C. Stephen Bigler

C. Stephen Bigler is a top-ranked Delaware corporate lawyer recognized for his expertise in complex transactions and corporate governance. He advises corporations, boards, committees, and investors on statutory compliance, fiduciary duty, structuring, and governance matters. Known for balancing legal precision with practical deal execution, he is highly regarded by clients and peers alike.

Stephen earned his B.S., magna cum laude, from Washington and Lee University in 1981 and received his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1984. His deep understanding of Delaware law has made him a trusted resource for legal opinions and corporate planning across public and private companies.

Stephen helped draft several important updates to Delaware’s corporate statutes, including Sections 204 and 205, which permit ratification of defective corporate acts. He also contributed to Section 122(17) for advance waivers of corporate opportunities and Section 251(g) allowing holding company reorganizations without stockholder votes. These efforts demonstrate his impact on shaping modern corporate law.

Stephen was a founding contributor to the National Venture Capital Association model documents and continues to serve on its GC Advisory Board. His prior role on the ABA Corporate Laws Committee involved drafting changes to the MBCA, such as statutory ratification and public benefit corporation provisions. He also contributed to the 7th edition of the Corporate Directors Guidebook.

Stephen’s writing includes significant publications on Delaware law topics, such as stock issuance defects, fiduciary duties, and statutory ratification procedures. He is also a frequent speaker on developments in the Delaware General Corporation Law and practical legal matters for corporate practitioners.

C. Stephen Bigler has been recognized by Chambers USA, The Legal 500, and other major legal directories for excellence in corporate law. He served as president of a major Delaware law firm and is an active member of committees shaping national corporate legal standards. His decades of service continue to influence corporate governance and legal practice nationwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Director, Richards, Layton & Finger, PA
• Member, American Bar Association, Business Law Section
• General Counsel, National Venture Capital Association
• Member, United States District Court, District of Delaware
• Member, United States Court of Appeals

Licensed State

• Delaware

Education

• University of Virginia School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Washington and Lee University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges