State Bar of California
Avvo
Super Lawyers
Martindale-Hubbell
TrustAnalytica

What are the Top Signs a Criminal Tax Investigation is Forthcoming? Part II


In this video, we will be continuing our discussion on what actions by the IRS may reveal a forthcoming criminal investigation?

If you are already in contact with an IRS agent, certain actions may tip you off that a criminal investigation may soon follow. While it is good practice to contact a tax attorney immediately upon being contacted by an IRS agent, you should definitely do so if one of the following scenarios occurs:

  • You have been selected for an audit and you know that the relevant tax years contain untrue statements or significant understatements of income.
  • Your bank records have been served with an IRS summons even though you volunteered to provide those records to the IRS yourself.
  • You have been audited and are in regular contact with an IRS agent. The agent then disappears for weeks at a time and will not return your calls.
  • Your accountant informs you that he has been interviewed by the IRS.
  • The IRS agent starts copying voluminous documentation rather than simply reviewing the documents you provide, and then returning them.
  • The IRS issues a summons to interview you, rather than simply asking you to come in for an interview.
  • The IRS agent mentions that he has consulted with a fraud technical advisor.

While this does not cover every situation that should raise an alarm, they do no give a good sense of the types of events that should trigger concern by a taxpayer. If you have any worries it's been better to reach out to us to see if your fears are justified.

One last tip: If an IRS agent shows up to interview you at your home early in the morning, and tells you that he is an IRS Special Agent, DON'T SAY A WORD. Call us immediately! You are almost certainly under criminal investigation.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
"Dennis, Meredith, and staff… As I reflect upon this year, there are a few individuals who have made my life much better. I appreciate and feel blessed for all the effort made on my behalf. Thank you very much…" KB
★★★★★
"Thank you for your good work in resolving my innocent spouse case. I will be forever grateful!" KB
★★★★★
"It is a pleasure to send you this check...knowing I have friends like you who are there to help!" HB
★★★★★
"Words can not express my appreciation. YOU DID IT!!!! I have dealt with and paid multiple people to resolve my tax problems, however you were the only one who was successful..." CB
★★★★★
"Your assistance is greatly appreciated and beyond the call of the average attorney who would not take the time. I will consult with you and refer whomever I can to you, whenever possible." EK