What is tax law law?
Tax law covers compliance, planning, and disputes with the IRS and state tax authorities — for individuals and businesses. Tax attorneys are most valuable when real money, audits, or potential penalties are on the line.
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What tax law lawyers handle
- IRS and state audit representation
- Tax debt resolution and settlements
- Business and transaction tax planning
- Tax disputes and litigation
- Estate, gift, and trust tax issues
- International and cross-border tax
- Payroll and employment tax problems
When to hire a tax law lawyer
Bring in a tax lawyer for an audit, a large tax debt, a dispute with the IRS, or before a major transaction with tax consequences. Unlike a preparer, an attorney offers privileged advice and can represent you in tax court.
What it typically costs
Planning and dispute work is usually hourly; some debt-resolution services are flat-fee. Be cautious of firms advertising guaranteed 'pennies on the dollar' settlements.
How to choose a tax law lawyer
- 1Confirm they're a tax attorney (privileged advice, can litigate) versus only a preparer or CPA.
- 2Match the problem — audit defense, debt resolution, and planning are different skills.
- 3Ask about experience before the IRS Appeals office and U.S. Tax Court.
- 4Clarify whether they coordinate with your accountant.
Law firms
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Glossary
Key terms to know
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a tax lawyer or an accountant?
- An accountant handles preparation and routine filing; a tax attorney is for disputes, audits, significant tax debt, and planning where legal interpretation or privilege matters. For serious IRS problems, the attorney's privilege and litigation ability are key.
- Can a lawyer really reduce what I owe the IRS?
- Sometimes — through programs like installment agreements, penalty abatement, or an offer in compromise — but eligibility is strict and depends on your finances. Be skeptical of anyone promising a specific reduction before reviewing your situation.