What Does An IRS Special Agent Do?

The IRS special agents are federal law enforcement officers dealing with the US tax code. When there is suspicion of tax evasion or tax fraud, these agents will investigate and go undercover to discover the truth. They can recommend cases to court, make arrests, perform search and seizures, and freeze or seize assets. If you have been contacted by an IRS special agent, it is likely that you are under investigation for something criminal and you should reach out to an attorney immediately.

Can I Go To Jail For Not Paying Taxes?

You can go to jail for not paying your taxes if there is criminal intent behind the act. If you willfully evade, fail to file, or submit false information, you will likely go to jail. However, if you are unable to pay, the IRS has other means to work with you that do not include jail time. The big distinction is in whether you cannot pay or you willfully won’t pay. If you are unable to pay your taxes, but have filed all your returns honestly, reach out to a tax attorney who can navigate the complexities of tax debt with the IRS.

What’s The Difference Between Tax Evasion And Tax Avoidance?

The difference is in what is legal and what is illegal. Tax avoidance is legal and happens when you use strategies to minimize the tax you owe. For instance, claiming deductions and credits, structuring business deals to reduce taxable income, and choosing tax-advantage investments. Tax evasion is criminal and involves the willful act of lying or concealing information to avoid paying taxes. Tax evasion will land you in jail and result in fines of up to $100,000.

What Happens If I'm Convicted Of Tax Evasion?

Tax evasion is a serious federal crime that holds serious penalties. You could face up to 5 years in federal prison per count of tax evasion, pay up to $100,000 in fines, and face other civil penalties. Your assets could be seized, you could experience a wage garnishment, and you could damage your career and reputation. Because of this it is essential to have a tax lawyer on your side. At Silver Law, we can help you develop the best strategy for lower charges and penalties such as negotiating a plea deal.

Do I Need A Tax Lawyer Or A CPA?

Tax lawyers and CPAs do important work in the US tax field. However, they each have distinct roles that are helpful in different circumstances. If you’re facing legal trouble or the risk of legal trouble, you will definitely want the help of a tax lawyer. For instance, if you believe you’re under IRS criminal investigation, you’ve been accused of tax fraud, you receive a summons, Notice of Deficiency, or Notice of Intent to Levy/Seize Assets, you should reach out to a lawyer. Lawyers can also help your business planning or legal planning in a way that best benefits you when it comes to taxes. CPAs on the other hand are helpful in tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, small business accounting, and more, but don’t deal with the criminal and legal side of taxes.

What Are The Signs That I Need A Tax Fraud Lawyer?

There are some specific signs that you might be under investigation for tax fraud and should reach out to a lawyer. First, if you receive an IRS Criminal Investigation Notice. This could be letters from the IRS Criminal Investigation Division or contact from an IRS Special Agent. If anyone with a badge approaches you to ask just a few questions, speak with a lawyer first. You might also be asked for specific records that you don’t have or can’t justify. If this happens, contact a lawyer before the panic sets in to ensure the right steps are taken to avoid a crime.

What If I Haven’t Filed My Taxes In Years?

If you haven’t filed taxes in years it is not too late. You should reach out to a tax lawyer who can protect your rights and direct you in the next steps. If it has been many years, it is possible you will face some penalties and interest on the unpaid tax. Your lawyer will help you file past-due returns and will negotiate with the IRS on what you owe. Oftentimes, your lawyer can settle for less than you owe if you qualify for certain programs. They can also advise you on the statute of limitations and how it could impact your case.

Top-Rated Tax Attorneys In Salt Lake City

Experienced Lawyers Focused On IRS & Federal Tax Cases Near You

At Silver Law, PLC, our Salt Lake City tax attorneys bring over 80 combined years of experience into everything we do. Each of our skilled lawyers is equipped to represent clients facing all types of tax fraud charges and disputes with the IRS. As former prosecutors, Silver Law has the expertise and knowledge necessary to provide strategic defense and legal guidance for both local and national courts. Contact Silver Law for expert help against a variety of tax fraud charges and complications in Utah.

Salt Lake City’s Premier Criminal Tax Defense Law Firm

What sets Silver Law apart from the rest is that each of our Salt Lake City criminal tax defense lawyers carries experience as a former IRS lawyer. These experiences give us an edge and an advantage as we bring insight into exactly what the IRS is seeking and how they will present it in court. We work tirelessly to build individualized defense for your case. Schedule a free consultation today with our legal team.

Certified Criminal Tax Defense Law Firm Serving Escondido Residents

We Defend Against Serious IRS & Criminal Tax Charges, Including:

No matter what type of criminal charges you may be facing from the IRS, Silver Law is an excellent resource from start to finish. Whether you have been charged with tax evasion, tax fraud, tax evasion, or are in a dispute with the IRS, our Salt Lake City tax defense lawyers are equipped and ready to protect your rights both locally and nationally. Our goal is to achieve an optimal outcome for you with as little disruption to your life as possible. Silver Law PLC can successfully defend you against the following charges:

Allegations Of Criminal Tax Fraud

Tax fraud is considered to be a serious offense with strict penalties upon conviction. Consult with our experienced Salt Lake City tax fraud defense attorneys for aggressive representation and skilled strategy.

