Tax Law · European Union
When a Tax Investigation Starts, Your First Move Matters Most
A tax investigation is more serious than an audit — the authorities suspect something and are gathering evidence, sometimes with powers to search, seize and interview. We match you, free of charge, with a tax lawyer who steps in immediately, protects your rights and manages every contact with the investigators.
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Who this is for
For anyone under investigation — or worried one is about to begin
A tax investigation is a formal enquiry in which the authorities suspect that tax has been underpaid or evaded, and are actively gathering evidence. Unlike a routine audit, it may involve intrusive powers — demands for documents, interviews under caution, searches of premises, and the seizure of records or devices — and it can carry the risk of substantial penalties or, in the most serious cases, criminal prosecution. Investigations may begin without warning, or build gradually from an audit or a report made by a bank, employer or former associate. What you say and do in the early stages can be decisive, and the instinct to explain yourself, hand things over or ‘sort it out’ informally is often the most damaging. You have rights, and how they are exercised matters. We match you with a tax lawyer experienced in defending investigations.
Why investigations go wrong early
Most damage in a tax investigation is done in the first days.
Before you have legal advice, and before you understand what is at stake.
The authorities hold the initiative, and the natural instinct to cooperate informally can quietly make the situation worse.
Talking without advice
An early interview, phone call or casual chat with an investigator can produce statements that are later used against you. What feels like harmless explanation can become evidence once it is on the record.
Volunteering too much
Handing over records, devices or documents beyond what is required can expand the investigation and reveal matters the authorities had not yet found. What you provide, and when, should be a deliberate decision.
Not knowing your rights
Investigators have significant powers, but they are not unlimited, and you have protections — including, in many countries, the right to silence and to representation. Acting without knowing them leaves you exposed.
What you get
A tax lawyer who takes control of the investigation from day one
We only match you with tax lawyers who defend clients through tax investigations and, where needed, criminal proceedings.
Immediate protection
Your lawyer steps in at once, takes over all contact with the investigators and ensures you do not make unguarded statements or disclosures that could weaken your position.
Rights & powers defended
Demands, searches and interviews are scrutinised against the law, so the authorities are held to their legal limits and your protections are asserted at every stage.
Strategy for your position
Your lawyer assesses the real strength of the case against you and builds a strategy — whether to cooperate, negotiate a settlement or defend — rather than reacting to each demand as it arrives.
Settlement or defence
Where the evidence is strong, your lawyer negotiates the best possible outcome, including reductions and penalty mitigation; where it is weak, they build the defence and represent you through any proceedings.
Coverage
Tax investigation lawyers across Europe
Investigation powers and criminal thresholds differ sharply by country, so the right lawyer is one who knows the specific authority and rules governing your case. We match cases across the following countries and beyond:
Frequently asked
Tax investigations — common questions
What is the difference between an audit and an investigation?
An audit is a routine review of whether your returns are correct. An investigation is a more serious enquiry in which the authorities suspect wrongdoing and are actively gathering evidence, often with stronger powers and the potential for penalties or prosecution.
Should I speak to the investigators myself?
Generally not without legal advice. Anything you say can be used against you, and the instinct to explain yourself can harm your position. In many countries you have the right to remain silent and to have a lawyer present. Seek advice before any contact.
Do the authorities have the right to search my premises?
In many countries, yes, but usually only with proper legal authority such as a warrant, and subject to limits on scope. The powers and safeguards vary by country. A lawyer can check whether a search is lawful and ensure your rights are protected during it.
Can a tax investigation lead to criminal charges?
It can, in the most serious cases, though many investigations are resolved through assessments, penalties and settlements rather than prosecution. The threshold and process vary by country. Early legal advice is important because it can influence the direction the case takes.
What is voluntary disclosure, and could it help me?
Voluntary disclosure is coming forward about an underpayment before, or early in, an investigation. Many countries treat this favourably, reducing penalties or avoiding prosecution. Timing matters, so it should be considered carefully with a lawyer.
What should I do if I am contacted by tax investigators?
Do not ignore it and do not respond informally. Take note of what is being asked, check any deadlines, and contact a lawyer immediately. The early handling of an investigation often determines its severity and its eventual outcome.
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Tell us what has happened, and we’ll connect you with a tax lawyer who defends investigations every day — free of charge, with no obligation to hire.