Federal prosecutors can pursue criminal charges when they believe a person has willfully attempted to evade a tax obligation. Federal tax evasion charges in Florida can be very serious.
If you’re contacted by the IRS Criminal Investigation, subpoenaed, or notified about a federal inquiry, you need the help of an experienced federal criminal defense attorney to help you work through the investigation and understand your legal rights.
Federal Tax Evasion Charges in Florida
Tax evasion is a very serious criminal offense. Prosecutors must prove a substantial tax deficiency existed, the defendant committed an affirmative act intended to evade or defeat a tax, and the defendant acted willfully.
Tax evasion allegations involve conduct that prosecutors claim was meant to conceal income, hide assets, or avoid tax obligations. Investigators spend considerable amounts of time exploring these cases before filing charges.
The United States Sentencing Commission reported 360 tax fraud cases in 2024, which included tax evasion. Broken down, around $1 out of every $6 of taxes is unpaid to the government, and millionaires and billionaires in the U.S. are evading more than $150 billion in taxes, according to CNBC.
The government dedicates significant resources to investigating tax crimes, which makes it especially important that you come prepared when facing allegations. The first step is to hire an experienced Miami federal criminal defense attorney to help you navigate the legal proceedings and guide you through investigations.
Situations That Trigger Federal Tax Evasion Investigations
Many individuals are surprised when a civil tax matter becomes a criminal investigation. But there are common triggers for these investigations, such as:
- Unreported business income: Cash-intensive businesses often receive increased scrutiny. Restaurants, construction companies, medical practices, and similar companies can become the subject of investigation if reported income seems inconsistent with banking records or lifestyle indicators.
- Offshore accounts and foreign assets: Federal reporting requirements apply to many foreign bank accounts or other overseas financial interests.
- False deductions or credits: The government might investigate deductions or tax credits that appear unsupported by documentation.
- Payroll tax issues: When a business owner withheld payroll taxes but doesn’t remit the funds, it can become a target for both civil and criminal enforcement efforts.
- Cryptocurrency transactions: Federal agencies examine digital asset transactions. Unreported gains, undisclosed wallets, and incorrect reporting can draw attention from investigators.
How Federal Tax Investigations Begin
Federal tax investigations often start quietly. You may not even know you’re under investigation until evidence has already been gathered or third parties have been contacted by federal agents wanting information for your case.
Some common warning signs that you’re under investigation include:
Why Early Intervention Matters
Many people assume they can handle the investigation on their own or explain matters directly to the investigators, but any statement you make during the interviews can be used against you in your case.
Early legal representation can help keep you from making damaging statements, preserve your constitutional rights, and control your communications with investigators to prevent being overwhelmed. A lawyer can help you identify weaknesses in the government’s case and develop a strategic response to subpoenas and document requests.
Hire a Federal Tax Evasion Lawyer
The Law Offices of Barry M. Wax has dedicated decades to helping those accused of serious crimes create compelling cases and navigate complex legal proceedings. Barry M. Wax offers extensive federal criminal defense experience, strategic defense planning during investigations and prosecutions, and personalized attention for each case.
Because tax investigations can be so complicated, you need an attorney who understands how these cases unfold and the strongest way to defend them. The Law Offices of Barry M. Wax can help.
FAQs About Federal Tax Evasion Charges in Florida
How Long Do You Go to Jail for Tax Evasion in Florida?
How long you go to jail for tax evasion in Florida depends on the amount of tax loss, the defendant’s criminal history, and the duration of the conduct. Some defendants receive probation or shorter prison terms, while others receive longer sentences when multiple charges are involved. Courts may also order you to pay fines or restitution, but every case is different.
What Are the Various Defenses for Tax Evasion?
Some of the various defenses for tax evasion can involve a defendant acting in good faith reliance on accountants or tax professionals, a lack of willfulness to commit the crime, the government calculated incorrectly, or that the evidence is insufficient. Prosecutors must prove that a person willfully violated their legal duty, so disproving this is imperative for a defense strategy.
What’s the Difference Between Tax Evasion and Tax Fraud?
The difference between tax evasion and tax fraud is that tax evasion generally refers to willfully attempting to avoid paying taxes that are legally owed. This can include concealing income, hiding assets, or deliberately underreporting earnings. Tax fraud is a broader term that involves instances of submitting false information to the IRS, claiming deductions or credits that aren’t legitimate, or falsifying records, among other similar issues.
Is Tax Evasion a Felony?
Tax evasion is a felony. A conviction can come with time in federal prison, substantial fines, restitution, and court costs. The defendant may also be required to pay penalties and interest. Federal tax evasion allegations are very serious and can impact your employment opportunities, professional licensing, and financial standing. It’s imperative that you hire a federal tax evasion lawyer who can help you navigate charges and legal proceedings.
South Florida Federal Tax Evasion Lawyer
Facing a federal tax investigation can be very stressful, especially since it can escalate quickly. If you’ve been contacted by the IRS, received a subpoena, or believe you may be under investigation, reach out to the Law Offices of Barry M. Wax, located across from Mary Brickell Park.
Our team offers knowledgeable, experienced representation for individuals facing federal criminal allegations. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about federal tax evasion charges in Florida. Let our team help support you in challenging your federal tax evasion case.
