Get professional advice and assistance with
HMRC Tax Investigations
Facing an HMRC tax investigation can be a daunting experience, whether you are an individual, a business owner, or a company director. These investigations can arise unexpectedly, putting your financial and personal well-being at risk. At Leonard Solicitors LLP, we specialise in providing expert legal advice and representation to clients undergoing HMRC tax investigations, offering clear, strategic support every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with suspected tax evasion, underpayment, or other discrepancies, we’re here to safeguard your interests and minimise any potential penalties or reputational damage
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Criminal Law Solicitors for HMRC Investigations & Prosecutions
Our expert HMRC Tax Investigation Solicitors help individuals and companies deal with and prepare for an HMRC tax investigation with trusted experience and advice.
An HMRC tax investigation is an official inquiry into your tax payments made to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Usually, HMRC Tax Investigations are triggered following:
- a tax return
- a mistake
- random checks
- whistle blowing
- conflicting information from another source
If you can identify any irregularities or mistakes yourself, it may help you start with dealing with them. HMRC are usually reluctant to disclose any details of their enquiry at the outset. Even when HMRC are looking into your tax affairs, it is unlikely that they will notify you that you are being formally investigated. They usually begin with asking for more information about your latest tax return or a property transaction. You can speak to our HMRC Tax Solicitors for advice if you are concerned at this stage into what might happen next.
When accosted with a notification from HMRC, we recommend taking it seriously. In our experience, lack of response can have serious consequences. We find that early intervention often results in a much better outcome.
Our highly experienced HMRC Tax Investigations Solicitors can help you mitigate tax penalties by:
- Dealing with any correspondence from HMRC
- Providing you with advice on how to respond to HMRC enquiries
- Representing you at meetings
- Negotiating penalties
- Preparing for civil or criminal proceeding
UK tax law is always changing and has become more complex over recent years, especially for individuals and businesses with a large income or perhaps complicated investments.
If you are facing a HMRC tax investigation, we recommend seeking legal advice as soon as possible. Enforcement action by HMRC can lead to bankruptcy of an individual or PAYE and VAT security notices, which can render your business unable to trade.
Penalties following HMRC Investigations
Penalties can vary depending on whether you’re an individual or a business. They also differ from simple errors to deliberate and concealed tax returns on the following types of tax:
- Self-assessment tax returns
- PAYE, Income Tax and National Insurance
- VAT
- Construction Industry Schemes
- Corporation Tax
- Capital gains Tax
- Inheritance Tax
- Insurance Premium Tax
- Environmental taxes
- Petroleum Revenue Tax
- Stamp Duties
- Excise Duties
- Betting and gaming duties
Our HRMC Tax Solicitors will advise you on whether a penalty will apply to your circumstances and will do their best on mitigating penalties and charges brought against you.
If you have received notice from an agent of HMRC or are even concerned that you are being investigated by HMRC you should seek legal advice as soon as possible.
FAQ’s
Will I be interviewed by HMRC?
This depends on the severity of your case. Generally, HMRC will interview you under caution if you are being investigated for serious tax crimes. You should never go into an interview by yourself, instead, you should be represented by a specialist HMRC Tax Solicitor.
Will I get a prison sentence for tax reasons?
Mostly, serious tax crimes can result in a custodial sentence, and mainly involves tax evasion. It also depends on your transparency with any irregularities and how you cooperate. In these circumstances, it is highly recommended that you obtain professional advice and representation from a specialist HMRC Tax Solicitor, who can handle your case for you.
Will I have to pay a penalty for underpaid tax?
You will most likely be given a penalty in addition to the unpaid tax. Penalties can vary depending on the nature of the case and the circumstances involving irregularities. Penalties can vary from 15% to as much as 200% of the tax that you owe.
