Based in Washington DC, Steptoe LLP is positioned to advise on export controls, advising clients across defense, aerospace and semiconductors on complex regulatory compliance, licensing, investigations and technology-related export control matters. The team also provides comprehensive guidance on US economic sanctions, assisting clients with compliance programs, due diligence, restricted-party de-listings and voluntary self-disclosures. Key services on the customs side include advising on import/export declarations, valuation, country of origin, duty-reduction programs and supply chain compliance. Alexandra Baj leads the international trade and regulatory compliance group and co-chairs the export controls and sanctions practice, alongside DC and London-based Meredith Rathbone. Brian Fleming‘s sanctions and export controls practice includes high-stakes internal investigations. Edward Krauland has notable experience in delisting and sanctions relief procedures. Jack Hayes is another key name to note. Litigator Jason Wright, who joined the team in 2025, focuses on economic sanctions.
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Accolades
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
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‘The team is always open to new ideas, fresh thinking and innovative solutions.’
‘Alexandra Baj, super friendly, always professional but open to new ideas and flexible thinking also very creative with her own suggestions and solutions. Super diligent in follow up and turning around documents. Always available.'
- 'Ed Krauland is equally creative and thoughtful and has a great network which he is able to deploy to the benefit of the client. Wise and considered in his advice, but never stuffy.’
‘We engaged Steptoe during a high-stakes inquiry regarding potential sanctions issue on one of our former shareholders. Steptoe with their 'insider logic', acted with amazing calm and knowledge. As a professional with extensive knowledge on the know-how and connections, Brian Fleming doesn't just read the regulations; they understand how OFAC actually prioritizes enforcement. Instead of the standard 'no' we received from other firms, they provided a sophisticated risk-mitigation framework that allowed us to maintain our 2025 Middle eastern operations while fully insulating our US entity. Their responsiveness is elite, and their ability to translate 'Washington-speak' into actionable business strategy saved us millions.’
- 'Most lawyers can tell you what the law says. Brian Fleming can tell you what the regulator intends. This allows him to guide clients through "grey areas" where a literal reading of the law might be too restrictive, but a reckless reading would be a disaster.’
‘I have worked with the export controls side of Steptoe and its fantastic. Deep bench and a sophisticated understanding of EAR and ITAR issues.’
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
Alexandra Baj; Brian Fleming
Other key lawyers
Meredith Rathbone; Edward Krauland; Jack Hayes; Brian Fleming