If you are like other people, you probably dread tax season. Filing taxes can be complicated and time-consuming, especially if you have any questions. That is where an expert tax attorney comes in. When choosing the right advocate for your needs, keep a few things in mind.
This blog post will discuss four questions to ask while selecting an expert tax lawyer.
1) How Long Have They Been Practicing?
It is crucial to ask how many years of experience an attorney has. It will give some indication of their expertise and knowledge in the field. Furthermore, it is important to ask how many cases they have handled similar to yours.
If you are dealing with a complex tax situation, ensure that the lawyer has the experience and knowledge to handle your case.
It is essential to ask about their success rate. It will give an idea of their track record and whether or not they are likely to get positive results.
2) Do They Have Experience in Your Specific Situation?
There are different areas of tax law, so it’s crucial to find an attorney with experience in the specific type of problem you’re facing.
For example, you’ll want a counsel specializing in small business taxes if you’re self-employed. On the other hand, if you’ve got investments or own a rental property, look for someone with experience in investment taxes.
And if you’re in trouble with the IRS for failing to file or pay the taxes, you need a legal practitioner specializing in IRS collections and audits.
IRS audits involve a lot of paperwork and can be very stressful. An IRS audit is a report of a company’s or individual’s accounts and financial data to ensure information is entered correctly according to laws and verify that the reported amount is correct.
People want an advocate who knows the ins and outs of the IRS audit process and will fight for your rights.
Some legal practitioners also specialize in international taxes, so if a person has income from foreign investments or business interests, they should find someone with this same expertise.
3) What Is Their Fee Structure?
The total fees charged by a tax attorney are an important consideration. Ask for a breakdown of the fees to understand what you are paying for.
Many advocates charge an initial consultation fee, which is often deducted from the total fees charged if one decides to retain their services. Ask about any other fees, such as research fees or charges for representing you in court.
It is essential to ask about the payment schedule – will one be expected to pay the entire fee upfront, or can it be paid in installments?
Some attorneys may offer a discount if one pays the entire fee upfront. Be sure to get all of this information in writing before deciding.
4) How Will They Keep Their Clients Involved and Informed?
These lawyers will keep their clients updated on what’s happening and get their input before making any decisions. For example, they’ll control how the case proceeds in a case like an IRS audit. They may give the clients options and let them decide which strategy to use.
One should also feel like their questions are welcome and that they understand what’s going on.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re audited by the IRS or state tax agency or facing any criminal tax charges, it’s vital to have an expert lawyer by your side. The above questions will help you select the best possible lawyer for your needs.
