You’ve been feeling uneasy (perhaps even guilty) because you’ve failed to report your under the table business income. Perhaps you’ve never filed a tax return, even though you know you owe money. Finally, you contact an accountant to resolve the situation.
Although it is commendable that you are trying to correct matters, hiring an accountant to do these delinquent returns could be a big mistake. The reason why is because tax evasion is a criminal offence or felony. You might also be subject to civil action.
Would you hire an accountant to defend you in a criminal proceeding? Not likely. You would be wise to hire a qualified attorney.
First of all, lawyers have something called solicitor-client privilege (also known as attorney-client privilege or legal advice privilege). This basically means that things you tell your lawyer when seeking legal advice are confidential and can’t be used against you. Even written records can be covered by this privilege.
On the other hand, your accountant can be compelled to testify against you and all records in his possession can be demanded by the authorities.
Second, your lawyer can...
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