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.consult-text h2, .section-faq h2 { font-size: 26px; }\n .btn-outline { margin-left: 0; margin-top: 12px; }\n .consult-form .form-row { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\n .group-heading {\n flex-wrap: wrap;\n gap: 8px;\n }\n .group-heading h2 { font-size: 18px; white-space: normal; }\n .group-heading .divider { display: none; }\n .faq-question { font-size: 15px; }\n .section-faq { padding: 64px 20px; }\n }\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n\n<section class=\"section-intro\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\">About Teakell Law<\/span>\n <h2>Decades of Federal Prosecutorial Experience, Now on Your Side<\/h2>\n <p>At Teakell Law, we bring decades of federal prosecutorial experience to your defense. Led by former federal prosecutor John R. Teakell, our firm aggressively defends clients in a wide range of federal and white-collar criminal cases across the United States. We take a personal approach to every case \u2014 from start to finish.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"section-practices\" id=\"practices\">\n <div style=\"text-align:center; margin-bottom:48px;\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\">Full-Service Federal Defense<\/span>\n <h2 style=\"font-size:38px; color:var(--navy); font-weight:700; line-height:1.2;\">Practice Areas<\/h2>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"practice-grid\">\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/white-collar\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Financial<\/span>\n <h3>White Collar Defense<\/h3>\n <p>Federal fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, and complex financial schemes \u2014 including wire fraud, mail fraud, and bank fraud prosecutions. We represent individuals and corporations facing the full range of federal white collar charges.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/sec-cases-state-securities-board\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Regulatory · Securities<\/span>\n <h3>SEC & State Securities Board<\/h3>\n <p>SEC enforcement actions, Texas State Securities Board investigations, securities fraud, insider trading, and parallel criminal proceedings. John's experience as SEC Senior Trial Counsel is a rare advantage.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/money-laundering\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Financial<\/span>\n <h3>Money Laundering Defense<\/h3>\n <p>Federal money laundering charges, high-asset laundering investigations, structuring allegations, and parallel criminal and civil forfeiture actions. Strategic defense for cases often tied to drug, fraud, or foreign transaction charges.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/tax-violations\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · IRS<\/span>\n <h3>Tax Violations<\/h3>\n <p>Federal tax fraud investigations, IRS Criminal Investigation Division matters, tax evasion, and falsified returns. Strategic defense through complex audits and federal prosecutions.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/healthcare-fraud\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Healthcare<\/span>\n <h3>Health Care Fraud<\/h3>\n <p>Medicare fraud, Medicaid fraud, medical billing fraud, and anti-kickback violations. We protect physicians, clinic owners, and healthcare professionals against federal enforcement actions.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/theft-embezzlement\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">State · Federal<\/span>\n <h3>Theft & Embezzlement<\/h3>\n <p>Employee theft, corporate embezzlement, and complex white-collar schemes. Strategic defense that dismantles the prosecution's case while protecting your reputation and career.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practices\/federal-procurement-fraud\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Contracts<\/span>\n <h3>Federal Procurement Fraud<\/h3>\n <p>Bid rigging, false claims, and government contract fraud allegations. Defense for contractors, executives, and businesses under federal procurement investigation.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/whistleblower-qui-tam\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · FCA Defense<\/span>\n <h3>Whistleblower & Qui Tam Defense<\/h3>\n <p>False Claims Act defense for companies and executives facing qui tam lawsuits. Strategic representation when a whistleblower complaint puts your business under federal scrutiny.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/drug-cases\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Drug Defense<\/span>\n <h3>Federal Drug Cases<\/h3>\n <p>Federal drug conspiracy, trafficking, DEA investigations, confidential informants, and wiretap surveillance. Aggressive defense when your freedom is on the line.