Grand Rapids Tax Evasion Lawyer

The federal government, the state of Michigan, and many cities and counties collect taxes as a means of paying public employees, paving roads, and funding schools. Since all government agencies rely on these taxes to function, the failure to pay properly levied taxes is a crime.

The act of avoiding tax payment, as well as making a false statement on taxes, misrepresenting income, and helping another person to cheat on their taxes are all examples of tax evasion. Any one of these actions may result in criminal prosecution.

A Grand Rapids tax evasion lawyer could help people who are facing tax evasion charges. A skilled fraud attorney could work with individuals to examine the alleged reasons for the charges, listen to their side of the story, and develop a defense to protect their rights in court.

Michigan Compiled Law §205.27 states that is it illegal for any person to not pay their taxes to the appropriate government agency. Specifically, this law punishes any failure to pay taxes to the state or local cities. This is different from a failure to pay taxes to the federal government. Unlike state cases, these cases are investigated by the IRS and are prosecuted in United States courts.

However, a simple failure to pay is not the only way a person can avoid their full tax burden. It is also illegal for a person to pay reduced taxes. People can accomplish this by claiming improper deductions, underreporting income, or illegally claiming dependents.

It is also illegal for a person to aid others in the commission of tax evasion. For example, tax preparers who enter information into a tax return that they know is false are just as guilty as the submitter of the tax return. In addition, a business that refuses or neglects to charge their customers sales tax may be guilty of tax evasion. Individuals or businesses who believe they may have committed tax evasion should contact a knowledgeable attorney to understand their options, even if they did not intend to break the law.

All instances of tax evasion are felonies. A conviction can result in a maximum prison sentence of five years, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. These consequences can have huge negative impacts on a person’s life.

It is essential that individuals who are facing tax evasion charges take the necessary precautions to protect themselves. They should consider hiring a Grand Rapids tax evasion lawyer to begin doing so.

Michigan relies on tax income to run its state government. As a result, the state will pursue anyone whom they believe has cheated on their taxes to the full extent of the law. This can include both the failure to pay a tax entirely and any attempt to pay less than the full value.

A Grand Rapids tax evasion attorney may be able to help. These attorneys work with people to defend their Constitutional rights in court. This includes arguing for lenient bail terms, filing motions to exclude evidence involving illegally obtained statements, and presenting a strong defense to a jury at trial.

Every stage of a case is critical and the consequences for a conviction can be harsh. Let an experienced Grand Rapids tax evasion lawyer fight for you. Contact an attorney today to discuss your case.