
Morrison Foerster‘s market-leading practice is composed of leading advisors capable of covering the full spectrum of national security matters. The team is co-led out of the Washington DC office with David Newman, who guides clients through high-stakes sanctions, emerging technology, and geopolitical matters, and John Smith, recognized for his expertise in economic sanctions and enforcement. Rounding out the leadership team is Brandon Van Grack, who handles complex FARA, export control, and compliance investigations. Key partners also include Charles Capito, who advises on ITAR, EAR, and CFIUS compliance for technology companies and government contractors; James Brower, who has deep experience in national security reviews for cross-border technology and semiconductor transactions; Joseph Folio, who specializes in congressional investigations and government oversight; Rachel Fiorill, a sanctions enforcement expert for leading financial institutions; and Chris Chamberlain, who provides strategic guidance on export controls and high-technology national security matters. The team advises clients across technology, industrial, and financial sectors on cross-border M&A, regulatory compliance, and cybersecurity issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Key clients
- Citigroup, Inc.
- ITOCHU
- JPMorgan Chase
- Salesforce
- SoftBank Group Corp.
- Stellantis
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Wells Fargo
Work highlights
Advised Salesforce on the CFIUS, foreign direct investment, and foreign ownership aspects of its acquisition of Informatica, a leader in enterprise AI-powered cloud data management.
Representing SoftBank on CFIUS and national security aspects of its acquisitions and investments, acting as lead counsel on numerous active and potential CFIUS cases, working closely with SoftBank’s government affairs team, and advising on the national security implications of its global M&A activities.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
David Newman; John Smith; Brandon Van Grack
Other key lawyers
Charles Capito; James Brower; Joseph Folio; Rachel Fiorill; Chris Chamberlain


