Specialist tax investigation solicitors for HMRC enquiries, criminal tax investigations and compliance defence. Expert representation and protection.
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Facing an HMRC investigation can be frightening and overwhelming, with potentially serious financial and personal consequences. Our specialist tax investigation solicitors provide expert representation to protect your rights, minimise penalties, and achieve the best possible outcome during tax enquiries and investigations.
Civil Investigations:
Criminal Investigations:
Tax investigations are complex legal proceedings where:
Professional representation during tax investigations can mean the difference between minor adjustments and devastating financial penalties or criminal prosecution.
This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your tax investigation situation, please consult with a qualified tax investigation solicitor.
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Find Your SolicitorCommon questions about tax investigations and how our solicitors can help
If you receive an HMRC investigation letter, don't panic but act quickly. Contact a specialist tax investigation solicitor immediately before responding. Don't communicate directly with HMRC. Gather all relevant documents and records. Understand your rights and obligations. Professional representation from the start significantly improves outcomes and protects your interests throughout the process.
HMRC investigations include: compliance checks (routine reviews), aspect enquiries (specific areas), full enquiries (comprehensive reviews), discovery assessments (alleged under-declarations), criminal investigations (serious fraud cases), and Code of Practice 9 investigations (suspected fraud with cooperation opportunity). Each type has different procedures and potential consequences requiring specialist legal advice.
Yes, HMRC can search business and residential premises with appropriate warrants for serious cases. They can seize documents, computers, and other evidence. You have rights during searches including legal representation, witnessing the search, and challenging seizures. If HMRC arrive unexpectedly, contact a specialist solicitor immediately for urgent assistance and protection of your rights.
HMRC investigations typically take 12-18 months for routine cases, but complex investigations can take several years. The investigation ends with HMRC either closing the enquiry with no changes, agreeing adjustments and any penalties, or making formal assessments you can appeal. Professional representation helps expedite the process and achieve optimal outcomes.
HMRC can impose various penalties: inaccuracy penalties (up to 100% of unpaid tax), failure to notify penalties (up to 100%), late filing penalties, late payment penalties, and in serious cases, criminal prosecution leading to unlimited fines and imprisonment. The penalty amount depends on the behaviour involved and cooperation with the investigation.
Cooperation with HMRC investigations is generally advisable and can result in penalty reductions. However, cooperation must be managed professionally to protect your interests. This includes providing accurate information, meeting reasonable deadlines, and engaging constructively while ensuring HMRC follows proper procedures. Professional representation ensures appropriate cooperation levels.
Yes, most tax investigations are settled through negotiation with HMRC without formal tribunal proceedings. Settlement can involve agreeing tax adjustments, penalty amounts, and payment terms. Professional negotiation often achieves better outcomes than tribunal proceedings, saving time and costs while providing certainty. Your solicitor will advise whether settlement or tribunal is preferable for your case.
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