How to find a good tax lawyer

How to Find a Good Tax Lawyer

The best way to find a good tax lawyer is by doing your research ahead of time. You can start by asking friends and family members who have used an attorney before to recommend one, but consider if you want an accountant or a tax attorney. Check the credentials of the firm and its attorneys, as well as their reputation based on customer reviews. Then talk with the attorney over the phone before visiting their office to ensure that you’re comfortable with them and their work ethic before signing anything.

Do your research beforehand.

The good way to start the search to find a good lawyer is by doing research on the internet and seeing who tends to rank a the top of the search results. It is best to ignore the ‘Sponsored’ listings, as those positions are purchased and do not necessarily reflect their true position on a list of lawyers. Look at the organic search results and consider the first 5-10 attorneys that list high on the search results. 

Check out their Google Reviews to see how past clients have perceived them to be. Review their education, experience and certifications to ensure they are qualified and knowledgeable in your specific field of law.

Ask a lawyer you know for a referral.

Ask a lawyer that you know for a referral. If you already have a lawyer and your relationship is good, ask him or her for advice on finding someone else who can help with your tax problem. Lawyers tend to specialize. So your business or family attorney may not be skilled in tax law, but probably knows lawyers that have an expertise in tax law. 

A referral from another client will also give you peace of mind that this person won’t take advantage of you because they have an existing relationship with your current attorney (or vice versa).

Consider whether you want a tax attorney or an accountant.

When you’re looking for a tax lawyer, the first question to ask yourself is: Do I want an attorney or an accountant? 

Accountants tend to be more generalists who focus on financial planning and bookkeeping, while attorneys are more specialized in tax law. 

If your case is relatively straightforward–for example, if you have a simple business or personal income tax return–then an accountant may be able to handle it on their own without needing any legal assistance from a lawyer. 

However, if your situation gets complex (e.g., multiple businesses), then having an attorney who specializes in taxation can save time and money by ensuring all applicable laws are being followed properly.

Check the credentials of the firm and its attorneys.

Check the credentials of the firm and its attorneys.

  • Look for a law firm with experience in your area of concern. For example, if you are having trouble with an IRS audit or need help filing your taxes, then look for an attorney who has handled similar cases before.
  • Check to see if any of the lawyers at this firm have been recognized by their peers or awards as being among “best” in their field. This can be done through online reviews and professional associations that rank lawyers based on their performance and expertise.
  • If you were to choose to go with one law firm, which lawyer will be specifically handling your case? Will it be an experienced, senior attorney or a new associate in the firm?

Talk to the tax attorney on the phone before you visit the office.

Ask the tax attorney on the phone to explain their experience and expertise, as well as their fees and payment options. You should also ask about their availability; how many years they have been practicing law? It is important to know if they are available when you need them.

Finally, find out how the lawyer approaches your case by asking him or her questions such as: “What do you think is the best way forward?” This will help you determine whether or not this person is right for your situation

How to find a good tax lawyer does not have to be complicated.

If you’re looking for how to find a good tax lawyer, trust your instincts. If someone is promising to free you of all tax obligations without knowing your particular situation, you should steer clear.

Because the process of resolving your tax situation can take some time, it is ultimately up to you to feel comfortable with the discussions that you have with any prospective lawyers.  The last thing that you need to deal with during the process is a lawyer who does not give you a sense of support.