Building A Strong Defense Against Criminal Tax Matters
When special agents of the IRS visit your home or place of business, or when you find that your tax matter has been referred to the IRS’ Criminal Investigation division, you need the counsel of a defense attorney right away. Charges of tax fraud and tax evasion expose you to the risk of a lengthy prison sentence and other collateral consequences that can cause permanent damage to your personal and professional lives.
These serious matters cannot be effectively handled by a CPA (as no attorney-client privilege exists) or by an attorney who does not regularly practice in this area, so your choice of a legal advocate is exceptionally important.
Comprehensive Representation. Experienced Counsel.
The Law Offices of Robert T. Leonard, APC, routinely handles tax fraud and evasion cases for clients in California and throughout the country. Our firm is solely focused on tax controversies and litigation. This concentrated approach allows us to remain on the cutting edge of developments in the field of tax law and to provide our clients with the innovative defense strategies that are necessary to obtain successful resolutions to criminal tax matters.
Those who retain our services work directly with attorney Robert T. Leonard, who has devoted his entire career to resolving tax controversies and tax litigation. Mr. Leonard is both a lawyer and a CPA (inactive), and his dual licensure in these disciplines allows him to provide you with representation that is based on in-depth accounting knowledge and proven defense strategies. His experience spans more than two decades, and includes time spent working on money laundering issues and violations of the Bank Secrecy Act at the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Our Criminal Tax Defense Practice
We have the resources and insight needed to provide you with an aggressive defense against all types of tax crime charges. We defend individuals and entities that are being investigated for:
- Tax fraud
- Tax evasion
- Failure to file a tax return
- Filing false statements or supporting documents
- Removal or concealment of financial information
- Failure to supply information requested by the government
- Fraudulent withholding/exemptions
- Omnibus clause violations
- Offshore accounting issues
Even if the specific action being examined by the IRS does not fall into the categories listed above, it is vital to contact us if you find yourself the subject of any tax-related investigation. We have negotiated reasonable resolutions for many clients involved in alleged tax schemes leading to criminal charges. In many cases, criminal tax penalties can be avoided altogether by involving an experienced tax fraud lawyer at the early stages of a tax controversy.
The Answers You Need About Criminal Tax Matters
The intricately complex criminal justice system requires in-depth legal acumen to navigate it. If you have found yourself embroiled in a complex criminal tax controversy, you no doubt have many questions that you need answered. In this segment, you can read straightforward answers to some of the frequently asked questions of Rob’s clients.
What is the difference between tax fraud and tax evasion?
Tax fraud and tax evasion are both illegal activities related to the misrepresentation of financial information to avoid paying taxes. However, they differ in their nature and execution:
- Tax fraud: Tax fraud involves deliberately falsifying information on tax returns or other financial documents to deceive the tax authorities. This can include actions like underreporting income, inflating deductions or hiding assets. It also encompasses creating fake invoices, using false Social Security numbers, or making false statements on tax returns.
- Tax evasion: Tax evasion, on the other hand, refers to the illegal act of not paying taxes owed by using unlawful methods. This can involve failing to file tax returns, not reporting all income, claiming ineligible deductions, or using illegal means to avoid tax obligations.
Both tax fraud and tax evasion can lead to severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. While both are often federal charges, tax fraud is typically considered more severe. This is due to the intentional deceit involved. Understanding these differences is crucial for taxpayers to ensure compliance with tax laws and avoid legal consequences.
How can I protect myself if I receive a notice from the IRS regarding a criminal tax investigation?
Receiving a notice from the IRS about a criminal tax investigation can be daunting, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
- First, it is important to remain calm and carefully review the notice.
- Contacting a qualified tax attorney is a crucial step, as they can provide legal advice and represent you.
- Avoid making any statements or providing information to the IRS without consulting your attorney.
- Gather all relevant financial documents and records to support your position.
Cooperating with your attorney and following their guidance can help you navigate the investigation process effectively.
Can criminal tax charges impact my professional license or employment opportunities?
Yes. A criminal tax conviction can lead to:
- Loss of professional licenses: Many professional licenses require holders to maintain a certain level of ethical standards.
- Employment consequences: A criminal conviction can make it difficult to find a job, especially in fields that require trust.
- Reputation damage: A scandal can damage your image and make it challenging to rebuild your credibility.
- Collateral consequences: You may face unexpected consequences, such as loss of security clearances, immigration issues and even deportation in some cases.
Take criminal tax charges seriously and seek professional advice to minimize the impact on your professional license and employment opportunities.
Contact The Law Offices of Robert T. Leonard, APC
If you need a tax evasion lawyer in Westlake Village, Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley or anywhere else in the state or throughout the nation, call us at 818-485-2115 to schedule a free, confidential case consultation. You may also contact us online.