Matthew T. Sanderson

In the unique and often intricate landscape of Washington, D.C., where policy and politics converge, navigating the complex web of federal, state, and local laws governing political activity requires specialized legal expertise. For corporations, political committees, advocacy groups, and even individuals involved in public life, understanding and complying with regulations related to campaign finance, government ethics, lobbying disclosure, and foreign influence is not just advisable—it's essential. This article introduces you to Matthew T. Sanderson, a prominent attorney in Washington, D.C., who is at the forefront of political law, providing critical guidance and representation in this highly specialized field.

Matthew T. Sanderson is a recognized leader in political law, a field that demands not only a deep understanding of legal statutes but also an acute awareness of the dynamic political environment. As a Member at Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered, a highly respected law firm in D.C., Mr. Sanderson dedicates his practice to helping a diverse range of clients ensure compliance and successfully navigate investigations in this sensitive area. His work is vital for anyone operating at the intersection of law and politics in the nation's capital, ensuring that their activities adhere to the strict regulatory framework.

For those in the District of Columbia, whether you're managing a political campaign, leading an advocacy organization, or dealing with the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), having an attorney with Mr. Sanderson's specific background and experience can provide invaluable peace of mind. His professional approach and comprehensive knowledge make him a go-to resource for complex political law matters right here in D.C.

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Matthew T. Sanderson practices at a highly accessible and central location in Washington, D.C., making it convenient for clients in the District and surrounding areas. His office is situated at 1 Thomas Cir NW # 1100, Washington, DC 20005, USA. This address places him within one of D.C.'s prominent professional buildings, strategically located near Thomas Circle.

The area around Thomas Circle is known for its excellent connectivity and ease of access. For those utilizing public transportation, the office is within walking distance of several Metro stations, including McPherson Square (Orange, Silver, Blue Lines) and Farragut North (Red Line), providing convenient access from various parts of the city and its suburbs. Numerous bus routes also serve the immediate vicinity, further enhancing accessibility.

For clients traveling by car, while parking in downtown D.C. can sometimes be challenging, there are several public parking garages available within a short distance of Thomas Circle. The central location in Northwest D.C. means the office is also well-positioned for clients from Maryland and Virginia who commute into the city. Its proximity to government buildings, lobbying firms, and various political organizations underscores its suitability for a practice focused on political law, allowing for efficient in-person meetings and strategic engagements.

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Matthew T. Sanderson leads the Political Law Group at Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered, providing specialized legal services to a broad spectrum of clients involved in political activity. His expertise is crucial for navigating the highly regulated environment of Washington, D.C., and nationwide. His key services include:

• Campaign Finance Compliance: Advising corporations, political committees, candidates, and advocacy groups on compliance with complex federal, state, and local campaign finance laws. This includes guidance on contribution limits, reporting requirements, and permissible expenditures.

• "Pay-to-Play" Regulations: Counseling clients on rules designed to prevent political contributions from influencing government contracts or appointments, ensuring compliance for businesses and individuals engaged with government entities.

• Government Ethics: Providing guidance on ethical conduct for individuals interacting with or serving in government. This covers conflicts of interest, post-employment restrictions, and gifts rules for public officials and those seeking to influence them.

• Lobbying Disclosure: Assisting lobbying firms, corporations, and advocacy groups with compliance under federal and state lobbying disclosure regulations, including registration and reporting requirements.

• Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) Guidance and Defense: Offering comprehensive advice on FARA compliance, helping clients determine registration obligations for activities on behalf of foreign principals. He also defends parties facing inquiries or enforcement actions from the Department of Justice related to FARA.

• Congressional Investigations: Representing clients who are subject to investigations by congressional committees, providing strategic counsel and defense during sensitive inquiries.

• Political Law Litigation and Disputes: While his practice is largely advisory and compliance-focused, his deep understanding of political law enables him to assist clients in disputes and litigation arising from election law or regulatory violations.

Mr. Sanderson's comprehensive suite of services makes him a vital resource for any entity or individual operating within the political sphere, ensuring their activities remain within legal bounds and mitigating potential risks.

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Matthew T. Sanderson's practice is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore his expertise and standing in the field of political law:

• Leading Expert in Political Law: Mr. Sanderson leads Caplin & Drysdale's Political Law Group and is consistently ranked among top attorneys in the field by publications like Chambers USA, with clients praising his "depth of detail" and calling him the "consummate political law practitioner."

