Practices:

• Compliance and Investigations
• Economic Stimulus
• Government Contracts
  • Commercial Products and Services
  • Expeditionary, Stability and Reconstruction Contracting
  • Export Regulation
• International
• Public Policy and Regulatory Affairs
  • Federal Government Affairs

Experience

Mary Ellen Fraser practices in both the Government Contracts and Government Affairs groups by working with contractors of all sizes who seek a solid government affairs strategy. Her in depth knowledge of federal contracting, along with her years of Capitol Hill experience, combine to bring a unique perspective. She also ensures that clients are up to date on all procurement policy matters in the legislative branchs and assists those who wish to impact the legislative process. Ms. Fraser has a demosntrable skill in preparing witnesses for both House and Senate Congressional hearings.

Ms. Fraser's thorough understanding of all domestic sourcing statutes, including the Buy American Act, the Trade Agreements Act, and the Berry Amendment, also referred to as the "Buy American" requirements enable her to assist government contractors of all sizes to understand and comply with these regulations. She also routinely advises clients on export controls matters, as well as foreign military sales and foreign military financing.

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Fraser acted as counsel to the House Committee on Armed Services, US House of Representatives. As counsel, she had oversight on matters related to procurement policy and management, environmental policy, and civilian policy within the Department of Defense (DOD). She was the senior staff person for the readiness subcommittee where she had oversight of more than $130 billion of operations and maintenance funds for DOD, along with all policy matters related to training and equipping military troops. She traveled to Iraq and Afghanistan frequently.

Prior to working on Capitol Hill, Ms. Fraser worked as an attorney within the Office of General Counsel for the Department of Navy. From 1991 to 1996 she worked as a procurement attorney for the Office of Naval Research where she worked on qui tam lawsuits. From 1996 to 1999 she worked for the Secretary of Navy in Office of Legislative Affairs. While working for the Navy, Ms. Fraser received the Meritorious Civilian Service Award and the Superior Civilian Service Award.

Ms. Fraser graduated from the Columbus School of Law at Catholic University in 1991, where she was a member of the National Journal of Contemporary Health Law and Policy.  She received a B.S. in Biology from Boston College in 1987.

Education

• J.D., Columbus School of Law, Catholic University, 1991
• B.S., Boston College, 1987

Admitted

• Maryland
• District of Columbia