Kelley Drye Welcomes Carrie Owens as New Partner
Kelley Drye and Warren LLP is excited to announce that Carrie Owens has joined their firm as a partner in the International Trade practice group. Stationed in the D.C. office, Carrie will co-chair the department’s Customs practice. With over twenty years of experience navigating the intricate waters of international trade, customs enforcement, and national security, she is well-equipped to guide clients through the complexities of trade law and policy.
Career Highlights of Carrie Owens
Carrie has a rich background in U.S. government service, having taken on significant roles at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Her work encompassed nearly every aspect of customs compliance and enforcement, making her a vital resource in complex legal matters.
“We are thrilled to welcome Carrie to Kelley Drye,” stated Laura Riposo VanDruff, Managing Partner in the D.C. office. Her expertise provides exceptional value for those navigating routine customs issues as well as complex enforcement matters. Carrie's insights are crucial to helping our clients tackle challenging compliance situations,” she added.
Impactful Contributions to Trade Enforcement
During her time as Director of Enforcement Operations at CBP, Carrie spearheaded initiatives under the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA), where her efforts have recovered nearly $2 billion in unpaid duties. Her leadership safeguarded American enterprises from unfair trade practices, affirming the importance of strict compliance with trade regulations.
As Chief of the Entry Process and Duty Refunds Branch in CBP’s Office of Trade’s Regulations and Rulings Directorate, her team handed down binding legal determinations on key customs law issues, facilitating smoother processes for businesses engaged in international trade. Before her tenure at DHS, Carrie shaped trade enforcement policies while serving as a senior attorney at the U.S. Department of Commerce, where she lead notable trade investigations.
Excitement for Future Challenges
“I’m excited to join Kelley Drye and leverage my extensive experience to assist clients in adapting to the dynamic landscape of trade law,” Carrie expressed. As businesses confront evolving regulations, her guidance will be indispensable in fortifying compliance and seizing strategic opportunities.
Expanding Service Offerings in Trade Compliance
With a commitment to enhancing their service offerings, Kelley Drye has also welcomed Kathleen August as a Customs Consultant. With a remarkable 34-year career as a Senior Auditor at CBP, Kathleen will work with businesses to develop effective compliance programs, accurately value imported goods, and navigate inquiries from customs enforcement.
Advancing Client Interests
The integration of Carrie Owens into Kelley Drye's team significantly strengthens their capacity to address the nuanced demands of trade compliance, a crucial service amid increasing regulatory scrutiny. The firm’s proactive approach aims to ensure that their clients are not only compliant but also competitive in an evolving global market.
A Vision for the Future
Pioneering new pathways in trade law, Kelley Drye is set to enhance its reputation as a leader in customs and international trade compliance. Under Carrie’s co-leadership, the firm looks forward to setting new standards in legal excellence and client service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Carrie Owens?
Carrie Owens is a new partner at Kelley Drye, specializing in international trade and customs law, with extensive experience from her work in government.
What is Carrie's role at Kelley Drye?
Carrie will co-chair the firm's Customs practice, bringing her expertise in trade law to assist clients in navigating complex compliance challenges.
What previous positions has Carrie held?
She has served in notable roles at DHS and CBP, including Director of Enforcement Operations, where she focused on trade enforcement and compliance.
Why did Kelley Drye hire Carrie Owens?
Kelley Drye aims to enhance their trade law practice, believing that Carrie's experience will provide invaluable insights into customs compliance and enforcement.
Who else has joined Kelley Drye recently?
Kelley Drye also recently added Kathleen August as a Customs Consultant, further expanding their trade compliance service offerings.
