POLITICAL LAW PRACTICE
Corporations, non-profit entities, executives, and political committees turn to Croke Fairchild because we combine legal depth with political fluency. We understand not only what the law says- but how it’s applied, enforced, and interpreted across real-world political and regulatory environments. Whether you are engaging policymakers, funding campaigns, launching ballot initiatives, or responding to inquiries from regulators, we help you navigate with confidence and clarity.

Political Engagement & Campaign Finance

We advise clients that wish to participate in the political process. Our team provides guidance on:

• Strategic planning for corporate political activity
• Legal parameters for individual and organizational contributions
• Permitted use of corporate assets and employee involvement in campaigns
• Hosting or sponsoring political events
• Compliance with federal and state “pay-to-play” laws
• Structuring and disclosure of independent expenditures and issue advocacy
• Responding to campaign finance audits or enforcement actions

Political Action Committees (PACs)

Our lawyers have deep experience advising companies, trade associations, and other entities on the formation, operation, and oversight of PACs. We guide clients through:

• PAC formation and registration
• Governance, compliance, and reporting protocols
• Fundraising within permissible legal frameworks
• Strategic alignment with broader organizational goals
• Voluntary audits and regulatory resolution
• PAC termination and wind-down procedures

Lobbying Compliance & Government Relations

We counsel clients on their rights and responsibilities in engaging with government decision-makers, ensuring compliance with lobbying registration and reporting obligations across jurisdictions. Our services include:

• Determining lobbying activity thresholds
• Navigating federal, state, and local lobbying frameworks
• Managing multi-jurisdictional reporting requirements
• Training internal teams and monitoring compliance
• Advising on tax-exempt lobbying limits (IRS compliance)
• Addressing errors in reporting and resolving regulatory disputes

Non-profit & Tax-Exempt Political Activity

For associations, advocacy organizations, and other exempt entities, we provide tailored legal strategies that allow for impactful political engagement within permissible limits. Our work includes:

• Advising on IRS restrictions and permissible activities
• Structuring affiliated PACs and related entities
• Supporting advocacy and educational initiatives
• Ensuring compliance with federal and state election laws
• Managing filings with the IRS, FEC, and state regulators

Investigations, Enforcement & Litigation

When political activity becomes the subject of scrutiny or enforcement, CFDB attorneys are prepared to respond. We represent clients in high-profile investigations and disputes before:

• Federal and state campaign finance and ethics regulators
• Election boards and commissions
• State and federal courts
• Prosecutorial agencies and enforcement bodies

We also conduct internal investigations related to alleged political or lobbying violations, coordinating with compliance teams and boards as necessary.

Ethics & Government Relations Compliance

We advise clients on gift and ethics laws governing interactions with public officials, including:

• Government gift and hospitality restrictions
• Post-employment (revolving door) limitations
• Conflicts of interest and related ethics considerations
• Compliance strategies for procurement-sensitive industries

Additional Election Law Services

We provide legal support on matters critical to the integrity and operation of the democratic process, including:

• Campaign start-up advising
• Election administration and procedural disputes
• Electoral redistricting counsel
• Transition planning and onboarding for newly elected officials
• Governance, ethics, and compliance training for officeholders
• First Amendment guidance relating to political speech and association