Daytona Beach Attorneys Avoid Tax Crimes Convictions
Finding yourself facing tax evasion charges can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. However, with the right legal representation, it is possible to avoid harsh convictions in Florida. This article will provide an overview of tax crimes, potential defenses, and how an experienced Daytona Beach tax attorney can help protect your rights and freedom.
Understanding Tax Evasion Charges
Tax evasion, also known as tax fraud, involves intentionally failing to pay taxes owed or deliberately under-reporting income to reduce tax liability. Common examples include:
- Failing to file an income tax return
- Under-reporting business or self-employment income
- Claiming false deductions or exemptions
- Hiding money in offshore bank accounts
If convicted of tax evasion, penalties can be severe, including hefty fines and years in federal prison. That’s why working with an attorney experienced in defending tax crimes is critical from the very start of your case.
Building a Strong Defense Against Tax Charges
Skilled Daytona Beach tax attorneys like Hager & Schwartz know how to build a meticulous defense to avoid harsh penalties. Here are some of the most effective legal defenses they may use:
Lack of Criminal Intent
One of the key elements prosecutors must prove is that you deliberately and knowingly evaded paying taxes you owed. Your attorney can argue there was no criminal intent on your part and cast reasonable doubt.
Reliance on a Tax Professional
If you made a mistake relying on an accountant or tax preparer’s advice, your attorney can argue you acted in good faith without intention to break tax laws.
Statute of Limitations
There are strict time limits on how long after an alleged tax crime the IRS can charge you. An attorney can get charges dismissed if the statute of limitations has expired.
Negotiating with Prosecutors
Rather than risk trial, your lawyer may be able to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or punishments through plea bargaining. This can result in avoiding years behind bars in exchange for fines, probation, community service or restitution.
How an Experienced Tax Attorney Can Defend You
Facing tax evasion charges puts your money, freedom, and reputation on the line. Key ways a skilled Daytona Beach tax defense lawyer protects you include:
- Thoroughly investigating your case to identify weaknesses
- Finding errors or oversights by auditors
- Pinpointing procedural mistakes by the IRS
- Researching precedents from similar cases
- Developing a custom-tailored, multi-pronged defense strategy
- Aggressively defending your rights and seeking dismissal of charges
- Negotiating plea bargains where appropriate
Choose the Right Tax Defense Attorney
If you or a loved one is facing tax evasion charges, connect with a trusted attorney immediately. Top-rated Daytona Beach defense lawyer Brett Hager has over 20 years successfully defending complex fraud cases and negotiating favorable outcomes for clients.
For a free case review and consultation on building an aggressive tax crime defense, call Hager & Schwartz at (386) 693-1637 or contact them online 24/7. With an experienced tax attorney protecting your rights, you can avoid harsh penalties for tax evasion convictions in Florida.