When an IRS inquiry may be criminal
Contact from an IRS special agent requires a different assessment from a routine civil examination. Statements, interviews and requested records may have consequences beyond a proposed tax adjustment. An investigation is not a conviction.
McCarthy Tax Law assists with criminal tax defense and evaluates the relevant notices, factual record and procedural options. The appropriate response depends on your circumstances, not simply where you live in Florida.
Explore Criminal Tax DefenseWhat to preserve before discussing your matter
Record who contacted you and what was requested, and preserve any subpoena or correspondence. Speak with counsel before deciding how to respond; do not describe sensitive facts in the contact form.
Use the website only to describe the general issue and any stated deadline. Do not send tax returns, Social Security numbers, financial records or other sensitive information through the form.
Read the taxpayer guidesFederal tax services for Fort Lauderdale taxpayers
The firm handles IRS examinations, collection disputes, Tax Court matters, criminal tax investigations and offshore reporting concerns. No settlement, penalty reduction or case result is guaranteed.
Representation informed by IRS experience
Bernie’s career includes IRS Revenue Agent, Appeals Officer and Trial Attorney roles, followed by experience as a KPMG Director and a partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP. His federal controversy practice serves taxpayers, businesses, trusts and exempt organizations.
About Bernie McCarthy
Serving Fort Lauderdale from Melbourne Beach
The firm has one Melbourne Beach mailing address: 3830 S Hwy A1A, PMB 4-175, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951. It is not a walk-in office. Bernie meets clients at their locations; contact the firm to discuss arrangements. Hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.