John Foote Joins Sidley as Partner in D.C., Expanding Global Arbitration, Trade and Advocacy Practice

John Foote has joined the firm’s Global Arbitration, Trade & Advocacy practice in Sidley’s office in Washington, D.C. Mr. Foote joins from Kelley Drye & Warren LLP, where he led the customs practice. Sidley’s Global Arbitration, Trade and Advocacy practice is a Chambers Band 1 practice in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Mr. Foote brings an in-depth understanding of international trade law, U.S. trade policy, and global supply chains, advising clients on complex compliance and enforcement challenges. He helps companies leverage the building blocks of trade, including classification, valuation, country of origin, preferential trade agreements, drawback, tariff exclusions, and waivers to reduce unnecessary costs and avoid business disruptions. Mr. Foote also represents clients in enforcement proceedings before U.S. Customs and Border Protection, including matters involving Withhold Release Orders (WROs) under Section 307 of the Tariff Act of 1930, Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA) proceedings, customs penalty actions, liquidated damages assessments, seizures, forfeitures, audits, and the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). In addition, he regularly represents clients in customs and trade disputes before the U.S. Court of International Trade and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

“John’s deep knowledge of trade laws and U.S. trade policy makes him an exceptional resource for our clients,” said Kristin Graham Koehler, managing partner of the Washington, D.C., office and a member of the firm’s Management and Executive Committees. “His extensive experience with U.S. Customs and trade enforcement enables him to provide clients with practical strategies and compliance solutions that reduce risk and support their business goals.”

“John is an outstanding advocate and counselor, and I am excited to reunite with him at this pivotal point in time,” said Ted Murphy, co-leader of Sidley’s Global Arbitration, Trade and Advocacy practice. “His ability to guide clients through every aspect of evolving global supply chains and represent them in high-stakes enforcement actions and disputes, will be invaluable in helping them navigate today’s rapidly changing trade environment.”