Darshan Kharod
Branch Associate
Darshan Kharod
Darshan Kharod seamlessly uses his legal background and financial knowledge to assist our advisors in helping clients navigate complex financial and estate planning decisions. From the courtroom to the world of investing, his Juris Doctorate and MBA give him a unique edge in estate planning and risk management.
A Legal Mind with a Financial Focus
I started my legal career representing clients in criminal and civil matters after earning my law degree from the University of Baltimore. As a public defender in Maryland, I advocated for underserved individuals before moving to private practice, where I built a criminal law division and handled cases from contract disputes to family law.
Wanting to expand beyond the courtroom, I pursued an MBA at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. There, I explored finance through consulting and strategy projects, including work with PepsiCo, Marriott, and Tata. I later joined Wilmington Trust, focusing on compliance and risk management for 401(k) and Collective Investment Trust products.
I’m excited for this new chapter at Wagener-Lee. It felt like a natural fit because of my background in law and finance and because I have been a longtime client of this firm for nearly 20 years.
A Service-Oriented Approach
At Wagener-Lee, my role is similar to a Swiss Army knife. I provide my knowledge and expertise to our investment committee and apply my legal background to help clients in any way I can. As I work toward additional financial certifications, I am expanding my ability to serve clients holistically. Financial planning, like the law, is about solving problems and creating better outcomes.
The Why Behind What I Do
What I love most about my work is helping others. I have done that in the courtroom, in investment oversight, and soon in financial planning. That service mindset drew me to Wagener-Lee and continues to drive me every day.
Fun Fact
I am a huge sports fan, especially of the Orioles and Cowboys, and an even bigger sneakerhead. My collection of Nike and Jordans is 120 pairs and counting.
I am also a proud and active uncle to my niece and nephew.
Darshan 101
Darshan Kharod is a Maryland-licensed attorney with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, a Juris Doctorate from the University of Baltimore School of Law, and an MBA from the Robert H. Smith School of Business.
Born and raised in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, Darshan is actively involved in his high school’s alumni association, where he previously served as president and launched a podcast. He is also a frequent guest lecturer on public speaking and debate.
When he is not working, Darshan enjoys traveling, kickboxing, and catching as many live sporting events as possible.
Raymond James and its advisors do not offer legal advice.