Greenberg Traurig Welcomes International Trade Expert Junko Pierce
Greenberg Traurig has announced the arrival of Junko Pierce as a shareholder in its Tokyo office, bolstering the firm’s global trade practice. Pierce brings extensive experience in commercial and trade law, positioning Greenberg Traurig to further serve clients navigating the complexities of the Japanese market and international commerce.
Pierce’s practice encompasses a broad range of legal areas,including World Trade Organization (WTO) disputes,civil and criminal litigation,antitrust and bankruptcy law,and general corporate matters. She provides strategic counsel to a diverse client base – spanning government agencies, financial institutions, and companies in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and energy – on trade remedy issues, antitrust compliance, customs regulations, and disputes with governmental bodies.
Notably,Pierce is a recognized authority on sanctions programs,particularly those related to Russia,Iran,and Myanmar. She expertly guides businesses through the intricacies of inbound and outbound trade deals, advising on regulations imposed by Japan, the United States, and other nations, especially in light of recent global supply chain disruptions. “Companies that trade in the global market are facing challenges on all fronts, from tariffs and trade wars to political instability and regional conflicts,” Pierce stated, emphasizing her commitment to providing clients with actionable legal guidance.
Pierce’s unique background includes a pioneering secondment as a lawyer advising the WTO Dispute Settlement Division of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Economic Bureau – a role that provided invaluable firsthand experience with international trade dispute resolution. Prior to joining Greenberg Traurig, she honed her expertise at global law firms in Washington, D.C., New York, and tokyo, developing a deep understanding of U.S. trade and regulatory frameworks.
Looking ahead, Pierce will expand her practice to include commercial arbitration in Japan, a field experiencing growing interest as clients seek alternatives to traditional litigation. She aims to establish Greenberg Traurig as a leading resource in this evolving area, leveraging the firm’s established global disputes resolution practice.
“Junko’s unique experience will open up new possibilities for our clients and provide Greenberg Traurig with an invaluable resource in the critical Japanese market,” said Richard A. Edlin, vice chair of Greenberg Traurig. “We have built an international team of trade lawyers across the firm who understand thier local markets and work collaboratively to bridge the gaps between distant regions. Junko represents a monumental addition to that team.”
Pierce’s return to Greenberg Traurig – where she previously interned in 2006 – reflects the firm’s reputation for fostering collaboration and allowing lawyers to operate fluidly across practices and offices. Greenberg Traurig’s commitment to seamless cross-border service was a key factor in her decision, offering her the prospect to explore new areas of law and collaborate with colleagues worldwide.
Greenberg Traurig’s strength in the region is further demonstrated by the recognition of twelve of its lawyers in the latest edition of Best Lawyers in Japan, and the firm’s Real Estate Practice receiving a 2024 Asia Business law Journal Japan Law Firm Award.
