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Beatrice & Asuncion Augments National Security Practice

In a strategic move to strengthen its national security initiative, Beatrice & Asuncion PLLC has recently announced the addition of two distinguished veterans to its team: Lisa Bencivenga and T. Brent Jones. This development marks an important expansion for the firm, especially following its official launch in October 2026.

Lisa Bencivenga takes the role of Director of Compliance and Licensing, while T. Brent Jones will serve as Director of Technology Assessment. Both bring a wealth of experience covering various aspects of export compliance, licensing, and technical assessments that are critical to the firm's operations.

M. Jeffrey Beatrice, a founding partner of Beatrice & Asuncion, shared insights on the firm’s evolving capabilities. He emphasized the complexities facing clients today regarding legal, commercial, and national security decisions. With over 35 years of experience, Bencivenga has a notable background in export and import licensing, having worked with prominent companies like Boeing and Orbital Sciences. Her consultancy since 2004 has seen her advise more than 150 clients, both U.S. and international, on crucial regulatory matters.

Bencivenga's work history includes conducting compliance audits at the request of the U.S. Department of State, where she was also involved in audits and monitoring for companies under consent agreements. She previously held a position on the Defense Trade Advisory Group for the State Department. In her new role, her focus will be on compliance programs, licensing strategies, audits, training initiatives, and remediation efforts. She stated, "Export compliance is tested every day in the decisions companies make about their products, technology, and customers."

In contrast, Jones, who is an electrical engineer by training, brings 25 years of invaluable experience in the field. His previous roles at General Dynamics and Esterline Technologies have equipped him with substantial know-how in managing licensing teams and conducting jurisdiction and classification reviews. As part of the firm's efforts in regulatory compliance and investigations, he will utilize his engineering background to provide technical assessments that enhance their legal advice.

Anthony Asuncion, a founding partner, elaborated on the significance of integrating engineering expertise into legal analysis. He pointed out that the legal framework surrounding export control issues hinges on a profound understanding of product functionality and the applicable regulations. “Lisa and Brent add decades of industry and engineering experience to our analysis, which informs the legal advice we provide our clients,” Asuncion explained.

Completing the team is Director of Investigations, Philip R. Kuhn, and Of Counsel, Debra S.P. Cheng, creating a robust network of expertise spanning senior positions in Justice and Commerce, federal investigations, and industry trade compliance. This carefully curated team exemplifies the firm’s commitment to offering comprehensive legal services that address the multifaceted challenges in national security law.

Founded in Washington, D.C., Beatrice & Asuncion PLLC specializes in providing guidance on export controls, sanctions, investigations, enforcement actions, voluntary self-disclosures, and related regulatory compliance matters. With the recent merger of engineering and legal prowess, the firm is poised to deliver exceptional services tailored to meet the evolving needs of its clients across the national security landscape.