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/gun-violations\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Firearms<\/span>\n <h3>Gun Violations<\/h3>\n <p>Federal weapons charges, felon in possession, using a firearm during a crime. We understand how the government builds firearm-related cases and how to challenge them.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/firearms-smuggling\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · ATF<\/span>\n <h3>Firearms Smuggling<\/h3>\n <p>Straw purchase investigations, international firearms trafficking, and ATF enforcement. Complex defense for charges that often carry enhanced federal penalties.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/alien-smuggling\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Immigration<\/span>\n <h3>Alien Smuggling<\/h3>\n <p>Federal human smuggling and immigration-related criminal charges. Strategic defense in cases involving Border Patrol, Homeland Security, and ICE investigations.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/computer-crimes\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Cybercrime<\/span>\n <h3>Computer Crimes<\/h3>\n <p>Federal hacking charges, wire fraud, data breach allegations, and Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) cases. When digital evidence is central, you need a skilled cybercrime attorney.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/forfeitures-licenses\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Civil · Administrative<\/span>\n <h3>Forfeitures & Licenses<\/h3>\n <p>Asset forfeiture cases and professional license revocations tied to federal investigations. We fight to protect your rights and restore what's yours.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <a class=\"practice-card\" href=\"\/practice-areas\/federal-appeals\/\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal · Post-Conviction<\/span>\n <h3>Federal Appeals & Post-Conviction<\/h3>\n <p>Federal criminal appeals to the Fifth Circuit and beyond, habeas corpus petitions, \u00a7 2255 motions, and sentencing modifications. For clients already convicted, strategic post-conviction advocacy can still change the outcome.<\/p>\n <span class=\"learn-more\">Learn More →<\/span>\n <\/a>\n\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"section-why\">\n <div class=\"why-inner\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\">The Teakell Law Difference<\/span>\n <h2>Why Choose Teakell Law?<\/h2>\n <div class=\"why-grid\">\n <div class=\"why-pillar\">\n <h3>Led by a Former Federal Prosecutor<\/h3>\n <p>John R. Teakell brings over 15 years of experience as a former federal prosecutor. He knows how the government builds its case \u2014 and more importantly, how to take it apart.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"why-pillar\">\n <h3>National Federal Case Experience<\/h3>\n <p>Teakell Law represents clients across the United States in complex federal cases. From Texas to New York, we handle investigations and indictments in any federal jurisdiction.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"why-pillar\">\n <h3>Proven Trial Results<\/h3>\n <p>Our track record includes numerous dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea deals in high-stakes federal prosecutions. We fight for the best possible outcome in every case.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"why-pillar\">\n <h3>Free Initial Consultation<\/h3>\n <p>Your defense starts with a conversation. Schedule a no-cost, confidential consultation to understand your options and take control of your case.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<section class=\"section-results\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\">Success Stories<\/span>\n <h2>Featured Case Results<\/h2>\n <p>Real outcomes for real clients. These representative results are drawn from John's work defending individuals and businesses across federal and state court.<\/p>\n\n <div class=\"result-grid\">\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">White Collar<\/span>\n <h3>Six Months Instead of 25 Years<\/h3>\n <p>Federal wire fraud and money laundering case involving a $20 million value-added tax scheme. After filing a sentencing memorandum and arguing for downward variance, client sentenced to just six months.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">SEC Defense<\/span>\n <h3>No Enforcement Action<\/h3>\n <p>SEC investigation into alleged improper revenue recognition and accounting controls at a large federal contractor. After multiple defense presentations, the SEC declined to take action against our client.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Federal Drug<\/span>\n <h3>Mandatory Minimum Removed<\/h3>\n <p>Client faced a 10-year mandatory minimum on a federal drug conspiracy. Through negotiation, removed the mandatory minimum and achieved a sentence significantly below the Sentencing Guidelines range.