When the IRS starts sniffing around your finances, life gets stressful fast. For most folks, it starts small: maybe a letter you shoved in a drawer, or an audit notice you hoped would quietly disappear. But for some, that snowball keeps rolling, and suddenly, you’re staring down the barrel of serious accusations like tax evasion.
Here’s the reality most people don’t hear until it’s too late: under Section 7201 of the U.S. Tax Code, intentionally trying to dodge your tax bill isn’t just frowned upon—it’s a federal felony. We’re not talking about a slap on the wrist for forgetting to file a form. We’re talking about accusations of willfully hiding income, cooking the books, or playing shell games with your assets. And if the government thinks they can prove it? You could be facing hefty fines, criminal charges, or even prison time.
But—and this part matters—the burden is still on them to connect all the dots. They have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you didn’t just make a careless mistake but took active steps to cheat the system. Sometimes that means digging through your bank deposits, analyzing your spending habits, or building complex “net worth” profiles to show gaps between your reported income and your actual lifestyle.
Unfortunately, by the time you’re in that situation, explaining that your accountant “handled everything” or blaming the person who filed your return rarely holds water. And waving around your Fifth Amendment rights? That only makes things worse in these cases. IRS agents don’t even have to read you your Miranda rights during an investigation—but make no mistake, they are building a case the moment they knock on your door.
If this sounds heavy, that’s because it is. But here’s the good news: there are highly skilled criminal tax attorneys across the country whose job is to untangle these messes, protect your rights, and—when possible—keep you out of courtrooms or handcuffs.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the Top 10 Criminal Tax Attorneys in the USA for 2025—proven experts with the skills, experience, and courtroom grit to help when your future’s on the line.
Read More: Filing Taxes with Multiple Sources of Income [Multiple Income Series]
Why You Need a Criminal Tax Attorney
The moment the words “criminal tax investigation” get attached to your name, you’re in unfamiliar territory. This isn’t something you Google your way out of. And it’s not the moment to lean on a general lawyer friend who “knows contracts” but has never stepped foot into the world of tax crime defense.
You need a criminal tax attorney. Here’s exactly why:
First, they know the system inside and out. A good criminal tax lawyer doesn’t just read tax code—they live in it. They understand how investigators think, how prosecutors build their cases, and more importantly, where the weak spots are. They’ve seen every version of underreported income accusations, offshore account scrutiny, and “creative” deductions that suddenly trigger red flags.
Second, they help you strategize fast—before the walls close in.
From your very first consultation, a criminal tax attorney starts piecing together your defense:
- They review your tax situation in detail, no judgment—just facts
- They lay out the potential consequences clearly, so there are no surprises
- They analyze what evidence exists, and where the government’s case might fall short
- They explain your legal rights, and your real options—not sugar-coated, but honest
Everything you tell your tax attorney is protected by attorney-client privilege. That means you can (and should) be 100% honest. Holding back details only weakens your defense. Your conversations are private, locked down, and can’t be used against you later.
But it doesn’t stop there. The best criminal tax attorneys bring in backup. Defending against the IRS isn’t a solo mission. They tap forensic accountants, investigators, tax consultants—building a team that digs deep into your finances and uncovers details the government might’ve missed.
Because a tax crime charge isn’t just about numbers. It’s about narrative—your narrative. And constructing that story, backed by facts, takes collaboration, experience, and the right legal muscle.
The IRS has resources, time, and a scary-good conviction rate. But with a seasoned criminal tax attorney in your corner—one who knows the system, protects your rights, and builds a real defense—you stand a fighting chance.
Waiting only makes the mountain steeper. If you’re facing tax crime accusations, now’s the time to get that defense in place. No guesswork. No DIY. Just the right team on your side.
Top 08 Criminal Tax Attorneys and Firms in the USA (2025)
Now that you know why you need a criminal tax attorney, let’s break down the top criminal tax attorneys and firms in the USA for 2025—who they are, what they’ve achieved, and why they matter.
