If you have tax troubles, you may not know how to find the right person to take your case. In most cases, this uncertainty arises from not knowing which questions to ask. Below, you’ll learn how to find a reputable tax attorney.
Make Sure They’re Really an Attorney
An unethical company may say that it has tax attorneys on staff, but that’s not always the case. Many of today’s “tax resolution” firms have the skills to complete and file basic forms, but do they have the legal experience to determine whether those forms will affect your case? If a firm claims to have a licensed tax lawyer on staff, ask for his or her information and look it up. If you cannot verify the attorney’s information, do not hire them.
Look at the Lawyer’s Complaint Record
Online review sites are a great source of information on tax attorneys, and past clients’ experiences will give you an idea of what to expect. It may help to Google an attorney’s name and see what’s coming up. If they’re licensed as an attorney or a CPA, check with the appropriate licensing authority for professional disciplinary history and unresolved grievances.
Find Out How They Communicate
If you simply want someone to solve your tax problems, it’s important to make that known up front. However, if you want to take a more active role in your case, be sure to tell the attorney that as well. Be sure they’re explaining things in terms you can understand; if they can’t, it may be time to choose someone else. Test their responsiveness by calling or emailing them and seeing how long it takes to get a response. If they’re slow to respond before you’ve hired them, not much will change after they’re hired.
Ask Who Will Handle the Case
When choosing a tax attorney, ask who your contact person will be. If you’ll be talking to an assistant or a paralegal most of the time, you’re within your rights to ask how much attention the lawyer will actually give your case. It’s important to get to know the lawyer who will work on your tax case before you hire them.
Although there are many other things to look for when choosing a tax lawyer, these are some of the most important steps to take. Tax cases are complicated and every case is different, which means that you need a customized legal strategy. By following these tips, you’re more likely to end up with the right lawyer.