Tax Fraud Lawyer New Jersey, NJ
If you are facing allegations of tax fraud in New Jersey, the stakes are high. Tax fraud charges—whether brought under state law or by federal authorities—can lead to severe criminal penalties, including imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. The prosecution must prove that you willfully attempted to evade a tax obligation or knowingly made false statements on a tax return. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients under investigation or charged with tax fraud throughout New Jersey. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, draws on years of multi-state experience, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work with him to develop a defense focused on the specific facts of your case. To request a consultation, reach our New Jersey location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Tax Fraud Means in New Jersey
Tax fraud occurs when a person intentionally evades taxes or deceives a tax authority. In New Jersey, this can involve state tax fraud—filing a false or fraudulent state tax return—or federal tax fraud under statutes such as 26 U.S.C. § 7201 (tax evasion) or 26 U.S.C. § 7206 (filing a false return). Because New Jersey’s tax system is intertwined with the federal tax code, a single set of facts can trigger both state and federal investigations.
State-level tax fraud charges are prosecuted in the Superior Court of New Jersey, Law Division—Criminal Part. The court may consider factors such as the amount of tax loss and whether the conduct involved sophisticated means. Federal tax fraud is prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of New Jersey, with cases typically filed in Newark, Camden, or Trenton. The investigative resources in federal matters—including IRS Criminal Investigation and the FBI—often lead to complex, document-heavy litigation. The firm appears in courts across the state, including the Hunterdon Vicinage in Flemington, the Somerset Vicinage in Somerville, the Morris Vicinage in Morristown, and the federal district court locations.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Tax Fraud Cases
Defending a tax fraud charge requires a careful examination of the government’s evidence and an understanding of the tax laws at issue. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, reviews the charging documents, tax returns, financial records, and communications between the taxpayer and the taxing authority. He works with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case—whether a lack of willfulness, a good-faith reliance on professional advice, or an error in the calculation of tax loss.
Pre-trial strategy may involve challenging the admissibility of evidence, negotiating with the prosecutor’s office, or seeking a pretrial diversion program where available. Because both state and federal tax fraud cases often involve parallel administrative proceedings—such as an IRS audit or a New Jersey Division of Taxation examination—the team works to coordinate the defense across multiple forums. The approach is tailored to the circumstances of each case; there is no predetermined timeline or outcome. The firm’s goal is to work toward a favorable resolution while protecting the client’s rights.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background as a former prosecutor provides insight into how the government constructs a tax fraud case. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience to tax fraud defense. Their collective focus is on thorough preparation and clear communication with the client. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys serve clients facing criminal tax charges in New Jersey state and federal courts. To discuss your matter, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What constitutes tax fraud under New Jersey law?
Tax fraud under New Jersey law generally involves filing a false or fraudulent tax return with the intent to evade a state tax obligation. A person who knowingly makes a materially false statement on a New Jersey tax return or who willfully fails to pay a tax due can face third-degree or second-degree criminal charges, depending on the amount involved. The offense requires proof of a willful act, not a mistake or an honest disagreement with the tax authority. A conviction can lead to imprisonment and restitution.
Can I go to jail for tax fraud in New Jersey?
Yes, a conviction for tax fraud in New Jersey can result in a jail sentence. State-level tax fraud is graded by the amount of tax loss. A third‑degree offense carries a potential sentence of three to five years, while a second‑degree offense may carry five to ten years with a presumption of imprisonment. Federal tax violations under 26 U.S.C. § 7201 can lead to up to five years in prison, and longer terms are possible if other fraud charges are present. The court determines the actual sentence based on the facts of the case.
How does a tax fraud investigation typically begin?
A tax fraud investigation commonly begins with an audit or a referral from a third party. The New Jersey Division of Taxation may flag a return for audit based on discrepancies in reported income, deductions, or credits. If the audit uncovers potential fraud, the case may be referred to the Division of Criminal Justice. At the federal level, IRS Criminal Investigation initiates inquiries based on tips, suspicious activity reports, or findings from a civil audit. Early engagement of an experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights before charges are filed.
What should I do if I am under investigation for tax fraud?
If you learn that you are under investigation for tax fraud, you should immediately consult an attorney and refrain from speaking with investigators without counsel present. Statements made to IRS agents or state investigators can become evidence in a criminal case. Do not destroy or alter records, as that can lead to separate obstruction charges. Gather relevant financial documents and share them with your attorney. An attorney experienced in tax fraud defense can assess the investigation’s focus and advise you on how to proceed.
How can an attorney help defend against tax fraud charges?
An attorney can challenge the government’s evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and develop a defense strategy based on the specific circumstances of the case. Common defenses in tax fraud cases include demonstrating that the taxpayer acted in good faith, relied on professional advice, or lacked the requisite intent to evade taxes. An attorney also reviews whether the government’s calculation of tax loss is accurate or whether procedural errors occurred during the investigation. The firm’s attorneys work to present the strong $1 available under the law.
How do I find a tax fraud lawyer in New Jersey?
You can find a tax fraud lawyer by contacting Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation. The firm represents individuals facing state and federal tax fraud allegations throughout New Jersey. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced in criminal defense and understand the procedural and substantive issues involved in tax fraud litigation. To discuss your situation with an attorney, call (888) 437-7747. All consultations are by appointment.
Related practice areas:
Hunterdon County Criminal Defense ·
Somerset County Criminal Defense ·
Morris County Criminal Defense ·
Bergen County Criminal Defense ·
Monmouth County Criminal Defense
New Jersey Superior Court vicinages ·
U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey ·
IRS Criminal Investigation
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