As a business, you seek advice and services from a ton of different lawyers. Corporate lawyers, Tax lawyers, Employment lawyers, IP lawyers — you know the deal.
But what happens when you conduct international trade? This is where a customs attorney steps in! Think of them as specialized attorneys for border rules. They provide advice on a range of cross-border business issues.
Feeling confused? We’re here to help. This short guide explains the roles and responsibilities of a customs attorney and why your business might need one. Let’s get in!
The Roles of a Customs Attorney
Simply put, a customs attorney is a lawyer specializing in import/export law. They know the ins and outs of international trade law, including some of the most critical frameworks. This includes:
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Regional Trade Agreements (RTA)
- International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
Customs lawyers provide legal guidance on tariffs, duties, trade agreements, and multi-agency permits, so businesses can go ahead with international trade transactions.
They also help with customs duties and customs inspections and disputes. Let’s say one of your business’s shipments has been held by customs. A customs attorney would help resolve the matter, preventing downtime for your business and increasing operational efficiency.
Why Your Business Needs a Custom Attorney
Here are five reasons your business might need a customs attorney:
Compliance
Compliance is a necessity for successful international trade. A customs attorney will have specialized knowledge and expertise in customs law. As a result, they will conduct compliance audits and manage the risks associated with import/export activities. This will help your business avoid legal penalties and delays.
Handle legal problems
If an issue does arise during international trade, a customs attorney would step in to represent your best interests. If customs holds your shipment or questions your duties, a customs attorney can negotiate with the relevant authorities, such as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Handle complex paperwork
Dealing with paperwork is often the least desirable task for a business owner. On top of that, customs matters have highly complex documentation, including forms and agreements. A reliable customs attorney will take over everything. They will ensure accurate documentation to avoid delays.
Resolve disputes
As hinted earlier, a customs attorney will represent you during legal matters, including disputes. This can include protests, penalty cases, seizures, and litigation with customs authorities.
Government liaison
A customs attorney can also act as the middleman between your business and government authorities. They will prepare and file ruling requests, manage interactions with government agencies, and address product bans or administrative roadblocks. The result? Your business conducts international trade smoothly and confidently.
Trade facilitation
Think of a customs attorney as your partner in trade matters. They can not only resolve disputes but also facilitate increased trade. For instance, a customs attorney can help you obtain licenses. They will analyze Free Trade Agreement (FTA) eligibility and streamline import/export processes. Their aim is to make business processes stress-free.
