Tax Evasion Attorney in Winston-Salem
Facing Tax Evasion Allegations Is Overwhelming, But You Don't Have to Face Them Alone
If you have received a letter from the IRS or the North Carolina Department of Revenue, been contacted by investigators, or already been charged with tax evasion, you are likely wondering what will happen next. Felony tax accusations can put your freedom, finances, and reputation at risk.
In this situation, you need a calm, knowledgeable defense team that understands both criminal law and complex financial cases. At Beechler Tomberlin, our attorneys have spent decades defending people across North Carolina in high-stakes state and federal cases, including serious white-collar matters.
Our team brings over 50 years of combined criminal defense experience to every case, and our lead attorney, Christopher A. Beechler, is board-certified in both State and Federal Criminal Law by the North Carolina State Bar. We offer a confidential, free consultation so you can speak with us about your situation before making any decisions.
A criminal tax investigation requires the steady hand of a tax evasion attorney in Winston-Salem. Call us today at (336) 933-9406 or reach out online to discuss your situation in confidence. Remember, we are Certified Criminal Law Specialists, and we have the tools to fight for your future.
Understanding Tax Evasion Laws in North Carolina
Tax crimes are complex because they can be charged under various statutes depending on the jurisdiction and the specific nature of the alleged act. A Winston-Salem tax evasion lawyer must be prepared to defend against two primary fronts:
State-Level Tax Evasion
Under North Carolina law, "willful attempt to evade or defeat any tax" is a serious criminal offense. While many believe tax issues are merely civil matters involving back taxes and interest, NCGS § 105-236(a)(7) classifies willful evasion as a Class H felony.
This includes actions such as:
- Concealing assets to avoid payment.
- Keeping a "double set of books" for a business.
- Falsifying invoices or destroying records to hide taxable income.
- Filing a return that is known to be false in a material way.
Federal Tax Evasion
If the allegations involve federal income tax, the case moves to the federal system. Federal tax evasion is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison per count. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division is known for its meticulousness, often using "indirect methods of proof" to show that your lifestyle exceeds your reported income.
Cases often begin well before formal charges appear. An investigation may start with an audit, a referral from a civil examiner, or information from a third party. If a matter proceeds, you may face interviews, document subpoenas, search warrants, or a grand jury investigation.
For professionals, executives, and business owners in this part of North Carolina, an accusation of tax evasion can threaten years of work. We recognize that discretion is critical. When you work with us, we focus on protecting both your legal interests and your long-term standing in the community as we navigate the case together.
Why Choose Beechler Tomberlin?
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ResultsWe relentlessly pursue positive outcomes, measuring success not just by wins, but by the meaningful impact we make on the lives of those we represent.
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OriginalityWe innovate in our legal practice, crafting tailored solutions through creative thinking and customized solutions.
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IntegrityUnwavering honesty and accountability define our approach, ensuring steadfast representation and building trust with our clients.
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EthicsWe uphold the highest ethical standards, fostering trust and confidence through honesty, transparency, and respect for the law.
Penalties of Tax Evasion Convictions in North Carolina
The penalties for tax crimes in North Carolina are designed to be punitive and deterrent. A Winston-Salem tax evasion lawyer from our firm works tirelessly to protect you from the following:
- Prison Sentences: A Class H felony in North Carolina can result in significant prison time, especially for those with prior records. Federal convictions carry a statutory maximum of five years per count.
- Hefty Fines: Federal fines can reach $100,000 for individuals and $500,000 for corporations.
- Restitution and Interest: In addition to criminal fines, you will be ordered to pay the full amount of the taxes owed, plus compounding interest and civil fraud penalties that can equal 75% of the underpayment.
- Professional Impact: For business owners and licensed professionals in the Triad, a felony conviction often leads to the loss of professional licenses (CPA, medical, legal) and the inability to secure government contracts.
- Seizure of Assets: The government may use civil or criminal forfeiture to seize bank accounts, vehicles, or real estate they claim were used to facilitate or hide the evasion.
Why Choose Our Defense Team
Tax evasion cases are complex and often built over long investigations involving detailed financial records and questions of intent. Choosing the right defense team means working with attorneys who understand how prosecutors construct financial crime cases and who can navigate both state and federal criminal litigation effectively.
At Beechler Tomberlin, our attorneys have handled thousands of criminal cases across North Carolina, with substantial experience in white collar matters such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. That background is especially important in tax evasion cases, which frequently overlap with these offenses and rely on similar investigative techniques. Christopher A. Beechler’s board certification in both State and Federal Criminal Law further reflects focused training in this area.
As a boutique firm, we limit the number of cases we take so we can provide careful, discreet, and personalized representation. Peer recognitions, including AV Preeminent ratings and repeated Super Lawyers selections, reflect professional respect, while clients value our steady guidance and close attention to detail during a highly stressful and sensitive process.
At Beechler Tomberlin, we are here to help you. Experience the difference of personalized care and expertise that sets us apart. Contact us today to get started.
What To Do If You Are Investigated
Most people do not expect to be the target of a criminal tax investigation. It may begin with what looks like a routine audit, a notice regarding a prior return, or a phone call asking for records or an interview. How you respond in those early moments can affect the rest of the case.
Practical steps to take if you are contacted about possible tax evasion include:
- Limit what you say until you speak with a criminal defense attorney who handles financial cases.
- Do not destroy, change, or backdate any documents, records, or electronic files.
- Gather notices, letters, and emails you have received from the IRS or state tax authorities.
- Make a list of the tax years, businesses, and accounts that seem to be under scrutiny.
- Contact our team promptly to schedule a confidential consultation so we can help you plan a response.
When you reach out to us, we listen carefully to what contact you have already had with investigators and what records may be at issue. We can discuss whether you are currently treated as a witness, subject, or target, and what that typically means. Our goal is to help you avoid missteps and begin protecting your position as early as possible.
How We Defend Tax Evasion Charges in Winston-Salem
Defending against tax evasion charges requires a careful, detail-driven approach focused on intent, financial records, and how the government reached its conclusions. These cases often rely on complex documentation, and even small details can significantly affect how allegations are interpreted.
Our role as your tax evasion lawyer is to examine the evidence closely and test whether it actually supports a claim of willful tax evasion.
We begin by reviewing the charging documents, notices, and discovery to understand the government’s theory of the case. That includes analyzing how any alleged tax loss was calculated, which transactions are being questioned, and whether statements or filings are being taken out of context. Many defenses turn on issues such as good-faith reliance on professionals, classification of income, or lack of intent.
When appropriate, we work with financial experts, investigators, and forensic consultants to independently review records and electronic data. Throughout the process, we keep you informed, explain realistic options, and address how the case may affect your business, licenses, and finances, providing clear guidance as the matter moves forward.
Talk To Our Tax Evasion Attorney in Winston-Salem Today
If you are worried about a possible tax evasion investigation or are already facing charges as you live or work in or around Winston-Salem, you do not have to navigate this alone. Speaking with a criminal defense team that regularly handles serious financial cases can help you understand your options and start protecting your future.
When you contact Beechler Tomberlin, you can expect a confidential, no-cost consultation focused on your situation and your concerns. Call (336) 933-9406 or fill out our online form today.
