Tax Evasion Lawyers in Chattanooga
In Tennessee, "tax evasion" is a crime that involves a purposeful failure to pay the taxes that the taxpayer legally owes.
Usually, the strategy employed by tax evaders in Chattanooga, Tennessee 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.
"Tax evasion" should not be confused with "tax avoidance." Tax evasion is the act of knowingly attempting to get out of one's tax liability through unlawful 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 Chattanooga, Tennessee
Under the laws of Tennessee, as well as federal law, tax evasion is a very egregious criminal offense.
The penalties for tax evasion in Chattanooga 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.
On the other hand, if the prosecution can show that a Chattanooga, Tennessee taxpayer engaged in fraud, and knowingly failed to pay their taxes, a tax court will probably impose the most grave punishment that's authorized by law. This can easily involve jail time.
A Chattanooga, Tennessee Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help
An attorney in Chattanooga, Tennessee 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 really charges you with tax evasion, it cannot be stressed enough that you need the assistance of a seasoned Chattanooga, Tennessee 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.