Tax Evasion Lawyers in Hammond
Within Indiana "tax evasion" is the crime of failing to pay the taxes that they owe.
Typically, tax evasion is accompanied by an attempt to make it appear to the government of Hammond, Indiana 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 Hammond, Indiana
Under federal and state law, including the laws of Indiana, tax evasion is a very significant crime.
The penalties for tax evasion in Hammond can range anywhere from small penalties to huge penalties, along with prison sentences of several years.
In most cases, especially when the amount of taxes evaded is small, and it's a first offense, the punishment will usually be fairly mild. It will usually 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 willful.
However, if it can be clearly proven that a person or corporation in Hammond, Indiana willfully attempted to conceal 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 Hammond, Indiana Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help
An attorney in Hammond, Indiana specializing in tax law can help you adhere with all the tax laws that apply to you, which makes it very unlikely that you'll ever be accused of tax evasion in the first place.
If the government actually charges you with tax evasion, it cannot be stressed enough that you need the assistance of a reputable Hammond, Indiana tax attorney. Assuming you're actually innocent, your tax lawyer can help you prepare a defense, and ensure that you have a good chance of being found not guilty. On top of that, they can make getting through such a difficult time much easier.