Both business owners and individuals can find it necessary to hire Chicago criminal tax defense lawyers. If the government suspects that you have willfully broken a tax law, you could find yourself subjected to fines and prison time. Consider the following common tax crimes and how to defend tax crime charges in Chicago.
Failure to File Your Tax Returns
Continually failing to file your tax returns can land you with federal charges and up to six years of prison time. This very serious charge is not one you should tackle yourself, but instead needs the assistance of Chicago criminal tax defense lawyers.
Deliberately Omitting Income
You can be charged with both under-reporting and completely failing to report income. Typical examples of omitting income include tips, landlord receiving payments, and freelance earnings. These serious charges can earn you prison time and serious fines.
Not Disclosing Offshore Assets
If you have any type of income or assets that are stored offshore, they need to be reported on your tax returns. The US government does have jurisdiction over offshore bank accounts, and you can face both civil and criminal charges.
Potential Defenses
When you are charged with a tax crime, you should understand that these charges are very serious. However, you may be able to prove that you acted without intent or without malice. Defenses against tax criminal charges include lack of willful intent and making a mistake. If the prosecution cannot prove that you owe anything you may be able to use that as a defense as well.
Contact North Suburban Legal Services LLC at their website for more information.
