In this era of heightened security and increased vigilance at U.S. borders, individuals are increasingly falling within the lens of the Customs and Border Protection agency and those agencies whose laws the agency oversees. The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) in the Department of Treasury maintains a Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons list of individuals who are either banned from entry into the United States, whose assets must be blocked and seized, and/or with whom U.S. persons are prohibited from dealing.

The individuals on this list are suspected of narcotic trafficking, or of having links with organizations or entities against which the United States maintains sanctions for one reason or the other. Unfortunately, instances of mistaken identity or of the agency having incomplete and inaccurate facts are not uncommon. Yet, the suspect may become aware of being on the list only after assets are seized or entry into the United States is delayed or even blocked.

The firm assists individuals to work with the Customs and Border Protection agency and other relevant agencies to clarify misunderstandings, to get the name cleared in a case of mistaken identity, and to recover seized assets. This effort also provides a valuable service to the agencies in updating and correcting the information in their files.