Tax Evasion Lawyers in Wickliffe

In Ohio, "tax evasion" is a crime that involves a deliberate failure to pay the taxes that the taxpayer legally owes.

Typically, tax evasion is accompanied by an attempt to make it appear to the government of Wickliffe, Ohio 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.

"Tax evasion" should not be confused with "tax avoidance." Tax evasion is the act of willfully attempting to get out of one's tax liability through illegal 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 Wickliffe, Ohio

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

In Wickliffe, tax evasion can result in anything from a comparatively small fine, and a court order to pay any back taxes as well as interest, all the way up to financial penalties in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, as well as jail time.

However, the punishments for tax evasion, particularly first offenses involving relatively small amounts of money, is not usually so severe, particularly when it looks like the failure to pay taxes was the result of an honest mistake, rather than deliberate fraud.

On the other hand, if the prosecution can prove that a Wickliffe, Ohio taxpayer engaged in fraud, and knowingly failed to pay their taxes, a tax court will probably impose the most grave punishment that's allowed by law. This can easily involve jail time.

A Wickliffe, Ohio Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help

Tax lawyers in Wickliffe, Ohio can help anyone from an individual to a big business pay their taxes more quickly, and adhere with federal and local tax laws.

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