Burris Speaks About International Business Transactions
The Washburn Business Law Society hosted Brian Burris, Class of 1988, on Thursday, October 7, 2004. Mr. Burris, Assistant General Counsel with Raytheon Aircraft Credit Corporation and Raytheon Airline Aviation Services, LLC, spoke on aspects of international business transactions.
Burris discussed the importance of knowing the various laws and treaties of the countries and how they play out, not only in writing the contract, but in negotiating its terms, and in how a breach of the contract will be handled. Specifically, Burris addressed issues of regaining possession of an aircraft once a company has defaulted on its payments, the use of a choice of law/forum clause, and appointment of an agent for service of process. He further discussed taxes and duties, and what needs to be done in order for a contract to be valid in other countries.
Another important aspect Burris emphasized is knowledge of the cultural differences among the parties involved. An attorney going to a different country should be aware of these differences and how they will affect negotiation. For example, knowledge of what is expected in terms of behavior, the proper showing of respect and the like is critical, and an inadvertent mistake can lead to setbacks in negotiation of the deal. Other aspects to keep in mind are cultural differences in business ethics and how this influences the negotiation.
Above all, Burris stressed the importance of building a business relationship with the client. A client should view his or her attorney as bringing value to the relationship, and the best way for an attorney to do this is to know the client's business.
Mr. Burris, formerly of Martin, Pringle, Oliver, Wallace & Swartz (now Martin, Pringle, Oliver, Wallace & Bauer, L.L.P.), is scheduled to return to Washburn Law on January 24, 2005 to speak on negotiations.
Megan Mercer contributed this article.
