Tax Evasion Lawyers in Merced

"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 Merced, 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.

It's important not to confuse "tax avoidance" and "tax evasion." They are two different things, but some people mistakenly use them interchangeably. Tax avoidance involves using legal methods, such as tax deductions and exemptions, in a strategic manner, for the purpose of reducing one's tax liability. Tax avoidance is perfectly legal. Tax evasion involves fraud, and a deliberate attempt to avoid meeting one's legal obligations to pay taxes.

Penalties for Tax Evasion in Merced, California

Under the laws of California, as well as federal law, tax evasion is a very severe criminal offense.

In Merced, the punishments for tax evasion can range from a court order to pay back taxes, plus a small fine, and range all the way up to fines in the tens (or hundreds) of thousands of dollars, and imprisonment.

In most cases, particularly when the amount of taxes evaded is small, and it's a first offense, the punishment will normally be fairly mild. It will normally result in an order to pay the taxes the defendant owes, plus a small financial penalty. This is especially likely when it cannot be proven that the failure to pay taxes was purposeful.

However, if it can be clearly proven that a person or corporation in Merced, 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 Merced, California Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help

Tax lawyers in Merced, California can help anyone from an individual to a big business pay their taxes more easily, and comply with federal and local tax laws.

Of course, if you've really been accused of tax evasion, you should retain a Merced, California tax lawyer immediately. If you are innocent, a tax attorney will make sure you have the best chance possible at being acquitted.