Christopher S. Chris Pace
Project Finance Law
Project Finance Law
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Chris Pace is a partner in the Corporate Practice Group. He advises on project finance and economic development law, state and local government law, economic development incentives, and gaming law. Chris’ clients include county and municipal governmental bodies as well as new and expanding business concerns, examples of which include a large steel company investing more than $1 billion in a new facility, and a regional beverage supplier investing millions of dollars to expand its existing operations. Chris has negotiated and documented a range of economic incentives, including property, sales, use, income, and franchise tax incentives, and other incentives related to tax exempt and taxable bond financing. He has assisted clients in negotiating and implementing incentives with the Mississippi Development Authority, the Mississippi Department of Revenue, and other state and local governmental entities. Chris also has negotiated and implemented economic incentives with numerous county and city governments, including the implementation of complex fee-in-lieu of property tax agreements, which are available only for projects involving investments of $100 million or more. In connection with the firm's gaming practice, Chris represents domestic and international clients such as casino owners and operators, gaming equipment manufacturers and distributors, and investors, investment banks, and other financial institutions. For these clients, he has provided counsel in a broad range of gaming matters, including new casino developments, licensing, financing, registration, findings of suitability, transfers of ownership, operations, training, compliance, investigations, disciplinary proceedings, and other regulatory and transactional matters. Chris Pace is a partner in the Corporate Practice Group. He advises on project finance and economic development law, state and local government law, economic development incentives, and gaming law. Chris’ clients include county and municipal governmental bodies as well as new and expanding business concerns, examples of which include a large steel company investing more than $1 billion in a new facility, and a regional beverage supplier investing millions of dollars to expand its existing operations. Chris has negotiated and documented a range of economic incentives, including property, sales, use, income, and franchise tax incentives, and other incentives related to tax exempt and taxable bond financing. He has assisted clients in negotiating and implementing incentives with the Mississippi Development Authority, the Mississippi Department of Revenue, and other state and local governmental entities. Chris also has negotiated and implemented economic incentives with numerous county and city governments, including the implementation of complex fee-in-lieu of property tax agreements, which are available only for projects involving investments of $100 million or more. In connection with the firm's gaming practice, Chris represents domestic and international clients such as casino owners and operators, gaming equipment manufacturers and distributors, and investors, investment banks, and other financial institutions. For these clients, he has provided counsel in a broad range of gaming matters, including new casino developments, licensing, financing, registration, findings of suitability, transfers of ownership, operations, training, compliance, investigations, disciplinary proceedings, and other regulatory and transactional matters.
Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2020
Margaret Campbell
Our company was navigating a multi-faceted economic development project in Mississippi, involving significant capital investment and complex negotiations with state and local entities. The stakes were incredibly high, and we needed counsel who understood both the intricate legal frameworks and the practical realities of bringing such a project to fruition. Engaging Chris Pace of Jones Walker was the best decision we made. His 18 years of experience, particularly his deep focus on project finance and economic development incentives, were immediately evident. Chris didn't just review documents; he architecturally structured the financial and incentive components, ensuring compliance while maximizing value for our stakeholders. His dual background in law and business (reflected in his MBA) meant he consistently provided advice that was legally sound and commercially astute. He expertly guided us through nuanced gaming law considerations and negotiations with government bodies, demonstrating the caliber that undoubtedly leads to professional recognition. Chris is a strategic partner who operates with unwavering professionalism, clear communication, and a genuine commitment to his client's success. The project closed successfully, on time, and its structure has been commended by our board. For any significant corporate or development matter in Mississippi, Chris Pace is the attorney you want in your corner.