John advises companies, institutions and executives navigating complex enforcement environments involving the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other federal agencies. He represents clients in high‑stakes government investigations, national security matters and activities involving cross‑border regulatory risk. He is a partner in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office and a member of the Litigation Department.

John’s practice centers on helping clients anticipate, manage and respond to government scrutiny. He represents clients in sensitive cross‑border investigations, including matters involving the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), anti‑money laundering (AML), export controls, sanctions, customs enforcement, worksite enforcement and allegations of forced labor. He also advises on antiterrorism‑related risks, including potential civil exposure under the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA)—an increasingly significant consideration for companies operating in high‑risk jurisdictions.

Drawing on senior government experience, John provides strategic counsel at every stage of an investigation—from early risk assessments and internal reviews to enforcement actions, litigation and congressional inquiries. Clients rely on him to navigate parallel proceedings, mitigate reputational risk and engage effectively with federal enforcement authorities.

Government Background

John previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), where he oversaw a broad domestic and international portfolio at one of the federal government’s principal investigative agencies. In that role, he coordinated closely with DOJ, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. Department of State on efforts targeting cross‑border crime, including foreign corruption, trade fraud, money laundering and export‑control violations. He also engaged directly with foreign governments and diplomatic partners on complex multinational enforcement matters.

Before his service at DHS, John was Senior Counsel to the Chairman of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, leading oversight investigations and advising on issues at the intersection of national security, immigration and corporate accountability. He has significant experience preparing executives for high‑profile congressional testimony.

John began his career as a trial attorney at the Department of Justice, where he represented the United States in federal courts nationwide in both civil and criminal matters. His early courtroom experience continues to inform his practical, results‑oriented approach to defending clients facing government enforcement actions.