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SB Law Asia

SB Law Asia

30 minutes Free Consultation
Bangkok, Thailand

Founded in 2014
9 people in their team
English
Hebrew (modern)
Yiddish
Thai
SB Law Asia - Bangkok’s leading law firm, offering top-tier legal solutions across Thailand with a skilled, multi-disciplinary team. Welcome to SB Law Asia, Bangkok's leading law firm dedicated to providing top-tier legal solutions across Thailand. Our distinguished multi-disciplinary team...
The Law Society Co.Ltd.
Phuket, Thailand

Founded in 2006
22 people in their team
German
Russian
Japanese
Korean
English
French
About UsAt The Law Society Co.Ltd., we are more than just a law firm - we are your steadfast partners in navigating the complex realm of legalities. With a solid foundation of over 15 years serving our valued clients and the larger community, we have fostered an unwavering reputation built on...
Sahal Law Firm

Sahal Law Firm

15 minutes Free Consultation
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Founded in 2015
53 people in their team
English
Arabic
Sahal Law Firm - Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaSahal Law Firm is a premier Saudi law firm in Riyadh providing bilingual (Arabic / English) counsel to local and international clients. we deliver end-to-end solutions in mergers & acquisitions (M&A), SAMA fintech licensing, corporate and commercial law,...

Founded in 2007
14 people in their team
English
Konstantinos Darivas & Associates | Trusted Law Firm in Athens, GreeceAt Konstantinos Darivas & Associates, we are a dynamic Athens-based law firm offering high-level legal services across a wide range of practice areas. With decades of experience and a strong reputation in civil, criminal,...
Kule Hukuk Bürosu

Kule Hukuk Bürosu

15 minutes Free Consultation
Istanbul, Turkey

Founded in 2010
10 people in their team
Turkish
English
German
Arabic
Portuguese
Spanish
Avukat Ferhat Kule, İstanbul'da yerleşik tam hizmet veren bir hukuk bürosudur. Müvekkillerimizin isteklerini karşılamak için çeşitli hukuk dallarında hizmet vermekteyiz. Çalışma alanlarımızdan bazıları Bilişim Hukuku, Boşanma ve Aile Hukuku, Ceza Hukuku, Şirketler ve Ticaret...
Law & More Advocaten
Eindhoven, Netherlands

Founded in 2008
10 people in their team
Dutch
English
Law & More is a dynamic Dutch law firm. The firm is located in Eindhoven and Amsterdam.Law & More provides the attention and customized service you need. The firm is international in scope and nature of its services and works for a range of sophisticated local and international clients,...

Founded in 2017
28 people in their team
English
Arnone & Sicomo is an International Law Firm founded by attorneys Gioia Arnone and Donatella Sicomo, with offices in major Italian cities including Palermo, Milan, Rome, Salerno, Catania, Cuneo, Venice, and Trento, as well as international locations such as London, Barcelona, Luxembourg,...
Mwale Law Advocates LLP
Nairobi, Kenya

Founded in 2013
7 people in their team
English
French
Swahili
Kikuyu
About UsMwale & Co. Advocates is a hallmark of legal distinction in Kenya. With a rich heritage in offering specialized services in numerous legal realms including Corporate and Commercial Law, Banking Law, Capital Markets Law, Intellectual Property Law, Telecommunications Law, Internet and...
KSN Bangkok Co., Ltd.

KSN Bangkok Co., Ltd.

15 minutes Free Consultation
Bangkok, Thailand

Founded in 2019
10 people in their team
English
Thai
At KSN Bangkok Co., Ltd., we are a full-service law firm based in Bangkok, Thailand, offering professional, client-centered legal solutions to individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients, locally and internationally. With a team of experienced and dedicated lawyers, we provide tailored legal...
OLM Law Advocates LLP

OLM Law Advocates LLP

15 minutes Free Consultation
Nairobi, Kenya

Founded in 2021
10 people in their team
English
Who We Are:OLM Law Advocates LLP is a leading full-service law firm in Kenya, recognized for delivering exceptional legal services tailored to diverse clients. Our clientele includes individuals, dynamic corporations, esteemed financial institutions, governmental, and non-governmental...
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About Sanctions & Export Controls Law

Sanctions and export controls law refers to the legal framework that regulates the movement of goods, technology, software, money, and services across national borders. This field aims to prevent illegal trade, maintain national security, promote foreign policy objectives, and ensure compliance with international agreements. Sanctions are government-imposed restrictions against countries, entities, or individuals, often in response to geopolitical concerns or human rights violations. Export controls restrict the transfer of specific items or technologies due to their potential use in weapons, military programs, or other sensitive applications. Both sets of laws can carry hefty civil and criminal penalties for violations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal issues in sanctions and export controls can be complex, and the risks of non-compliance are significant. You may need a lawyer if you are involved in any of the following situations:

