Best Alaska Tax Fraud Lawyers

Alaska Tax Fraud Lawyers: How They Can Help You

Tax fraud and tax evasion are extremely serious crimes – which lead to very heavy penalties and jail time if convicted. In the state of Alaska, tax fraud laws are enforced by state and federal agencies. When you have an experienced Alaska tax fraud lawyer on your side, it can truly make all the difference if you’re being investigated or charged by authorities.

Below is an overview of tax fraud laws in the state Alaska, and how a knowledgeable tax fraud attorney can defend you in court. Depending on the level of the tax fraud, it can be a civil or criminal investigation.

Tax Fraud Laws in the state of Alaska

Under Alaska state law, tax fraud – also known as tax evasion – is criminally charged under Alaska Statute 11.46.190. This legal statute makes it a felony to evade paying Alaska income taxes by doing things such as:

• Filing a false, or fraudulent tax return
• Failing to file a tax return
• Supplying false, or fraudulent, information for your tax return
• Attempting to illegally get tax refunds

The criminal penalties under penal law AS 11.46.190 depend on the amount of tax owed or the amount of tax evaded:

• Less than $25,000 – Class C felony (up to 5 years in prison and/or $50,000 fine)
• $25,000 to $100,000 – Class B felony (up to 10 years in prison and/or $100,000 fine)
• Over $100,000 – Class A felony (up to 20 years in prison and/or $250,000 fine)

In addition to criminal penalties, the Alaska Department of Revenue can impose substantial civil fines of up to $25,000 for tax fraud.

Alaska tax fraud can also be charged under federal law by the IRS. It’s possible for tax fraud to be criminally prosecuted by both federal and state authorities. The main federal tax crimes you could be prosecuted for are 26 USC 7201 (tax evasion) and 26 USC 7206 (filing a false return). The penalties for federal tax fraud convictions can include up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. It is a very heavy crime and one which you don’t want to get prosecuted for criminally.

Hiring an Alaska Tax Fraud Lawyer Is Crucial

Facing tax fraud charges in Alaska can be extremely frightening and scary – this is no laughing matter. The penalties for tax fraud are severe, the IRS and state Department of Revenue have dedicated significant resources to prosecuting federal and state tax crimes. Having an experienced Alaska tax fraud lawyer can help even the odds – losing the fight means jail time, and more. Here are some key benefits of hiring an Alaska tax fraud attorney:

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

• Expertise dealing with complex tax laws – Tax law is very complicated.  Tax fraud lawyers understand the intricacies that prosecutors have to prove, and where the weaknesses in their case may be. It’s super helpful hiring a tax fraud lawyer, especially someone whose a former prosecutor.
• Assert your rights – When you first get notified of an audit or investigation – or are the subject of a raid, get interviewed, or face a potential criminal trial, your rights are essential. An attorney ensures your rights are protected at all stages of the criminal investigation.
• Avoiding self-incrimination – When you’re facing state or federal tax authorities, you could be compelled to provide documents, testimony and more that incriminate you. Any evidence you provide can be used against you. Your lawyer can interact with investigators on your behalf and make sure nothing you say or provide is used against you.
• Mounting a defense – Tax fraud accusations have to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Your lawyer’s in-depth investigation of the facts, and defenses, could get criminal charges dismissed or acquitted at trial.
• Negotiating with federal prosecutors – Even if the evidence against you is strong, prosecutors could agree to reduced criminal charges or sentencing recommendations in exchange for a guilty plea from you. Your Alaska federal tax attorney is the only person who can negotiate the best deal.
• Tell your story – If you’re convicted, skilled legal defense by your tax fraud lawyer could reduce your sentence or penalties.

When you select an Alaska tax fraud attorney, you want a criminal attorney who has proven experience handling state and federal tax cases. You should make  sure to ask about the lawyer’s specific work with criminal tax defense, including their trial experience and negotiation skills in plea deals. It’s important to hire an assertive and knowledgeable tax lawyer who gives you the best chance of a favorable result.

Fighting Alaska Tax Fraud Allegations

Alaska tax fraud allegations have to be taken seriously and handled in a timely manner. Just because you are being audited, or investigated, does not mean you will be criminally charged by authorities. And, if you are charged, there are several avenues to fight the accusations. There are some common defenses, and litigation strategies, Alaska tax fraud lawyers could use such as:

Lack of Criminal Intent

For a conviction to occur, federal prosecutors have to prove you willfully violated tax laws, and were intending on committing tax fraud. But mistakes on taxes can often happen. If your actions were based on a misunderstanding, or reliance on an accountant/tax planner, erroneous information, or lack of knowledge rather than criminal intent, it is not tax fraud – it is negligence, but not criminal.

No Tax Deficiency

If an aggressive auditor feels you claimed improper deductions, or underreported income, or made other tax return errors, they could assert you owe more taxes. But, if your Alaska tax fraud lawyer can show through evidence, and an understanding of tax law that your original return was actually correct, then there is no tax deficiency and no criminal tax fraud.

Violations of Your Rights

Allegations of misconduct by auditors or investigators, such as violation of your due process, illegal IRS/tax agency searches and seizures, racial profiling, or insufficient notice, could make any evidence gathered inadmissible in court – which weakens the prosecutor’s case. Dismissal of the case could result from this.

Witness Credibility

The strength of the government’s case hinges on witness and expert testimony. Weak witness testimony means there’s reasonable doubt.

Sentencing Mitigation

If convicted of tax fraud, skilled legal help is needed at sentencing. With documentation of extenuating circumstances and positive information about your work, family, and community service, it could persuade the judge to minimize your federal sentence and penalties.

Having an experienced Alaska tax fraud lawyer look at the prosecution’s case, create legal defenses, and represent you in legal negotiations or at trial – will give you the best chance of winning. Their intimate understanding of tax law, criminal defense, and dealing with state and federal tax agencies could make a huge difference.

Tax Fraud Penalties in Alaska

If you’re convicted of state tax fraud in Alaska, the penalties you face will depend on the amount of tax evaded and other factors. As mentioned earlier in the article, under Alaska Statute 11.46.190 the criminal penalties range from a 5 year felony to up to 20 years in prison. The federal courts can also impose substantial fines up to $250,000.

Prosecutors could also agree to recommend reduced sentencing as part of a plea bargain negotiated by your criminal defense attorney.

In addition to criminal  penalties, the Alaska Department of Revenue will look for substantial civil penalties against you for tax fraud. The criminal fines will be an amount up to triple the additional amount owed in taxes, plus interest of up to 15% annually back to the date the tax was originally due.

If you are pleading guilty or convicted of federal tax fraud under IRC 7201 or 7206, penalties could potentially include:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Fines up to $250,000 for individuals ($500,000 for corporations)
• Paying the total amount of tax owed, plus interest and penalties
• Community service

Only an experienced Alaska tax fraud attorney will have the skill and knowledge to minimize any criminal penalties, and defend against excessive civil penalties. Their advocacy could save you prison time, massive fines, reputation damage, and financial harm. With so much at stake, retaining a knowledgeable tax fraud lawyer is essential.