1. Caplin & Drysdale, Chartered (Band 1 – Criminal Tax Defense)
Caplin & Drysdale is more than a Washington, D.C.–based tax boutique—they’re a law firm offering both civil and criminal tax defense worldwide. Whether you’re dealing with IRS audits, voluntary disclosures, or full-scale criminal investigations, they’ve got one of the deepest benches you’ll find. Their international experience spans the U.S., Brazil, Australia, Europe and beyond.
Proven Chambers Ranking
They earned a prestigious Band 1 ranking in Chambers USA for Tax: Fraud – a spot reserved for firms consistently praised by clients and peers alike. Multiple attorneys were named in the 2025 edition—the kind of independent recognition that matters.
The Key Players
- Cono R. Namorato : He is a man who literally helped shape how the IRS prosecutes tax crime. Cono served as the Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the DOJ Tax Division in the late ’70s and later led the IRS’s Office of Professional Responsibility, where he oversaw practitioner conduct. He’s been on both sides of the courtroom—first laying the law, then defending against it. Colleagues describe him as “a pinnacle of integrity,” and with more than four decades at Caplin & Drysdale, he brings unmatched gravitas to any client facing serious tax scrutiny .
- Scott D. Michel: Over 40 years, he’s navigated insider tax cases involving unreported foreign accounts, cryptic tax shelters, and even cryptocurrency. His leadership roles—serving eight years as firm president and just wrapping a term as Chair of the ABA’s Tax Section—say it all. He’s even earned the Jules Ritholz Merit Award for legal excellence in tax controversy. Clients know him as someone who sees the angles most don’t—and wins.
- H. David Rosenbloom & Mark Matthews: These two are the go‑to team when your case involves offshore bank accounts or multi-jurisdictional tax structures. Chambers highlights their deep expertise in international tax enforcement.—and with global financial institutions increasingly under IRS’s watch, their guidance is invaluable.
- Niles Elber: Not every attorney makes it to the Chambers rankings, let alone Band 4. Niles did, earning that honor for his work in both civil and criminal tax cases. He knows exactly how to untangle IRS audits, build persuasive appeals, and protect clients in federal court. His inclusion in the firm adds yet another layer of strength when pressure mounts.
2. Chamberlain Hrdlicka, LLP (Band 1 – Tax Fraud & Criminal Tax Defense)
Founded in 1965 by former DOJ Tax Division attorneys, this firm was created to defend clients in serious tax matters—by people who once prosecuted them. That pedigree gives them insider knowledge: they understand how investigations unfold and how prosecutors build cases.
Proven Chambers Ranking
Chambers USA has consistently recognized them as one of only six U.S. firms in Band 1 for Tax Fraud nationwide, with a national Band 2 in Tax Controversy. Their tax group’s reputation isn’t just local—it spans Texas, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and beyond.
Key Players at the Core of Chamberlain Hrdlicka
Following are the people who make this firm stand out when the IRS comes knocking.
- Larry A. Campagna: Larry isn’t just another tax litigator—he’s built a career taking on massive, precedent-setting cases. He led over 700 petitioners in one of the largest project cases ever in U.S. Tax Court and even secured attorney-fee awards in the Fifth Circuit. Chambers sums him up perfectly: “smart, personable… top‑class,” with a mastery of both legal details and strategy.
- David Aughtry: With more than 70 federal tax cases under his belt—including victories in the Tax Court, appellate courts, and even the Supreme Court—David is the kind of attorney you want when your case matters. He’s a trusted voice in legal circles, honored as a Star Individual by Chambers and awarded lifetime accolades by Georgia’s legal community.
- Kevin F. Sweeney: He worked as a top attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, where he led major cases against offshore banks and earned the DOJ’s Outstanding Attorney Award twice. Today, he helps clients facing tough IRS investigations, cryptocurrency issues, and offshore account problems. People who’ve worked with him say he’s sharp, confident, and knows how to stay one step ahead when big legal trouble is brewing.
3. Kostelanetz LLP (Band 1 – Criminal Tax & White-Collar Defense)
For over 75 years, Kostelanetz has built a reputation as “an expert tax boutique with significant strength in criminal proceedings,” according to Chambers USA. They’ve been recognized as Band 1 for both Tax Fraud and Tax Controversy, appearing across New York, DC, Georgia, and nationally.
