While it may seem like hiring a local tax attorney is your best option, this is not always the best decision. Your local lawyer may not have a good relationship with the IRS and therefore may not be able to present a strong case for you. Additionally, you may have to travel a long distance to meet with your attorney, which may take up valuable family time. A good IRS tax lawyer should be available to consult with you over the phone or via email.
Before hiring a tax attorney, make sure to find out their fee structure. Some tax attorneys charge an up-front retainer, and the rest is due later. Be sure to ask about this payment policy, as well as any additional costs. Another way to find a good tax lawyer is to ask around. Look at online reviews to get a feel for their service, and check with friends, colleagues, and extended family members. You may even know someone who has used a tax attorney before and can recommend one to avoid.
Depending on your circumstances, the IRS may seek criminal charges. However, if you made an honest mistake, it is unlikely that the IRS will pursue criminal charges. Willful tax evasion, such as not filing tax returns, concealing taxable income, and claiming fraudulent deductions and credits, is grounds for criminal prosecution. If you’re accused of tax evasion, you’ll need a tax attorney who can fight the charges and keep you out of prison.
When hiring a tax attorney, make sure he or she is admitted to the state bar. The state where you live will determine which attorney you choose. In some cases, you may need a lawyer who has been admitted to neighboring states. Be sure to ask for a fee breakdown before making a final decision. You should also ask if there is a minimum debt amount required before hiring a tax relief firm.
When a tax attorney takes on your case, they will collect all of the facts about your situation, evaluate your tax issues, and explain what options may be available to you. Simple tax problems may be solved with a simple form or a phone call to the IRS, but more complicated issues require a tax lawyer to successfully negotiate with the IRS. Whether you are dealing with the IRS or a court of law, hiring a tax attorney will relieve you of the stress and worry.
While the IRS may have the ultimate power over your personal life, it does have the power to abuse you. Hiring a tax lawyer can help you resolve your problem quickly and without losing valuable assets. The best tax attorneys are knowledgeable about the latest tax laws, and will know which tax codes are in play in your particular case. You should always hire a tax attorney who has experience in your particular situation. If your case is complicated, you should hire a tax lawyer who specializes in the area of your case.