Obstructing Tax Administration Lawyer Somerset County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Obstructing tax administration under federal law is a serious felony that can lead to years in prison and substantial fines. If you are under investigation by the IRS or facing charges in Somerset County, you need an experienced obstructing tax administration lawyer Somerset County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these federal allegations.
Understanding Federal Tax Obstruction Charges
Obstructing or impeding the due administration of the internal revenue laws is a federal crime under 26 U.S.C. § 7212(a). This statute is broad and can cover a wide range of conduct beyond simply lying on a tax return. It criminalizes any effort to corruptly obstruct or impede the IRS’s work. This includes acts like destroying records, intimidating a witness, providing false documents to an auditor, or conspiring to hide assets. The charge is often brought alongside other tax crimes like tax evasion or filing false returns.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage | 26 U.S.C. § 7212(a)
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how federal agencies like the IRS build these cases. The key term “corruptly” means acting with the intent to secure an unlawful benefit for oneself or another. Prosecutors must prove this specific intent, which is a central point of defense.
Official Legal Resources
- 26 U.S.C. § 7212(a) – Obstruction of tax laws (Cornell Legal Information Institute)
- Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (Official Court Website)
Local Federal Court Process in New Jersey
Federal tax obstruction cases for Somerset County residents are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and heard at the U.S. District Court in Newark or Trenton. The process is markedly different from state court. An investigation by IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) often precedes any charges. This can involve interviews, subpoenas for records, and grand jury proceedings. If indicted, the case proceeds in federal court, where sentencing follows the strict U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
- Initial Investigation: You may be contacted by an IRS agent or receive a subpoena. Do not speak to agents without your attorney present.
- Grand Jury: The U.S. Attorney may present evidence to a federal grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment.
- Arraignment & Detention Hearing: If indicted, you will be arraigned. Your attorney can argue for release pending trial.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense team reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. If not, your case proceeds to a jury trial in federal court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will determine your sentence under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Obstructing Tax Administration
In federal court, obstructing tax administration is a felony punishable by up to 3 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 for individuals ($500,000 for corporations), and the costs of prosecution. Restitution to the IRS is also mandatory.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Tax Administration (26 U.S.C. § 7212(a)) | Felony | Up to 3 years | Up to $250,000 (Individual) | Restitution, probation, permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Tax Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a formidable combination of experience to federal tax cases. Firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results. We understand the high-stakes pressure of federal investigations and litigate aggressively to protect your rights and freedom.
Our Approach to Your Case
When you are facing an IRS obstruction charge, the defense strategy must begin immediately. We scrutinize every aspect of the government’s case, from the legality of the investigation to the specific intent required for a “corrupt” act. We work with forensic accountants to analyze financial records and challenge the alleged tax loss, which directly impacts potential sentencing. Our goal is to seek dismissal or reduction of charges, or to negotiate a resolution that minimizes the severe consequences of a federal felony conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7465
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Somerset County, including Somerville, Bridgewater, Franklin Township, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Warren Township, Watchung, Bernardsville, and Bedminster. We are accessible via I-287, Route 22, and Route 206. Facing an IRS obstruction charge? Contact an obstructing tax administration lawyer Somerset County for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “obstructing tax administration” mean?
It is a federal felony under 26 U.S.C. § 7212(a). It means corruptly obstructing or impeding the IRS’s work, which can include destroying records, lying to agents, or hiding assets during an audit or investigation.
Do I need a special lawyer for an IRS obstruction charge?
Yes. An IRS obstruction charge lawyer Somerset County with federal court and tax crime experience is essential. Federal procedure and sentencing are unique. A lawyer familiar with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines is critical for your defense.
What are the penalties for a tax obstruction conviction?
It depends on the specifics, but statutory maximums are up to 3 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which heavily weigh the financial “tax loss” attributed to the obstruction.
Can I be charged if I didn’t file a false tax return?
Yes. Obstruction is a separate crime from tax evasion or filing false returns. You can be charged solely for acts that impede the IRS, even if your underlying tax filings were accurate.
What should I do if the IRS contacts me?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a tax obstruction defense lawyer Somerset County. Anything you say can be used against you. Your attorney will communicate with the IRS on your behalf.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on New Jersey Federal Criminal Defense and Federal Criminal Lawyer Bergen County. If you are dealing with other legal issues, we also assist with Business Law in Somerset County.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
If you want to see how a Somerset County case fits into the wider process, our page on obstructing tax administration lawyer New Jersey covers it from start to finish.
Your case in Somerset 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 Somerset County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Somerset Vicinage (13th Vicinage), 20 North Bridge Street, Somerville, NJ 08876, telephone (908) 231-7000, 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 Somerset 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: Somerset County NJ lawyers directory · Obstructing Tax Administration Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Obstructing Tax Administration Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Obstructing Tax Administration Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.