Key Players Who Power Kostelanetz LLP
A great defense firm is only as strong as its individuals—and Kostelanetz’s standout attorneys bring credibility, experience, and real results.
- Sharon L. McCarthy: Ranked in Band 1 for White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations by Chambers, she’s described as “incredibly bright… the whole package in tense situations”. She flipped a major tax-fraud case where her client was initially convicted, earning full acquittal on a retrial . She served for years as a U.S. Attorney in Manhattan and holds top-tier teaching credentials.
- Caroline D. Ciraolo: A former Acting Assistant Attorney General at DOJ Tax Division, she handles everything from IRS audits to criminal investigations. Chambers praises her as “the gold standard” who anticipates questions before they’re asked. She’s a published voice in Bloomberg Tax—and clients love her meticulous approach and insider insights.
- Bryan C. Skarlatos: With 35+ years of experience, he’s been ranked Band 1 for Tax Fraud and White-Collar cases. Clients say he “knows the tax code like the back of his hand,” stays “thoughtful,” and maintains a “smart reassuring presence” even when the IRS brings heat. From whistleblower laws to abusive trust schemes, he’s defended clients — and even testified before Congress and the IRS on penalties.
4. Freeman Law (Band 2 – Criminal Tax & White-Collar Defense, Nationwide)
Freeman Law may be rooted in Texas, but it’s a national—and even international—defender. They’ve represented clients across six continents and over 35 countries, from multi-million-dollar tax treaty issues to criminal tax prosecutions. They hold a Band 2 ranking from Chambers USA for criminal tax defense, along with a Tier 1 ranking from the U.S. News for tax law and litigation.
Key Player Who Powers Freeman Law
Their roster includes former IRS trial attorneys, chief judge clerks, law professors, CPAs, and LL.M. tax experts. Nearly a third teach at top law schools.
- Jason B. Freeman: Jason isn’t just any attorney—he’s a lawyer with CPA credentials, author, and law professor at SMU. He’s led his own firm since its founding, bringing an uncanny blend of legal acumen and financial expertise. Named “Leading Tax Controversy Litigation Attorney of the Year” in Texas in both 2019 and 2020, he’s earned consistent recognition from Chambers, U.S. News, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers. He’s headed headline criminal tax trials (including cases in the Virgin Islands) and restored millions of dollars for clients fighting FBI and DOJ probes.
5. Moore Tax Law Group LLC (Band 2 – Criminal Tax Defense & Tax Controversy)
Based in Chicago, they’ve earned their Band 2 Chambers ranking by outstandingly handling high-stakes domestic and international tax cases. They’ve fought—and won—complex offshore investigations, defended individuals and businesses tied into global financial webs, and consistently stepped in early to steer clients out of criminal hot water using voluntary disclosure strategies. Their aim isn’t just courtroom glory—they prefer to prevent charges from ever happening, but when needed, they’ve shown they can stand and win in court.
Proven Chambers Ranking
Moore Tax Law Group holds a Band 2 Chambers USA ranking for excellence in criminal tax defense. They’re known for handling complex offshore investigations and international tax disputes. Their reputation is built on sharp strategy and trusted client results.
Key Player Who Powers Moore Tax Law Group LLC
- Guinevere M. Moore: Guinevere isn’t your average tax litigator. She founded the firm in 2020 and has rapidly built a national reputation by blending fierce legal strategy with personal understanding. Managing complex civil and criminal tax matters, she’s known for customizing defense plans to her clients’ lives—not just their ledgers. Plus, she recently secured a full acquittal after a 12-week federal trial in Georgia—a rare and serious courtroom triumph. She’s also a published voice in Forbes, Bloomberg, and Tax Notes.
6. Marcus Neiman Rashbaum & Pineiro LLP (Band 2 – Tax: Fraud & White‑Collar Crime)
A Miami-based boutique that punches well above its weight, Marcus Neiman Rashbaum & Pineiro LLP is the kind of firm you call when the IRS or DOJ knocks—and you’re not going to back down.
