Robert “BJ” Clark focuses his practice at the intersection of law and government. With his extensive government sector experience and deep knowledge of the governmental, regulatory, and political process, BJ provides his clients with the benefit of an insider’s perspective as he works to achieve their goals and objectives. He is the Practice Leader of the firm's Government Affairs and Public Policy Group.
BJ regularly represents clients before federal, state, and local executive branch and administrative agencies, as well as legislative bodies and committees.
He specializes in representing clients that are involved in major economic development and infrastructure projects; renewable energy projects; large public procurements; licensing and administrative law matters including gaming, cannabis, and political and public ethics law compliance.
BJ’s Government Affairs and Public Policy clients include Fortune 50 and 500 companies, private companies, major institutions, and emerging technology companies that are involved in a wide range of industries and businesses. BJ regularly represents and advises political campaigns and candidates at every level including Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf’s Transition Team and the DNC Philadelphia Host Committee. He served as local counsel to the Biden campaign and the Democratic National Committee during the 2020 election cycle.
Professional Highlights
Pro Bono Experience
BJ has represented a number of organizations on a pro bono basis including the Philadelphia Mobile Food Association, Philabundance, Project HOME, the Boys & Girls Club and Philadelphia Youth Basketball. He actively represents clients through the Support Center for Child Advocates and has volunteered for Philadelphia READS and a number of other organizations.
Recognition & Accomplishments
City & State PA Top Lobbyists List, 2022
Ballard Spahr Pro Bono Honor Roll 2010-2015; 2017-2020
Named to Philadelphia Business Journal's 2017 "40 Under 40" list, recognizing professional excellence and outstanding community involvement
Named one of 10 "Rising Stars Under 30" by PoliticsPA.com, 2006
Speaking Engagements
“Biotechnology and Medical Marijuana,” PA Bio Leadership Panel, February 2020
“Manufacturing Election Recap,” Ballard Spahr Manufacturing Group Podcast, November 2018
“The Intersection of Technology and Medical Marijuana,” Philly Tech Week Panel, May 2017
“Creating, Influencing and Challenging a Regulation,” Pennsylvania Bar Institute Continuing Legal Education Course, November 2016
Board Memberships & Community Service
Philabundance, Vice Chairman of the Board and Chairperson, Governance Committee
Philadelphia Regional Port Authority, Board Member and Chairperson, Audit & Budget Committee
National Governor’s Association Centennial Meeting, Chairperson of the Local Host Committee
Franklin Institute, Former Member, Board of Trustees
Credentials
Education
Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law (J.D. 2009)
University of Pennsylvania (B.A. 2001)
Admissions
Pennsylvania