Should You Hire A Tax Attorney If You're In Trouble With The IRS?
If you fail to file a tax return when you earn a certain amount of money, you will potentially be charged with tax fraud, which can carry criminal penalties with it. If this is the case, you may need a tax attorney who can help you make a case for why you should not be charged with a misdemeanor.
Will the IRS Arrest You?
Typically, the IRS would rather work things out and get you back into compliance rather than arresting you. A tax attorney will assist you in taking the steps necessary to accomplish this. Your attorney will determine the specific issues that need to be worked out.
To be considered guilty of tax fraud, you must knowingly fail to file or pay for taxes. For example, if you were somehow not informed that you owed taxes, or you believe that your taxes were filed when they were not, you may be able to use this as evidence to have your charges dropped.
What Are Other Ways to Have the Charges Dropped?
The prosecutors will also need to prove that you willfully chose to not pay your taxes. For example, if you mailed your tax return and it was lost in the mail, you may be able to use this as a way to have your charges dismissed.
There is also a statute of limitations of six years for returns that were not filed. However, you do not want to rely only on this and will want to pursue all possible avenues for fighting your charges. For example, you might want to file an amended tax return for your failure to file a tax return.
An Attorney Can Communicate With the IRS on Your Behalf
You might be nervous when communicating with the IRS but you can always have an attorney handle your communications with the agent. This is especially a good idea if you're confused about what the IRS is asking from you. Also, you'll want an attorney to assist you if you're concerned that your IRS tax issues could potentially turn into a larger issue.
Fortunately, if you are struggling financially to pay your taxes, you may be able to receive a free consultation from a tax attorney. Then, you will be able to get advice that will help you decide the direction you want to head in. Resolving your tax debts quickly will save you money in the long run.
Contact a firm like Harris Shelton Hanover Walsh PLLC to learn more.