It’s important to understand that the Internal Revenue Service doesn’t want to throw you in jail. Criminal investigations consume a lot of resources: they take time and they’re expensive. If you or your business is facing IRS fraud charges, you need to make sure your case is handled properly by a seasoned tax fraud attorney in Newark. With all of that in mind, here are five more tips for staying out of jail.

1. Don’t lie. Failing to file and failing to pay can result in criminal charges. You know what else can? Lying to federal investigators and/or committing perjury. You have a right to remain silent – and you may want to use it – and we can help you determine if it makes since to do so.

2. Don’t be overconfident. While there might be a temptation to roll the dice and see what happens, once criminal charges are filed, you have to take the matter seriously. It’s rarely a good strategy to not hire defense.

3. Hire a defense attorney. Once a criminal investigation has begun, and after all the evidence is collected, the IRS special agent will determine whether to continue your case or recommend prosecution.

4. Read the fine print. The IRS Criminal Investigations unit secures approximately 3,000 criminal prosecutions per year. That’s a pretty big number. If you are prosecuted, you may be asked to take a plea. In some instances, that makes sense. But read what has been put in front of you and remember that you do have rights.

5. Understand that there is no Perry Mason. Last minute dramatics make for good TV but not in real life. There is no piece of evidence that is going to save you at the very end.