24/7 call for a free consultation 212-300-5196

AS SEEN ON

EXPERIENCEDTop Rated

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN TODD SPODEK ON THE NETFLIX SHOW
INVENTING ANNA

When you’re facing a federal issue, you need an attorney whose going to be available 24/7 to help you get the results and outcome you need. The value of working with the Spodek Law Group is that we treat each and every client like a member of our family.

Client Testimonials

5

THE BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR.

The BEST LAWYER ANYONE COULD ASK FOR!!! Todd changed our lives! He’s not JUST a lawyer representing us for a case. Todd and his office have become Family. When we entered his office in August of 2022, we entered with such anxiety, uncertainty, and so much stress. Honestly we were very lost. My husband and I felt alone. How could a lawyer who didn’t know us, know our family, know our background represents us, When this could change our lives for the next 5-7years that my husband was facing in Federal jail. By the time our free consultation was over with Todd, we left his office at ease. All our questions were answered and we had a sense of relief.

schedule a consultation

Blog

Do I Need a Tax Evasion Lawyer? How to Know

March 21, 2024 Uncategorized

 

Do I Need a Tax Evasion Lawyer? How to Know

Paying taxes is never fun, but it’s part of being a responsible citizen. However, sometimes mistakes happen on your tax returns or you get audited by the IRS and accused of tax evasion. Should you lawyer up or try to handle it yourself? Here’s what you need to know about when you need a tax evasion lawyer.

What is Tax Evasion?

First, let’s define tax evasion. The IRS says tax evasion is when you deliberately try to avoid paying the taxes you owe. This is different from tax avoidance, which is when you take legal steps to minimize your tax burden.

Some examples of tax evasion include:

  • Not reporting income
  • Claiming false deductions
  • Hiding money in offshore accounts

Tax evasion is a felony crime that can result in fines up to $100,000 and jail time up to 5 years. The more money involved, the harsher the penalties. So tax evasion is serious business!

When Do You Need a Lawyer?

If you’re worried you might be accused of tax evasion, having a lawyer can help protect your rights. Here are some signs it’s time to call a tax attorney:

  1. You get a letter from the IRS saying you’re being audited for tax evasion. Audits can turn into criminal investigations, so have an expert to advise you.
  2. The IRS accuses you of falsifying deductions or hiding income. A lawyer can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf.
  3. You’re worried past tax returns were incorrect. An attorney can review them and help get ahead of any issues.
  4. You actually did evade taxes intentionally. While not recommended, a lawyer can help minimize penalties.

As you can see, anytime the IRS gets aggressive about potential tax evasion, it’s smart to have legal guidance. Don’t try to handle it alone.

Benefits of a Tax Evasion Lawyer

Why is it so important to have a lawyer if you’re accused of tax evasion? Here are some key benefits:

  • They understand complex tax laws and IRS procedures inside and out.
  • They can negotiate with the IRS on your behalf to reduce penalties.
  • They can defend you if the case goes to tax court.
  • They know what strategies and defenses work best for tax evasion cases.
  • They can advise you on your legal rights and when not to answer IRS questions.

Navigating IRS accusations of tax evasion is scary. Having an expert guide you through the process can give you peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Tax Evasion Lawyer

Not all tax attorneys are alike, so it’s important to find the right one for your case. Here are some tips:

  • Look for a lawyer with extensive experience specifically with tax evasion cases.
  • Find someone familiar with your state’s tax laws.
  • Ask about their track record getting tax evasion penalties reduced or dismissed.
  • Make sure they can clearly explain your defense strategy.
  • Choose someone you feel comfortable with and can trust.

Don’t just go with the first tax lawyer you find. Vet them thoroughly first, just like you would for any legal situation. This is your future at stake.

What a Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Do

If you do get a tax evasion lawyer, what exactly can they do for you? Here are some of the most important ways a tax attorney can help:

  1. Review your case and identify any procedural errors by the IRS.
  2. Request delays in the IRS investigation to build a stronger defense.
  3. Present evidence and documentation that counters IRS accusations.
  4. Negotiate with the IRS for reduced penalties or dismissal of charges.
  5. Defend you if the case goes to tax court for prosecution.
  6. Develop an alternative narrative to tax evasion, like mistake or ignorance.
  7. Advise you on legal strategies like pleading the Fifth to avoid self-incrimination.

Having an experienced tax evasion lawyer on your side can make all the difference in how your case plays out. Don’t leave your fate to chance.

The Cost of a Tax Evasion Lawyer

Good legal help often comes with a hefty price tag, and tax evasion lawyers are no exception. Here are some cost factors to keep in mind:

  • Most tax attorneys charge between $200 – $500 per hour.
  • Simple tax evasion cases may cost $5,000 – $10,000 total.
  • More complex cases lasting months or years can cost $25,000+.
  • You’ll also have to pay any fines or back taxes owed to the IRS.

While expensive, a tax evasion conviction could cost you your reputation and freedom. Good legal counsel is worth the investment.

Alternatives to a Tax Lawyer

If you can’t afford a private tax evasion lawyer or want to save money, here are a few options to consider:

  • Enrolled Agents – Licensed tax experts who can represent you before the IRS for less cost.
  • CPAs – Many certified accountants also handle IRS negotiations and audits.
  • Taxpayer Advocate Service – The IRS’s own consumer advocate department to help with issues.
  • Legal Aid – May offer free or low-cost tax help if you qualify based on income.

Just make sure anyone you use has experience specifically with tax evasion cases. You need that expertise on your side.

The Bottom Line

Dealing with tax evasion accusations is daunting. Having legal representation can help reduce penalties and even get charges dismissed in some cases. Do your research to find an experienced tax evasion lawyer you trust. It’s worth the investment to protect your future.

The tax laws and IRS are complex, so don’t go it alone if accused of tax evasion. Get professional help. You’ll be glad you did.

Lawyers You Can Trust

Todd Spodek

Founding Partner

view profile

RALPH P. FRANCHO, JR

Associate

view profile

JEREMY FEIGENBAUM

Associate Attorney

view profile

ELIZABETH GARVEY

Associate

view profile

CLAIRE BANKS

Associate

view profile

RAJESH BARUA

Of-Counsel

view profile

CHAD LEWIN

Of-Counsel

view profile

Criminal Defense Lawyers Trusted By the Media

schedule a consultation
Schedule Your Consultation Now