Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Sanctions and export controls laws are a vital part of United States federal regulations that restrict or control the movement of goods, technology, software, and services for economic, political, or national security reasons. In Princeton, New Jersey, these laws are largely governed by federal authorities and apply to companies, research institutions, and individuals. With prominent academic and research organizations such as Princeton University operating in the area, both the private and public sectors must adhere strictly to these requirements. Failing to comply with these laws can result in significant civil or criminal penalties, loss of export privileges, and reputational harm.
Sanctions and export controls laws are complex and frequently updated. There are several situations where you may need legal assistance:
Legal counsel can help assess risks, interpret the law, prepare required licenses, develop compliance protocols, and represent you in front of government agencies.
While sanctions and export controls largely fall under federal jurisdiction, Princeton businesses and residents are directly impacted by national policies enforced by various agencies:
Princeton-based entities must be aware that local operations, university research, and collaborative projects may inadvertently fall under these regulations. Screening transactions, partners, and research activities for compliance is a critical and ongoing duty.
Sanctions are government-imposed restrictions targeting specific countries, entities, or individuals for political or national security reasons. Export controls are laws that restrict the export of certain goods, technology, or information for reasons related to foreign policy or national security.
Any person or business in Princeton that exports, re-exports, or transfers controlled goods, technology, or software must comply. This includes universities, researchers, manufacturers, distributors, and even individuals sending personal items abroad.
Yes, research institutions like Princeton University must ensure compliance, especially when dealing with foreign nationals, sharing technical data, or engaging in research that may be controlled under EAR or ITAR. Licensing requirements may apply.
Penalties can be severe and include hefty fines, loss of export privileges, imprisonment, and reputational damage. Both individuals and organizations can be held liable for violations.
Products, software, and technology must be checked against the Commerce Control List (CCL) under EAR and the U.S. Munitions List under ITAR. Consulting a legal expert is the best way to assess classification and licensing needs.
This is the process of checking customers, business partners, and other parties against U.S. government lists of sanctioned or restricted individuals and organizations to ensure you are not dealing with prohibited parties.
Depending on the activities, you may need to register with BIS or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) if exporting controlled merchandise or technology. Registration is often a prerequisite for obtaining export licenses.
Granting access to certain controlled technologies to foreign nationals, even within the U.S., can be considered a "deemed export" and may require special licensing.
You should immediately consult an attorney experienced in this area. Voluntary self-disclosure to regulators can mitigate potential penalties, but timing and approach are critical.
A good starting point is conducting a risk assessment with the help of legal counsel, identifying which products, technologies, or transactions are subject to regulations, and establishing ongoing training and screening procedures.
Here are some helpful resources for understanding or seeking guidance on sanctions and export controls:
If you suspect your activities or business may fall under U.S. sanctions or export controls laws, or if you have received any government inquiry or wish to strengthen your compliance, consider the following steps:
Engaging an experienced legal professional is the most effective way to ensure compliance, minimize risk, and protect your organization or personal interests from potentially severe penalties.
