Legal Questions to Ask When Hiring A Tax Attorney

A pair of hands is folded in front of a laptop with financial charts on the screen.

Taxes in general are stressful, and even the most well-intentioned among us can make mistakes, and, when it comes to the IRS, even a small mistake can come back to haunt you. The tax law experts in our network of dedicated, experienced law firms through our Small Business Legal Protection Subscription Plans can help you deal with all sorts of tax issues when it comes to running your small business, including navigating or avoiding audits or securing business assets. It's important to choose a tax attorney who can help you negotiate the ever-changing landscape of tax laws. Here are a few areas where you will want to ask questions of any potential tax attorney:

Credentials

The first question you should ask a potential tax attorney is if they are admitted to the state bar and what their credentials are. Make sure to ask for proof of those credentials: your lawyer should be licensed to practice law in your state, and, at the minimum, have a Master of Law degree. Less qualified lawyers may have lower fees, but they may end up costing you more in the long run. You can ask for referrals from small business groups, and check online reviews, as well. Attorneys who are registered with organizations will be included on public lists, such as the Tax Law Association.

Specialization

Tax attorneys tend to specialize in different areas of tax law, so make sure to choose an attorney who specializes in the area where you need help. Tax attorneys are experts at the intersection of accounting and law, so make sure to pick a lawyer uniquely suited for your needs. Ask if they have handled cases like yours.

Costs

Budgets vary, and you will want to make sure that the legal fees are within yours. Tax attorneys can be more expensive than other accounting or tax professionals, so the fees charged may be a deciding factor for you. Ask for an estimate so that you can budget and avoid any billing problems. Ask whether the lawyer you're considering charges by the hour or a flat rate, and get that agreement in writing. The more complex the case, the fees may be worth the cost. It's sad, but many people who need a lawyer the most are least able to afford it, and that's where our Legal Subscription Plans come in! You, too, can get legal help for your small business starting at just $49 per month.

If Things Don't Go Your Way

You will probably still have to pay legal fees even if you lose your case, but some attorneys work on a contingency fee arrangement, which means that your lawyer's fees will come out of any settlement you might receive as a percentage. If you're just looking to negotiate a payment plan with the IRS or CRA, it is unlikely that you will find a lawyer willing to work on a contingency fee arrangement, as most lawyers only take on these kinds of cases if there is the possibility of a large settlement and a good chance of the case working in their client's favor.

Most attorneys offer a free consultation so that you can ask questions and make sure that the attorney is a good fit for you and your case. With our Small Business Legal Protection Plans, you can get the legal help you need for tax issues for just one low, monthly fee. Plus, you will be able to get advice and ask questions of your attorney at any time without any additional cost. Have your lawyer look over contracts and agreements, help you compile an employee handbook, make phone calls and write letters on your behalf, and much more, all for one monthly subscription fee, starting at just $49. Learn more about our Small Business Legal Protection Plans or sign up your small business today!