Frequently Asked Questions About Tax Attorneys
What Does A Tax Attorney Do?
Tax attorneys are experienced in the interpretation and application of tax laws and policies on a federal, state, and municipal level. Most, if not all, tax attorneys have been admitted to the state bar, have a Juris Doctor degree – commonly referred to as a J.D. – and have advanced training in tax law, such as an LL.M in Taxation. They’re typically retained in a consultative capacity, though many are involved in litigation and representing clients should a disagreement ever need to be resolved in a courtroom. Tax attorneys use their in-depth understanding of tax law to act as a go-between with their clients and the IRS in the face of adverse tax actions.
When Should I Hire A Tax Attorney?
If you’re facing a complex accounting problem or are in trouble with tax authorities – such as owning money in back taxes or facing liens and levies – you may want to reach out to a tax attorney. They’re uniquely equipped to handle legal tax matters like halting wage garnishment, helping with un-filed returns, and devising compromises with the IRS. If you’re considering whether it’s a good time to hire a tax attorney, ask yourself a few questions: Are you being audited by the IRS? Is the IRS pursuing criminal charges? Do you need somebody to communicate with the IRS on your behalf?
Generally, when your tax and legal issues are too complex to handle or your own – or even with the help of your accountant – you should consider hiring a tax attorney.
Is A CPA The Same As A Tax Attorney?
While CPAs and tax attorneys can both help taxpayers, they play different roles. A certified public accountant, or CPA, is a financial adviser that provides consulting services, forensic accounting services, and tax advice, and may also prepare financial statement audits. Occasionally, a CPA may provide expert testimony in court. CPAs offer general accounting assistance and understand how to prepare your tax returns.
Tax attorneys go a step further by not only comprehending tax codes, but also understanding the law and administrative rules surrounding the enforcement of those codes. A tax attorney can interpret how the IRS understands and implements laws and systems and are highly skilled in adversarial proceedings and negotiations with the IRS. If you’re in trouble with the IRS or in need of complex legal assistance, consider hiring a tax attorney rather than a CPA.
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For knowledgeable representation on a wide variety of tax matters, call our Orange office at (877) 223-6605 or use our online contact form to make an appointment with our attorney. We serve Los Angeles, throughout California and nationwide.