Atty. Michael B. Gray

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.

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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). Serands clients in Chicago, IL and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • 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 Illinois

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 andnue, 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.

Looking for additional Illinois attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Chicago or all attorneys in Illinois.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about Michael B. Gray

Where is Michael B. Gray's law office located?
Michael B. Gray's law practice is located in Chicago, Illinois. The firm is Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
Where did Michael B. Gray go to law school?
Michael B. Gray earned their education at (J.D., 1992); (—, 1988); (B.A., 1987).
How can I contact Michael B. Gray for a consultation?
You can contact Michael B. Gray directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Michael B. Gray received?
Michael B. Gray's notable recognition includes: Best Lawyers in America — Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law; Best Lawyers in America — Additional Areas of Practice:; Best Lawyers in America — Corporate Law; Best Lawyers in America — Mergers and Acquisitions Law; Best Lawyers in America — Venture Capital Law.

Education

J.D.
Northwestern University
- 1992
University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign
- 1988
B.A.
University of Chicago
- 1987

Awards

Best Lawyers in America — Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
- 2026
Best Lawyers in America — Additional Areas of Practice:
- 2026
Best Lawyers in America — Corporate Law
- 2026
Best Lawyers in America — Mergers and Acquisitions Law
- 2026
Best Lawyers in America — Venture Capital Law
- 2026
Best Lawyers in America — Water Law
- 2026
Lawyer of the Year — Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law (Chicago)
- 2020

Bar Admissions

Illinois, Illinois State Bar Association

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