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Health Care Fraud<\/span>\n <h3>Federal Case Dismissed<\/h3>\n <p>Client investigated for alleged health care fraud involving changing and manipulating billing codes at clinics. After presentations to the U.S. Attorney, no charges were pursued.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Tax Crimes<\/span>\n <h3>Probation on Federal Tax Case<\/h3>\n <p>Client faced 33\u201341 months per U.S. Sentencing Guidelines on a Bank Theft charge tied to a tax fraud scheme. At sentencing, the court granted probation \u2014 a rare outcome for this charge.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <article class=\"result-card\">\n <span class=\"tag\">Computer Crimes<\/span>\n <h3>No Indictment on Passport Fraud<\/h3>\n <p>Client under federal investigation for illegal creation and sale of counterfeited passports using a computer. After defense presentations, no charges were pursued.<\/p>\n <\/article>\n <\/div>\n\n <a class=\"btn-gold\" href=\"\/case-results\/\">View All Case Results<\/a>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<section class=\"section-faq\" id=\"faq\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\" style=\"display:block;text-align:center;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span>\n <h2>Federal Criminal Defense FAQs<\/h2>\n <p class=\"faq-intro\">Answers to the questions clients most often ask when facing federal investigation, indictment, or sentencing. For anything not covered here, schedule a free consultation.<\/p>\n\n <ul class=\"faq-list\">\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>What is federal white collar crime defense, and when do I need a federal white collar attorney?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>White collar crime refers to non-violent federal offenses typically involving deception for financial gain. If you've been contacted by a federal agent, received a grand jury subpoena, or learned you're the target of a federal investigation, you need a federal white collar attorney immediately \u2014 before anyone at your company gives a statement. John R. Teakell, a former federal prosecutor, defends clients across the full range of white collar charges in federal court.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Specific charges John defends:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Wire fraud (18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1343)<\/li>\n <li>Mail fraud (18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1341)<\/li>\n <li>Bank fraud (18 U.S.C. \u00a7 1344)<\/li>\n <li>Securities fraud<\/li>\n <li>Investment fraud<\/li>\n <li>Mortgage fraud<\/li>\n <li>Insurance fraud<\/li>\n <li>Insider trading<\/li>\n <li>Embezzlement<\/li>\n <li>Federal conspiracy charges<\/li>\n <li>Corporate fraud investigations<\/li>\n <li>Bribery and corruption allegations<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <p class=\"faq-footer-note\">Early intervention often determines whether a case becomes an indictment or gets declined by the U.S. Attorney's Office.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>What should I do if the SEC contacts me or I receive a Wells notice?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Do not speak with SEC staff, produce documents, or accept service of a subpoena without counsel. Everything you say or produce becomes part of the investigative record. As a former SEC Senior Trial Counsel, John understands how SEC investigations are built internally, what enforcement staff are looking for, and where the strategic off-ramps exist \u2014 including Wells submissions that can persuade the Commission to close a matter without action.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Securities matters John handles:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>SEC enforcement actions<\/li>\n <li>SEC investigations and subpoenas<\/li>\n <li>Wells notice responses<\/li>\n <li>Texas State Securities Board matters<\/li>\n <li>Insider trading defense<\/li>\n <li>Securities fraud criminal charges<\/li>\n <li>Ponzi scheme allegations<\/li>\n <li>Unregistered securities sales<\/li>\n <li>Parallel SEC and DOJ proceedings<\/li>\n <li>Broker-dealer enforcement<\/li>\n <li>Investment adviser investigations<\/li>\n <li>Market manipulation allegations<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>I've been charged with money laundering. What am I facing?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. \u00a7\u00a7 1956 and 1957 carry up to 20 years per count, plus massive forfeiture exposure. These cases are rarely brought alone \u2014 they typically accompany drug, fraud, tax, or healthcare charges. The government must prove you knew the money came from specified unlawful activity. That knowledge element is often where strong defenses are built. High-asset cases also trigger parallel civil forfeiture proceedings that require simultaneous defense strategy.