International Trade Attorney in Chicago
International trade is governed by a complex web of export controls, sanctions regimes, customs regulations, and trade agreements. At Liberum Law, our international trade attorneys in Chicago help businesses navigate these regulations to conduct global trade compliantly and efficiently.
Our international trade practice covers Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and ITAR compliance, OFAC sanctions screening and compliance programs, customs classification and valuation, tariff mitigation strategies including free trade zone utilization, import and export licensing, anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations, trade agreement utilization and compliance, and supply chain due diligence for forced labor and conflict minerals.
Non-compliance with international trade regulations can result in severe civil and criminal penalties, loss of export privileges, and reputational damage. Our attorneys help businesses implement practical compliance programs that manage risk while facilitating global trade.
Contact our international trade attorneys at Liberum Law for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does international trade law cover?
Tariffs and customs, trade agreements (USMCA, MFN, GSP), export controls (EAR, ITAR), economic sanctions (OFAC, UN, EU), antidumping and countervailing duties, World Trade Organization (WTO) compliance, Section 301 and 232 tariffs, anti-boycott rules.
Do I need an export license?
Maybe. Most goods don't require a license. But controlled items (technology, software, defense articles, dual-use goods), restricted destinations (sanctioned countries), restricted end-users (sanctioned parties, military), or restricted end-uses (WMD, missile programs) require licensing. Penalties for non-compliance are severe.
What are Section 301 tariffs?
Tariffs imposed by USTR on imports from countries with unfair trade practices — most notably China since 2018. Affect a wide range of products with varying duty rates. Companies can apply for product exclusions or specific tariff classifications to reduce exposure. We assist with petitions and tariff strategy.
What is OFAC and what do I need to know?
Office of Foreign Assets Control administers U.S. economic sanctions. Restricts transactions with comprehensive sanctioned countries (Iran, North Korea, Syria, Cuba, Russia in many sectors), specially designated nationals (SDN list), and sectoral sanctions. Civil and criminal penalties. Affects all U.S. persons.
How do you handle CBP audits or customs disputes?
CBP can audit importer classifications, valuations, and origin claims. We respond to audit notices, prepare protests against CBP decisions, file petitions for ruling letters, and pursue litigation in the Court of International Trade where needed.
