Investigation and prosecution of tax preparers for allegedly abusive or fraudulent conduct can be a long time in the making. Even if the IRS is suspicious, it takes awhile to comb through the documents and get internal approval to move forward.
But then suddenly you may find yourself confronted by agents seeking to seize your files. All at once, you are facing the possibility of criminal charges that carry significant prison time and huge restitution orders.
At Brown, PC, we have the ability to help you respond effectively to this urgent situation. Led by attorney Lawrence Brown, a former trial attorney for the Justice Department’s Tax Division, our team of lawyers may be able to enable you to avoid charges. Give us a call today to discuss your particular circumstances in a confidential consultation.
What Should You Do Now To Protect Yourself?
The first thing you need to realize is that, without a skilled lawyer to defend you, you are likely in far over your head.
The government could have you and your business in its crosshairs. Agents could be surveilling your locations, seeking search warrants or coming into your locations in an undercover capacity posing as potential clients.
This is the time for you to make a plan for how to respond if federal agents contact you. Our law firm has the detailed knowledge and hard-won experience you need to take these steps, so that you can look to the future without living in fear of the consequences.
Beware Of Penalties Under 26 U.S.C. 7206(2) And Other Statutes
The criminal sanctions you could face are very serious. Federal authorities typically use a certain section of the tax code — 26 U.S.C. 7206(2) to prosecute return preparers and seek prison time.
Section 7206(2) gives a number of procedural advantages to the prosecution. For example, it allows the federal government to prosecute someone who willfully prepares a false return or other documents, without requiring the government show any evidence that tax is due and owing.
Prosecutors also often use 18 U.S.C. Section 287 to bring false claims charges against tax preparers in cases of fictitious or unknowing taxpayers. This can be advantageous for the government because it makes it easier to go after substantial restitution awards.
Why You Need To Take Action Now
Once a criminal prosecution swings into gear, the government is often dogged in its pursuit. The IRS Criminal Investigations unit has many tools at its disposal, such as the seizure of your bank accounts.
We urge you to act now in your own interest and contact our accomplished law firm for the help you need. Call our office day or night or contact us here.