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Money laundering matters John defends:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Federal money laundering prosecutions<\/li>\n <li>High-asset money laundering defense<\/li>\n <li>Structuring (Bank Secrecy Act violations)<\/li>\n <li>Bulk cash smuggling<\/li>\n <li>Money mule allegations<\/li>\n <li>International wire transfer investigations<\/li>\n <li>Cryptocurrency laundering allegations<\/li>\n <li>Parallel civil forfeiture defense<\/li>\n <li>Conspiracy to commit money laundering<\/li>\n <li>Source of funds challenges<\/li>\n <li>Currency Transaction Report (CTR) violations<\/li>\n <li>Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) investigations<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>What happens in a federal drug case versus a state drug case?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Federal drug cases are fundamentally different from state cases. Federal prosecutions involve mandatory minimums (often 5, 10, or 20 years), the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, wiretap evidence, confidential informants, and DEA or FBI agents who've often been building the case for a year or more before indictment. A federal drug conspiracy charge means you can be held accountable for drug quantities you never personally touched. Strategy differs entirely from state court \u2014 early cooperation decisions, Guidelines calculations, and safety valve eligibility all need to be evaluated immediately.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Federal drug charges John handles:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Federal drug conspiracy<\/li>\n <li>Drug trafficking (21 U.S.C. \u00a7 841)<\/li>\n <li>Continuing Criminal Enterprise (CCE)<\/li>\n <li>Importation of controlled substances<\/li>\n <li>DEA investigation defense<\/li>\n <li>Wiretap cases (Title III)<\/li>\n <li>Mandatory minimum mitigation<\/li>\n <li>Safety valve eligibility<\/li>\n <li>Synthetic drug trafficking<\/li>\n <li>Prescription fraud cases<\/li>\n <li>Confidential informant challenges<\/li>\n <li>Controlled substance analogue cases<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>How is a federal firearms charge different from a state firearms charge?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Federal firearms charges carry much higher stakes than state gun offenses. Felon in possession carries up to 10 years. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime adds a mandatory consecutive sentence of 5 to 25 years on top of the underlying charge. The Armed Career Criminal Act can trigger a 15-year mandatory minimum for defendants with three qualifying prior convictions. These cases require early, aggressive defense \u2014 often involving challenges to the stop, the search, the \"constructive possession\" theory, or the predicate offense.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Firearms charges John defends:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Felon in possession of a firearm<\/li>\n <li>Possession in furtherance of drug trafficking (\u00a7 924(c))<\/li>\n <li>Armed Career Criminal Act (ACCA) cases<\/li>\n <li>Unlawful firearms transfer<\/li>\n <li>Straw purchase investigations<\/li>\n <li>International firearms trafficking<\/li>\n <li>ATF enforcement actions<\/li>\n <li>National Firearms Act violations<\/li>\n <li>Possession of unregistered firearms<\/li>\n <li>Firearms smuggling across borders<\/li>\n <li>Use of firearm during crime of violence<\/li>\n <li>Domestic violence firearms prohibitions (\u00a7 922(g)(9))<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>What is qui tam, and why would I need a whistleblower defense attorney?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>A qui tam lawsuit is filed under the False Claims Act (FCA) by a private whistleblower \u2014 often a former employee \u2014 alleging that a company defrauded the federal government. The case stays sealed while the Department of Justice investigates. If DOJ intervenes, the company faces treble damages plus per-claim penalties. Defense requires immediate, coordinated strategy: preserving documents, conducting an internal investigation, engaging DOJ before charges are filed, and evaluating settlement posture vs. trial risk. John represents companies and executives on the defense side of qui tam matters.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Whistleblower and qui tam matters John handles:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>False Claims Act defense<\/li>\n <li>Qui tam lawsuit defense<\/li>\n <li>DOJ intervention defense<\/li>\n <li>Healthcare False Claims Act cases<\/li>\n <li>Defense contractor fraud allegations<\/li>\n <li>Anti-Kickback Statute violations<\/li>\n <li>Stark Law violations<\/li>\n <li>Internal investigations<\/li>\n <li>DOJ civil settlements<\/li>\n <li>Corporate compliance investigations<\/li>\n <li>Whistleblower retaliation claims (defense)<\/li>\n <li>Parallel criminal and civil FCA proceedings<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>Can I appeal a federal conviction or sentence?