Biography

Chris Vinyard represents banks and other commercial lenders of all sizes in structuring, documenting and negotiating a wide variety of commercial loan transactions.

With nearly 30 years of experience, he provides strategic legal advice on sophisticated commercial and industrial (C&I) loans, including revolving credit facilities and term loans, whether secured or unsecured, and on commercial real estate (CRE) loans, including acquisition and construction loans and long-term financing. He also has extensive experience in public finance, representing bond purchasers, credit enhancers and underwriters in all types of tax-exempt and taxable bond transactions.

Chris has negotiated complex lending transactions for a wide range of industries, including education, healthcare, office, retail, life care communities, manufacturing and government contracting.

Education

  • University of Virginia School of Law (J.D., 1996)
  • Washington and Lee University (B.A., magna cum laude, 1993)

Bar Admissions

  • District of Columbia, 2015
  • Maryland, 2014
  • Virginia, 1996

Professional Affiliations

  • Virginia Bar Association
  • Virginia State Bar
  • National Association of Bond Lawyers
  • Maryland State Association

Special Honors

  • Best Lawyers in America®: “Lawyer of the Year” in Banking and Finance Law (2023, 2025)
  • Best Lawyers in America®: Selected for inclusion in the areas of Banking and Finance Law (2016-2026); and Public Finance Law (2021-2026)

Community Activities

  • Sheltering Arms: Member, Board of Directors