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Sanctions and export controls law involves regulations and restrictions imposed by the United States government on businesses and individuals when dealing with foreign entities, goods, technologies, or services. In Sarasota, these laws are governed primarily by federal agencies such as the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), and the Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). These agencies implement rules that impact how Sarasota-based businesses and individuals interact with people, organizations, and countries deemed restricted or prohibited under U S law.
Legal issues related to sanctions and export controls can be complex and carry significant risks, both financial and reputational. You may need a lawyer in the following situations:
While federal regulations predominantly govern sanctions and export controls, Sarasota businesses and residents must also be mindful of Florida state laws that can compound federal requirements. Key aspects include:
Sanctions are government-imposed restrictions that limit trade or other dealings with specific countries, entities, or individuals. Export controls are regulations that restrict the transfer of certain goods, technology, and information to foreign nations or parties.
The main federal agencies involved are the Department of the Treasury (OFAC), Department of Commerce (BIS), and Department of State (DDTC). Local law enforcement may become involved if criminal violations are alleged.
You may need an export license depending on the nature of your goods, the destination country, the end user, and the intended use. A lawyer can help determine whether a license is required.
Violations can result in substantial fines, loss of export privileges, criminal charges, and reputational damage. Both individuals and businesses may be penalized.
If your business in Sarasota exports goods, software, technology, or provides services internationally, you are likely subject to these laws. The scope can include even indirect exports, such as sharing controlled information by email with a foreign national.
Generally, you cannot do business with parties from sanctioned countries or those on the SDN list without proper authorization. There are some exceptions and special licenses, but these are tightly controlled.
Industries like aerospace, defense, technology, shipping, manufacturing, and financial services often face stricter oversight due to sensitive products and international operations.
Contact a knowledgeable sanctions and export controls attorney immediately. Timely legal advice is essential to navigate investigations, respond to government inquiries, and minimize liability.
Regular compliance training, robust internal controls, screening systems to flag restricted parties, and legal reviews of transactions are key. Many Sarasota businesses engage attorneys to assist with ongoing compliance programs.
While federal law takes precedence, certain Florida laws may impose extra restrictions, especially relating to ties with specific countries like Cuba. Legal guidance can help clarify your obligations under both state and federal law.
If you need more information or official guidance about sanctions and export controls in Sarasota, consider contacting or reviewing materials from these entities:
If you think sanctions or export controls laws may affect you or your business in Sarasota, here are recommended steps:
Taking proactive steps with the guidance of a legal professional can help prevent costly violations and ensure your Sarasota business operates safely within the law.
