If you are suspected of avoiding paying the right amount of tax, the Revenue and Customs (HMRC) can conduct a an investigation against you. Therefore, it is in your best interests to get in touch with a solicitor at your earliest convenience and we will deal with your case throughout the entire legal process. 

We can provide initial telephone consultation to see how we can assist in your case. For more information, please call us on 0121 558 7691 or contact us using the enquiry form.

COP 8 Investigation Procedure

If HMRC have reason to believe that you are not paying the right amount of tax or have opened a tax avoidance scheme, then HMRC may open a COP 8 investigation against you. The HMRC will claim any money that is owed to them plus any additional penalties and interest that may be enforced.

Examples of schemes that typically form part of an HMRC investigation are set out below:

Pension Schemes – This can include those schemes where an offshore trust is created, which then, in turn, benefits employers and those close to them. 

Employee Benefit Trusts – These are put in place to minimise the liability of income tax and national insurance payments. 

Tax Schemes – These can be used to reduce the amount of inheritance tax paid to HMRC, these can be created as either ‘home loans’ or ‘double trust’ schemes.

Share Loss Relief and Enterprise Investment Schemes – This can include reducing the amount of tax payable on your earnings by creating capital losses. 

If you are found to or accept not to have paid the correct tax you will be ordered to pay back all of the money you owe, as well as interest and penalties. Even if HMRC’s position is accepted, the liability for penalties can and often should be challenged. This can have a huge impact on the overall liability. If HMRC suspects the behaviour involves an element of dishonesty or fraud on the part of the taxpayer then HMRC may conduct a COP 9 or criminal investigation – this is a matter which should be carefully considered and protected at the outset of any HMRC civil investigation.

How we can help

If you have been contacted by HMRC then we are available to argue your case and advise you throughout the entire process. We will;

• Advise you throughout the entire process  
• Represent you in meetings and interviews with HMRC
• Prepare and collate all required documents for HMRC
• Represent you in court or tribunal if necessary

At Maroof Solicitors, we understand the stress and worry of being accused of tax fraud and tax irregularities and the potential long term consequences that can affect you, your business and your family life. We are available to support you throughout the entire process, explain the likely outcomes and fight on your behalf.

If you require any legal advice or if you would like an initial discussion, then please call us on 0121 558 7691. Alternatively, you can contact us using the enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.