Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP’s National Security practice is distinguished by a bench of partners whose capabilities span the full lifecycle of security-sensitive business, from policy and transactions to disputes and enforcement. Based primarily in Washington DC, Nancy Fischer leads the practice with deep experience in export controls, sanctions, CFIUS, tariffs, and supply-chain strategy across technology, energy, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. She is joined by Christopher Wall, a former senior Commerce Department official widely trusted on export controls, sanctions, and investment security matters. Stephan Becker brings global trade and foreign investment depth, particularly for aviation, semiconductor, and manufacturing clients. Public policy partner Brian Finch adds authority on cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, and SAFETY Act matters. In Los Angeles, Michael Rizzo provides government contracts and disputes expertise for defense and technology contractors. Marques Peterson, Managing Partner of the Washington DC office, rounds out the team with extensive experience in international defense procurement, investigations, and national security compliance.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very strong sanctions team lead by Nancy Fischer with excellent contacts in government’
‘Excellent technical knowledge and government contacts.’
‘Highly-knowledgeable, well-connected, and highly-responsive; delivers quality work product on schedule as promised’
‘The team led by Nancy Fischer is providing proactively to my company (a global company having its headquarter in Europe) extremely good advice on our complex supply chain issues including protective tariffs in this highly demanding geopolitical situation.'
'Pillsbury's billing is transparent, they keep their promises and always find solutions that are appropriate for us. Further, the proactiveness and willingness to make an extra mile for their customer is well appreciated.'
‘Substance is the key and they have it.’
'Pillsbury's team is always extremely knowledgeable, and there is no stone unturned when evaluating an issue.'
'Nancy Fischer has been extremely helpful in the area of international trade and particularly tariff related, due to her being well connected and knowledgeable in the practice area.'
Key clients
- Ad Hoc Utilities Group
- American Water Works Association
- Arsenal
- Bank of Cyprus
- BlueScope, Ltd.
- CATHEXIS
- Chevron
- Constellation
- Core One
- General Atomics
- Identiv
- INPEX
- Integral Federal
- Joint Liquidators for GTLK Aircraft leasing liquidation
- Klas
- LG Electronics
- Maveris
- Numerica
- SEMI
- Sierra Nevada Corporation
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Nancy Fischer
Other key lawyers
Christopher Wall; Stephan Becker; Brian Finch; Michael Rizzo; Marques Peterson