Over the last 12 months, the UK Government has increased its efforts to combat unlawful tax avoidance and tax evasion. Tax investigations are often very complex requiring a team of experts to support this process.
Tax investigations by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are often multifaceted, intrusive and high-value. The implications can be serious for both you as an individual and your business including financial penalties and custodial sentences. You therefore need a team around you who have the expertise and experience to guide and support you throughout this process. We will be there to take the stress and complexity out of this difficult situation.
The Government is continuing to support HMRC in its effort to clamp down on tax avoidance, evasion and other forms of non-compliance. Enforcement activity remains at its highest for several years and there are several new offences aimed at tackling tax evasion. These include a new corporate offence of failing to prevent tax evasion. Those who are identified as “professional enablers” such as solicitors, accountants and supporters of tax avoidance schemes are also under threat of prosecution. The UK Government will also be hoping that the implementation of the Common Reporting Standard over the next few years will strengthen their armoury.
Our tax fraud specialists have an impressive track record acting for individuals and businesses, particularly within the Financial Services sector caught up in HMRC investigations in the UK and internationally. This includes investigations into tax avoidance schemes and those related to alleged evasion of corporation tax, income tax and VAT. We have acted in some of the largest and most complex prosecutions brought by HMRC. And we always put our clients first, working with our colleagues and external advisors (such as forensic accountants) to ensure we get the best outcome for our client, which can often mean persuading HMRC to resolve any disputes. Our expertise enables us to spot whether a criminal case can be diverted away from prosecution to civil settlement. If this were to happen, we have the expertise to advise on necessary next steps.
In the event of an immediate crisis, for example suggestion of a potential dawn raid or arrest(s) of individuals, we have expertise to advise and assist. Our investigatory expertise means we can translate any legality of search warrants and advise on the appropriate next steps steps. We recommend that you instruct expert assistance as soon as you become aware of any investigation into your tax affairs.