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Yes. After a federal conviction, you have 14 days to file a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals (in Texas, that's the Fifth Circuit). After direct appeal, \u00a7 2255 motions allow collateral challenges for ineffective assistance of counsel, newly discovered evidence, or constitutional violations. Sentence reductions under \u00a7 3582, compassionate release, and amendments to the Sentencing Guidelines may also offer relief. Appellate work is fundamentally different from trial work \u2014 it's about record review, brief-writing, and identifying legal errors. John has assisted on federal appellate matters including a Fifth Circuit case involving a multi-million dollar judgment.<\/p>\n <p><strong>Appeals and post-conviction matters John handles:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Federal criminal appeals<\/li>\n <li>Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals practice<\/li>\n <li>\u00a7 2255 habeas corpus motions<\/li>\n <li>\u00a7 3582 sentence reduction motions<\/li>\n <li>Compassionate release petitions<\/li>\n <li>Sentencing Guidelines amendments<\/li>\n <li>Ineffective assistance of counsel claims<\/li>\n <li>Brady\/Giglio violations<\/li>\n <li>Resentencing proceedings<\/li>\n <li>Bureau of Prisons designation challenges<\/li>\n <li>First Step Act relief<\/li>\n <li>Clemency and pardon applications<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <li class=\"faq-item\">\n <button class=\"faq-question\" aria-expanded=\"false\">\n <span>How much does a federal criminal defense attorney cost, and do you offer free consultations?<\/span>\n <span class=\"faq-toggle\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span>\n <\/button>\n <div class=\"faq-answer\">\n <p>Federal defense fees vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the stage (investigation, indictment, trial, or appeal), the volume of discovery, and whether trial is likely. John offers a free initial consultation to discuss your situation, evaluate the charges or investigation, and give you a clear understanding of the process and potential costs. Fees are typically structured as flat fees for defined stages or hourly rates for open-ended investigations \u2014 what's right depends on the matter.<\/p>\n <p><strong>What a free consultation covers:<\/strong><\/p>\n <ul>\n <li>Review of charges, subpoenas, or target letters<\/li>\n <li>Explanation of the federal process<\/li>\n <li>Preliminary case strategy discussion<\/li>\n <li>U.S. Sentencing Guidelines overview<\/li>\n <li>Discussion of potential outcomes<\/li>\n <li>Fee structure and engagement terms<\/li>\n <li>Attorney-client confidentiality<\/li>\n <li>Timeline expectations<\/li>\n <li>Key decisions you'll need to make<\/li>\n <li>Answers to your specific concerns<\/li>\n <\/ul>\n <p class=\"faq-footer-note\">All consultations are confidential. Submitting the contact form or calling (214) 523-9076 does not create an attorney-client relationship, but any information shared is treated as confidential.<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/li>\n\n <\/ul>\n<\/section>\n\n<script>\n(function () {\n var items = document.querySelectorAll('.faq-item');\n items.forEach(function (item) {\n var btn = item.querySelector('.faq-question');\n btn.addEventListener('click', function () {\n var isOpen = item.classList.contains('is-open');\n items.forEach(function (other) {\n other.classList.remove('is-open');\n other.querySelector('.faq-question').setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'false');\n });\n if (!isOpen) {\n item.classList.add('is-open');\n btn.setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'true');\n }\n });\n });\n})();\n<\/script>\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"FAQPage\",\n \"mainEntity\": [\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"What is federal white collar crime defense, and when do I need a federal white collar attorney?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"White collar crime refers to non-violent federal offenses involving deception for financial gain. If you've been contacted by a federal agent, received a grand jury subpoena, or learned you're the target of a federal investigation, you need a federal white collar attorney immediately. John R. Teakell defends charges including wire fraud, mail fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, investment fraud, mortgage fraud, insurance fraud, insider trading, embezzlement, federal conspiracy, corporate fraud, and bribery. Early intervention often determines whether a case becomes an indictment or gets declined by the U.S. Attorney's Office.