Spotlight on Alexandra Clark
ALEXANDRA CLARK Partner
HOW DID YOU GET INTO MARITIME LAW? I have always been interested in international law. While attending Tulane Law School, I studied international and comparative law and spent a summer studying cultural heritage law. As a summer associate with Blank Rome, I found myself working closely with the Maritime group, which sparked my interest in the field. Over time, I developed a white collar investigations and civil litigation practice with a focus on the maritime industry.
WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST INTERESTING ABOUT THE MARITIME INDUSTRY? The maritime industry has always been— and remains— a vital part of the global economy. As a history enthusiast, I am especially fascinated by the impact that maritime trade has had on the exchange of goods, cultures, and technologies throughout the centuries. From antiquity to present, trade has had a lasting impact on societies and economies the world over. Maritime law has a particularly rich history, with roots tracing back to Rhodian law and the laws of Oleron. It is remarkable that we continue to draw on this longstanding legal tradition to address modern challenges.
HOW DOES BLANK ROME’ S DEEP EXPERIENCE IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY PROVIDE US WITH A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE? Shipping clients come to Blank Rome because we have an immediate, in-depth understanding of the maritime industry— there’ s no learning curve when it comes to understanding the industry’ s quirks. Our Maritime group has a breadth of experience and knowledge that enables us to help our clients navigate nearly any challenge they face. We can handle civil litigation and
arbitration ranging from demurrage claims and charter party disputes to large casualties; defend against investigations and enforcement actions; provide compliance and regulatory advice; and handle transactions like charters, sales, and leases.
HOW DOES THE INDUSTRY TEAM / PRACTICE GROUP WORK WITH OUR OTHER SERVICE LINES? We recognize that our maritime clients are, at their core, businesses with a wide range of legal needs beyond those that are traditionally“ maritime.” Our maritime clients often have issues that arise that are not unique to the shipping industry just like any other business— employment matters, mergers and acquisitions, tax concerns, and white collar investigations or compliance challenges. We frequently draw on the experience of our colleagues across Blank Rome’ s practice groups and offices to help our clients address both their maritime and non-maritime legal needs.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF YOUR LEGAL PRACTICE? I am an avid reader and crafter. On weekends, you’ ll find me taking long walks with my family and exploring my neighborhood— I have an energetic one-year-old and an equally energetic Australian Shepherd pup!
p – 2026 BLANK ROME LLP
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