Former DHS Official Sharmistha Das Rejoins Crowell & Moring as Partner

Sharmistha Das Returns to Crowell & Moring

On June 17, 2025, Crowell & Moring LLP made an exciting announcement: Sharmistha Das, a former deputy chief of staff and deputy general counsel at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has returned to the firm as a partner in their Government Contracts Group. Das brings with her an impressive background that combines both government and private practice experience, along with a track record of navigating complex legal landscapes regarding cybersecurity, congressional investigations, and grantmaking.

Das's journey has taken her through pivotal roles in both the executive and legislative branches of government. As the deputy chief of staff at DHS, she was instrumental in managing legal and policy-making initiatives across several divisions, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA). Her extensive experience in federal policy and legal matters makes Das a valuable asset for Crowell's National Security practice, an area she is set to lead.

In her new role at Crowell, Das will leverage her expertise to assist clients grappling with challenges that arise in the intersection of law and policy. Her strategic insight is expected to guide organizations through regulatory hurdles and complex legal issues, particularly amid evolving concerns over cybersecurity and AI compliance. She has previously worked with both sides of the political aisle, demonstrating her ability to engage effectively in bipartisan environments.

During her tenure at DHS, Das played a key role in shaping regulatory authorities, developing significant policies that respond to critical needs, all while maintaining her legal acumen. She has been a part of DHS's efforts related to the landmark Supreme Court decision in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, which shifted the way federal regulatory actions are approached. Her deep understanding of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) equips her to advocate effectively for clients navigating legal frameworks.

Adelicia Cliffe, co-chair of Crowell's Government Contracts Group, expressed enthusiasm about Das's return, noting that her blend of experiences positions her uniquely to address the myriad challenges clients face today. As businesses confront unprecedented issues, including those arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in federal policies, having a seasoned professional like Das is seen as critical.

Sharmistha Das herself expressed excitement about her return to Crowell & Moring, describing it as going back home to collaborate with a highly esteemed team. She looks forward to using her extensive government background, including roles at DHS, the White House, and the Senate, to provide guidance on pressing challenges faced by their clients.

Das holds a law degree, cum laude, from Georgetown University Law Center and completed her undergraduate studies at Yale University. Before ascending to significant government roles, she served as an associate in Crowell’s Government Contracts Group, where she honed her focus on administrative law, which will be advantageous as she advises clients on issues ranging from healthcare to legislative inquiries.

As Crowell & Moring continues to enhance its position in the legal landscape, the return of Sharmistha Das signifies a strategic reinforcement of its Government Contracts and National Security practices. Clients can expect robust representation backed by decades of combined experience from the firm’s lawyers in navigating the complexities of federal regulations and policies. This melding of experience, commitment to legal excellence, and proactive approach to client service reflects Crowell & Moring's ongoing dedication to empower its clients to thrive in their respective fields.