Experience
In the wake of continuous changes to the regulatory paradigm governing communications services, the evolution of the Internet and technology, and the deployment of new advanced wireless, wireline, satellite and other forms of communications services and applications, the field of communications is in a constant state of development. This dynamic environment opens up a vast array of business opportunities for commercial entities, while posing an equally myriad set of legal questions for the industry.
In this complex, yet exhilarating environment, effective legal, legislative, regulatory and other forms of public policy representation demand a highly developed knowledge of the telecommunications law, current legislative and public policy developments in Congress and federal agencies, a keen understanding of current and future technological trends, and a grasp of industry business plans. This combination is also key to effectively anticipate a client's needs and help them strategically navigate Washington’s many shoals to enable their business to grow, rather than merely aid them in responding to business-limiting events after they occur.
Alston & Bird’s communications policy team consistently meets these high–level political and public policy objectives affecting the communications industry. In addition to our team’s extensive bipartisan and bicameral experience with telecommunications legislation and the U.S. Congress, we have successfully advocated public policy positions for clients before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) of the Department of Commerce, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Department of State, and the Executive Office of the President.
Our communications policy practice also benefits greatly from our firms’ broader experience in communications litigation. Alston & Bird is unique in the scope and depth of its litigation experience on behalf of wireless and wireline providers. In particular, the firm has extensive experience in defending communications companies against class action lawsuits, product liability claims, securities claims, and other matters in state, local and federal courts in such diverse venues as the state of Washington, Georgia, California, Oklahoma, Texas, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Alabama and Florida. This experience helps our policy team better understand and advocate for necessary legislative and regulatory changes in Washington.
Accolades
- Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business 2011 recognizes Alston & Bird’s Government Relations practice among the top three tiers of firms in its national rankings.
- Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business 2011 recognizes Alston & Bird’s Privacy and Data Security practice among the top two tiers of firms in its national rankings.
- We are currently ranked 7th by revenue for law firm lobbying firms in the country according to the Center for Responsive Politics.