Atty. Michael B. Gray
Michael leads Neal Gerber Eisenberg’s Private Equity, Venture Capital & Growth Companies practice, as well as its Fund Formation & Investment Management practice. Michael primarily represents private equity sponsors, venture investors, private funds, private equity and venture-backed companies, executives, and family offices.
Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law Attorney · Serving Chicago, IL
Profile Summary
About Michael B. Gray at a Glance
Michael B. Gray is an attorney based in Chicago, Illinois, practicing at Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP. Admitted to practice in Illinois, Illinois State Bar Association. Educated at Northwestern University (J.D., 1992) and University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign (—, 1988). Recognitions include Best Lawyers in America — Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law (2026), Best Lawyers in America — Additional Areas of Practice: (2026), and Best Lawyers in America — Corporate Law (2026). Serves clients in Chicago, IL and the surrounding metropolitan area.
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About Michael B. Gray
- Michael leads Neal Gerber Eisenberg’s Private Equity, Venture Capital & Growth Companies practice, as well as its Fund Formation & Investment Management practice
- Michael primarily represents private equity sponsors, venture investors, private funds, private equity and venture-backed companies, executives, and family offices
- His extensive experience in complex transactional and corporate governance matters makes him an invaluable asset to his clients, who turn to him for advice on mergers and acquisitions, private equity and venture capital investments and portfolio company operations, fund formation, GP stakes and seeding investments, and fund and co-investments
- Clients appreciate Michael’s ability to simplify complex issues and help them focus on long-term financial and business considerations
- His aptitude for evaluating risks and providing clear, actionable advice makes him a trusted advisor in high-stakes transactions and business operations
- Michael’s practical experience as an investor, where he sourced, evaluated, and closed venture capital transactions, has honed his ability to build enduring relationships and connect people within his network to foster business growth
- This direct investment experience is a significant asset, allowing him to offer unique insights and add substantial value to his clients’ ventures
- Recognized in Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business for Corporate/M&A: Private Equity, Michael is praised by clients for his investor experience and problem-solving approach
- As one client noted, “He truly understands a lawyer’s role and where his advice can add value to a transaction,” while another highlighted his open-mindedness and solution-oriented mindset
- Michael is currently on the board of the Renaissance Society at the University of Chicago
- He is also a frequent guest lecturer at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Kellogg School of Management, and the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, and works with the Zell Fellows Program at Kellogg
- Michael is also a member of the firm’s Executive Committee
Jurisdictional Context
Why Local Counsel Matters in Chicago
Practicing law in Illinois. Legal matters in Illinois are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Chicago are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate Illinois state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in Illinois brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this venue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in Illinois courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.
Chicago Courts and Legal Process
Choosing a Chicago-based attorney means your counsel already knows the local docketing timelines, preferred filing formats, and how individual judges typically rule on procedural motions — details that only come from practicing in this jurisdiction day after day. That local familiarity can translate to better strategy, faster filings, and fewer costly surprises.
Looking for additional Illinois attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Chicago or all attorneys in Illinois.
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Professional Profile
Why Clients in Chicago Choose Michael B. Gray
Selecting an attorney is one of the most consequential decisions you can make when a legal matter arises. Below are the core qualities that distinguish Michael B. Gray's practice.
Local Presence in Chicago
A Chicago-based practice means Michael B. Gray attends hearings in the same courthouses, knows the local clerks, and understands the unwritten scheduling norms that affect every case filed here.
Transparent Client Communication
Clients consistently note that understanding what is happening in their case — and why — is as important as the outcome itself. Michael B. Gray maintains clear, timely communication throughout every matter.
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Michael B. Gray's Practice Areas & Specializations
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