Search Warrants and IRS Summons Powers in Tax Crimes Cases
In a previous article, we explained the basics of criminal tax investigations. In this article, we will examine further two investigatory methods available to the IRS.
Search Warrants
IRS Special Agents may request for a search warrant in certain cases. In order for a search warrant to be granted, IRS Counsel generally must first approve of the warrant request. The agent must also demonstrate to a federal judge or magistrate that evidence of a tax crime will be found on the premises of the taxpayer during the search, and the warrant must describe with specificity the place that will be searched, and any documents or items that will be seized. An agent must also show that probable cause exists that a taxpayer has committed a tax crime for the search warrant to be valid under the Fourth Amendment to the US Constitution.
Search Warrants are generally limited to significant criminal tax cases, such as cases involving large sums of taxes owed, and substantial fraud.
Summons Powers
IRS agents also have broad summons powers, available in both criminal and civil cases, under Internal Revenue Code Section 7602. IRS agents, however, may not conduct unnecessary investigations (IRC Section 7605). When important documents in a tax crime case are held by third parties, IRS agents may also summon third parties in order to obtain testimony about such documents, but taxpayers are usually supposed to receive notice of the summons (IRC Section 7609).
Contact Sherayzen Law Office for Help With IRS Investigations
If you are facing a criminal investigation by the IRS, contact Sherayzen Law Office for legal help. Attorney Eugene Sherayzen will review the facts of the case, outline an aggressive ethical defense strategy, and rigorously represent your interests during the IRS investigation.