Criminal Tax Evasion Charges

Tax evasion includes a variety of charges such as tax avoidance, asset concealment, underpayment, and non-payment. Allegations should be taken very seriously and an attorney needs to be consulted immediately on your behalf.

Failure To File a Tax Return Accusations

If you or your business has failed to file a tax return to the IRS, our reliable tax return attorneys near you in Salt Lake City have the expertise necessary to fight for the outcome you deserve.

IRS Tax Debt Collection & Enforcement Defense

If you are contacted repeatedly about a tax bill but it remains unpaid, it will be sent to the IRS collections office where a private contractor will pursue your tax debt. Silver Law can help!

Skilled Legal Defense for IRS & State Tax Audits

Tax audits can bring stress and uncertainty whether you have paid your tax debts or not. Our Salt Lake City tax audit lawyers are ready to guide you through the process for an audit.

Aggressive Litigation In U.S. Tax Court & Federal District Court

Silver Law PLC is qualified to represent clients who have been summoned to court regarding tax litigation disputes. We provide sound counsel, aggressive representation, and strategic defense for our clients.

Assistance With Unfiled Or Back Tax Returns

Defense Against Underreported Income Claims

Legal Relief For Innocent Spouse Liability

licensed tax attorneys representing clients on irs tax collection cases

Trusted Legal Support For IRS Collections & Enforcement

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Speak With a Salt Lake City Tax Attorney Today

San Diego Criminal Tax Defense
7675 Hazard Center Drive, Suite 1525
San Diego, CA 92108

Former IRS Attorneys Fighting for You in Criminal Tax Cases

No matter how complex the allegations against you may be, the former IRS lawyers at Silver Law PLC are equipped and ready to defend your rights as a business or an individual. With over 80 combined years of experience with tax law, both as IRS prosecutors and defense attorneys, our Salt Lake City criminal tax defense law firm is an excellent resource. We are available 24/7 and dedicated to achieving optimal outcomes for our clients.

Avoid Harsh Penalties With A Skilled Tax Evasion Defense Attorney

Trust the Salt Lake City tax evasion defense lawyers at Silver Law to take your allegations as seriously as you do. Tax evasion is a serious matter, and you deserve to have the representation of an experienced attorney to ensure an airtight defense and optimal outcome.

Avoid Tax Evasion Audits And Penalties With Our Criminal Tax Attorneys

Professional Criminal Defense Law Firm On Tax Fraud Resolutions

Silver Law PLC is proud to carry five-star ratings and reviews from hundreds of clients who have found relief from charges and an optimal outcome in a tax dispute with the IRS. We have been awarded the AVVO Preeminent Rating for consistently demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity.

Strong Litigation For Criminal Tax Disputes Against the IRS

If you have found yourself in a dispute with the IRS and need expert legal guidance about how to proceed, reach out to our attorneys at Silver Law PLC. We are a team of former IRS prosecutors who know how to use that experience to help you find resolution.

Received A Letter From An IRS Special Agent? We’re Here To Help

Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Crimes

What Is An IRS Special Agent?

IRS Special Agents are highly trained detectives and government officers whose purpose is to investigate any individuals or businesses thought to be guilty of tax fraud. All income earned has the potential to become involved in crime and is therefore subject to the jurisdiction of the IRS. These agents are aggressive and thorough in their investigation, so it is vital to seek the counsel of an experienced tax attorney right away if you have been contacted by a Special Agent.

Can You Really Go To Jail for Not Paying Taxes?

Absolutely. While there are many criminal tax evasion cases throughout the United States, not every case is pursuable and punishable. However, the penalty for those who are caught and convicted is harsh. If convicted, you will be required to pay back all the taxes you owe along with penalties and interest, and you could face jail time of one year for every year you did not pay, up to five years total. With a reputable lawyer on your side, consequences could be minimal or avoided altogether.

What Is The Difference Between Tax Avoidance & Tax Evasion?

Tax avoidance refers to any action taken by an individual or business to lessen their tax liability and to increase the amount of return they get at the end of every tax year. Tax evasion refers to the complete failure to pay what is owed, or to the deliberate underpayment or non-payment of taxes owed. Both are considered serious fraudulent activity, with conviction leading to jail time along with hefty fines and penalties. Contact a qualified lawyer immediately if you receive notification of tax fraud charges against you.

What Happens If You're Found Guilty For Tax Evasion?

Individuals or businesses found guilty of tax evasion or tax fraud can face severe consequences, including jail time and large fines. Most tax crimes carry a maximum prison sentence of five years, and fines up to $100,000. If you are facing allegations of tax evasion, the best thing you can do is to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable about tax law and is equipped to defend your rights and find an optimal outcome for your case.

When Should I Hire A Tax Fraud Defense Lawyer?

What If I Haven’t Filed Taxes In Several Years?

Do I Need A CPA Or A Tax Attorney?

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“Jason helped our business through an audit. Having him there on our side was a great comfort! He has a answer/response to everything and was able to make sure that we were not penalized one penny!”

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