Atty. Kurt R. Karst

Atty. Kurt R. Karst

Kurt R. Karst provides regulatory counsel to pharmaceutical manufacturers on Hatch-Waxman patent and exclusivity, drug development, pediatric testing, and orphan drugs.

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Profile Summary

About Kurt R. Karst at a glance

Kurt R. Karst is an attorney based in Washington, District of Columbia, practicing at Hyman, Phelps & McNamara PC. Admitted to practice in Maryland, Maryland State Bar Association and District of Columbia, The District of Columbia Bar. Educated at American University Washington College of Law (J.D., 2003) and Marquette University (B.A.). Recognitions include Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law (2026). Serands clients in Washington, DC and the surrounding metropolitan area.

Verified attorney profile · Updated June 2026

About

  • Kurt R. Karst provides regulatory counsel to pharmaceutical manufacturers on Hatch-Waxman patent and exclusivity, drug development, pediatric testing, and orphan drugs
  • He helps clients develop strategies for product lifecycle management, obtaining approval, managing post-marketing issues, and defining periods of exclusivity
  • As the co-founder and primary author of Hyman, Phelps & McNamara's FDA Law Blog, Mr. Karst often leads the response to new rules and regulations, sharing his interpretation with the broader legal community
  • Mr. Karst's knowledge of FDA precedents and timely analysis of developments helps clarify and shape the industry's understanding of Hatch-Waxman, in particular
  • He is a prolific writer, contributing to the blog and publishing articles in major legal journals
  • Mr. Karst has co-authored and contributed to several text books, including Generic and Innovator Drugs: A Guide to FDA Approval Requirements
  • Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, and Chemical Inventions
  • Fundamentals of US Regulatory Affairs
  • and FDLI's Drug and Biologic Approvals: The Complete Guide for Small Businesses-FDA Financial Assistance and Incentives
  • Mr. Karst clerked for Hyman Phelps & McNamara while attending law school and served as articles editor for the American University Law Review
  • Before joining the firm, Mr. Karst lobbied for F. Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. In 1995, he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for post-graduate studies in Germany

Jurisdictional Context

Why local counsel matters in District of Columbia

Practicing law in District of Columbia. Legal matters in District of Columbia are governed by state-specific rules of civil and criminal procedure, statutes of limitations, and substantive law. Cases originating in Washington are typically filed in the local municipal court or the appropriate District of Columbia state district court, depending on subject matter and amount in controversy. An attorney licensed in District of Columbia brings working knowledge of local procedural deadlines, judicial practices in this andnue, and the substantive law that applies to cases brought here. Out-of-state attorneys generally cannot represent clients in District of Columbia courts without local counsel or pro hac vice admission.

Looking for additional District of Columbia attorneys? Browse all attorneys in Washington or all attorneys in District of Columbia.

Frequently Asked

Common questions about Kurt R. Karst

Where is Kurt R. Karst's law office located?
Kurt R. Karst's law practice is located in Washington, District of Columbia. The firm is Hyman, Phelps & McNamara PC. You can contact the office directly through this profile page.
Where did Kurt R. Karst go to law school?
Kurt R. Karst earned their education at (J.D., 2003); (B.A.).
How can I contact Kurt R. Karst for a consultation?
You can contact Kurt R. Karst directly through this profile page. Click "Ask the Attorney" to submit a question, or "Schedule a Consultation" to book a meeting. Most claimed-profile attorneys respond within one business day.
What awards or recognition has Kurt R. Karst received?
Kurt R. Karst's notable recognition includes: Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law.

Practice Areas

Education

J.D.
American University Washington College of Law
- 2003
B.A.
Marquette University
- In Progress

Awards

Best Lawyers in America — FDA Law
- 2026

Bar Admissions

Maryland, Maryland State Bar Association
District of Columbia, The District of Columbia Bar

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