Alexander Kramer: DOJ Veteran Joins Crowell & Moring As Partner

Dr. Brenden Cormier 14 May 2025

Are companies truly prepared for the ever-intensifying scrutiny of their global operations? The addition of Alexander Kramer, a seasoned legal mind with a distinguished career at the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), to Crowell & Moring signals a proactive approach to navigating the complexities of white collar defense and regulatory enforcement.

Crowell & Moring has welcomed Alexander Kramer as a partner in its Washington, D.C., office, a move poised to significantly enhance the firm's capabilities in handling white collar crime investigations and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) matters. Kramer, formerly an Assistant Chief in the DOJ's Criminal Division, brings over 15 years of experience as a federal prosecutor and in private practice to the firm. His arrival is particularly timely, given the increasing global focus on corporate compliance and the need for robust frameworks to mitigate risks. Kramer’s expertise is set to be instrumental in guiding clients through intricate legal landscapes and ensuring they adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct.

Attribute	Details
Name	Alexander Kramer
Current Role	Partner, Crowell & Moring LLP
Location	Washington, D.C.
Previous Role	Assistant Chief, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Unit, U.S. Department of Justice
Experience	Over 15 years as a federal prosecutor and in private practice
Expertise	White collar defense, internal investigations, compliance counseling, due diligence reviews, FCPA matters
Education	Northern Illinois University College of Law
LinkedIn Profile	View Alexander Kramer's LinkedIn Profile
Additional Information	Former assistant chief in the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Unit.

The move to Crowell & Moring represents a significant shift for Kramer, transitioning from a prominent role within the DOJ to the private sector. His experience as an Assistant Chief in the FCPA unit provides him with unique insights into the government’s approach to investigating and prosecuting corporate wrongdoing. This insider perspective is invaluable for clients facing potential enforcement actions or seeking to strengthen their compliance programs proactively. The firm’s announcement highlights the strategic importance of this hire, emphasizing Kramer’s deep understanding of FCPA regulations and his proven track record in handling complex investigations.

Kramer's expertise extends beyond FCPA matters. His practice encompasses a broad range of white collar defense work, including internal investigations, compliance counseling, and due diligence reviews. This comprehensive skill set allows him to advise clients on a variety of legal and ethical challenges, from responding to government inquiries to developing and implementing effective compliance programs. The growing complexity of global business operations has created a heightened need for experienced legal counsel who can navigate the intricacies of international regulations and help companies mitigate potential risks. Kramer is well-positioned to meet this demand, offering clients practical and strategic advice based on his extensive experience in both the public and private sectors.

Prior to joining Crowell & Moring, Kramer played a key role in numerous high-profile FCPA investigations and prosecutions. He was involved in all stages of the enforcement process, from conducting initial investigations to negotiating settlements and litigating cases in court. This hands-on experience gives him a deep understanding of the government’s priorities and strategies in FCPA enforcement. His ability to anticipate potential challenges and develop effective defense strategies is a significant asset for clients facing potential FCPA violations. The increasing globalization of business has led to a surge in FCPA enforcement actions, making it more important than ever for companies to have access to experienced legal counsel who can guide them through the complexities of these regulations.

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act is a U.S. law that prohibits companies and individuals from bribing foreign officials to obtain or retain business. It also requires companies to maintain accurate books and records and implement internal controls to prevent bribery. The DOJ has been aggressively enforcing the FCPA in recent years, resulting in significant fines and penalties for companies that violate the law. Kramer’s experience in the FCPA unit makes him particularly well-suited to advise clients on compliance with these regulations and to defend them against potential enforcement actions. He possesses an intricate understanding of the nuances of the law, the government's enforcement priorities, and the potential pitfalls that companies face in the global marketplace.

Beyond his FCPA expertise, Alexander Kramer’s experience in handling internal investigations is highly valued. Internal investigations are crucial for companies to identify and address potential wrongdoing within their organizations. These investigations can help companies uncover fraud, corruption, and other violations of law or company policy. Kramer's experience in conducting internal investigations, combined with his knowledge of government enforcement priorities, allows him to provide clients with comprehensive and effective guidance on how to conduct these investigations and respond to any resulting issues. His ability to navigate the complexities of internal investigations and develop effective remediation strategies is a valuable asset for companies seeking to maintain a culture of compliance and ethical conduct.

Compliance counseling is another key area of Kramer’s practice. Effective compliance programs are essential for companies to prevent and detect violations of law and company policy. Kramer’s experience in the DOJ gives him a unique understanding of what constitutes an effective compliance program. He can help clients design and implement compliance programs that are tailored to their specific needs and risks. This proactive approach can help companies avoid potential legal and regulatory problems and maintain a strong reputation for ethical conduct. In an era of heightened scrutiny, companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of investing in robust compliance programs, and Kramer’s expertise in this area is highly sought after.