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"What should I do if the SEC contacts me or I receive a Wells notice?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Do not speak with SEC staff, produce documents, or accept service of a subpoena without counsel. As a former SEC Senior Trial Counsel, John Teakell handles SEC enforcement actions, Wells notice responses, Texas State Securities Board matters, insider trading defense, securities fraud criminal charges, Ponzi scheme allegations, unregistered securities sales, parallel SEC and DOJ proceedings, broker-dealer enforcement, investment adviser investigations, and market manipulation allegations.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"I've been charged with money laundering. What am I facing?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. \u00a7\u00a7 1956 and 1957 carry up to 20 years per count plus forfeiture exposure. The government must prove you knew the money came from specified unlawful activity. John defends federal money laundering prosecutions, high-asset laundering cases, structuring (Bank Secrecy Act violations), bulk cash smuggling, money mule allegations, international wire transfer investigations, cryptocurrency laundering, parallel civil forfeiture, conspiracy to commit money laundering, source of funds challenges, CTR violations, and SAR investigations.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"What happens in a federal drug case versus a state drug case?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Federal drug cases involve mandatory minimums (often 5, 10, or 20 years), the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, wiretap evidence, and DEA or FBI agents. A federal drug conspiracy charge means accountability for drug quantities you never personally touched. John handles federal drug conspiracy, drug trafficking, Continuing Criminal Enterprise cases, importation, DEA investigations, wiretap cases, mandatory minimum mitigation, safety valve eligibility, synthetic drug trafficking, prescription fraud, confidential informant challenges, and controlled substance analogue cases.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"How is a federal firearms charge different from a state firearms charge?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Federal firearms charges carry much higher stakes. Felon in possession carries up to 10 years. Possession in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime adds a mandatory consecutive sentence of 5 to 25 years. The Armed Career Criminal Act triggers a 15-year mandatory minimum for defendants with three qualifying prior convictions. John defends felon in possession, \u00a7 924(c) cases, ACCA cases, unlawful firearms transfers, straw purchases, international firearms trafficking, ATF enforcement, National Firearms Act violations, unregistered firearms possession, firearms smuggling, use of firearm during crime of violence, and \u00a7 922(g)(9) domestic violence prohibitions.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"What is qui tam, and why would I need a whistleblower defense attorney?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"A qui tam lawsuit is filed under the False Claims Act by a private whistleblower alleging fraud against the federal government. The case stays sealed while DOJ investigates. If DOJ intervenes, the company faces treble damages plus per-claim penalties. John represents companies and executives on the defense side, handling False Claims Act defense, DOJ intervention defense, Healthcare FCA cases, defense contractor fraud, Anti-Kickback Statute violations, Stark Law violations, internal investigations, DOJ civil settlements, corporate compliance investigations, whistleblower retaliation defense, and parallel criminal and civil FCA proceedings.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"Can I appeal a federal conviction or sentence?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Yes. After a federal conviction, you have 14 days to file a notice of appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals (in Texas, the Fifth Circuit). After direct appeal, \u00a7 2255 motions allow collateral challenges. John handles federal criminal appeals, Fifth Circuit practice, \u00a7 2255 habeas corpus motions, \u00a7 3582 sentence reduction motions, compassionate release petitions, Sentencing Guidelines retroactive amendments, ineffective assistance claims, Brady\/Giglio violations, resentencing proceedings, Bureau of Prisons designation challenges, First Step Act relief, and clemency and pardon applications.\"\n }\n },\n {\n \"@type\": \"Question\",\n \"name\": \"How much does a federal criminal defense attorney cost, and do you offer free consultations?