Lafayette Tax Fraud Lawyer
Home / Lafayette Tax Fraud Lawyer
Our Services
Tax Fraud Attorney in Lafayette, LA
Tax fraud charges put your freedom at risk. Skilled legal help can change the course of what happens next. If you are under investigation, a dedicated Lafayette tax fraud lawyer can help bring pressure to the other side.
Criminal Defense Attorney in Lafayette, Louisiana
At Stockstill Defense Firm, we have proven results for clients facing charges in the 15th, 16th, and 27th Judicial Courts. We have handled hundreds of criminal defense cases in Louisiana, including complex tax fraud cases, and our legal team is confident in state and federal courtrooms. Our extensive experience brings a strong focus to every case.
What Is Tax Fraud?
Tax fraud in Lafayette covers a wide range of criminal acts tied to false information on tax filings. These cases often start with an audit. If fraud is suspected, it will be followed by a deeper investigation.
If you are being contacted about your taxes by a government agency, you could be under scrutiny. These cases are handled seriously by the Louisiana Department of Revenue.
This area of law is complex, and you should not answer questions until you have spoken to a criminal defense attorney.
Common Examples of Tax Fraud
Many people associate tax fraud with major corporations. Still, most charges come from small businesses or even individuals. Some of the most common actions that lead to tax fraud charges include:
Underreporting income
This can be done either accidentally or intentionally. Leaving income off your return can lead to charges.
Claiming false expenses
Exaggerating expenses or fabricated write-offs can raise red flags. This can look suspicious and lead to further investigation.
Failing to file
Some people never file a return for a given tax year. In some cases, skipping your filing responsibilities can be treated as a criminal act.
Using fake documents
Submitting altered documents is often charged as a felony.
Payroll fraud
Business owners may face charges if they misclassify workers. Errors in withholding taxes from employees can also be considered payroll fraud.
Lafayette has 5,113 employer firms. A portion of these are at risk when tax filings are not handled carefully. The total amount of retail sales in Lafayette in 2022 was $4,489,386. Business owners in Lafayette must comply with tax laws at every level. A small error can lead to a costly legal problem.
How These Cases Are Investigated
Tax fraud cases often begin with a pattern that stands out. From there, government agencies use things such as financial records to build a case.
Investigators can contact people who interact with you or your business, such as your clients. They look for proof of intent, and if they can show you knowingly misled tax authorities, charges may follow.
If your name is connected to a tax audit, you should speak with a Lafayette criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Potential Penalties
The consequences of tax fraud in Louisiana can be severe. Penalties depend on the amount of unpaid tax. If the conduct was willful, the penalties could be even greater.
The government does not take these charges lightly. You can face fines as well as jail time. For example, willful tax evasion under federal law can carry up to 5 years in prison.
A conviction could also affect your ability to operate a business. If you are charged, a Lafayette white collar crime lawyer can help you build a solid and effective defense.
What to Do if You’re Accused
If you are contacted by tax authorities, stay calm. Do not talk to anyone before speaking with an attorney. This also includes handing over documents. The government builds its case over time. The earlier you involve legal counsel, the more options you may have.
You can work with a Lafayette fraud lawyer to review your records, and they can respond to audits for you. This means they can negotiate before charges are filed.
The government has to prove that you knowingly committed fraud. If your records were obtained without a warrant, they might be excluded. Your lawyer may also question whether there was an intent to mislead. You may be able to avoid a trial with skilled representation.
Why Choose Us?
Stockstill Defense Firm has experience where it counts. We have over two decades of knowledge in criminal law. We aim to get charges dropped and reduced. Our clients say they feel supported at every part of the process. All of our cases are prepared with care and the attention they deserve.
FAQs
Q: What Happens if Someone Unintentionally Files Incorrect Returns?
A: If someone unintentionally files incorrect returns, it can lead to legal problems. There’s a difference between negligence and recklessness. The error might still result in penalties, but not be considered as serious if it was not part of a pattern. Getting an attorney involved can help reduce your legal risk.
Q: Do People Go to Jail for Tax Fraud?
A: People do go to jail for tax fraud. Sentencing depends on the amount involved. It is more likely to result in jail time if fraud happens over multiple years. Willful acts include using false Social Security numbers or hiding assets offshore. A conviction can mean spending years in prison, not just probation.
Q: Is It Worth Getting a Tax Fraud Lawyer?
A: It is absolutely worth getting a tax fraud lawyer. They can protect you from long-term damage and can advise you on how to avoid incriminating yourself.
A Lafayette tax fraud lawyer can deal with investigators on your behalf, can prepare a defense before charges are even filed, and, in cases that go to court, can serve as legal representation.
Q: What Defenses Are Available in a Louisiana Tax Fraud Case?
A: The defenses that are available in a Louisiana tax fraud case are numerous. You may be able to argue that there was no intent to deceive. That is important in most tax fraud cases. Honest mistakes in bookkeeping may serve as defenses. In other circumstances, the defense focuses on the state’s lack of evidence.
Find the Right Advocate – Hire a Lafayette Tax Fraud Attorney
Tax fraud cases require exceptional attention to detail and a sharp grasp of financial law. Working with a seasoned attorney helps you prepare the strongest defense possible. Schedule a consultation with Stockstill Defense Firm for an attorney who understands your concerns about your case and knows how to protect your future.
Schedule a Case Evaluation!
Your First Step Toward Building a Strong Defense.