Caitlin E. Kwalwasser

Economic Sanctions, Export Controls, & Foreign Investment

Caitlin advises clients on US economic sanctions, export controls, and foreign investment reviews, including matters before the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the US Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), and the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). She helps clients assess sanctions restrictions, prepare specific license applications, evaluate export classifications and licensing needs, and determine whether CFIUS notification is required.

She also supports internal investigations, voluntary self-disclosures, and compliance program development, often coordinating with international counsel on matters involving multiple jurisdictions. Caitlin works with clients across commercial and national security-sensitive industries, including petrochemicals, manufacturing, aerospace, and defense services, and provides ongoing guidance as US foreign policy developments affect sanctions, export controls, and foreign investment obligations.

Prior Experience

Before joining Faegre Drinker, Caitlin gained experience across judicial, law firm, academic, and public sector settings. As an extern with the William & Mary Office of University Counsel, she advised university entities on contract revisions and federal policy-related risk assessments, supporting offices including Student Leadership and Development and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.

As a summer associate with the firm in 2024, Caitlin prepared research memoranda on litigation matters, including class actions and Section 1 of the Sherman Act, and drafted client-facing analysis on issues such as higher education accreditation and international sanctions. She also served as a judicial intern to the Honorable Carl E. Ross of the D.C. Superior Court, where she conducted legal research, drafted memoranda on complex civil matters, and prepared court orders.

During law school, Caitlin served as a research assistant to Professor Nathan Oman and as a teaching assistant for the Evidence course, supporting both faculty and students. Earlier experience includes managing criminal discovery for the Albemarle County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and facilitating felony diversion conferences as a restorative justice facilitator, supporting individuals impacted by crime.

Personal Interests

Outside of the office, Cailtin enjoys reading fantasy novels, hiking nature trails with her dog, traveling, and visiting D.C.’s large array of museums.