Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Yourself from Tax Evasion Charges
Protect Yourself from Tax Evasion Charges
Tax evasion is a serious offense with severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential imprisonment. If you are under investigation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or a state tax authority, it’s crucial to act quickly and consult with an experienced tax evasion lawyer. Having legal representation can make all the difference in protecting your rights and minimizing the risk of harsh penalties.
At our law firm, we specialize in defending clients facing tax evasion charges. Our expert tax lawyer has deep knowledge of both federal and state tax laws and can work to build a strong defense.
What Is Tax Evasion?
Tax evasion occurs when an individual or entity intentionally avoids paying legally owed taxes. Under Section 7201 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), it is a felony for any person to willfully attempt to evade tax liability. Penalties can include fines up to $100,000 for individuals, $500,000 for corporations, and imprisonment for up to five years. These penalties underscore the gravity of tax evasion offenses and the need for expert legal guidance.
Common Forms of Tax Evasion:
- Failure to File Returns: Not submitting tax returns as required.
- Filing False Returns: Deliberately omitting income or inflating deductions.
- Evasion of Payment: Concealing assets to avoid paying assessed taxes.
If found guilty of tax evasion, you could face prison time, fines, and the obligation to cover prosecution costs. That’s why working with a knowledgeable tax evasion lawyer is essential to protect your rights and secure the best outcome possible.
The Role of Intent in Tax Evasion Cases
To convict someone of tax evasion, authorities must prove that the taxpayer intentionally tried to avoid paying taxes. Innocent mistakes on tax filings do not qualify as tax evasion. Our firm understands that some investigations are triggered by errors or negligence, rather than willful intent. We will thoroughly review your case to demonstrate that your actions were not deliberate if this applies to your situation.
Penalties for Tax Evasion
As mentioned earlier, under IRS Code Section 7201, the penalties for tax evasion are severe. Whether you’re dealing with federal charges or state-level accusations, being convicted can drastically affect your life. Federally, the IRS differentiates between two types of evasion:
- Evasion of Assessment: This typically involves failing to file tax returns or submitting fraudulent returns.
- Evasion of Payment: Concealing assets to avoid tax payments after an assessment.
Both types of evasion carry significant risks, and you need an experienced tax evasion lawyer to help navigate these complex legal waters.
How We Can Help You
Our tax evasion lawyer is both a licensed attorney and a certified public accountant (CPA), bringing a unique perspective to each case. This dual expertise means we can handle even the most complex tax evasion investigations and prosecutions.
Common Triggers of Tax Evasion Investigations:
- Filing false tax returns
- Not reporting foreign bank accounts (FBAR violations)
- Failing to file taxes altogether
We understand that the IRS and state tax agencies have powerful tools for investigating tax evasion. These agencies may review your financial records, compare your net worth over time, and even examine your daily expenses. Our lawyer knows how to counter these tactics and can build a compelling defense for your case.
Why Choose Our Tax Evasion Lawyer?
Our tax evasion lawyer focuses exclusively on tax matters, ensuring that your case gets the full attention it deserves. We pride ourselves on staying updated on all new IRS regulations, case law, and enforcement tactics. We know how the IRS and New York State tax authorities operate, and we leverage that knowledge to protect our clients.
If you’re facing charges or are under investigation, our law firm can help. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, we will fight for your rights and work toward the best possible resolution for your case.
Don’t Wait — Take Action Now
If you suspect you’re under investigation for tax evasion, time is critical. Contact our law firm today to speak with a qualified tax evasion lawyer who can guide you through the legal process. The sooner we begin working on your case, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Call us now to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.
CLICK HERE to view a books authored by Attorney Cook.
CLICK HERE to contact the law firm.
