Tax Evasion Lawyers in Lynchburg
Tax evasion is a crime in Virginia. Tax evasion involves intentionally failing to pay one's taxes.
Typically, tax evasion is accompanied by an attempt to make it appear to the government of Lynchburg, Virginia 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 intentionally 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 Lynchburg, Virginia
Under federal and state law, including the laws of Virginia, tax evasion is a very significant crime.
The penalties for tax evasion in Lynchburg can range anywhere from small penalties to huge penalties, along with prison sentences of several years.
Typically, an initial offense of tax evasion, if the amount of tax evaded is comparatively small, will not result in jail time or massive fines. This is particularly the case if the government has trouble proving that the failure to pay taxes was the result of willful evasion, as opposed to an honest error in accounting.
On the other hand, if the prosecution can prove that a Lynchburg, Virginia 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 Lynchburg, Virginia Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help
An attorney in Lynchburg, Virginia 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 Lynchburg, Virginia 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.