Tax Evasion

Tax evasion cases come with high stakes – the possible penalties upon conviction can be severe.

I am California attorney Colin Hardacre, and I have helped many Calabasas residents in similar circumstances. With 15 years of state and federal  criminal defense experience, I know how to seek the best outcome amid federal tax-related charges.

When someone deliberately avoids paying their legitimate tax obligations, it can lead to tax evasion charges. Examples include:

Underreporting income
Inflating deductions
Hiding cash offshore
Destroying financial records
Filing falsified tax returns

Federal authorities, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division, prosecute tax evasion cases aggressively.

Yes, jail time is a risk. The severity of the punishment depends on the amount of taxes involved and other details of your situation.

Convictions can result in:

Fines: Significant monetary penalties.
Imprisonment: Jail sentences ranging from months to years.
Restitution: Repayment of the evaded taxes along with interest and penalties.

Knowing what is at stake can help you build a stable foundation for your defense.

There are several defense approaches to consider in tax evasion cases. Here are some examples:

Lack of intent: Proving you did not intentionally evade taxes can be a strong defense. Mistakes or misunderstandings in tax filings do not constitute evasion.

Insufficient evidence: The prosecutor must prove (beyond a reasonable doubt) that you willfully engaged in tax evasion to secure a conviction. Challenging the evidence can be effective.

Voluntary disclosure: Disclosing tax errors before an investigation may help to prevent criminal charges and harsh penalties.

Reliance on professional advice: Demonstrating reliance on flawed recommendations from a tax professional can sometimes absolve willful evasion charges.

A good initial defense strategy can reduce the odds of a conviction and the chances of severe penalties if a conviction does occur.

If you are facing tax evasion charges, trust me to represent your best interests. Call me at 818-661-2583 in Calabasas to arrange a consultation with a lawyer who will never give up on you.