transactional work, Chris advises individuals and business owners on planning matters, including revocable living trusts and related documents. His approach is informed by his transactional background, with a focus on how ownership and asset structuring decisions operate over time and intersect with broader business objectives.
His experience spans a range of industries, including healthcare, technology, construction, manufacturing, ranching, and hospitality. This breadth provides him with a practical perspective on how different businesses are owned and managed, and how those differences influence transaction structure and negotiation strategy.
Chris is known for a steady, straightforward style and for keeping matters organized and moving. Clients rely on him to bring clarity to complex situations and to execute efficiently without unnecessary complication.
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Chris recently relocated to upstate New York. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Akron School of Law and is admitted to practice in New York and Colorado.