Tax Fraud Attorney in Knoxville, TN
Facing allegations of tax fraud can be frightening, especially when your finances, reputation, and freedom are at stake. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Tennessee Department of Revenue (TDOR) aggressively investigate and prosecute suspected tax fraud cases. At Easter & DeVore, we provide knowledgeable, strategic defense for individuals and businesses in the Knoxville, TN area who are under investigation or have been charged with tax fraud.
What Is Tax Fraud?
Tax fraud involves the intentional act of deceiving tax authorities to avoid paying taxes. This is a criminal offense that can result in harsh penalties, including significant fines and imprisonment. Unlike civil tax violations, which may stem from mistakes or negligence, tax fraud requires the government to prove that the taxpayer knowingly and willfully acted to mislead or defraud the IRS or TDOR.
Examples of tax fraud include:
- Filing a false or fraudulent tax return
- Underreporting income or failing to report income
- Claiming false deductions or credits
- Keeping two sets of books
- Using fake Social Security numbers
- Altering financial records or documents
Even seemingly minor actions, if deemed intentional, can lead to criminal tax fraud charges.
Signs You May Be Under Investigation
Tax fraud investigations often begin quietly and can last months or even years before formal charges are filed. Some signs that you may be under investigation include:
- Receiving a summons or subpoena for financial records
Being contacted by IRS or TDOR criminal investigators - Unusual audit activity or in-depth questions during a review
- Notification of a referral to the IRS Criminal Investigation Division (CID)
If you suspect you are being investigated, do not speak with agents or provide documents without legal counsel. Anything you say or provide can be used against you. At Easter & DeVore, we intervene early in the process to protect your rights and prevent escalation whenever possible.
Legal Defense Against Tax Fraud Charges
Successfully defending against tax fraud allegations requires a deep understanding of tax law, financial documentation, and criminal procedure. Our firm works with forensic accountants and tax professionals to analyze your records, challenge the government’s claims, and build a strong defense.
Key defenses against tax fraud may include:
- Demonstrating lack of intent to defraud
- Proving the alleged error was due to negligence or misunderstanding
- Highlighting reliance on incorrect professional advice
- Exposing flaws or inaccuracies in the government’s case
When appropriate, we may also pursue civil resolutions or negotiate to reduce criminal charges to lesser offenses.
Penalties for Tax Fraud
The consequences of a tax fraud conviction are severe. Federal law allows for penalties of up to $250,000 in fines for individuals and up to five years in prison for each count of fraud. In addition to criminal penalties, the IRS or TDOR may impose civil penalties, back taxes, and interest.
Our goal is to minimize or eliminate these consequences through strategic negotiation, litigation, and strong legal advocacy.
Contact Easter & DeVore
If you are under investigation or have been charged with tax fraud in the Knoxville, TN area, contact Easter & DeVore immediately. We provide experienced legal defense and will fight to protect your future, your freedom, and your reputation. Schedule a confidential consultation today to discuss your case.
