Tax laws are complicated and everchanging, and the people who practice law in this area need to have analytical skills and be able to solve puzzles. The work can be rewarding, because changes to the tax code affect everyone from small businesses to people across the earning spectrum. The career can also be quite varied, because there are many different specialties within tax law.
For example, tax attorneys who specialize in estate planning help their clients plan for their heirs’ inheritances and minimize the taxes they will owe when the time comes to pass on wealth. Another type of tax attorney focuses on corporate tax law, which applies to the taxes that a business pays and can have an enormous impact on the financial well-being of a company.
A tax attorney who specializes in litigation can defend their clients against IRS allegations of tax fraud or collection procedures that are unfair or unjust. This type of lawyer may need to negotiate with the IRS or the Internal Revenue Service Office of Appeals to get the best outcome for their client.
An important part of this job is helping individuals manage their own taxes by filing all necessary forms with the government to minimize liability through deductions and credits. Tax attorneys can also assist with the Tax Attorneys Los Angeles aspects of buying, selling and starting a new business, and they can advise on tax-smart strategies when making investments or retirement decisions.
If an individual owes back taxes, a tax attorney can work out payment arrangements with the IRS to avoid wage garnishment and other debt collection methods. If someone is being investigated by the IRS, a tax attorney can defend them from the investigation and even stop actions such as placing liens on property.
As with all legal professions, the qualifications that a person needs to become a tax attorney vary by state. But all tax attorneys must have at least a Juris Doctor, known as a J.D, and a license to practice law. Some may have a master of law in taxation or a certificate from a specialized tax training program.
A person who wants to become a tax attorney usually starts by applying to law school. There are a number of factors that go into the admissions process, including GPA and LSAT scores, but some schools offer law programs that do not require as high of a grade point average or have more flexible entrance requirements than others. A tax attorney also may need to complete a bar examination, which varies by state. Many of these exams have written and oral sections. Some states also require a background check and criminal history check before a person can be licensed to practice law. There are also paralegals and legal assistants who assist tax attorneys with their cases, and these professionals often have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. These professionals are able to prepare legal documents, perform research and conduct interviews and fact checks.
Semper Tax Relief
131 W Green St Suite B,
Pasadena, CA 91105
(626) 263-2100