Queens Tax Fraud Lawyer

Queens Tax Fraud Attorney

When you are charged with tax fraud, it can feel overwhelming, terrifying, and likely a bit confusing. The average taxpayer might think they can handle a tax fraud investigation on their own, but the IRS does not take these cases lightly. If you have significant attention from the IRS trying to uncover fraud, it can cause some irreparable damage to your reputation and professional relationships. A Queens tax fraud lawyer can help you figure out your next steps.

What Is Tax Fraud?

Tax fraud occurs when an individual or a business entity intentionally falsifies their tax records to some degree. Usually, this is done to limit one’s tax liability to avoid paying due taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Examples of tax fraud include tax evasion, claiming personal expenses as business expenses, false deductions, and failing to report income.

Most American citizens and permanent residents who work in the US are legally required to file a tax return every year. Failure to do so could result in serious legal penalties.

The state of New York has specific laws regarding tax fraud, as well as specific rules for enforcement of those laws and penalties for breaking them. An experienced tax fraud lawyer can inform you if you have broken these laws, whether intentionally or unintentionally, and let you know what your next steps will look like in terms of building a defense strategy.

Common Examples of Tax Fraud Offenses

People make mistakes with their taxes all the time. This doesn’t mean they are automatically guilty of tax fraud. It is important to recognize the difference between an honest mistake and willful intent. If you are worried that your actions regarding your taxes could be considered tax fraud, you should reach out to an experienced tax fraud lawyer immediately.

Here are some of the more common examples of tax fraud offenses that we can help you sort out:

• Tax Evasion: It is a federal crime to try and avoid paying your taxes. Tax evasion can be a broad term that encompasses many different kinds of activity. Attempts to get out of paying your taxes, trying to fraudulently pay less taxes, or claiming credits you are ineligible for may all be considered tax evasion.
• Conspiracy: A tax fraud situation may be considered a conspiracy if two or more people work together to commit a tax-related offense. In tax fraud cases with multiple defendants, there is a good chance that the prosecution may add a conspiracy charge.
• Failure To File: If you fail to file your tax return, it can be considered a criminal action by the IRS. The IRS expects every tax-paying worker to pay their owed taxes, file their yearly return, maintain reasonable tax records, and supply them with specific information when asked.
• Falsified Documents: When you file your taxes or submit any tax-related document to either the IRS or the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance (NYSDTF), it is your responsibility to ensure that all the information in those documents is accurate. Knowingly submitting false documents or making false claims to any tax authority can lead to severe criminal penalties at both the state and federal levels.

FAQs

What Are the Penalties for Tax Fraud in New York?

The penalties for tax fraud in New York can be considerable and quite severe. A conviction of criminal tax fraud in the second degree could result in facing Class C felony penalties. That would mean a potential sentence of 15 years in prison and a significant fine that could be equal to double the amount you avoided paying in taxes. A conviction of tax fraud in the first degree could result in a Class B felony, leading to 25 years in prison and the same amount in fines.

What Should I Do if I Am Accused of Tax Fraud in New York?

If you are accused of tax fraud, it is vital that you consult with a tax attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you navigate the investigation, negotiate penalties in the event of a possible conviction, and potentially reduce the legal consequences you face. Moreso, a lawyer can work with you to build a solid defense using evidence to support you and effective defense strategies.

Is Tax Fraud the Most Serious IRS Crime?

It can be difficult to determine the most serious IRS crime, as every situation is going to be different. Every tax-related case has its own details and circumstances that make that case unique. IRS investigations can even lead to more crimes being uncovered, such as drug crimes or even human trafficking. Every crime involving your taxes is going to be considered serious. A good tax lawyer can help you develop a defense strategy.

What Is the Most Common Form of Tax Fraud?

One of the most common forms of tax fraud is tax evasion. Many people do not want to pay taxes and try to figure out a way to get out of their financial obligations to the federal government. This doesn’t end well for most people. Tax evasion is a very serious crime that can result in significant prison time and hefty fines. If you are worried you may have committed tax evasion, speak with a Queens criminal lawyer for tax fraud about your options.

Reach Out to a Tax Fraud Lawyer Today

Finding out the IRS is investigating you for tax fraud can be a sobering moment. You may not immediately know what to do or how to handle this situation. Trying to deal with it alone might be a grave mistake that could result in losing quite a lot. You should consider reaching out to an experienced tax fraud lawyer who can provide you with solid legal assistance.

The legal team at The Vitaliano Law Firm understands the kind of legal help you will need to challenge a charge of tax fraud. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our valued team members today and take the first step toward creating a defense.