Tax / IRS Fraud

Tax fraud is a serious issue that costs the government significant revenue every year. To tackle this, the Mercer County region and the IRS have established whistleblower programs. These programs reward individuals who come forward with information about businesses or individuals involved in tax evasion schemes.

Common Types of Tax Fraud

Tax fraud can take many forms. Here are some of the most common schemes to look out for:

• Illegally avoiding sales tax payments
• Fraudulent claims of tax credits
• Hiding or failing to report earned income
• Inflating deductions or reporting false expenses
• Making under-the-table payments or misclassifying employees
• Investing in or promoting fake tax shelters
• Stashing income in offshore accounts

Why You Need a Mercer Criminal Lawyer for Tax Fraud Cases

Facing a tax fraud investigation can be overwhelming. Along with reviewing your tax returns, IRS agents and federal prosecutors may conduct detailed financial inquiries and even question you directly. This is why partnering with a trusted criminal lawyer is crucial. At Logue Law Group, Mercer DUI attorneys have the expertise to defend you and advocate for your rights against federal authorities.

Understanding Federal Tax Fraud

Federal tax fraud involves intentionally violating tax laws. Actions considered illegal under federal law include:

• Filing tax returns with inaccurate income reports
• Submitting falsified documents
• Failing to file a complete tax return
• Willfully evading payment of taxes owed
• Neglecting to collect employment taxes for employees
• Engaging in money laundering

The government often confuses errors or carelessness with deliberate fraud during tax audits. Auditors will scrutinize actions such as hiding assets, understating income, or failing to cooperate during investigations. While these behaviors may raise suspicion, not every mistake qualifies as fraud.

What Happens During an Audit?

If you’re subjected to an IRS audit, their primary objective is to recover unpaid taxes, including penalties and interest. While this process can be challenging, it becomes far more serious if they accuse you of tax fraud. Potential consequences include hefty fines and criminal investigations.

For Mercer residents, consulting with an experienced Mercer criminal lawyer is essential for protecting your rights. If you’re under federal investigation for other alleged crimes, your tax returns may also face increased scrutiny. Significant expenses that outpace your reported income can be flagged as signs of unreported funds, potentially leading to accusations of both fraud and criminal activity.

Penalties for Tax Fraud

Penalties for federal tax fraud are severe. If convicted, you could face fines up to $100,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations. Additionally, violations may result in up to 5 years in a federal penitentiary.

It’s also important to note that those convicted are responsible for covering prosecution costs for each tax violation. These expenses often create substantial financial burdens, far exceeding the originally owed amount.

How a Mercer DUI Attorney Can Defend You

Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you deliberately intended to commit tax fraud. This is where the guidance of a skilled DUI attorney becomes invaluable.

Your attorney will work diligently to demonstrate to the court that any errors were unintentional or due to a lack of understanding of tax laws. By highlighting these points, they can challenge the prosecution’s burden of proof and advocate for the best possible outcome.

Tax fraud charges involve aggressive prosecution and uncompromising legal frameworks in Mercer. That’s why you need a seasoned Mercer DUI attorney to guide you through your options and fiercely defend your interests.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Criminal Lawyer

At Logue Law Group, we understand the complexities of tax fraud cases and are here to help. If you’re facing charges in Mercer, reach out to us online or call us at 844.PITT.DUI to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a knowledgeable Mercer criminal lawyer.

We’re committed to protecting your rights and helping you achieve the best possible resolution for your case.