\",\n \"acceptedAnswer\": {\n \"@type\": \"Answer\",\n \"text\": \"Fees vary depending on case complexity, stage, discovery volume, and trial likelihood. John offers a free initial consultation to review charges or investigations, explain the federal process, discuss preliminary case strategy, provide a U.S. Sentencing Guidelines overview, discuss potential outcomes, and explain fee structure. All consultations are confidential. Call (214) 523-9076 or submit the contact form.\"\n }\n }\n ]\n}\n<\/script>\n\n<section class=\"section-consult\" id=\"consultation\">\n <div class=\"consult-inner\">\n\n <div class=\"consult-text\">\n <span class=\"eyebrow\">Schedule Your Consultation<\/span>\n <h2>Have a Challenging Case? Let's Talk.<\/h2>\n <p>Every federal criminal case starts with a conversation. Tell us what you're facing, and John will personally review your situation. All consultations are free and strictly confidential.<\/p>\n <p>Response within one business day. For urgent matters, call directly.<\/p>\n\n <div class=\"contact-info\">\n <strong>Office<\/strong>\n <p>2911 Turtle Creek Blvd, Suite 300<br>Dallas, Texas 75219<\/p>\n\n <strong>Phone<\/strong>\n <p><a href=\"tel:+12145239076\">(214) 523-9076<\/a><\/p>\n\n <strong>Email<\/strong>\n <p><a href=\"mailto:jteakell@teakelllaw.com\">jteakell@teakelllaw.com<\/a><\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n \n <form class=\"consult-form\"\n id=\"consult-form\"\n action=\"https:\/\/formsubmit.co\/ajax\/jteakell@teakelllaw.com\"\n method=\"POST\"\n novalidate>\n\n <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_subject\" value=\"New Form Fill out on Teakelllaw.com\">\n <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_cc\" value=\"hello@sablesociety.com\">\n <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_template\" value=\"table\">\n <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"_captcha\" value=\"false\">\n <input type=\"text\" name=\"_honey\" style=\"display:none\" tabindex=\"-1\" autocomplete=\"off\">\n\n <div class=\"form-row\">\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-first\">First Name<\/label>\n <input id=\"cf-first\" type=\"text\" name=\"First Name\" required>\n <span class=\"field-error\">Please enter your first name.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-last\">Last Name<\/label>\n <input id=\"cf-last\" type=\"text\" name=\"Last Name\" required>\n <span class=\"field-error\">Please enter your last name.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"form-row\">\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-email\">Email<\/label>\n <input id=\"cf-email\" type=\"email\" name=\"Email\" required>\n <span class=\"field-error\">Please enter a valid email address.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-phone\">Phone<\/label>\n <input id=\"cf-phone\" type=\"tel\" name=\"Phone\">\n <span class=\"field-error\">Please enter a valid phone number.<\/span>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-area\">Practice Area<\/label>\n <select id=\"cf-area\" name=\"Practice Area\">\n <option>Select a Practice Area<\/option>\n <option>White Collar Defense<\/option>\n <option>SEC & State Securities<\/option>\n <option>Money Laundering Defense<\/option>\n <option>Tax Violations<\/option>\n <option>Health Care Fraud<\/option>\n <option>Theft & Embezzlement<\/option>\n <option>Federal Procurement Fraud<\/option>\n <option>Whistleblower & Qui Tam Defense<\/option>\n <option>Federal Drug Cases<\/option>\n <option>Gun Violations<\/option>\n <option>Firearms Smuggling<\/option>\n <option>Alien Smuggling<\/option>\n <option>Computer Crimes<\/option>\n <option>Forfeitures & Licenses<\/option>\n <option>Federal Appeals & Post-Conviction<\/option>\n <option>Other \/ Not Sure Yet<\/option>\n <\/select>\n <\/div>\n\n <div class=\"field\">\n <label for=\"cf-message\">Tell Us About Your Case<\/label>\n <textarea id=\"cf-message\" name=\"Message\" placeholder=\"Brief description of the matter. This information is confidential.\"><\/textarea>\n <\/div>\n\n <button class=\"submit-btn\" type=\"submit\">Submit Request<\/button>\n\n \n <div class=\"form-feedback\" id=\"form-feedback\" role=\"status\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/div>\n\n <p class=\"disclaimer\">Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. All information shared will be treated as confidential. Do not include sensitive personal or financial details.<\/p>\n <\/form>\n\n <script>\n (function () {\n var form = document.getElementById('consult-form');\n if (!form) return;\n\n var feedback = document.getElementById('form-feedback');\n var submitBtn = form.querySelector('.submit-btn');\n\n function showFeedback(type, title, message) {\n feedback.className = 'form-feedback is-visible is-' + type;\n feedback.innerHTML = '<strong>' + title + '<\/strong>' + message;\n }\n\n function clearFieldErrors() {\n form.querySelectorAll('.field.has-error').forEach(function (f) {\n f.classList.remove('has-error');\n });\n }\n\n function markFieldError(field) {\n field.closest('.field').classList.add('has-error');\n }\n\n function isValidEmail(v) {\n return \/^[^\\s@]+@[^\\s@]+\\.