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Sanctions and export controls law consists of federal regulations and rules that restrict certain transactions, the export of goods, technology, or services, and dealings with specified countries, entities, or individuals. These laws are mainly enforced at the federal level through agencies such as the Department of Commerce, Department of Treasury, and Department of State. In Maryland, the proximity to major centers of international trade, defense contractors, and government agencies adds a layer of complexity and relevance to compliance with these regulations. Businesses and individuals involved in international trade, shipping, manufacturing, or service provision may be impacted by these laws and must ensure compliance to avoid significant penalties or loss of business opportunities.
Legal challenges involving sanctions and export controls are highly technical and carry severe civil and criminal penalties for violations. You may require legal assistance in the following situations:
Legal counsel can help you navigate licensing, reporting obligations, risk assessments, voluntary disclosures, and more. A lawyer can also provide training for staff and help respond to government investigations.
Sanctions and export controls in Maryland are primarily governed by federal laws and regulations. Key federal statutes include the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and sanctions programs managed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). While Maryland itself does not have a separate set of export control laws, state entities such as Maryland’s Department of Commerce and local universities often have tailored policies to ensure compliance with these federal requirements. Because Maryland is home to many defense contractors and technology companies, state-level guidelines may intersect with federal law, especially where contracts with local government or agencies are concerned. Understanding how these federal laws apply to your specific business type, product, or service is crucial in this jurisdiction.
Export controls are federal laws and regulations that restrict the transfer, shipment, or sharing of certain products, technology, software, or services to foreign entities or individuals to protect national security and advance U.S. foreign policy.
Sanctions are restrictions imposed by the U.S. government prohibiting or limiting certain trade, financial transactions, or business dealings with targeted countries, governments, companies, or individuals often for national security or foreign policy reasons.
Any Maryland business or individual involved in the export of goods, services, or technology may be affected. This includes manufacturers, defense companies, biotech firms, research organizations, and even universities collaborating with foreign nationals.
Some exports require a license depending on the classification of the product, the destination country, the end user, and the intended end use. A lawyer can help determine if your transaction requires government approval.
You should consult a lawyer immediately before responding. The stakes are high in these situations, and a legal professional can help you protect your rights and determine the best course of action.
There are no separate Maryland-specific export control or sanctions laws. Federal law applies, but certain state institutions and local government contracts may impose additional requirements to ensure compliance.
You should regularly screen customers, partners, and transactions against government-published lists such as the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. Legal counsel can help set up effective screening procedures.
Penalties can include large civil fines, criminal prosecution, loss of export privileges, reputational damage, and even imprisonment for individuals.
Yes. Certain technical data, software, or research findings may be subject to export controls, especially in sensitive fields like engineering, cybersecurity, or biosciences. Universities commonly have dedicated compliance departments to address these issues.
You should contact a lawyer experienced in sanctions and export controls. Voluntary disclosures, internal investigations, or other corrective actions may help mitigate penalties or resolve issues more favorably.
If you need more information or assistance, consider reaching out to the following resources:
Expert legal practitioners and industry groups can also provide training and guidance.
If you believe you may need legal assistance in sanctions and export controls, gather all relevant documentation about your company’s products, services, customers, and transactions. Document any correspondence you have had with government agencies. Next, consult a qualified attorney with experience in sanctions and export controls law in Maryland. A specialized lawyer can help you assess your legal needs, clarify your obligations, and develop a strategy to ensure compliance or respond to government actions. Do not delay, as export control and sanctions matters can involve time-sensitive reporting and strict deadlines.
