About Jason P.
Jason P. Wapiennik is a lawyer who handles customs, trade and compliance matters across Illinois and Michigan. He practices from offices in Chicago and Detroit and brings a practical, case-centered approach to the technical world of import regulations and international trade procedures.
He began his academic path at Purdue University Calumet before transferring to Loyola University Chicago, where he earned a B.A. in political science in 2005. He continued his legal studies at Ave Maria School of Law and received his J.D. in 2008. That blend of political science and law underpins his interest in how policy and process intersect at borders.
Wapiennik spent an early stretch of his career working as a clerk and then an associate at Edmund Maciorowski, P.C. in 2007. That role gave him exposure to litigation and regulatory practice on a local scale. In 2009 he moved into private practice at Great Lakes Customs Law, listed as a principal and lawyer. Over the years he has handled matters that require careful attention to tariff classification, valuation, entry procedures and penalty mitigation.
He holds licenses to practice in both Illinois and Michigan. His practice involves advising importers, brokers and other businesses that interact with U.S. customs authorities. He combines courtroom work when necessary with administrative filings and technical submissions to federal agencies. He also maintains a membership in the International Compliance Professionals Association and draws on that network for developments in trade compliance standards and training opportunities.
Clients and colleagues describe him as methodical in compiling the factual record and thorough in preparing regulatory submissions. He balances detailed paperwork with an awareness of business timelines and cost considerations. He has worked on matters that require coordination among corporate compliance teams, customs brokers and government officials.
Wapiennik divides his time between the Chicago and Detroit offices of Great Lakes Customs Law. He continues to handle customs and trade compliance matters for businesses operating across the Midwest and beyond.
