Matthew R. Kinsman

Export Compliance Counsel & Investigations

A core component of Matt’s multifaceted practice is facilitating high-stakes internal investigations involving potential US sanctions and export controls violations, including those arising under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and sanctions programs administered by the Office of Foreign Asset Control (OFAC).

Matt has handled a wide range of internal investigations throughout the US and globally, while also conducting risk assessments, developing compliance training, and providing direct representation and advocacy before relevant US enforcement authorities.

Import Compliance & Regulatory Strategy

Matt also regularly advises importers on US customs compliance and tariff mitigation opportunities in an increasingly complex and evolving trade landscape. Clients seek Matt’s counsel related to import tariff classifications; country of origin declarations; eligibility determinations under free trade agreements and duty preference programs; drafting/negotiation third-party supply chain agreements; and advocacy related to sector- and product-specific tariff relief before the US Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.

Matt also assists international clients on compliance matters related to the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT), a voluntary supply-chain security program to facilitate the secure and efficient flow of global trade, as well the enforcement of US prohibitions related to forced labor, including the Uyghur Forced Labor Protection Act (UFLPA).

Prior Experience

Prior to law school, Matt served on the legislative staff of US Senator Olympia J. Snowe (R-ME) — a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation — where he focused on national policy issues related to defense, foreign affairs, and international trade. Matt also served on the government relations team of an Am Law 100 international firm, where he represented a diverse clientele in front of Congress and the executive branch on legislative issues related to defense, international trade and financial regulation.

Pro Bono

Matt maintains an active pro bono practice, with an emphasis on immigration rights and election law. In 2019, he served on the trial team that won a favorable ruling on behalf of the League of Women Voters of Michigan and individual voters in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of a 2011 partisan gerrymander of Michigan's congressional and state legislative maps (League of Women Voters v. Benson).

Personal Interests

Outside of the office, Matt wears many hats for his four children, including personal chauffeur, human jungle gym, and pro bono mediator (specializing in “who gets the last waffle?” and remote-control disputes). Matt is also a devoted fan of Boston sports, global cinema, and date night with his better half (Lindsey).