[^\\s@]+$\/.test(v);\n }\n\n function isValidPhone(v) {\n \/\/ Optional field: empty is OK. Otherwise require at least 7 digits.\n if (!v) return true;\n return (v.match(\/\\d\/g) || []).length >= 7;\n }\n\n function validate() {\n clearFieldErrors();\n var valid = true;\n\n var first = form.querySelector('#cf-first');\n var last = form.querySelector('#cf-last');\n var email = form.querySelector('#cf-email');\n var phone = form.querySelector('#cf-phone');\n\n if (!first.value.trim()) { markFieldError(first); valid = false; }\n if (!last.value.trim()) { markFieldError(last); valid = false; }\n if (!isValidEmail(email.value.trim())) { markFieldError(email); valid = false; }\n if (!isValidPhone(phone.value.trim())) { markFieldError(phone); valid = false; }\n\n return valid;\n }\n\n form.addEventListener('submit', function (e) {\n e.preventDefault();\n feedback.classList.remove('is-visible');\n\n if (!validate()) {\n showFeedback('error', 'Please check the highlighted fields',\n 'A few fields need your attention before we can submit your request.');\n return;\n }\n\n form.classList.add('is-loading');\n submitBtn.disabled = true;\n\n var data = new FormData(form);\n\n fetch(form.action, {\n method: 'POST',\n body: data,\n headers: { 'Accept': 'application\/json' }\n })\n .then(function (response) {\n if (response.ok) return response.json();\n throw new Error('Server responded with ' + response.status);\n })\n .then(function () {\n \/\/ Success\n form.reset();\n showFeedback('success', 'Thank you \u2014 your request has been received.',\n 'John will personally review your message and respond within one business day. ' +\n 'For urgent matters, please call (214) 523-9076.');\n \/\/ Scroll the success message into view for long forms\n feedback.scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth', block: 'center' });\n })\n .catch(function (err) {\n console.error('[Teakell form]', err);\n\n \/\/ Build a mailto fallback that pre-fills John's email with the form data\n \/\/ so the user can still reach out even if FormSubmit is down\n var formData = {\n first: (form.querySelector('#cf-first') || {}).value || '',\n last: (form.querySelector('#cf-last') || {}).value || '',\n email: (form.querySelector('#cf-email') || {}).value || '',\n phone: (form.querySelector('#cf-phone') || {}).value || '',\n area: (form.querySelector('#cf-area') || {}).value || '',\n message: (form.querySelector('#cf-message') || {}).value || ''\n };\n var mailtoBody =\n 'Name: ' + formData.first + ' ' + formData.last + '\\n' +\n 'Email: ' + formData.email + '\\n' +\n 'Phone: ' + formData.phone + '\\n' +\n 'Practice Area: ' + formData.area + '\\n\\n' +\n 'Message:\\n' + formData.message;\n var mailtoHref =\n 'mailto:jteakell@teakelllaw.com?cc=hello@sablesociety.com' +\n '&subject=' + encodeURIComponent('New Form Fill out on Teakelllaw.com') +\n '&body=' + encodeURIComponent(mailtoBody);\n\n showFeedback('error', 'Something went wrong sending your message.',\n 'Please <a href=\"' + mailtoHref + '\" style=\"color:inherit;text-decoration:underline;\">' +\n 'click here to email us directly<\/a> with your message pre-filled, ' +\n 'or call (214) 523-9076.');\n })\n .finally(function () {\n form.classList.remove('is-loading');\n submitBtn.disabled = false;\n });\n });\n\n \/\/ Live-clear field errors as the user corrects them\n form.querySelectorAll('input, select, textarea').forEach(function (input) {\n input.addEventListener('input', function () {\n var field = input.closest('.field');\n if (field) field.classList.remove('has-error');\n });\n });\n })();\n <\/script>\n\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Federal Criminal Defense Practice Areas Defend Your Freedom in Federal Court Federal Criminal Defense Practice Areas | John R. Teakell About Teakell Law Decades of Federal Prosecutorial Experience, Now on Your Side At Teakell Law, we bring decades of federal prosecutorial experience to your defense. Led by former federal prosecutor John R. Teakell, our firm …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_header_footer","meta":{"_angie_page":false,"_genesis_block_theme_hide_title":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-3463","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","post","without-featured-image"],"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3463","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3463"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3463\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/teakelllaw.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3463"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}