Burlington County Lawyer for Aiding or Assisting in Preparation of a False Tax Return
Aiding or assisting in preparation of a false tax return is a serious federal offense under 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2) that can lead to felony charges, substantial fines, and imprisonment. If you are under investigation in Burlington County, NJ, for this type of tax fraud charge, securing experienced legal counsel is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Statutory Definition of Aiding or Assisting in Preparation of a False Tax Return
The federal statute governing this offense is 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2). It makes it unlawful for any person to willfully aid or assist in, or procure, counsel, or advise the preparation or presentation of a tax return, affidavit, claim, or other document that is fraudulent or false as to any material matter. This law applies broadly to tax preparers, accountants, financial advisors, and even family members who knowingly participate in filing a false return.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | 26 U.S.C. § 7206 (Cornell Legal Information Institute)
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to 26 U.S.C. § 7206 on the Legal Information Institute website. For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Insider Procedural Edge in Burlington County
While the charge is federal, initial investigations often involve coordination with local authorities. In the Burlington County Superior Court’s Law Division, where related civil or state charges may be filed, prosecutors work closely with federal agents. The key local procedural fact is that the Law Division of Superior Court handles contested financial cases, and mandatory Early Settlement Panels or non-binding arbitration can be part of related civil litigation. A defense strategy must account for both federal and potential state-level proceedings.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Contact our firm as early as possible upon learning of an investigation or audit. We will analyze the specific allegations, whether you are a preparer or an individual who allegedly provided false information.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: We will conduct a thorough review of all relevant financial documents, communications, and the tax returns in question to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Strategic Communication: We manage all communications with the IRS Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), the NJ Division of Taxation, and any other involved agencies to protect your rights.
- Defense Strategy Formulation: Based on the evidence, we develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the “willfulness” element, negotiating a civil resolution, or preparing for trial.
- Court Representation: If charges are filed in federal court or related matters proceed in Burlington County Superior Court, we provide aggressive representation at all hearings and proceedings.
Potential Penalties and Consequences
In Burlington County, a conviction for aiding or assisting in preparation of a false tax return is a federal felony carrying up to 3 years in prison and fines up to $250,000 ($500,000 for corporations) per count, plus the cost of prosecution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aiding/Assisting in Preparation of a False Tax Return (26 U.S.C. § 7206(2)) | Federal Felony | Up to 3 years per count | Up to $250,000 ($500,000 for corporations) per count + prosecution costs | Loss of professional licenses (CPA, tax preparer) | Civil fraud penalties (75% of underpayment), restitution, permanent criminal record, loss of government contracts, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to financial and white-collar defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a tax fraud charge and provide a case-specific, diligent defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results for this charge in Burlington County are not publicly listed, our firm’s approach to financial litigation is grounded in meticulous preparation and strategic negotiation. We have successfully defended clients against various federal and state fraud allegations by challenging the evidence of intent and knowledge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Burlington County Tax Fraud Charges
Our New Jersey location serves clients facing allegations in Burlington County courts. We are accessible to communities including Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Aiding or Assisting in Preparation of a False Tax Return
What does “aiding or assisting” mean under tax law?
It means knowingly helping someone else prepare or file a tax return that contains false information. This can include providing false documents, giving bad advice, or intentionally omitting required information.
Can I be charged if I didn’t physically sign the false return?
Yes. 26 U.S.C. § 7206(2) specifically targets those who aid, assist, or advise in the preparation of the return. Your signature is not required for a charge; your knowing involvement is the key element.
What is the difference between a civil penalty and a criminal charge for this?
Civil penalties typically involve monetary fines and interest. A criminal charge for aiding or assisting in preparation of a false tax return, like any tax fraud charge, is a felony that can lead to prison time. The IRS can pursue both simultaneously.
What should I do if the IRS contacts me about a return I helped with?
Do not speak to agents without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer experienced in tax fraud defense. Early legal intervention is important in shaping the outcome.
How long does an investigation for this type of tax fraud charge typically take?
IRS criminal investigations can be lengthy, often taking 12 to 24 months or more before a decision is made to refer the case to the Department of Justice for prosecution. The timeline depends on the scope of the case.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our New Jersey Civil Litigation hub page. We also assist clients in Burlington County with related matters such as business law and federal criminal defense. For defense in neighboring areas, see our pages for Camden County and Atlantic County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance regarding your situation.
For the full picture beyond Burlington County, our page on aiding or assisting in preparation of a false tax return cases in New Jersey covers the process end to end.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Immigration matters are federal: removal cases for New Jersey residents are heard at the Newark Immigration Court and applications are decided by USCIS. County criminal charges that can affect immigration status are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the federal Immigration and Nationality Act. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Aiding or Assisting in Preparation of Lawyer Bergen County · Aiding or Assisting in Preparation of Lawyer Hudson County · Aiding or Assisting in Preparation Lawyer Monmouth County.