Tax Fraud Lawyers

At Galbally Parker, our specialised team of tax fraud defence lawyers is experienced in constructing strategic defences for individuals and businesses confronted with accusations of intentional tax evasion or fraudulent practices. With a comprehensive understanding of tax laws at both the Commonwealth and state levels, we know how to deliver tailored solutions to address the unique complexities of each case. If you are navigating the complexities of tax fraud allegations, our firm will  provide steadfast support, guiding you through the legal intricacies while safeguarding your rights and striving  to achieve the optimal resolution for your case. 

What is Tax Fraud?

Tax fraud involves deliberate and deceptive actions taken by individuals or entities to manipulate the tax system, evade tax obligations, or falsely claim benefits. This illicit activity encompasses a range of actions, including underreporting income, inflating deductions, engaging in complex offshore transactions to conceal assets, and submitting false documentation to tax authorities. The intention behind tax fraud is to reduce tax liability or wrongfully obtain financial advantages. 

Tax fraud poses significant legal consequences. Authorities rigorously investigate and prosecute individuals or businesses suspected of engaging in tax fraud, with potential penalties including substantial fines, forfeiture of assets, and even imprisonment. As such, tax fraud is a serious offence with far-reaching implications for those accused.

Tax Fraud Lawyers for Commonwealth Matters

Tax fraud involves scenarios where individuals inaccurately report income or deceitfully claim benefits to the Australian Tax Office (ATO). The ATO investigates suspicious activities and conducts audits for flagged individuals. If fraudulent behavior is suspected, the case is referred to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP). The CDPP prosecutes cases of tax system exploitation, covering offenses from Goods and Services Tax (GST) manipulation to various schemes. Commonwealth Legislation criminalises tax fraud under the Commonwealth Criminal Code Act 1995, with Section 134 addressing related offenses. Conviction carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, emphasising the seriousness of tax fraud allegations and the legal consequences involved. Understanding these intricacies is vital for individuals navigating Commonwealth tax fraud cases.

Tax Fraud Lawyers for State Matters

In Victoria, tax fraud is a criminal offence under the Victorian Tax Administration Act 1997. One common form of tax-related offence is ‘tax evasion,’ outlined in section 61 of the Act. This section prohibits individuals from deliberately evading or attempting to evade taxes through intentional acts or omissions. The prosecution must prove specific elements, including intentional evasion of owed taxes through deliberate actions or omissions. Legal defences for individuals charged with tax evasion include disputing factual aspects or asserting a lack of intention to deliberately evade taxes. The applicable defences depend on the circumstances of each case. 

If found guilty, the maximum penalty for tax evasion is significant. For a body corporate, the penalty is a fine of 1,000 penalty units (equivalent to $165,220.00). In other cases, the court may impose a maximum of 200 penalty units (equivalent to $33,044.00), a two-year imprisonment term, or a combination of both penalties. Understanding available defences and the potential severity of consequences is crucial for individuals facing tax evasion charges in Victoria.

How Galbally Parker Tax Fraud Lawyers Can Help

In Australia, tax fraud is a serious matter, and both the Commonwealth and Victoria have implemented stringent legal measures to prosecute individuals engaged in deliberate tax evasion or fraudulent benefit claims. Facing accusations of tax fraud requires swift action, and individuals in such situations are encouraged to reach out promptly to Galbally Parker’s experienced team of tax fraud lawyers.

Galbally Parker’s legal professionals bring extensive experience in handling tax fraud cases, with in-depth knowledge of the complexities of tax laws at both the Commonwealth and Victoria levels. We are committed to constructing a tailored and robust defence to address the specific circumstances of each case. 

If you or your business is facing allegations of  tax fraud, Galbally Parker is here to provide support and guidance. Contact our legal team promptly to schedule a consultation, as proactive engagement with our team can significantly influence the course of legal proceedings and contribute to achieving the most favorable outcome for your case.