Facing tax issues is stressful. You might have a surprise IRS notice in your mailbox, back taxes you didn’t see coming, or questions about business tax compliance. Whatever the situation, having the right guidance can turn what feels like a crisis into something manageable. You need a tax lawyer to help manage these stressful times.
But how to choose a successful tax lawyer in Nashville? Here are a few tips to help you pick a tax lawyer who actually makes your life easier.
Figure Out the Type of Help You Really Need
Not all tax lawyers practice the same thing. Some focus on audits, some on resolving back taxes, and others specialize in business or estate planning. Before you start your search, you want to identify what you’re dealing with:
- Do you need IRS representation for audits, liens, or wage garnishments?
- Are you looking for tax debt relief, like an offer in compromise or an installment plan?
- Do you need business tax planning or guidance for payroll and compliance?
- Are you thinking about estate or gift taxes?
- Do you have questions about state taxes, like Tennessee’s franchise or excise taxes?
Knowing what you need can help you focus on Nashville tax lawyers who actually handle your type of situation.
Look for Credentials That Count
Credentials matter. However, you don’t want them to be the only deciding factor. A few points to look for include:
- An active Tennessee law license
- Specialized tax education
- Membership in professional organizations like the American Bar Association’s Tax Section
- Experience representing clients before the IRS or in tax court
These signals mean the lawyer knows the rules inside and out. In most cases, they can handle more complicated issues if they arise.
Experience with IRS and State Agencies
Dealing with the IRS is very different from other types of law. A good tax lawyer will know how to:
- Navigate through those collection processes, liens, and levies
- Handle audit defense strategically
- Negotiate installment agreements or offers in compromise
- Represent you in both federal and state courts
You want to have someone who has been through this before. In turn, they can take a lot of the stress off your shoulders.
Communication Is Key
Taxes can be confusing. You want a professional who can explain things in plain language. Additionally, they should be able to clearly outline the next steps and respond to any questions you have.
If you leave a voicemail or email and wait days for a response, that adds unnecessary stress to an already hectic situation. A good tax lawyer keeps you in the loop and treats your questions seriously with no judgment or rushed explanations.
Check Reputation and Reviews
Online reviews can be useful. However, you don’t want to take them at face value. Instead, look for a few patterns:
- Are clients consistently praising their responsiveness?
- Do people talk about successful resolutions?
- Are challenges handled professionally?
A strong reputation usually reflects both skill and a lawyer who genuinely cares about their clients.
Be Clear About Fees
Tax work can get expensive. For that reason, you want to understand all of the costs upfront. Make sure to ask about:
- Whether they charge hourly, flat fees, or a combination
- Retainers or upfront costs
- What services are included, and what might be extra
Transparency here prevents surprises. Also, this helps you plan financially, so there is one less thing to worry about.
Trust Your Gut
At the end of the day, you want a lawyer you feel comfortable with. Someone who listens, understands your concerns, and works with you.
If a conversation feels rushed or confusing, that is usually a sign to keep looking. Feeling confident and at ease with your lawyer can make a world of difference when dealing with taxes.
Find the Right Tax Lawyer for Your Situation
Choosing a successful tax lawyer in Nashville is about finding someone who is a good fit for your needs. The right one can help you proceed through audits, resolve disputes, and tackle tax issues before they spiral out of control. Plus, they can give you the confidence that your tax matters are in capable hands.
At Easter & DeVore, Attorneys at Law, we are here to help you resolve your tax issues. We make sure that you understand all of your options, so you don’t have this heavy burden on your shoulders. Schedule a consultation with us today.
