Robotics, Automation, and Drones (RAD)

Our multidisciplinary team is helping clients shape the regulatory landscape for RAD technologies, proactively engaging with policymakers and regulators in Washington, D.C. and in the individual states. Clients rely on Sidley to ensure that they have a seat at the table in the development of the laws and regulations that will govern RAD technologies for decades to come. Sidley is also actively working with clients to develop governance structures that address the evolving legal and ethical implications of RAD technologies. As legal challenges arise, Sidley’s litigation and enforcement lawyers are at the forefront of shaping RAD-related strategies and precedent.

Our clients span a diverse array of industries, including aerospace, automotive and mobility, and defense tech. We represent humanoid robot developers, autonomous drone manufacturers, and venture capital investors driving the next wave of RAD advancements.

Sidley’s RAD team has a deep understanding of both the underlying technologies and the emerging regulatory, transactional, and litigation issues facing RAD innovators. Whether you’re pioneering autonomous humanoids or optimizing traditional drones, Sidley can help you stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field.

Drawing on extensive experience in key practice areas, our lawyers work together seamlessly to provide companies with strategic advice that is innovative, practical, and tailored to business priorities. Our work in the RAD space includes:

• Government Strategies: Assisting with advocacy before executive and legislative bodies to ensure that RAD policies and regulations are developed and implemented in a manner that will encourage growth and foster innovation.
• Regulatory Guidance and Advocacy: Helping clients maintain compliance in nascent regulatory environments, including Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) drone rules and emerging standards for autonomous vehicles and robots.
• Cybersecurity and Data Protection: Developing robust strategies to safeguard RAD systems against cyber threats, ensuring secure data handling in AI-driven automation, and addressing privacy implications of sensor-equipped devices.
• National Security and Trade Compliance: Advising on export controls, CFIUS reviews, and sanctions related to RAD technologies, particularly those with dual-use potential in defense or critical infrastructure.
• Labor and Employment Strategies, including OSHA Compliance: Counseling on worker safety and labor relations issues related to the introduction of RAD technologies.
• Ethics and Governance Frameworks: Integrating RAD into corporate governance structures to manage legal, ethical, and reputational risks.
• Product Liability and Risk Mitigation: Preventing and defending against claims arising from RAD malfunctions, accidents, and failures.
• Litigation and Dispute Resolution: Representing clients in high-stakes disputes involving RAD technologies, from contract breaches to regulatory enforcement actions.
• Intellectual Property Protection: Securing patents, trademarks, and trade secrets for RAD innovations, negotiating licensing agreements, and resolving disputes at the intersection of AI software and physical hardware.
• Transactional Support: Guiding mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and investments in the RAD sector, ensuring due diligence accounts for novel tech-related risks and opportunities.