How to Defend Yourself Against Federal Tax Fraud Charges
LibertyBell Law Group – Skilled Attorneys for Federal Tax Fraud Defense
What Is Tax Fraud?
Tax fraud occurs when an individual or business intentionally provides false information to the IRS to reduce tax liability. Common examples include underreporting income, inflating deductions, and hiding assets. Federal tax fraud is aggressively prosecuted and can result in severe penalties.
Investigations are often conducted by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division (CID), which works closely with federal prosecutors.
Common Types of Tax Fraud Charges
Tax fraud charges may include:
1. Tax Evasion
This involves using illegal methods to avoid paying taxes, such as hiding income or failing to file tax returns. Tax evasion is a felony offense.
2. Filing False Tax Returns
Providing inaccurate information on tax returns, such as overstating deductions or claiming false dependents, can result in criminal charges.
3. Failure to Report Foreign Assets
Individuals and businesses are required to disclose foreign bank accounts and investments. Noncompliance can lead to criminal charges under the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA).
4. Payroll Tax Fraud
Employers may face charges for failing to remit payroll taxes or misclassifying employees as independent contractors to reduce tax obligations.
Penalties for Tax Fraud Convictions
Federal tax fraud convictions carry harsh penalties, including:
- Imprisonment of up to 5 years per count
- Fines of up to $250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations
- Restitution to the IRS
- Asset forfeiture and seizure of bank accounts
- Loss of professional licenses
Defenses Against Tax Fraud Charges
Our attorneys at LibertyBell Law Group develop strategic defenses tailored to each client’s case. Common defenses include:
1. Lack of Intent
We argue that errors on tax returns were unintentional. Mistakes or negligence do not constitute criminal fraud if there was no willful intent to deceive the IRS.
2. Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge the evidence, including discrepancies in financial records and witness credibility.
3. Procedural Errors
We examine whether the IRS followed proper procedures during audits and investigations. Violations of your constitutional rights may result in evidence being excluded from court.
4. Negotiating with the IRS
In some cases, we negotiate with the IRS to reduce penalties or settle disputes without criminal prosecution. This may involve paying back taxes and fines to resolve the matter.
How LibertyBell Law Group Defends Clients
Our legal team provides comprehensive support for clients facing tax fraud charges, including:
- Analyzing financial records and tax filings
- Negotiating with federal prosecutors and IRS officials
- Developing a defense strategy based on forensic accounting and expert testimony
Meet Our Tax Crime Defense Attorneys
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling complex tax fraud cases. Meet some of our experts:
Client Success Stories
“LibertyBell Law Group helped me negotiate with the IRS and avoid a prison sentence for tax fraud. Their expertise saved my business and reputation.” – Robert M., Client
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with tax fraud?
Contact a defense attorney immediately. Avoid making statements to IRS agents without legal representation.
Can tax fraud charges be dismissed?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed if there is insufficient evidence or if procedural violations occurred during the investigation.
How long does a tax fraud case take to resolve?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case. Some cases can be resolved in a few months, while others may take over a year if they proceed to trial.
Contact LibertyBell Law Group for Tax Fraud Defense
If you are facing tax fraud charges, contact LibertyBell Law Group today. We provide a free consultation to discuss your case and defense options.
Call now: +1-818-273-5262