Proven Chambers Ranking
Marcus Neiman Rashbaum & Pineiro is led by former federal prosecutors who know how to defend complex cases because they’ve been on the other side. Chambers USA ranks them Band 1 in Florida for White-Collar Crime and Band 2 nationally for Tax Fraud, a clear sign of their elite reputation.
Key Player Who Powers Moore Tax Law Group LLC
- Jeffrey Neiman: Jeffrey Neiman is a nationally recognized trial lawyer with a Chamber USA Band 1 ranking for white-collar crime in Florida and Band 2 for tax fraud nationwide. He’s won major awards, including the DOJ’s John Marshall Award and IRS Commissioner’s Award, and has successfully spearheaded high-profile offshore-bank prosecutions.
- Jeffrey Marcus: He holds a Chamber USA Band 1 ranking for white-collar crime in Florida. His courtroom presence, sharp wit, and strategic mindset make him a top choice—Chambers notes he’s “extremely smart,” a “great writer, great arguer,” and “very effective” .
- Kathryn Meyers and Michael Pineiro: Kathryn Meyers and Michael Pineiro, both Chambers-recognized in their respective Band 4 categories, are praised for their intelligence, courtroom skill, and practical approach in anti-fraud and commercial litigation.
7. Hochman Salkin Toscher Perez P.C. (Band 1 – Criminal Tax Defense)
This Beverly Hills-based boutique earned Band 1 in Chambers USA for Tax Fraud—a badge signaling top-tier ability in defending serious tax crimes. They’re known for handling both complex offshore investigations and high-stakes criminal trials at state and federal levels . And yes—they’ve represented well-known individuals and celebrities along the way.
Key Player at Hochman Salkin Toscher Perez
- Steven Toscher: Steven Toscher has led the firm as Managing Principal for 35+ years in complex civil and criminal tax litigation. A Certified Tax Specialist and Fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel, he earned the Joanne M. Garvey Award (2018) and the prestigious Jules Ritholz Memorial Merit Award in 2024—recognizing top-tier dedication, integrity, and leadership in tax controversy.
- Sandra R. Brown: Sandra R. Brown, former Acting U.S. Attorney and Chief of the Tax Division in California’s Central District, prosecuted over 2,000 federal tax cases—including matters in Supreme Court and Ninth Circuit. She’s also been named one of California’s Top 100 Women Lawyers and received the Richard Carpenter Excellence in Tax Award.
- Evan J. Davis: Evan J. Davis, with seven years as DOJ Tax civil litigator and eleven years as an AUSA, recently argued the landmark In re Grand Jury attorney‑client privilege case before the U.S. Supreme Court, and received the Attorney General’s Distinguished Service Award.
- Robert S. Horwitz: Robert S. Horwitz, With 40+ years and experience as both a DOJ and federal court trial attorney, he has represented clients in criminal tax and white‑collar cases nationwide. He was honored with the 2022 Joanne M. Garvey Award for lifetime achievement in tax law.
8. DLA Piper LLP (US) (Band 4 – Tax Controversy & Criminal Tax Practice)
A genuine global giant, DLA Piper brings world-class tax controversy and criminal tax defense to corporations and individuals navigating high-stakes investigations across borders.
They boast over 440 tax lawyers and economists worldwide, offering seamless international coordination to resolve complex disputes and investigations across jurisdictions. Chambers recognizes their strength nationally (Band 4) and notes their “strong ability to handle complex tax issues” and “exceptional support for complex multinational issues”.
The Core Team of DLA Piper LLP (US)
- Ellis L. Reemer: Ellis L. Reemer brings over 35 years of expertise—from IRS Senior Trial Attorney to leading DLA’s U.S. tax controversy group. He’s successfully headed major grand jury cases, resolved a $50 million deferred prosecution agreement for a top accounting firm, and regularly guides clients through offshore-account investigations, audits, and criminal inquiries. Chambers praises his direct, client-focused style, noting he’s “thoughtful” and sees the big picture .