• Extensive Experience with High-Profile Clients: He has served as counsel to numerous prominent candidates for national office, including Governor Jon Huntsman Jr., Senator John McCain, Senator Rand Paul, Senator Mitt Romney, and Governor Rick Scott. This experience demonstrates his ability to handle politically sensitive and high-stakes matters.

• Recognized Authority on FARA: Mr. Sanderson is a co-chair of the American Bar Association's Task Force on the Foreign Agents Registration Act and serves as editor of FARA.us, a comprehensive online resource dedicated to FARA. This highlights his deep knowledge and thought leadership on this complex act.

• Media Pundit and Author: He is frequently quoted on political matters in major national media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post, and serves as an on-air Election Law Analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. He is also the co-editor of Thomson Reuters' legal treatise on political law.

• Academic Involvement and Awards: Mr. Sanderson is an Adjunct Faculty Member at the University of Virginia School of Law, demonstrating his commitment to legal education. He also received a Peabody Award for his work related to "The Colbert Super PAC," showcasing his innovative contributions to the intersection of law and public engagement.

• Strong Peer Recognition: He has been recognized as a "Top Lawyer" by Washingtonian Magazine and among the "Top Attorneys in D.C." by The Washington Post, and selected to "Rising Stars" by Super Lawyers, affirming his high standing among his peers.

These highlights collectively paint a picture of an attorney who is not only deeply knowledgeable and experienced but also a highly respected and influential figure within the political law community, making him a formidable asset for clients in D.C. and across the nation.

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Based on the publicly available information, there are no specific promotions or special offers explicitly stated by Matthew T. Sanderson or Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered. Law firms specializing in highly complex and high-stakes areas like political law and compliance generally do not advertise broad promotional offers. Their services are typically tailored to the unique needs of each client, involving in-depth consultations to assess the situation and determine the appropriate legal strategy.

However, it is common practice for professional legal firms, especially those dealing with complex regulations, to engage in initial consultations with prospective clients. These consultations are crucial for understanding the client's specific needs, outlining the legal framework, and discussing potential representation. While such consultations may not always be free, they serve as an essential first step in exploring legal options and establishing a professional relationship.

For individuals or organizations in Washington, D.C., interested in discussing their political law, campaign finance, or FARA compliance needs with Matthew T. Sanderson, it is highly recommended to contact his office directly to inquire about their consultation process and fee structure. This will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding engaging their services.

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For those in Washington, D.C., seeking expert legal counsel in political law, campaign finance, government ethics, or FARA compliance, you can reach Matthew T. Sanderson at Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered, using the following contact details:

• Address: 1 Thomas Cir NW # 1100, Washington, DC 20005, USA

• Phone: (202) 862-5000

• Mobile Phone: +1 202-862-5000

When contacting the office, it is advisable to provide a brief overview of your legal needs so that your inquiry can be directed to the appropriate team member for an initial assessment. Given the specialized nature of Mr. Sanderson's practice, clear communication regarding the scope of your legal matter will help facilitate a more efficient and productive initial discussion.

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For anyone in the District of Columbia navigating the intricate world of political activity, compliance, and government relations, Matthew T. Sanderson at Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered, stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended legal resource. His practice is not just located in D.C.; it is deeply integrated into the very fabric of the city's unique legal and political ecosystem.

The concentration of power, policy, and advocacy in Washington, D.C., means that legal issues related to campaign finance, government ethics, lobbying, and foreign influence are not just theoretical concerns—they are daily realities for many individuals and organizations. Mr. Sanderson's profound expertise in these precise areas, as evidenced by his leadership roles, academic contributions, and frequent media commentary, makes him an indispensable asset for locals. He possesses the nuanced understanding of D.C.'s regulatory environment and the federal laws that impact it, which is critical for effective representation.

Furthermore, his high-profile client experience with national political figures underscores his capability to handle sensitive and complex matters with discretion and strategic acumen. For corporations, political committees, advocacy groups, or even individuals facing congressional inquiries or needing FARA compliance advice, having an attorney who is a recognized authority in the field, literally at the center of the nation's political heartbeat, offers unparalleled value. Matthew T. Sanderson embodies the specialized legal counsel that locals in the District of Columbia often require to operate successfully and compliantly within their unique professional landscape.