Wiley Updates Its Essential FARA Handbook for 2020

May 18, 2020

Washington, DC – Wiley Rein LLP has updated its indispensable handbook on the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). A long-standing disclosure statute, FARA seeks to ensure that all persons engaged in certain covered activities within the United States – on behalf of foreign entities and foreign persons – properly disclose their activities to the U.S. government.

This handbook provides a general overview of FARA, such as the factors that govern whether an entity must register with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ); the registration process; the obligations of registered agents; and the penalties that may be imposed for FARA violations.

Daniel B. Pickard, partner in Wiley’s International Trade Practice, co-authored the handbook with of counsel Tessa Capeloto. The authors address key themes including:

• Registration requirements under FARA
• Penalties for noncompliance
• Recent developments in FARA enforcement
• Additional indictments under FARA

Notably, the handbook discussed DOJ’s new online, web-based FARA eFile system, which was launched in September 2019 for new registrants.

Wiley has a well-established FARA practice, and routinely advises a wide range of clients (including foreign governments, lobbyists, public relations firms, law firms, and tourism agencies) on whether registration is required under FARA and the requirements for registration. The firm’s attorneys actively assist clients with completing and executing their FARA filings while ensuring full compliance with the law. The team also regularly drafts advisory opinion requests on behalf of clients to the National Security Division of the DOJ, with a solid track record of success, and assists clients in navigating FARA audits.

The updated handbook can be read here.

For more information about FARA, please contact Daniel B. Pickard (202.719.7285 or dpickard@wiley.law) or Tessa Capeloto (202.719.7586 or tcapeloto@wiley.law).