Tax Controversy and Audits

The tax attorneys at David Lee Rice, A Professional Law Corporation represent clients in tax audits and contested tax matters before the Internal Revenue Service, the Tax Court, and other federal trial courts and appellate courts.  Our tax attorneys also have significant experience in California state and local tax litigation. 

We work closely with our clients in formulating audit strategies prior to the filing of tax returns for the relevant year to avoid the imposition of tax penalties.  We are also frequently retained after the commencement of an audit as tax counsel in audit and litigation matters.

Our approach to client representation in tax controversies is to consider all possible options and opportunities to achieve the most favorable resolution on behalf of the client.  Our attorneys are known for their intellectual agility and ability to formulate creative solutions to complex tax problems.  We have been very successful in negotiating favorable settlements with the Internal Revenue Service, State Board of Equalization, Employment Development Department, California State Franchise Tax Board, and the County Tax Assessor on behalf of our clients, and in situations where it was not possible to negotiate a favorable settlement, we are capable of effectively trying cases before all tax forums.

Our attorneys have appeared before the District Court, Tax Court and State Board of Equalization regarding tax appeals.  We have also appealed adverse tax decisions to the Court of Appeals.

We have assisted both individuals and businesses in resolving their tax liabilities with all of the tax agencies. We can help guide you through the tax maze with any tax obligation, including payroll and sales tax obligations. A number of tax obligations can be resolved through the implementation of an Offer in Compromise, an installment agreement, a determination of non-collectible status or through a bankruptcy.

There are a number of steps that can be taken to protect your rights with the tax agencies. Most of these rights can be waived by the failure to take immediate and appropriate actions. The last step you want to take is to wait for a levy of a bank account or garnishment of your wages. The Internal Revenue Service has been authorized to employ private collection agencies to assist them, which means that there will be a substantial increase in tax collection work by the IRS. Our firm has helped a number of individual and business clients with these problems.

If you or your business needs legal representation in connection with a tax controversy or audit, contact the Law Offices of David Lee Rice, APLC for a consultation.