Tax and VAT disputes can be a challenging fight, but our team of solicitors can provide a supportive and skilful defence.
Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are responsible for thoroughly investigation tax and VAT irregularities, which are often lengthy and complex. HMRC have a wide range of powers including the ability to raid premises and appoint Liquidators. Consequently, investigations can cause large disruptions to your business, home and family.
HMRC rules are complex and many businesses including partnerships and entrepreneurs, are often unaware of their tax obligations. The team at Rogers & Norton has the expertise to effectively manage any tax dispute or investigation.
Our experience covers
- Direct taxes
- Capital Gains
- Corporation
- Income
- Inheritance
- Indirect taxes
- Aggregates Levy
- Alcoholic Liquor Duties
- Betting and Gaming Duties
- Climate Change Levy
- Customs and Excise Duty Appeals
- Hydrocarbon Oil Duties
- Landfill Tax
- Stamp Duty Reserve
- Tax Tobacco Products Duties
- Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Assessments
- Civil and criminal tax investigations including Code of Practice 8 & 9
- COP 14 – Corporate tax evasion
- Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Fraud
- Coronavirus Support Scheme Fraud
- Insolvency
- Misfeasance and Malfeasance
- Proceeds of Crime
- VAT and PAYE investigations
- AWRS and WOWGR applications
If a tax investigation is civil, HMRC will notify you of an enquiry but you will not be notified if you are suspected of criminal conduct.
For investigations concerning direct taxes, HMRC may first contact you with an offer under Code of Practice 9 (COP9) as part of the Contractual Disclosure Facility. This gives you the opportunity to fully disclose any tax liabilities and HMRC will guarantee there will be no prosecution.
It is vital to have an experienced legal team to help assist with this process whether or not you accept a COP9 offer. You will need to ensure your disclosure is accurate and comprehensive otherwise this may lead to a criminal investigation by HMRC.
For tax avoidance, HMRC may conduct a Code of Practice 8 (COP8) tax investigation. COP8 tax investigations result from HMRC suspecting a deliberate attempt to pay less tax than required or taking advantage of a scheme to reduce tax liability. COP 8 investigations can lead to COP 9 investigations if HMRC find evidence of serious fraud. Both of these investigations can be damaging to a business therefore seeking advice at the earliest opportunity is highly recommended.