Almost everyone finds themselves a little stressed when it comes to filing their taxes. The situation becomes even more stressful and complicated when you receive a notice from the IRS and need to hire a tax lawyer. How are you supposed to sort through the list of local tax attorneys when you don’t know what you’re looking for, let alone the best fit for your tax issue?
Before you get overwhelmed, try the following tips to narrow down and refine your search for a tax lawyer.
How to Pick a Tax Lawyer Based on Qualifications
As you’re searching for a tax lawyer, consider the qualifications of each attorney. In order to become a licensed tax attorney, candidates need to have earned a bachelor degree and a J.D. (Juris Doctor). After this, candidates have to successfully pass the bar exam to begin practicing. Searching for tax lawyers with additional qualifications like a Masters of Law (LL.M) in Taxation can also be a useful way to manage the selection process and rule out less qualified attorneys. Likewise, tax lawyers who pursue higher education and certification tend to be more up to date on new tax protocol and proceedings which could be beneficial for your case.
How to Pick a Tax Lawyer Based on Experience
While tax lawyers may offer many different services, they most likely have a few core services that they are specialized in either through additional certifications or sheer number of cases. When you’re deciding how to pick a tax lawyer, see if they list any services as specialties or if their website emphasizes their expertise in a specific area.
It’s always preferable to hire an attorney who has handled your issue hundreds of times rather than just 2 or 3. Likewise, if you’re looking for a tax lawyer to help with innocent spouse relief, choosing a representative that mostly deals with corporate audits won’t be the best fit, regardless of experience and legal qualifications.
How to Pick a Tax Lawyer Based on Scale
Another important aspect to consider when choosing a tax attorney is the scale at which their firm operates and their average case scale. Clients often make the mistake of thinking bigger is better, that the larger the firm and the more lawyers on staff, the better their chances of success.
In truth, unless you’re looking for representation for a large-scale corporation, smaller firms tend to be better. Additionally, small firms are able to offer a more personalized experience and get to know their clients and their situation better instead of forcing clients to jump through scheduling hoops and constantly changing agents.
How to Pick a Tax Lawyer Based on Reviews
Before you pick a tax lawyer, take some time to read through their past reviews and client testimonials. Reviews listing successes can help you determine if the attorney is a good fit for your situation, but you should also examine reviews that describe the client experience. Winning a case is great, but if the client was unhappy throughout the process, you may want to look for a different lawyer.
When picking a tax lawyer, you should also look for positive reviews where the case was lost. If past clients are happy with their experience and the service provided, even without winning, that’s an excellent marker of a representative doing the most for their client.
Struggling to Pick a Tax Lawyer?
Mindy Meigs can help. With over 15 years as a former IRS attorney, Mindy has the needed experience and qualifications to solve your tax problems. Contact Mindy today to schedule a consultation and learn how she can help you.