International Business Transactions

In today’s global economy, even lawyers practicing exclusively in the United States routinely represent clients whose business activities have some sort of international component. This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to a variety of legal issues commonly encountered by such clients and their lawyers. Topics covered include international sales of goods; trade regulation under the WTO Agreements, NAFTA, and other free trade agreements; U.S. import and export regulations; international agency, distribution & franchising arrangements; establishing a foreign investment; the role of investment treaties; corporate social responsibility of multinational enterprises; and resolving international business disputes. Special classes are devoted to key countries and industries, including China and energy and natural resources. Consideration is given to the perspective of each of the actors involved in or concerned with global business—including private companies, governments, local populations, and NGOs—and the practical relevance of each to international business transactions.

The American Bar Association accreditation standards require students to regularly attend the courses in which they are registered. Lewis & Clark expects students to attend classes regularly and to prepare for classes conscientiously. Specific attendance requirements may vary from course to course. Any attendance guidelines for a given class must be provided to students in a syllabus or other written document at the start of the semester. Sanctions (e.g., required withdrawal from the course, grade adjustment, and/or a failing grade) will be imposed for poor attendance.