Dallas Tax Fraud Lawyer

Dallas Tax Fraud Attorney

If you are going up against tax fraud charges in Dallas, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Whether you believe you’re under federal investigations or have already been indicted, it’s crucial to work with a Dallas tax fraud lawyer who can fight for your rights and interests each step of the way. Our team at Michael Uhl, P.C. is ready to bring its years of experience and knowledge to protect you or your business against allegations of fraud.

At Michael Uhl, P.C., our criminal defense group has a deep understanding of the IRS and local court systems and can decode the complex legal environment that surrounds financial crimes. We leverage a client-focused approach, working to understand your concerns and goals, as well as the specific details of your case. Together, we can develop an exhaustive and personalized approach that protects your reputation and your wallet.

What Constitutes Tax Fraud?

Tax fraud is defined as purposefully falsifying information on tax returns to avoid having to pay any taxes that are owed. Examples of tax fraud can include under-reporting income, hiding assets in offshore accounts, claiming deductions were credits that are false, using false employer IDs or Social Security numbers, and failing to file a tax return.

Not to be confused with tax negligence, tax fraud convictions can come with criminal penalties like significant fines and prison time. Tax negligence, on the other hand, can be addressed with corrections and penalties outside of the courtroom. Tax fraud can be elevated to felony charges, commonly prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in collaboration with the IRS criminal investigation division.

Why You Need a Dallas-Based Defense Lawyer

In Texas, federal tax fraud cases are typically handled federally and processed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. These investigations typically start off locally and go through places like the IRS Field Office, which is just across the street from the courthouse. If you have had an IRS special agent knocking on your door, the stakes are already extremely high.

A Dallas criminal defense attorney who is deeply familiar with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division and the Dallas court systems can help you optimize your legal defense strategies. They can fight to negotiate strong settlements, identify any weaknesses in procedures, and, depending on your case, help you avoid prosecution altogether.

Why Dallas Is a Key Region for IRS Enforcement

Dallas, Texas, continues to be one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States and an economic powerhouse. According to recent data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, in the year 2023 alone, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area produced $744.6 billion in GDP, accounting for roughly 3% of the entire country’s metropolitan portion of GDP.

From 2013 to 2023, there was a 2.9% compound annual growth in real GDP in Dallas, which significantly outpaced the U.S. metropolitan average of 2.5%. However, with financial growth comes increased scrutiny, particularly for industries that involve real estate, oil and gas, and private investments. Individuals and businesses in the area are seeing increasing federal investigations, audits, and white-collar enforcement actions.

Our Approach to Defending Tax Fraud Cases

At Michael Uhl, P.C., we are ready to do what it takes to aggressively defend your tax fraud case. We can look into whether agencies, such as the IRS, have adequate evidence of “willfulness,” which is a key element for any allegations on the criminal level. We can also question the admissibility of certain evidence, such as witness statements and financial records.

If necessary for your case, we can negotiate directly with prosecutors and the IRS to get your matters discreetly resolved. If your case goes to court, we are ready to fight on your behalf in federal court, leveraging key evidence like forensic accountants and expert witnesses, as well as our combined decades of federal case experience.

FAQs

Q: What Is Considered Tax Fraud Under Federal Law?

A: Under federal law, tax fraud is considered to be willful actions that are taken to avoid paying taxes, such as over-exaggerating credits and deductions, utilizing false documentation, failing to file a tax return, or under-reporting taxable income. This criminal defense is commonly prosecuted in federal courts, such as the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, located downtown in Dallas.

Q: Can I Go to Prison for Making a Mistake on My Taxes?

A: If you made an honest mistake on your taxes, you would likely receive civil penalties instead of criminal charges. However, if the IRS has reason to believe that your actions were on purpose, such as forged documents or hidden assets, you could face prosecution. By working with a dedicated tax fraud defense attorney, you can better understand what your risk level is and take steps to defend yourself against a potential prison sentence.

Q: What Should I Do if I’m Contacted by an IRS Special Agent?

A: If you are contacted by an IRS special agent, it’s crucial not to speak to them without having an attorney present. This is because any statements you make could be used against you in a court of law down the line. You should decline politely to answer any questions and get in touch with an experienced Dallas tax fraud defense attorney as soon as possible.

Q: How Can a Dallas Tax Fraud Lawyer Help Me?

A: A Dallas tax fraud lawyer can help you by determining the strength of the case against you, determining whether the IRS is able to prove that you had willful intent, and trying to get the matter resolved before any charges can be filed. If your case does end up going to federal court, we prepare to fight fiercely in the courtroom to safeguard your rights, freedom, and reputation.

Speak With a Dallas Tax Fraud Attorney Today

If you’re facing accusations of tax fraud in Dallas or surrounding areas, it is crucial to act right away. By getting legal counsel involved sooner, you can increase your chances of getting the matter resolved before it develops into a criminal case. We offer a free case evaluation and know how the system works here in Dallas.

Contact us today so we can help you protect your future.