Expanding your business overseas, whether through import or export, is exciting. But you also have to watch out for a complex web of international laws, regulations, and cultural nuances.
Whether you’re already doing international trade or are just appearing on the scene, having an experienced international trade attorney by your side is non-negotiable.
But here’s the thing: Not all trade attorneys are the same. You need someone who can professionally guide you through international trade matters, while also resolving disputes. This guide will offer clarity.
Here are six things you should look for in an international trade attorney:
- Specialized Knowledge
First things first, an international trade attorney must know customs, tariffs, import/export controls, and sanctions — basically anything that comes under trade law. They should also be aware of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and how they apply to different industries.
More specifically, an international trade attorney should have a complete understanding of the fundamental principles governing relations between states, including treaty law, state sovereignty, and international dispute resolution mechanisms. Expertise in the Harmonized System (HS) codes for classifying goods, duty rates, customs valuation, and rules of origin is also important.
You can also inquire about the attorney’s knowledge of the major international trade agreements, including the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).
This expertise means the attorney can provide comprehensive assistance, not just surface-level, generic advice.
- Industry-Specific Expertise
This is where a lot of business owners go wrong. Hiring an international trade lawyer who has no idea of the customs laws that apply to your specific industry isn’t the best move.
Look for an attorney with experience in your specific sector and the markets you operate in. This could be tech, manufacturing, healthcare, and services. An attorney with industry-specific expertise will help your business stay compliant.
- Dispute Resolution Skills
Disputes occur when you step into international trade. Your shipment could get held by customs. You could face delays due to strikes and protests. But the way your business responds to these issues makes all the difference.
Assess the dispute resolution skills of an international trade attorney. They should have expertise in litigation, arbitration, and negotiation for efficient resolutions.
- Experience With Government Authorities
In many cases, an international trade attorney has to become the middleman. Therefore, assess if they can act as a liaison between you and a government authority. Their responsibilities could include submitting paperwork, responding to audit requests, and more.
The result? Your business can operate fully compliant.
- Communication Skills
International trade attorneys are tasked with giving updates and sharing any changes within the trade ecosystem. Therefore, they must have proficiency in key languages relevant to your markets. Moreover, they should be able to make and present clear reports.
- Strategic Thinking
And lastly, an international trade attorney should be able to provide strategic advice to achieve long-term goals, not just reactive legal fixes. This could mean advising on proactive adjustments or responding to legal matters.
