Eric R. Rock concentrates his practice on customs and international trade matters and is the founder of Rock Trade Law LLC, a boutique law firm specializing in trade litigation, investigations, and compliance. The firm consists of trade lawyers and licensed customs brokers dedicated to managing customs transactions and mitigating tariff impacts. The firm also specializes in complex customs entry submissions which include duty drawback, reconciliation, and vessel repair operations.
He has over 35 years of experience representing clients in all facets of import and export compliance, including the design of compliance programs, and reducing costs through favorable government rulings concerning tariff classification, product valuation, free trade agreements, and special trade programs. He has also defended against trade violations arising from government investigations, audits, internal reviews, and penalty cases.
Eric has also advised clients regarding US export laws and regulations, including restrictions on the sale or disclosure of US-origin technology to foreign nationals, export licensing requirements, encryption controls and compliance with US trade embargoes.
Eric has developed unique experience in creating innovative compliance solutions and proactive countermeasures to address the challenges facing his clients. His firm is dedicated to delivering cost effective trade compliance services and legal defense.
Eric frequently handles inquiries related to the U.S. – Canada – Mexico Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) and antidumping / countervailing duties. He also assists clients in successfully enrolling in beneficial trade programs such as the Importer Self-Assessment (ISA) program and the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT).
His litigation experience includes defending preferential tariff classifications, Section 301 exclusions and antidumping scope exemptions. He has also worked with congressional and government offices to successfully introduce special trade legislation.
Prior to his legal career, Eric was a licensed customs broker, working with corporate clients to implement trade compliance initiatives and tailor procedures to ensure the effective importation and exportation of merchandise. He is also a former Partner and Head of the Customs and International Trade Practice at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP. He currently serves as the Chairman of the U.S. China Chamber of Commerce in Chicago.
Education
JD, Loyola University of Chicago School of Law
BA, Loyola University Chicago, magna cum laude
Admissions
Illinois
Court Admissions
U.S. Court of International Trade
U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit