About Katherine
Katherine Sheriff: Technology and Transportation Attorney in Washington, D.C.
As a technology and transportation attorney with Davis Wright Tremaine in Washington, D.C., Katherine Sheriff brings over two decades of legal experience to her practice. Her journey began as a litigator with a focus on product liability and insurance litigation issues related to regulatory compliance. Today, Katherine dedicates herself to helping innovators bring emerging technologies like autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence to scale.
Practice Areas
- Administrative / Regulatory Law
- Technology Law
- Transportation Law
Katherine leads Davis Wright Tremaine's Mobility and Transportation Industry Group, a multi-disciplinary team whose transactional and regulatory capabilities cover a broad array of legal issues and industries at the intersection of connected, autonomous, shared, and electric technologies. She is also Co-chair of the Federal Communications Bar Association’s Committee on Connected and Automated Vehicles.
Education & Credentials
- Universities: Emory University
- Education: J.D., Emory Law School, A.B., University of Georgia, summa cum laude
- Bar Admissions: District of Columbia, New York (inactive)
- Awards: Recognized: Administrative / Regulatory Law, Recognized: Technology Law, Recognized: Transportation Law
- Firms: Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
- Affiliations: Co-chair of the Federal Communications Bar Association Committee on Connected and Automated Vehicles
Katherine's expertise in these areas includes advising clients navigating complex regulatory frameworks and ensuring their innovations comply with evolving legal standards. She has represented companies in matters related to connected, autonomous vehicles (CAVs), data privacy, cybersecurity, and smart city initiatives.
In her practice, Katherine applies a holistic approach, combining industry knowledge with rigorous legal analysis. This unique blend allows her to offer comprehensive solutions that meet clients' strategic needs while addressing practical business challenges. She has successfully resolved high-profile cases involving autonomous vehicle technology, data breaches, and public-private partnerships in the transportation sector.
As Co-chair of the Federal Communications Bar Association's Committee on Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAV), Katherine contributes to shaping policy that balances innovation with regulatory oversight. Her work focuses on issues such as spectrum allocation for CAVs, cybersecurity measures for connected systems, and public policies addressing ethical concerns around autonomous vehicles.
Katherine’s commitment to excellence is evident in her leadership role within Davis Wright Tremaine and her involvement with industry groups. She remains at the forefront of developments in technology law and transportation, consistently adapting her practice to address emerging challenges and opportunities.
Professional Philosophy
At the heart of Katherine's approach is a deep understanding that legal counsel must be both proactive and responsive. Her philosophy emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to client success. By combining strategic insight with meticulous attention to detail, she ensures her clients not only navigate complex legal landscapes but also seize opportunities for growth and advancement.
Katherine's comprehensive approach extends beyond transactional work; she actively engages in pro bono projects that address issues of significant public interest, such as ensuring fair representation for marginalized communities and promoting sustainable urban development initiatives. This commitment to social responsibility underscores her dedication to creating positive change through law.
Through her involvement with industry groups and associations, Katherine also advocates for policy reforms aimed at fostering a regulatory environment that supports innovation while safeguarding public safety. She collaborates closely with colleagues across the legal spectrum to identify best practices and emerging trends in technology, transportation, and beyond.
As a testament to her impact, Katherine's leadership has been recognized by industry peers and regulatory bodies alike, cementing her reputation as a preeminent figure in the field of technology and transportation law. Her work exemplifies how dedicated legal professionals can make meaningful contributions both within their firms and on a broader societal level.
