Tax Evasion Lawyers in South Elgin

Within Illinois "tax evasion" is the crime of failing to pay the taxes that they owe.

Usually, tax evasion is accompanied by an attempt to make it appear to the government of South Elgin, Illinois that one's tax liability is lower than it actually is. This can include concealing income, making fraudulent transfers of property, and other illegal activities.

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 utilizing 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 commitments to pay taxes.

Penalties for Tax Evasion in South Elgin, Illinois

Both federal law and the law of Illinois treat tax evasion as a severe criminal offense.

The penalties for tax evasion in South Elgin 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 South Elgin, Illinois deliberately 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 South Elgin, Illinois Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help

Attorneys in South Elgin, Illinois who practice tax law can help you stay in conformity with your tax commitments. This is a good way to confirm that you won't be suspected of tax evasion in the first place.

In the unfortunate event that you're really charged with tax evasion, it's imperative that you hire a reliable tax attorney in South Elgin, Illinois. 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.