Charged with Tax Evasion in Rockingham County? We Provide Aggressive and Strategic Legal Defense
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we don’t treat criminal defense as a transaction. We treat it as a mission. Our team is comprised of trial attorneys and a former prosecutor who bring aggressive, relentless representation to those accused of crimes. We specialize in White‑Collar Crimes and Tax Evasion, and we take your case personally.
Why Rockingham County Criminal Defense Attorney Matters
Whether you’re from Brentwood, Candia, Derry, Hampton, Portsmouth, or Salem, a Rockingham County criminal defense attorney with local knowledge makes a pivotal difference. Our deep familiarity with county prosecutors, judges, and courtroom culture gives us a tactical advantage from day one. That experience elevates your defense strategy, giving you the practical edge you need.
Understanding Tax Evasion & Related Charges in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, tax evasion isn’t just an IRS issue. It’s a serious state-level offense. Under Title LXII of the New Hampshire Criminal Code, a variety of financial misconduct—like falsifying records, fraudulent filings, or willfully avoiding taxes—can land you in hot water.
Statutes within Chapter 638 outline penalties for fraud, false documentation, and misapplication of property, all of which can elevate a tax-related matter into a felony-level charge. As your criminal defense attorney, we carefully analyze the statute sections that apply and build defenses tailored to minimize risk and preserve your future.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney Who Understands White-Collar Crimes
Tax Evasion cases are not like typical theft or drug cases. They are paper-heavy, complex, and involve close scrutiny of financial records, statements, and communication. Prosecutors often rely on evidence from audits, bank statements, emails, and testimony from accountants or investigators. That’s why hiring a defense attorney with experience in white-collar crime is crucial.
At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, we know how to approach these cases. We work with forensic accountants and tax professionals when necessary, and we examine every aspect of the case to find opportunities to challenge the evidence or negotiate favorable outcomes.
What to Expect When Facing a Tax Evasion Charge in Rockingham County
When you’re charged with Tax Evasion in Rockingham County, the legal process typically starts with an investigation. You may receive a letter, subpoena, or visit from a state department or law enforcement. In some cases, you may not even know you’re under investigation until charges are filed.
As your Rockingham County criminal defense attorney, we take immediate action to protect your rights:
- We engage with investigators or prosecutors early to potentially resolve the matter before it reaches court.
- We help you gather documentation and prepare statements carefully, avoiding self-incrimination.
- If charges are filed, we represent you in court and seek to have charges reduced or dismissed wherever possible.
- If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to trial with a carefully crafted defense strategy.
Our firm does not take a “one size fits all” approach. Every case is different, and we develop customized strategies based on the details of your case.
Common Defenses to Tax Evasion Allegations
There are many reasons someone might appear to have underpaid taxes that don’t involve criminal intent. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent – You must have willfully attempted to evade taxes. Honest mistakes or misunderstandings do not meet this standard.
- Incorrect Documentation – Inaccuracies in financial records may have been due to clerical errors or third-party mistakes.
- Constitutional Violations – If your records were obtained without proper authority, we may seek to have that evidence excluded.
Our goal is to minimize your exposure and protect your future, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea arrangement.
When Tax Evasion Charges Hit Close to Home
Being investigated—or worse, charged—with tax evasion in Rockingham County can feel overwhelming. Consequences may involve prison time, heavy fines, and damage to your standing in New Hampshire. Our job is to shield you from those outcomes.
We start with a detailed scrutiny of the charges. In many tax evasion cases:
- Prosecutors rely on audit findings that are sometimes flawed
- Recordkeeping standards are under the microscope
- The concept of “willfulness” becomes vital: Did you knowingly commit an illegal act?
We challenge every assumption. Drawing on statutes in Title LXII Chapter 638, we pinpoint what prosecution must prove and where they often slip up
A Realistic, Results‑Driven Focus
We don’t inflate promises. We focus on attainable goals:
- Dropping or reducing charges
- Securing non-criminal resolutions when possible
- Winning at trial, if that’s what the case demands
Because we’re rooted in Rockingham County criminal defense, we understand what judges and juries expect. You’ll benefit from our systemic insight and the confidence that comes when your attorney isn’t learning on the job.
Take the Next Step
If you’re facing Tax Evasion or any white‑collar allegation in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us now to set up a strategy session, and let us work with you to build a smart, protective defense. You’ll benefit from a Rockingham criminal defense attorney team that’s relentless, knowledgeable, and ready when you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for tax evasion in Rockingham County, NH?
Penalties depend on the nature of the offense—evasion, fraud, falsified records—but under Title LXII, could include felony charges, fines, and imprisonment based on severity and your criminal history.
Do I need a criminal defense attorney for a tax investigation in New Hampshire?
Yes. The differences between an audit and criminal prosecution are significant. A Rockingham criminal defense attorney protects your rights and prevents escalating consequences.
How does New Hampshire define willful tax evasion?
“Willful” means intentional or voluntary disregard of the law. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly filed false information or concealed income, not that you simply made a mistake.
Can I negotiate a plea for lesser charges in a tax case?
Often. By demonstrating our readiness for trial and highlighting weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, we aim to negotiate outcomes that limit your exposure.
What makes white‑collar crime cases unique in NH courts?
They require unpacking complex records, expert testimony, and audit procedures. Our firm specializes in navigating those complexities and simplifying them in court.