Tax / IRS Fraud

Tax fraud costs the government billions of dollars every year, and tackling this issue remains a priority for both federal authorities and local whistleblower programs. Erie County and the IRS have established incentives encouraging individuals to report tax evasion, aiming to hold accountable those who avoid their tax obligations.

Common Tax Fraud Schemes

Examples of tax fraud include:

• Illegally avoiding sales tax payments
• Fraudulently claiming credits
• Hiding or failing to report income while inflating deductions or expenses
• Conducting under-the-table payments or misclassifying employees
• Promoting or participating in false tax shelters
• Concealing income in offshore accounts

If you are facing an investigation for tax fraud, the experience can quickly become overwhelming. Federal prosecutors and IRS agents often go beyond examining your tax returns to question you about your finances in detail. This is the point when consulting an expert Erie criminal lawyer becomes essential. At Logue Law Group, we possess deep expertise in tax law and are prepared to defend your rights against federal authorities.

What is Federal Tax Fraud?

Federal law defines tax fraud as engaging in specific unlawful acts, such as:

• Filing false tax returns with inaccurate income reporting
• Submitting fake documents to the IRS
• Failing to file or complete a tax return
• Intentionally avoiding the payment of owed taxes
• Neglecting to collect employment-related taxes
• Conducting money laundering activities

There is often confusion between honest mistakes on tax forms and intentional fraud. During an audit, the IRS will focus on signs of willful misconduct but may misinterpret errors or negligence as deliberate criminal behavior. Their investigations often target actions like hiding assets, underreporting income, or being uncooperative during inquiries into illegal financial activities.

Typically, if you’re audited, the IRS aims to recover any unpaid taxes, along with penalties and interest. However, accusations of fraud can carry far-reaching consequences. Beyond financial penalties, you may face severe legal measures, including federal prosecution. Residents of Erie should consult an experienced Erie criminal lawyer to safeguard their rights. Additionally, if you’re under investigation for unrelated federal crimes, your tax returns are likely to fall under additional scrutiny. The government examines significant spending that exceeds documented income, as it could indicate unreported illegal earnings, leading to allegations of tax fraud and other crimes.

Penalties for Tax or IRS Fraud

If convicted of tax fraud, the financial and legal consequences can be devastating. Here’s what you could face:

• Fines of up to $100,000 for individuals and up to $500,000 for corporations
• Federal imprisonment for up to 5 years
• Responsibility for the full cost of prosecution, often resulting in debts exceeding the original owed amount

How an Erie County Tax Fraud Attorney Can Help

Prosecutors in tax fraud cases must prove that your actions were willful and deliberate. A knowledgeable Erie criminal lawyer from Logue Law Group will rigorously challenge these claims. Our team can help demonstrate to the judge and jury that your actions were unintentional, stemming from errors or an incomplete understanding of tax law.

Navigating fraud charges in Erie County is challenging, as you’ll encounter aggressive prosecutors and strict legal regulations. Our professional attorneys will explore every option available to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Whether you need a trusted Erie DUI attorney or counsel for financial legal matters, Logue Law Group is here to support you.

For a complimentary initial consultation with an experienced tax fraud attorney in Erie County, call us at 844.PITT.DUI or visit us online to schedule your session.