Wiley Rein LLP


Practices | POSTAL

The U.S. Postal Service serves a vital role in the economic, cultural and social life of the nation through its delivery of business and personal correspondence; bills, account statements, payments and fulfillments; advertising materials; and publications.  For this reason, the mail rates and classifications, eligibility rules, consumer information and even non-postal services of the Postal Service directly affect every business, organization and individual in the United States.  In addition, the Postal Service awards many hundreds of millions of dollars in federal contracts for private sector services to run its operations. 

The private sector deals with the U.S. Postal Service from a range of standpoints, including those of customers, advertisers, competitors and suppliers.  Wiley Rein attorneys have the knowledge and skills necessary to represent companies, associations and individuals in all aspects of postal law.

Postal Service Rates, Classifications and Services

Wiley Rein's Postal Practice frequently litigates cases before the U.S. Postal Rate Commission concerning the postage rates and mail classifications of the U.S. Postal Service.  We have participated actively in every rate case since 1987, and in numerous other cases as well.  Our recent cases have included representation of one of the nation's leading newspaper trade associations and an association of the producers and marketers of scenic postcards.  We also have advised a broad range of other clients on postal rate and classification issues, as well as non-postal services offered by the Postal Service.

The firm also counsels clients regarding general compliance with the Postal Service's complex mailing regulations, including postage deficiency proceedings and eligibility for non-profit postal rates, and assists them in Postal Service rulemakings and other proceedings relating to mailing rules and policies.  Wiley Rein attorneys have experience representing clients in negotiations with the Postal Service as well as in enforcement actions brought by the Postal Service for alleged violations of postal laws.

Government Relations

As the largest governmental service provider, the Postal Service is subject to a wide range of Congressional and Executive Branch oversight regarding virtually all aspects of its operations.  The firm has been involved in postal reform legislative efforts since the early 1990s, and assists clients in shaping postal policies by helping them define their goals and present their views successfully to the Congress and Executive Branch.

Private Delivery Services

The Private Express Statutes define the postal monopoly and limit what items private firms may deliver and distribute in competition with the Postal Service.  The firm has experience in counseling clients regarding the scope and prevailing interpretation of the Private Express Statutes.  Our clients include a national association whose members provide alternate delivery activities.

Postal Contracting

The Postal Service's procurement needs rank among the federal government's largest. Companies interested in providing goods and services to the Postal Service must carefully navigate the complex postal procurement rules.  Our attorneys have substantial experience in the postal procurement process and can assist clients in all aspects of postal contracting including negotiation, preparation and protest and post-award representation if necessary.

Contact Us
William B. Baker
202.719.7255 | wbaker@wileyrein.com

Paul F. Khoury
202.719.7346 | pkhoury@wileyrein.com




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