Facing a tax dispute with the IRS or state tax authorities can be overwhelming, costly, and time-consuming.
If you’re dealing with a tax dispute, having an experienced tax litigation attorney on your side is essential. Even minor errors or misinterpretations of tax laws can result in litigation, fines, and penalties. A knowledgeable legal professional can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
At Business Estate & Tax Attorneys, P.C., we are here to help you navigate and resolve your tax dispute efficiently. Call us at (925) 317-3467 or visit our contact page to get started.
Common Reasons for Tax Litigation
Individuals and businesses may become involved in federal or state tax disputes for several reasons, including:
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Audit disputes – Issues arising from IRS or state tax audits.
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Significant tax liabilities – Disagreements over outstanding tax debts.
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Deficiency claims – Cases where the IRS asserts that additional taxes are owed.
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Tax refund claims – Legal action to recover overpaid taxes.
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Tax fraud allegations – Accusations of intentional tax evasion or misconduct.
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Corporate tax disputes – Complex issues related to business tax compliance.
While many tax litigation cases involve claims of unpaid taxes, some disputes focus on taxpayers seeking refunds for overpayments.
Types of Tax Litigation Cases We Handle
Our tax litigation attorneys have extensive experience handling a wide range of federal and state tax issues, including:
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IRS Disputes – Whether you’re facing an audit, contesting a deficiency notice, or seeking a tax refund, we advocate for your interests before the Internal Revenue Service.
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California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) Issues – We represent clients in disputes involving sales and use taxes, fuel taxes, alcohol and tobacco taxes, cannabis taxes, and other state-imposed fees.
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California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) Cases – Our team assists businesses and individuals with personal and corporate income tax matters before the FTB.
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California Employment Development Department (EDD) Issues – We help employers navigate payroll tax audits, unemployment insurance disputes, and other employment tax matters administered by the EDD.
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California State Board of Equalization (BOE) Appeals – As an appellate body for franchise and income tax assessments, the BOE oversees certain tax disputes, and our attorneys have the experience to guide you through the appeals process.
What to Expect in Tax Litigation
The tax litigation process varies depending on the type of claim involved. Most tax disputes fall into one of two categories: deficiency actions and refund actions.
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Deficiency Actions – These lawsuits are filed in the U.S. Tax Court to challenge a tax deficiency assessed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
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Refund Actions – These lawsuits are filed in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims or the federal District Court in your jurisdiction. In a refund action, the taxpayer asserts that they have overpaid taxes and seeks reimbursement.
Before filing either type of lawsuit, taxpayers must first exhaust all administrative remedies with the IRS.
For state tax disputes, deficiency and refund actions are handled by the California Office of Tax Appeals (OTA). If the OTA issues an unfavorable ruling, the decision can be appealed in California state courts.
Many tax litigation cases are heard before an administrative law judge, tax court judge, or federal District Court judge. Taxpayers often face a high burden of proof, making experienced legal representation crucial in achieving a favorable outcome.
Alternatives to Tax Litigation
Tax litigation is highly technical and complex, where even a small mistake can result in the loss of important rights, hefty fines, penalties, and accumulating interest charges.
At Business Estate & Tax Attorneys, P.C., our experienced tax litigation lawyers understand the challenges and risks involved. We are here to guide you through the legal process and explore alternative solutions, such as arbitration or mediation, that may help resolve disputes efficiently through administrative settlements with the IRS or state tax authorities.
How a California Tax Litigation Attorney Can Help You
Do You Need a Tax Lawyer? Find Out Today
If you’re facing a tax dispute, don’t navigate it alone. Speak with a tax litigation attorney at Business Estate & Tax Attorneys, P.C. in San Francisco & Orinda, CA, to understand your options. If legal representation is necessary, we can assist you by:
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Conducting a thorough case review – We’ll examine your tax returns and financial records to assess your rights and options.
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Guiding you through an IRS or state tax audit – We’ll help you address any notice of deficiency and navigate the audit process.
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Evaluating your case – Our attorneys will assess the strength of your claim, whether you’re contesting a deficiency, seeking a refund, or handling another tax-related dispute.
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Exploring alternative resolutions – We’ll consider mediation or arbitration to help you resolve your case efficiently while avoiding lengthy litigation.
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Ensuring timely and proper filings – We’ll make sure your claims are correctly filed, helping you avoid additional penalties or forfeiting important legal rights.
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Advocating on your behalf – Our team will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t let tax concerns keep you up at night. Contact Business Estate & Tax Attorneys, P.C. today to schedule a confidential consultation and take control of your tax situation.
