Stinson strengthened its international trade depth this summer to help clients navigate an “unprecedented level of change.”
Dallas lawyer Ogbo Ossai joined the firm after a dozen years running his own practice, which focuses on import and export compliance matters, including the Export Administration Regulations, International Traffic in Arms Regulations, economic sanctions administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, U.S. antiboycott requirements and related customs regulations. He had worked for several years with Stinson on a contract basis.
“Ogbo’s technical skills and extensive experience advising companies on international trade compliance further strengthen our international practice and expand the depth of counsel we provide clients navigating today’s global markets,” said Elsa Manzanares, co-chair of the firm’s international practice group.
Ossai, who received his law degree from South Texas College of Law Houston, also advises clients on import matters involving tariff classification, customs valuation, country of origin requirements, antidumping and countervailing duties, and other customs procedures.
Ossai elaborated on his decision to join Stinson and this unique moment to be an international trade lawyer in the following Q&A with The Texas Lawbook:
The Texas Lawbook: What inspired your decision to join Stinson? Do you have any prior connection to or experience with the firm?
Ogbo Ossai: After running my own international trade practice for more than a decade, I was looking for an opportunity to collaborate with a broader team while continuing to provide practical, business-focused counsel to clients. I had also supported Stinson on a contract basis for several years, so I was already familiar with the firm and its collaborative culture. Stinson’s strong international platform made it a natural fit, and I was excited by the opportunity to work alongside attorneys across practices to help clients navigate increasingly complex global trade issues.
The Lawbook: What are two or three of the most important developments you are navigating with clients?
Ossai: Clients are navigating an unprecedented level of change across the international trade landscape. Beyond tariffs, companies are adapting to evolving export controls, economic sanctions, and heightened customs enforcement while reassessing their global supply chains. One of the biggest priorities is helping businesses build compliance programs that are flexible enough to keep pace with regulatory changes without disrupting day-to-day operations.
The Lawbook: What are your clients’ biggest concerns?
Ossai: Most clients are looking for clarity and predictability in an environment that continues to change. They want to understand how new trade developments could affect their operations, manage compliance risk, and keep their businesses moving without unnecessary disruptions or delays.
The Lawbook: Has there ever been a more dynamic time to be an international trade lawyer?
Ossai: It’s certainly one of the most dynamic periods I’ve experienced in more than 20 years of practice. What makes this moment unique isn’t just the volume of regulatory change; it’s the speed at which businesses are expected to respond. Companies need legal advisors who understand both the regulatory landscape and the operational realities of running a global business.
The Lawbook: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Ossai: International trade compliance is often viewed as a regulatory hurdle, but I believe it can be a competitive advantage when approached strategically. My goal is to help clients anticipate change, manage risk, and build compliance programs that not only satisfy regulatory requirements but also support smarter business decisions and long-term growth.