Michael B. Chance

Michael B. Chance is a shareholder at Baker Donelson, focusing on commercial real estate, corporate law, land use, and finance. He counsels developers, businesses, and financial institutions on acquisitions, project development, and payment-in-lieu-of-tax (PILOT) matters across various industries, including retail and mixed-use development.

Mr. Chance earned his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Tennessee in 1989. He is admitted to practice in Tennessee and brings more than three decades of legal experience to his role. His academic and professional foundation positions him as a trusted advisor in high-value commercial and financing transactions.

Mr. Chance represents developers in assembling multi-parcel sites for large retail projects and repurposing historic properties for modern mixed-use ventures. He has facilitated land acquisitions, title and survey reviews, and complex construction agreements essential to project success.

Beyond development projects, Mr. Chance provides strategic counsel on commercial lending, representing both lenders and borrowers in structuring, negotiating, and closing financing transactions. He delivers end-to-end legal support—from acquisition through completion—crafting tailored financing solutions that help clients secure capital, manage risk, and complete deals efficiently.

Michael B. Chance is a recognized authority in his field. He has been listed in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2009 for Real Estate Law and since 2013 for Commercial Finance Law. He was named Best Lawyers’ 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” in Memphis for Commercial Finance and consistently ranks among the top attorneys in Mid-South Super Lawyers.

Mr. Chance’s extensive legal knowledge and dedication to client success make him a vital resource in real estate and finance law. He continues to provide strategic, results-oriented counsel to help shape commercial development in Memphis and beyond.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz, PC
• Member, Memphis Bar Associations
• Member, International Council of Shopping Centers

Licensed State

• Tennessee

Education

• University of Tennessee Winston College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Rhodes College
  BA in History

Awards & Badges