James Mendenhall

James Mendenhall is a partner in the International Trade and Dispute Resolution group in the law firm of Sidley Austin LLP in Washington, D.C., concentrating international arbitration, international trade policy, trade litigation, and proceedings before the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).  He has advised clients on international trade negotiations, market access issues, intellectual property policy, product standards, trade policy, national security regulations, and U.S. legislative matters. He has represented clients across many sectors, including e-commerce, high-tech, pharmaceuticals, financial services, telecommunications, and consumer goods.

From 2005 to January 2007, Mr. Mendenhall served as the General Counsel of the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).  From 2003 to 2005, Mr. Mendenhall served as the Assistant United States Trade Representative (AUSTR) for Services, Investment and Intellectual Property. From 2001-2003, Mr. Mendenhall served as USTR’s Deputy General Counsel.  Prior to joining the U.S. Government, Mr. Mendenhall spent nine years in private practice, concentrating in the areas of trade remedies litigation, international arbitration, trade policy and litigation before WTO panels.

Mr. Mendenhall has testified before Congress on multiple occasions related to free trade agreement negotiations, intellectual property protection in foreign markets, trade in services and financial services, and other matters.

He graduated with Honors from Harvard Law School in 1992 and with Highest Honors from the University of Notre Dame in 1989.