Tax Evasion Lawyers in Exeter

"Tax Evasion" refers to the crime of intentionally failing to pay one's taxes, as required by California law.

Usually, the strategy employed by tax evaders in Exeter, California is to try and make it look like they have less taxable income than they actually do. This can be done by failing to report income, concealing it, or fraudulently transferring property.

"Tax evasion" should not be confused with "tax avoidance." Tax evasion is the act of intentionally attempting to get out of one's tax liability through unlawful means. Tax avoidance is perfectly legal, and involves utilizing legal strategies (such as taking advantage of deductions and tax credits) to reduce one's legal tax liability. However, someone engaging in tax avoidance typically intends to pay whatever they end up owing, even as they try to reduce the amount they owe.

Penalties for Tax Evasion in Exeter, California

The laws of the federal government, as well as California take tax evasion extremely seriously, making it a crime.

The penalties for tax evasion in Exeter can range anywhere from small penalties to huge penalties, along with prison sentences of several years.

In the majority of tax evasion cases, however, the punishments are not so severe. This is particularly likely in first offenses, when the amount of money involved is fairly small. Minor punishments for tax evasion usually mean a small fine, on top of an order to pay whatever taxes the taxpayer owes. A minor punishment is most likely when the government has trouble proving that fraud was involved, as opposed to an honest accounting error.

However, if it can be clearly proven that a person or corporation in Exeter, California intentionally attempted to hide income or assets for the purpose of getting out of taxes, a court will probably throw the book at them, so to speak. This can mean jail sentences measured in years, and fines in the six or seven figures.

A Exeter, California Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help

An Exeter, California attorney who concentrates in tax law can help ensure that you are in conformity with all applicable tax laws, making an accusation of tax evasion less likely.

In the unfortunate event that you're really charged with tax evasion, it's essential that you hire a reliable tax attorney in Exeter, California. If you are actually innocent, your tax attorney can help make sure that you have the best chance you can of being found not guilty.