Tax Evasion Lawyers in Edmond
In Oklahoma, "tax evasion" is a crime that involves a willful failure to pay the taxes that the taxpayer legally owes.
Normally, tax evasion is accompanied by an attempt to make it appear to the government of Edmond, Oklahoma 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 prohibited 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 Edmond, Oklahoma
Under federal and state law, including the laws of Oklahoma, tax evasion is a very egregious crime.
In Edmond, 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.
In most cases, especially when the amount of taxes evaded is small, and it's a first offense, the punishment will typically be fairly mild. It will typically 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 intentional.
But, if the government can prove that a defendant in Edmond, Oklahoma willfully concealed income, in order to get out of paying taxes, a court will most likely impose the heaviest penalties allowed by law, including enormous fines, and several years in prison.
A Edmond, Oklahoma Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help
An attorney in Edmond, Oklahoma 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 you find yourself truly accused of tax evasion, and are innocent, you should hire an Edmond, Oklahoma attorney with expertise practicing tax law, as soon as possible. Your tax attorney can help you defend yourself against the charges, ensuring that you have a good chance at being acquitted.