Christopher R. Graving - Shareholder, Seattle

Christopher R. Graving

Shareholder | Seattle


Chris represents commercial lenders in financing transactions, including construction, real estate purchases and refinances, lines of credit and other asset-based financings. Additionally, Chris regularly represents lenders in tax-exempt financings through various agencies, including the Washington State Housing Finance Commission, Washington State Health Care Facilities Authority, Oregon Facilities Authority, and the Idaho Housing and Finance Association. He also assists lenders with municipal bond financings and tax credit transactions.

Prior to joining Stokes Lawrence, Chris was a judicial law clerk for Washington State Supreme Court Justice Charles W. Johnson.

Admissions

  • Washington, 2012

Education

  • Seattle University School of Law, J.D., magna cum laude, Lead Article Editor, Seattle University Law Review (2012)
  • Western Washington University, B.A., International Business/Economics (2007)

Recognition & Honors

  • The Best Lawyers in America for Banking and Finance Law (2024 - 2025)
  • Rising Star, Washington Super Lawyers (2017 - 2022)

Representative Work

  • Prepare loan documents for numerous multi-million dollar commercial loan transactions, including loan agreements, promissory notes, guaranties, deeds of trust, SNDAs, and security agreements
  • Secured numerous six-figure judgments against individual and corporate borrowers and other defendants in state court
  • Provide advice on and prepare commercial leases for both tenants and landlords
  • Negotiate and draft purchase and sale agreements for both buyers and sellers
  • Negotiated favorable settlement for the personal guarantor of long-term lease
  • Obtained prompt dismissal of employment claim in federal court before client was forced to incur significant legal costs
  • Pursue and protect lenders’ rights to collateral and other potential sources of recovery in bankruptcy court

Publications & Presentations

Professional & Community Activities

  • Washington Attorneys Assisting Community Organizations, Law Student Clinic's Assistant (2012)
  • Moderate Means Program, Volunteer Student Intern (2012)
  • Global Vision International, Volunteer (2008)

Background & Interests

When not at the office, Chris enjoys travelling and various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and golfing, as well as spending time with his wife and daughter.