Northeastern Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer

Tax evasion involves the intentional underpayment or non-payment of taxes owed. These charges can include:

• • Underreporting Income: Failing to report all sources of income on tax returns. This can involve deliberately omitting cash transactions or income from side businesses.
  • Inflating Deductions: Claiming false deductions or inflating expenses to reduce taxable income. Examples include exaggerating business expenses or claiming personal expenses as business deductions.
  • Hiding Assets: Concealing assets or income in offshore accounts, trusts, or through other means to avoid taxation.
  • Failing to File Tax Returns: Not filing tax returns altogether to avoid paying taxes. This is a straightforward yet serious form of tax evasion.
  • False Statements: Providing inaccurate information on tax documents, such as falsifying records or creating fictitious deductions.

Potential Consequences

Being convicted of tax evasion carries severe penalties, including:

• • Fines: Significant financial penalties that can be substantial, potentially reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  • Imprisonment: Long-term incarceration, with sentences ranging from one to five years for each count of tax evasion.
  • Restitution: Orders to repay the taxes owed, including interest and penalties.
  • Probation: Strict supervision and compliance with court-ordered conditions following release.
  • Reputational Damage: A conviction can severely damage your personal and professional reputation, impacting future opportunities.

Accused of tax evasion? Attorney Gelso understands the complexities and serious implications of these charges. As a dedicated and experienced criminal defense attorney, I am committed to providing you with a robust defense to protect your rights and secure your future.

Defending Against Tax Evasion Charges

A robust defense against tax evasion charges requires a strategic approach. Here are some common defenses that might be employed:

• • Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no willful intent to evade taxes, such as errors made in good faith or misunderstandings of tax laws.
  • Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the adequacy of the prosecution’s evidence, including questioning the accuracy of financial records and the credibility of witnesses.
  • Mistake or Oversight: Arguing that any inaccuracies were due to honest mistakes or oversight rather than intentional fraud. This can be supported by demonstrating efforts to comply with tax laws, such as consulting with a tax professional.
  • Statute of Limitations: Asserting that the charges are outside the legal time frame for prosecution, which is typically six years for federal tax evasion.
  • Reliance on Professional Advice: Proving that you relied on the advice of a tax professional and that any errors were the result of their guidance.

Proactive Legal Advocacy When Facing Tax Evasion Criminal Charges

Attorney Gelso’s approach to defending against tax evasion charges includes:

• • Thorough Investigation: Conducting a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, gathering evidence, and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
  • Pre-Trial Motions: Filing pre-trial motions to challenge the admissibility of evidence, seek dismissal of charges, or reduce the charges based on legal technicalities.
  • Strategic Negotiations: Engaging in strategic negotiations to reach the most favorable plea deal possible, if it’s in your best interest.
  • Aggressive Trial Defense: Providing an aggressive defense at trial, presenting a compelling case on your behalf.
  • Post-Trial Support: Offering support even after the trial, assisting with appeals, expungements, and restoring your reputation.

Contact A Northeastern Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyer

To schedule an initial consultation during regular office hours or evenings and weekends, fill out the firm’s intake form or call 570-763-0006 or toll free at 800-647-8311 .