- Diana L. Erbsen: Diana L. Erbsen served as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the DOJ Tax Division under President Obama before being honored with the IRS Chief Counsel Award. Back at DLA Piper, she’s ranked in Band 3 for tax controversy, building a reputation as “the best” in her field. She routinely represents clients in high-stakes federal, state, and local tax disputes—and serves on influential tax policy committees .
What to Look for When Choosing Your Criminal Tax Attorney
Picking the right criminal tax attorney can be the difference between peace of mind and years of legal headaches. First, look for someone with real-world experience handling IRS and DOJ investigations—not just someone who reads tax codes, but a lawyer who’s been in the trenches of federal cases and understands how prosecutors think.
A proven track record matters too—don’t be afraid to ask about their success defending clients or resolving complex tax disputes. If your case involves offshore accounts, international income, or cross-border issues, your attorney should be comfortable navigating both federal and global tax rules. And just as important? Clear, honest communication. The right attorney will lay out your options, explain risks in plain language, and map out a smart, realistic defense strategy without drowning you in legal jargon. When your finances and freedom are at stake, you want someone who’s experienced, prepared, and straightforward—every step of the way.
FAQs
What is Criminal Tax Law?
Criminal tax law kicks in when someone crosses the line from making honest mistakes to intentionally trying to cheat the tax system. We’re not talking about forgetting a form or messing up your math—this is about knowingly hiding income, lying on your tax return, or moving money offshore to dodge taxes. The law, under Section 7201, treats this as a felony. For the government to prove a case, they have to show you didn’t just slip up—you made a conscious effort to avoid paying your fair share. And when that happens, the consequences get serious, fast.
What Are the Penalties for Criminal Tax Offenses?
The penalties for criminal tax cases can turn your life upside down. If you’re found guilty of tax evasion, you could face up to five years behind bars and fines reaching $100,000. For businesses, that fine can climb to $500,000. And if offshore accounts are part of the case? The civil penalties can pile up quickly—sometimes the IRS can hit you for half the balance of those undeclared accounts, every single year. Long story short, the financial hit can be massive, and the risk of prison is very real.
What is the Role of a Criminal Tax Attorney?
Think of a criminal tax attorney as your personal shield when things get ugly with the IRS. Their job isn’t just to show up in court—it starts way earlier. They’ll dig through your financial records, spot any weak spots in the government’s case, and build a solid defense. Sometimes, they’ll help you fix things quietly through voluntary disclosures. Other times, they’ll go toe-to-toe with prosecutors in court. Their goal? Protect your rights, keep you out of prison, and guide you through every tough decision along the way.
What Skills and Qualifications Should a Criminal Tax Attorney Have?
Not all attorneys are built for tax battles. The right one should know the system from both sides—meaning they’ve probably worked with the IRS, the Department of Justice, or as a federal prosecutor. Look for someone with extra credentials like an LL.M. in Taxation or who’s also a CPA. But skills go beyond paperwork—they should be sharp, detail-obsessed, and able to explain complicated tax rules in plain English. You want someone battle-tested, experienced, and focused entirely on protecting you.
What Can I Expect When Working with a Criminal Tax Attorney?
Once you bring in a criminal tax attorney, they’ll take charge—fast. Expect them to review everything: your bank records, tax returns, and financial documents. They’ll tell you upfront if this is a civil audit or if things have already escalated to a criminal investigation. You’ll also see them bring in their trusted network—like forensic accountants and investigators—to help build your defense. A good attorney keeps you in the loop, tells you what to expect, and gives honest advice about your options.
When Should I Seek the Help of a Criminal Tax Attorney?
If the IRS is sniffing around, don’t wait. The sooner you call an experienced criminal tax attorney, the more they can do to protect you. You should reach out immediately if agents show up at your home or office, if you get subpoenas, or if your accountant says the IRS has been in touch. Even if it’s “just” an audit, but you feel nervous it could turn criminal, get legal help right away. Quick action can often prevent small problems from spiraling into criminal charges.
