North America - United States • International trade
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Noted for its ‘deep bench when it comes to trade compliance’, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP draws on 15 lawyers in the export controls, economic sanctions and customs law areas. The firm’s unique strengths in the nuclear, energy, technology, defense, and aerospace spheres pay dividends, and the team attracts a significant volume of work related to those industries. In particular, it is recognized for its expertise in advising on nuclear export controls and the overlap of the EAR with Department of Energy (DOE) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regimes. Among its recent work in the nuclear space, global regulatory head Nancy Fischer advised the Ad Hoc Utilities Group on the potential applicability of Russia and Iran-related sanctions to imports of nuclear fuel for use in US commercial nuclear power plants. The Washington DC-based team also includes trade veteran Christopher Wall; trade chair Stephan Becker; Aaron Hutman; and Benjamin Cote.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Pillsbury’s trade compliance team's strength is its practical approach when giving advice to clients who must manage real-world challenges. The team provides as a new service updates on US-China trade-related regulatory activity. This is helpful for companies who are operating globally.’
‘Nancy Fischer has profound substance expertise in trade compliance matters. From a client experience viewpoint, Nancy's approach is to-the-point and helpful.’
‘This practice has the current best trade compliance lawyer in the field, Stephan Becker. It is refreshing to have a partner that doesn't tell you what you want to hear but rather the best advice for your situation and your company, even when difficult.’
‘The practice doesn't sit on existing knowledge, but keeps abreast of changes in the regulatory environment. It is a major benefit to be able to bring any trade-related question to this firm and receive guidance and support.’
‘We work with Aaron Hutman on the International Trade team and his approach, guidance, and expertise have all been top notch. He brings great value to his work for us, and I appreciate how he partners deeply with our business to understand our needs and give practical guidance.’
‘Their team’s unique approach sets it apart from other firms. With its extensive knowledge and expertise, it has the ability to navigate through complex legal landscapes smoothly. The team’s strength lies in its collaborative efforts, working together seamlessly to address every client’s specific needs.’
‘Pillsbury has a deep bench when it comes to trade compliance, especially with respect to export controls. When we needed an expert to help understand banking relationships and stock transfers in a particular market, the firm had an expert practitioner who also happened to be a native of the country at issue.’
‘I work primarily with Aaron Hutman, and find him to be a tremendous asset to our company. He has a great client touch and is mindful of when we might need a nudge or when we can take a little more time to develop our understanding of a situation before we act.’
Key clients
- Cypress Semiconductor
- Facebook/Meta
- Airbus
- Ravago Americas
- Gates Corporation
- Panasonic
- Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
- Rohde & Schwarz
- Association of Cypriot Banks
Work highlights
- Advised Intelsat on sanctions, export control, anti-boycott and FCPA matters related to its operations internationally.
- Advised Chevron on a wide range of international trade-related matters including sanctions and compliance issues involving US, UK, and EU sanctions programs, export controls, anti-boycott matters, CFIUS issues and customs law.
- Advised INPEX on sanctions and export control matters.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Stephan Becker, Nancy Fischer