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Tax Attorney FAQ

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Q: Is it necessary to hire a tax attorney if you're not in trouble with the IRS?
A: Tax attorneys can do more than just help people who already have problems; they can do a lot to help prevent tax problems for individuals, small businesses, and corporations from ever happening. One of the biggest reasons to hire a tax attorney is because of the ever-changing tax laws. Every year, new laws are added to our tax code and changes are made. As tax issues become increasingly complicated, it can be difficult for people who do not have a background in tax laws to correctly file their returns and other tax-related documents, or know how to avoid the numerous pitfalls in the tax arena. Having a professional guide you through the tax process can save you much time, effort, and potential errors. It's important to hire a tax attorney and not a CPA or a tax preparer, because with a tax attorney, you have an attorney-client privilege. An attorney is not legally obligated to testify against you if you are prosecuted by the IRS in the future, and they do not have to tell the IRS what you have told them. A CPA or a tax preparer actually can be forced to testify against you in a criminal trial.

Q: What are some of the areas where tax attorneys can benefit individuals?
A: Tax attorneys can help individual taxpayers with all types of taxes, such as personal income taxes, estate or inheritance taxes, property taxes, including real estate taxes, taxes on securities and investments, and more. Tax attorneys can help by making sure individuals are fully aware of everything they need to know to satisfy their tax obligations. They are experts at knowing how to implement the procedures and practices required to meet tax obligations at federal, state, and local levels. They can also help individuals by getting involved with dispute resolution on their behalf. They will work with their clients' best interest in mind, trying to find the best solution to meet their needs. Every client's situation is different when it comes to filing for taxes, and a tax attorney knows all of the different routes that can be taken that will personally benefit the client.

Q: What are some of the areas where tax attorneys can help businesses?
A: For small businesses, tax attorneys can assist in day-to-day tax issues, and in helping the business owner stay current with tax obligations by helping them plan and prepare for their taxes. They will also take the time to learn about all the laws and policies surrounding taxation so business owners do not have to spend their time doing it. For big or small companies, they can put a system in place for dealing with tax issues before they arise. They can also instruct companies on how to handle expenses, employees, inventory, income, deductions, and other tax-related issues.

For larger companies, tax attorneys can help determine the most advantageous business form they should organize as, such as a partnership, a limited liability company, or a corporation.

Q: How should I evaluate potentially hiring a tax attorney?
A: Identifying a good tax attorney is a crucial step in gaining financial freedom from your tax problems. But by doing your research, and matching up a qualified attorney for your specific need, you can walk away with the results you desire. Tax attorneys are all knowledgeable on tax law; however, certain attorneys specialize in certain areas of tax law. Looking at the credentials of any given attorney can let you know whether or not they have experience representing a case similar to yours and have success in them. It is also essential to make sure they have been admitted to the state bar and have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.