Given the technical nature of international trade regulation, some disputes cannot be satisfactorily resolved without the guidance of the Courts. Private litigants before the Court of International Trade must overcome legal presumptions and burdens of proof which favor agency decisions.

Barnes/Richardson has appeared as counsel in more reported CIT opinions than any other law firm. Indeed, our clients consider that given the time and cost associated with litigation, it is only prudent to proceed with the finest representation available.


Binational Panel Reviews

The NAFTA and its predecessor, the U.S.-Canada Free Trade Agreement, established unique dispute resolution procedures for international trade disputes in which the parties present their cases to a panel of decision-makers made up of both foreign and U.S. nationals.  Since its representation of a client before the second Binational Panel convened, the Firm has been a pioneer in the conduct of such reviews.

Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit Appeals

Private litigants must be assured that their counsel is able and prepared to effectively represent them not only at the trial court but also through appeal to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and, if necessary, the U.S. Supreme Court.  The experience and expertise of Barnes Richardson & Colburn lawyers is present from the administrative level to the completion of the final appeal.

General Litigation Services

Sometimes in the course of business, disputes arise regarding selling or moving goods in international business. These could relate to contract claims, disputes regarding losses of goods in transit, collection of monies owed, or enforcement of the terms of a bill of lading. BR&C is uniquely experienced in the practicalities of international trade and in addressing claims relating to commercial international transactions. That experience is invaluable in favorably disposing of disputes, be it through the negotiation of an agreed settlement or proceeding through mediation, arbitration or litigation.