About Columbus Street
Guiding law firm leaders through their most consequential decisions.
Columbus Street is a boutique M&A advisory firm serving managing partners and executive committees of corporate and consumer law firms. We guide firms through combinations, private equity transactions, and strategic growth decisions, offering discreet, senior-level counsel that aligns culture, economics, and long-term vision—so every move strengthens the platform.
All inquiries are handled in strict confidence
Built for a New Era of Law Firm Strategy
The legal industry is transforming faster than ever. Clients are consolidating spend. Private capital is reshaping competition. Traditional growth models can’t keep pace. Columbus Street was founded to help law firm leaders navigate this change with clarity and confidence. We combine data, insight, and experience to guide firms toward outcomes that honor their legacy and secure their future.
Meet Chris
Chris Batz is the founder and managing member of Columbus street. After 15 years advising law firms and partners across the country, he saw a gap between how firms think about growth and what the market rewards. Through Columbus street, Chris brings a rare combination of financial understanding, industry pattern recognition, and human empathy to every engagement.
He holds an executive MBA from Columbia business school, where he focused on corporate finance, M&A, and valuation. He also holds bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting. His work has been featured in law360, americanlawyer, reuters, and texas lawyer.
How We Work
Every engagement is guided by three principles that define our advisory process.
Discretion First
Everything begins with trust. Every inquiry, document, and discussion remains confidential.
Clarity Over Complexity
Law firm M&A doesn't need jargon. We provide honest, data-driven advice in plain language.
Alignment Before Action
The best deals happen when culture, economics, and vision align. We help you get there first.
Areas of Focus
Private equity is creating new opportunities for firms ready to scale. We help you navigate MSO structures and find the right capital partners to maximize your firm's value.
Your firm represents years of hard work. We use a disciplined process to help you find the right partner.
Pursue meaningful growth through strategic acquisitions and combinations. Grow intentionally.
Access growth capital while maintaining independence and control. Create your own MSO structure to fund growth on your terms.
Align economics, leadership, and expectations before M&A conversations. Preparation accelerates the right deals and prevents the wrong ones.
Gain clarity on market position, perception, and competition. Best for firms needing strategic clarity before major decisions
Trusted by Law Firm Leaders Nationwide
Our perspective is informed by more than a decade of relationships across the legal industry.
Life in New York City
Chris and his family live on the upper west side of Manhattan, just steps from central park. Outside of advising firms, he co-hosts the future is bright podcast, exploring the intersection of law firm growth, strategy, and leadership.
Let's Talk About What's Next for Your Firm
No sales pitch. No pressure. Just a confidential, thoughtful discussion about your firm's strategy and future.
Schedule a Confidential ConsultationPrefer email or LinkedIn? chris@columbus-street.com· LinkedIn