Tax Evasion Lawyers in Laguna Niguel
"Tax Evasion" refers to the crime of intentionally failing to pay one's taxes, as required by California law.
Usually, the strategy employed by tax evaders in Laguna Niguel, California is to try and make it look like they have less taxable income than they actually do. This can be done by failing to report income, concealing it, or fraudulently transferring property.
"Tax evasion" should not be confused with "tax avoidance." Tax evasion is the act of intentionally attempting to get out of one's tax liability through unlawful means. Tax avoidance is perfectly legal, and involves using legal strategies (such as taking advantage of deductions and tax credits) to reduce one's legal tax liability. However, someone engaging in tax avoidance typically intends to pay whatever they end up owing, even as they try to reduce the amount they owe.
Penalties for Tax Evasion in Laguna Niguel, California
Under federal and state law, including the laws of California, tax evasion is a very serious crime.
The penalties for tax evasion in Laguna Niguel can range anywhere from small fines to huge fines, along with prison sentences of several years.
In most cases, particularly when the amount of taxes evaded is small, and it's a first offense, the punishment will normally be fairly mild. It will normally result in an order to pay the taxes the defendant owes, plus a small financial penalty. This is especially likely when it cannot be proven that the failure to pay taxes was deliberate.
However, if it can be clearly proven that a person or corporation in Laguna Niguel, California intentionally attempted to hide income or assets for the purpose of getting out of taxes, a court will probably throw the book at them, so to speak. This can mean jail sentences measured in years, and fines in the six or seven figures.
A Laguna Niguel, California Tax Evasion Lawyer Can Help
Tax lawyers in Laguna Niguel, California can help anyone from an individual to a big business pay their taxes more easily, and comply with federal and local tax laws.
If you find yourself really accused of tax evasion, and are innocent, you should hire a Laguna Niguel, California attorney with experience practicing tax law, as soon as possible. Your tax attorney can help you defend yourself against the charges, ensuring that you have a good chance at being acquitted.