  • Your business exports goods, technologies, or services internationally and needs guidance on which products are controlled or prohibited.
  • You have received a subpoena, investigation notice, or warning letter from regulatory bodies such as the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) or the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS).
  • Your company is considering a merger, acquisition, or partnership with foreign entities or individuals, and needs to conduct due diligence on sanctions and export compliance risks.
  • You are uncertain about your obligations under changes to trade sanctions, embargoes, or export control regulations.
  • A customer, supplier, or financial transaction may involve a sanctioned country, entity, or individual, and you need to assess the legal risks.
  • You seek to apply for a license or authorization for an export or related transaction subject to government controls.
  • You face allegations or charges of sanctions or export control violations, and legal representation is needed.

Local Laws Overview

In the United States, several key legal regimes govern sanctions and export controls:

  • The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on US foreign policy and national security goals. OFAC maintains lists of prohibited countries, entities, and individuals, and blocking or freezing assets is common for violators.
  • The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), part of the Department of Commerce, handles the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), which control the export, reexport, and transfer of commercial and dual-use items.
  • The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) within the State Department enforces the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), governing the export of defense articles and services.
  • The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also play roles in the enforcement of criminal and civil penalties.
  • Many states have their own regulations and may cooperate with federal enforcement.

Laws are often updated or amended to reflect emerging risks, shifting geopolitical landscapes, and technological advancements. Violating these laws can result in large fines, loss of export privileges, and even imprisonment. Proper internal controls, employee training, and screening are critical for compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are sanctions?

Sanctions are government-imposed restrictions or prohibitions on conducting certain commercial or financial transactions with designated countries, entities, or individuals. Sanctions can involve asset freezes, trade bans, or travel restrictions.

What are export controls?

Export controls are legal restrictions on the transfer of certain goods, technologies, or services across borders due to their potential use in national security, military programs, or prohibited applications. These controls aim to prevent proliferation and protect national interests.

Who is required to comply with sanctions and export control laws?

All US persons, businesses, and in many cases, foreign subsidiaries controlled by US companies must comply with US sanctions and export control laws. Non-US companies that reexport US-origin goods may also fall under certain regulations.

What are dual-use items?

Dual-use items are products, software, or technologies that have both commercial and military or strategic applications. Special controls typically apply to the export of these items.

How can I find out if a country is subject to sanctions?

You should regularly review official lists published by government agencies such as OFAC, as well as legal bulletins and updates, to determine which countries, entities, and individuals are currently sanctioned.

Do I need a license to export controlled goods?

In many cases, yes. Certain goods, technology, or software cannot be exported without first obtaining an export license from the BIS or DDTC, depending on the jurisdiction of the items involved.

What penalties can result from non-compliance?

Penalties for violations can include substantial civil fines, criminal charges, imprisonment, loss of export privileges, contract termination, and reputational damage.

Can sanctions or export control violations be unintentional?

Yes. Unintentional violations, such as failing to screen a customer or misclassifying a product, still carry legal liability. It is essential to maintain robust compliance procedures.

How often do sanctions and export controls change?

Sanctions and export control laws are dynamic and may change frequently in response to geopolitical events, security concerns, or policy updates. Regular monitoring and legal guidance are advised.

What should I do if I suspect a potential violation?

If you believe your company or organization may have violated sanctions or export control laws, it is crucial to consult a qualified lawyer immediately. Prompt voluntary disclosures to authorities may mitigate penalties.

Additional Resources

Individuals and businesses seeking information or assistance on sanctions and export controls can consult the following:

  • Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) - US Department of the Treasury
  • Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) - US Department of Commerce
  • Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) - US Department of State
  • US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Local and state bar associations for referrals to experienced sanctions and export controls attorneys
  • Trade and compliance associations offering seminars, training, and compliance updates

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in sanctions and export controls, start by gathering any relevant documentation about your business, products, transactions, and communications. Identify the specific issues or concerns you have. Then, reach out to a qualified attorney or legal advisor with experience in this field. You can contact your local or state bar association for recommendations or search for lawyers with specialized expertise in international trade, sanctions, or export controls. Timely legal advice can help you understand your obligations, assess your risks, and develop an effective compliance strategy or response to regulatory inquiries.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sanctions & Export Controls, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms, - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.