Representation with the CRA

The CRA is a large government agency whose primary goal is to enforce the Income Tax Act against you, the taxpayer, and collect as much tax as possible. Saskiw Law makes representations on your behalf to the CRA to protect your legal rights under Canadian law and keep as much of your assets outside the grasp of a potentially overreaching CRA officer.

If you have received a Notice of Assessment from the CRA, contact us immediately as there are important deadlines that must be met to file a Notice of Objection on your behalf. If you or your accountant is late in filing a Notice of Objection, it is crucial that we apply for an extension of time as soon as possible.

Tax Amnesty (the CRA "Voluntary Disclosure Program")

If you have unreported income, failed to file tax or GST returns, omitted disclosing foreign property on your tax return, or have inaccurate or incomplete tax returns, you may be subject to criminal prosecution or financial penalties. If the Crown seeks a tax prosecution and you are convicted, you will have a criminal record and potential jail time. In addition, financial penalties can add up to 250% of taxes owing.

Saskiw Law can protect your financial information and personal identity on a solicitor-client confidentiality basis while negotiating a settlement with the CRA to avoid penalty or prosecution. Unlike lawyers, accountants or financial cannot offer the same lawyer-client privilege and can be compelled to testify and present evidence against you in a Court of law.

Tax Court of Canada Representation

Most lawyers do not have experience in front of the Tax Court of Canada, which is a statutory Court specializing in the adjudication of income tax and GST disputes. Once the CRA issues you a Notice of Confirmation that you want to appeal, Saskiw Law will prepare the necessary pleadings, List of Documents, represent you at discoveries and, if necessary, act as your advocate in front of a Tax Court judge.

Contact Saskiw Law immediately as there are important deadlines with the CRA which, if missed, can cause your claim to become statute-barred.

Application for Waiver of Penalties and Interest (the “Fairness Provisions”)

Even if you owe taxes to the CRA, you may be entitled to relief under the Fairness Provisions in cases of inability to pay, financial hardship or other extraordinary circumstances. Furthermore, Saskiw Law can negotiate a proposal or payment schedule that is in your best interests.

Tax Evasion

In the event that the CRA has initiated a tax prosecution against you, it is imperative that you consult a tax lawyer immediately to ensure that your rights are protected. Saskiw Law allows you to discuss your file with us on a lawyer-client privileged basis and determine the appropriate course of action.