White Collar & Government Investigations

At McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans, we protect the freedom and reputation of individuals and companies facing the scrutiny of government investigations and white collar criminal allegations. Based in Dallas and serving clients throughout Texas and beyond, our attorneys have the experience and insight needed to navigate complex legal challenges with discretion and precision.

A Winning Team

With over 75 years of combined experience, including service as Assistant District Attorneys in Dallas and Harris Counties and extensive work in private practice, our team brings unmatched knowledge of both sides of the courtroom. We have represented hundreds of individuals and businesses entangled in the state or federal criminal justice system, from complex white collar investigations to high-stakes prosecutions. This depth of experience gives us unique insight into government strategies and enables us to craft effective, proactive defenses that protect our clients’ rights, reputations, and livelihoods.

Comprehensive Defense for Complex White Collar and Government Matters

McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans delivers sophisticated legal counsel for clients facing a broad spectrum of white collar and government-related issues. Whether you’re under investigation, responding to a subpoena, or defending against formal charges, we provide the strategic guidance and tireless advocacy necessary to safeguard your future.

We understand the enormous stakes involved in these cases—not only criminal penalties, but also damage to professional licenses, careers, and businesses. Our attorneys are well-versed in navigating multi-agency investigations and parallel civil, criminal, and regulatory proceedings. With a focus on early intervention and discreet representation, we work to minimize disruption and achieve favorable outcomes.

We represent clients in a wide range of matters, including:

  • Healthcare fraud and False Claims Act investigations
  • Bank, wire, and securities fraud
  • Public corruption and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) cases
  • Money laundering and tax-related offenses
  • Internal investigations and compliance counseling
  • PPP Loan Fraud

Featured attorneys

At McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans, we know that early intervention can make all the difference. With a commitment to protecting your rights and preserving your future, we stand ready to guide you through even the most challenging investigations and prosecutions.

LATEST NEWS

McCATHERN, SHOKOUHI, EVANS SECURES $13 MILLION CIVIL RIGHTS VERDICT AGAINST CITY OF HOUSTON IN DEATH OF CHARLES PAYNE, SR.

November 25, 2025

HOUSTON, TEXAS — November 25, 2025 — A federal jury in the Southern District of Texas has delivered a sweeping $13 million verdict in favor of the family of Charles Payne Sr., finding the City of Houston liable for Payne’s death after a Houston Police Department officer—driving at high speed and not responding to an emergency—struck and killed him. The jury found that the City’s unconstitutional policies, customs, and failures in training and supervision were the direct cause of the fatal incident. The jury also determined that the officer’s conduct violated Payne’s Fourteenth Amendment right to life. Evidence presented at trial revealed that HPD routinely permitted officers to drive more than 20 mph over posted speed limits even when not responding to emergencies, a practice the City knew or should have known placed the public at serious risk. The jury concluded the City acted with deliberate indifference by allowing this dangerous pattern to persist. The jury awarded more than $7.3 million to Payne’s widow, Harriet Payne, for pecuniary loss, loss of companionship, and past and future mental anguish, with additional awards to each of Payne’s seven children for their emotional and familial losses — bringing the total recovery to $13 million. The Payne family was represented by a joint legal team led by McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans Partner Carl L. Evans, Jr., together with the Law Office of Ben Crump and its Co-Director of Litigation, Paul Grinke, and supported by McCathern attorneys Sarah E. Courtney and Asher K. Miller. Together, the team demonstrated that the City of Houston failed to implement and enforce basic safety standards regarding officer driving practices—policies that, if followed, would have prevented this tragedy. “This verdict is not just about what happened to Charles Payne—it’s about preventing it from ever happening again,” said Carl L. Evans, Jr., Partner at McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans. “The jury sent a clear message that no city is above accountability when its policies put the lives of the people it serves in danger. We are honored to stand with the Payne family and grateful that the jury recognized the truth of what happened and the depth of this family’s loss.” Charles Payne was a husband, father, and beloved member of his community. His life was cut short by a preventable act of recklessness—one that the jury found was enabled by systemic policy failures within the Houston Police Department. The verdict marks a significant step toward justice for the Payne family and reinforces the critical importance of safe, constitutional policing practices nationwide. Click here to watch the full press conference following the verdict on 11/24/25. 

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McCATHERN, SHOKOUHI, EVANS NAMED A 2025 SMU COX DALLAS 100™ FASTEST-GROWING COMPANY

November 21, 2025

Pictured L to R: Partners Brett M. Chisum, Stephanie M. Almeter, Levi G. McCathern II, Arnold Shokouhi, Jennifer L. Falk, Laura Roach McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans is proud to announce that the firm has been recognized as one of the SMU Cox Dallas 100™ Fastest-Growing Companies by the SMU Cox Caruth Institute for Entrepreneurship, ranking 62nd on the 2025 list. This prestigious recognition highlights the firm’s continued growth, innovation, and leadership among the most dynamic businesses in North Texas. Presented annually by the SMU Cox School of Business, the Dallas 100™ honors the region’s top-performing companies whose entrepreneurship, strategy, and sustained success are shaping the future of the North Texas economy. From high-growth startups to established market leaders, this list celebrates organizations that exemplify resilience, forward-thinking leadership, and meaningful impact across their industries. A Recognition of Firmwide Growth and Momentum McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans’ inclusion on the Dallas 100™ list underscores a transformational year, marked by significant expansion, strategic mergers, and a 30% increase in team size in 2025 alone. The firm continues to elevate its presence across Texas and California while broadening its depth of service across 30+ practice areas, including commercial litigation, employment law, family law, white collar & government investigations, media & entertainment, real estate, and more. As one of the few law firms recognized on this year’s list, the distinction reflects the firm’s unique position as both a business leader and a legal innovator — demonstrating that forward-thinking strategy and strong leadership translate across industries. A Celebration of Excellence, Innovation, and Impact The Dallas 100™ recognition honors not just growth, but the vision, leadership, and commitment required to sustain it. McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans is deeply proud of the attorneys, staff, and leadership team whose dedication to excellence and client service fuels the firm’s success and advances its mission of Improving People’s Lives. “We’re honored to be named among the top 100 fastest-growing companies in Dallas,” said Arnold Shokouhi, Managing Partner. “This recognition is a testament to our team’s talent, drive, and unwavering commitment to our clients. Our growth is a reflection of the trust clients place in us and the collaborative culture we’ve built across the firm.” Looking Ahead As McCathern, Shokouhi, Evans continues to expand its impact throughout North Texas and beyond, the firm remains focused on strategic growth, exceptional advocacy, and meaningful innovation within the legal profession. The Dallas 100™ recognition marks an important milestone — and an exciting beginning to the next chapter of the firm’s success. Congratulations to all of the 2025 Dallas 100™ companies whose leadership, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to shape one of the most vibrant business communities in the country.

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