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The Law Office Of Mark P. Rankin P.A.
877-620-0898
Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Providing Experienced And Steadfast Criminal Defense

Attorney Mark P. Rankin sitting on courthouse steps

Tampa Tax Fraud Lawyer Ready To Represent Your Interests

An investigation by the IRS can turn your life upside down. Federal prosecutors take these cases seriously and often treat them as part of broader white collar crime or money laundering investigations. If you’ve been contacted by the IRS or suspect you’re under investigation, it’s critical to speak with a skilled Tampa tax fraud lawyer as early as possible.

At The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., clients receive focused, strategic defense built on years of experience handling high-stakes federal criminal cases. From individuals facing audits to professionals accused of concealing large amounts of income, attorney Mark Rankin provides direct, detailed guidance to help protect your rights and your future.

Common Types Of Tax Fraud And Evasion Charges

Tax fraud doesn’t always involve a single act. In many cases, federal agents spend months reviewing records and communications before filing charges. These cases may involve:

  • Underreporting income
  • Falsifying deductions or expenses
  • Using offshore accounts to hide assets
  • Failure to file tax returns
  • Claiming false dependents
  • Payroll tax fraud or employment tax violations
  • Structuring deposits to avoid IRS reporting
  • Concealing income through shell companies
  • Business owners misclassifying personal expenses

Whether intentional or the result of poor recordkeeping, these actions can trigger an investigation. In some cases, the IRS will issue subpoenas or conduct interviews without clearly stating that criminal charges are being considered. If that’s happening to you, now is the time to get legal advice.

What To Do If You Are Under Investigation By The IRS

Facing an IRS investigation can be stressful and confusing. Whether you have received a notice from the IRS or suspect that you may be under review, it is important to take the situation seriously and act promptly. Handling the matter correctly from the start can prevent costly mistakes. 

The first step is to carefully review any correspondence from the IRS. Notices often contain critical information about the type of investigation and the documents required. Understanding exactly what the IRS is requesting allows you to respond accurately and avoid missteps. 

Next, consider these practical steps if you are under an IRS investigation: 

  • Gather documentation: Collect relevant tax returns, financial records, receipts and other supporting documents. Organized records make it easier to respond to inquiries accurately.
  • Avoid volunteering extra information: Providing unnecessary details can sometimes complicate the investigation. Stick to the information specifically requested in the notice.
  • Maintain communication: Respond to IRS requests promptly and in writing when possible. Ignoring correspondence can escalate the investigation and lead to penalties.
  • Limit direct contact without guidance: Before speaking directly with IRS agents, it is important to have legal guidance. Misstatements can have long-term consequences.
  • Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights during an IRS investigation, including the right to representation, the right to appeal and the right to privacy. Knowing your rights can prevent coercion or undue pressure.

While these steps provide a foundation, the complexity of an IRS investigation requires professional legal support. Attorney Mark Rankin can review your case, explain your rights and develop a strategic response that protects your interests. 

Having an experienced attorney helps ensure that communications with the IRS are handled appropriately, deadlines are met and potential penalties are minimized. 

If you suspect an IRS investigation or have already been contacted, do not delay in taking immediate action and involving a legal team, as it can influence the outcome. The firm is prepared to guide you through every stage of the process, providing personalized support and helping ensure your rights are fully protected. 

Does Everyone Go To Jail For Tax Evasion?

No. Jail is a possibility in serious cases, but not every tax investigation leads to prison. The IRS and the Department of Justice look at multiple factors, including the amount of money involved, how long the fraud occurred and whether the person cooperated. In some cases, penalties can be resolved through restitution or negotiated settlements.

What Happens If I Am Caught With Tax Fraud?

If the IRS believes you committed tax fraud, you could face both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties may include fines, interest and repayment of the tax owed. Criminal charges, on the other hand, can result in felony convictions, prison time, asset forfeiture and lasting damage to your reputation. The earlier you involve a defense attorney, the better your chances of containing the fallout.

What Are The Penalties For Tax Fraud?

Penalties for federal tax fraud depend on the type and scope of the offense. Felony tax evasion alone carries up to five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 for individuals. Other tax offenses can add additional charges and increase sentencing exposure. Sentences are often influenced by federal sentencing guidelines, which attorney Rankin understands in detail.

Federal Experience That Makes A Difference

As a criminal defense lawyer, Mark Rankin has successfully represented individuals in complex tax and financial crime cases across Florida. In 2023, he represented a client in federal court in Fort Myers charged with a multimillion-dollar business and personal tax evasion scheme. Despite government objections, the client was sentenced to just nine months in a minimum security facility. This result reflects attorney Rankin’s ability to navigate complicated financial cases with precision and professionalism.

When you work with The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., you work directly with an attorney who knows how to challenge IRS tactics, evaluate the government’s evidence and develop a defense strategy based on real-world experience.

Protect Your Future With A Tampa Tax Fraud Lawyer

If you’re facing scrutiny from the IRS or have already been charged with tax fraud, tax evasion or other tax offenses, don’t wait. The Law Office of Mark P. Rankin, P.A., provides experienced legal defense for clients across Florida dealing with serious financial and tax-related investigations.

Call attorney Rankin at 877-620-0898 or contact him online to schedule your free consultation. He is available to meet in Tampa, St. Petersburg or Clearwater – or virtually, if needed. Take the first step toward protecting your rights with a defense attorney who understands how to handle complex tax cases.