What does a tax lawyer do?
Tax lawyers advise on complex tax planning, and represent individuals and businesses in audits, disputes and collection actions with tax authorities.
When to hire a tax attorney
For routine returns, a CPA or enrolled agent is usually enough. A tax attorney is valuable if you face an IRS audit with significant money at stake, a tax court case, possible criminal exposure, large tax debts, or complex business and estate tax planning. Communications with a lawyer may be protected by attorney-client privilege.
How it works in Europe
In several European countries, tax advice is also provided by specialist tax advisers (such as the German Steuerberater). For disputes with tax authorities and tax courts, a lawyer specialising in tax law is recommended.
Questions to ask before you hire a tax lawyer
- Have you represented clients in audits or tax court cases like mine?
- Should I speak to the tax authority myself, or let you handle all contact?
- Is a payment plan or settlement of the debt realistic?
- Do you work with an accountant, or do I need my own?