Due diligence reviews are also an important part of Kramer’s practice. Due diligence reviews are conducted to assess the potential risks and liabilities associated with a business transaction, such as a merger, acquisition, or joint venture. Kramer’s experience in conducting due diligence reviews allows him to identify potential red flags and advise clients on how to mitigate these risks. This proactive approach can help companies avoid costly legal and regulatory problems down the road. The increasing complexity of global business transactions has made due diligence reviews more important than ever, and Kramer’s expertise in this area is a valuable asset for clients seeking to make informed decisions.

The addition of Kramer to Crowell & Moring’s white collar and regulatory enforcement group underscores the firm’s commitment to providing its clients with the highest quality legal representation. His extensive experience in the DOJ, combined with his deep understanding of FCPA regulations and his comprehensive skill set in white collar defense, make him a valuable asset to the firm and its clients. As global scrutiny of corporate practices continues to intensify, Kramer’s expertise will be essential for companies seeking to navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure they adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct. The firm's strategic investment in bolstering its capabilities in these critical areas reflects a proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of its clients in an increasingly regulated world.

Alexander Kramer’s transition to Crowell & Moring also highlights the ongoing trend of experienced government officials moving into private practice. These individuals bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience that is highly valued by law firms and their clients. Their understanding of government enforcement priorities and strategies can be invaluable in helping companies navigate the complex legal and regulatory landscape. The movement of talented individuals between the public and private sectors fosters a dynamic exchange of knowledge and expertise that benefits both sides. This trend is likely to continue as companies face increasing pressure to comply with a growing array of laws and regulations.

The team at Crowell & Moring is further enhanced by individuals such as senior litigation counsel Michael N. Berger for the Southern District of Florida, trial attorney Jil Simon, and assistant chief Alexander Kramer of the criminal division’s fraud section, who are actively prosecuting cases, demonstrating the firm's comprehensive capabilities in handling complex legal matters. The fraud section, with its responsibilities for investigating and prosecuting FCPA and Foreign Extortion Prevention Act matters, adds another layer of expertise to the firm's already impressive roster. This collaborative environment ensures that clients receive the benefit of diverse perspectives and specialized knowledge, allowing for the development of innovative and effective legal strategies.

In Horb, Germany, another Alexander Kramer brings a different set of skills to the table, showcasing the diversity of talent across different fields and geographical locations. While this Alexander Kramer's professional experiences and contact details are distinct, the presence of individuals with the same name highlights the importance of clearly distinguishing individuals based on their specific expertise and background. This underscores the need for thorough due diligence and careful consideration when seeking professional services. The world is interconnected, and while names may be shared, the unique experiences and qualifications of each individual set them apart.

Furthermore, the collaborative efforts of individuals like Andreas Heupel and Alexander Kramer in response to the flood disaster in the Ahr Valley three years prior demonstrate the commitment to community service and the application of practical skills in times of crisis. These experiences, where they assisted in flood-stricken areas and cleaned up devastated homes and churches, highlight the values of teamwork, resilience, and social responsibility. Such experiences often shape individuals' perspectives and contribute to their ability to approach challenges with empathy and a problem-solving mindset, qualities that are highly valued in any professional setting.

The firm’s strategic positioning in Washington, D.C., places it at the heart of regulatory activity, allowing for close monitoring of legislative and policy developments. This proximity to key government agencies and policymakers provides Crowell & Moring with a distinct advantage in advising clients on emerging trends and potential regulatory changes. The firm’s deep understanding of the political and regulatory landscape, combined with its legal expertise, enables it to offer clients proactive and strategic guidance on how to navigate the ever-changing world of white collar defense and regulatory enforcement. This proactive approach is essential for companies seeking to stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge.

Crowell & Moring’s investment in Alexander Kramer reflects a long-term commitment to providing its clients with the best possible legal representation. His expertise in FCPA matters, internal investigations, compliance counseling, and due diligence reviews will be invaluable to clients seeking to navigate the complexities of the global regulatory landscape. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, and as regulatory scrutiny continues to intensify, Kramer’s skills and experience will be in high demand. The firm's commitment to attracting and retaining top talent like Kramer underscores its dedication to serving its clients with excellence and integrity. The future of corporate compliance is complex and challenging, and Crowell & Moring is well-positioned to help its clients navigate these challenges successfully.