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Christopher McDemus
Corporate Deal Lawyer (Startup, VC, PE and M&A); Co-Chair, Emerging Business & Venture Capital
Christopher McDemus is a Shareholder at Cozen O'Connor and serves as the Co-Chair of the firm's Emerging Business & Venture Capital Group. Here are some key details about his background and role:
Professional Experience
McDemus has nearly 30 years of experience as a corporate lawyer, specializing in complex corporate deals including mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, financings, and strategic partnerships.12 He joined Cozen O'Connor in May 2020 along with several other attorneys from the boutique firm Baer Crossey McDemus LLC.1
Areas of Expertise
- Advises on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, spinouts, exits, growth and private equity financings, recapitalizations, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships2
- Works with private equity funds, sponsors, and strategic buyers on growth-by-acquisition strategies2
- Counsels startup and emerging growth companies through all stages of their lifecycle2
- Experienced in various financing structures including preferred stock, convertible notes, SAFEs, bridge loans, etc.2
Industry Focus
McDemus works across a broad range of industries including technology, healthcare, consumer goods, financial services, life sciences, media, retail, manufacturing, and more.2 He has particular expertise in areas like enterprise SaaS, digital health, AI/ML, fintech, e-commerce, and other emerging tech sectors.2
Role at Cozen O'Connor
As Co-Chair of the Emerging Business & Venture Capital Group, McDemus:
- Advises startups and emerging growth companies2
- Oversees the firm's COpilot program, an online resource for startups and entrepreneurs1
- Focuses on building relationships with venture capital funds, angel investors, and the broader entrepreneurial community12
Background
- Began his career as an associate at Cozen O'Connor1
- Has held senior in-house roles including as Chief Legal Officer at Scünci International, Inc.1
- Earned his law degree from Widener University School of Law2
McDemus views himself as a "businessperson with a law degree" and prioritizes understanding his clients' businesses thoroughly to provide strategic advice.1