Williams & Connolly LLP's corporate governance and compliance practice grew out of investigations the firm conducted for a number of corporations under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and predecessor laws in the 1970s. The firm conducts investigations to audit compliance with corporate codes of conduct and applicable statutes and regulatory rules, and counsels boards of directors on creating and monitoring codes of ethical business behavior and on related disclosure issues.

One firm partner has authored a leading treatise, Corporate Counsel Guidelines, that is an invaluable resource for in-house counsel. We also represent companies and their boards of directors in the criminal, civil, and administrative proceedings that arise from corporate governance and compliance issues. In addition to our attorneys with experience in these areas, we have relationships with experienced investigators, forensic accountants, and subject matter experts who assist us when needed.

Perhaps the best-known example of the firm's work in this area is our representation of the audit committee of Waste Management, Inc. in connection with one of the largest restatements of income by an American corporation.