When You Need a Tax Lawyer
Most people turn to accountants for routine tax preparation, but certain situations require the specialized knowledge of a tax attorney. If you are facing an IRS audit, owe significant back taxes, have unfiled returns, are under investigation for tax fraud, or need complex planning for a business sale or estate, a tax lawyer provides legal protection that accountants cannot offer, including attorney-client privilege.
East Los Angeles business owners and families also deal with California-specific agencies, including the Franchise Tax Board, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, and the Employment Development Department. Sales tax audits for restaurants and retailers and payroll tax disputes for employers are common issues. Below are ten respected tax lawyers and firms serving the Eastside and greater Los Angeles.
1. Hochman Salkin Toscher Perez
Hochman Salkin Toscher Perez is one of the most respected tax controversy firms in the United States. Based in the Los Angeles area, it represents individuals and businesses in civil tax disputes, criminal tax investigations, and voluntary disclosure matters. Its attorneys are frequently called upon for the most complex and sensitive cases.
2. Kajan Mather and Barish
Kajan Mather and Barish focuses on tax controversy and tax litigation, representing clients before the IRS, the Franchise Tax Board, and in federal and state courts. The firm is known for its experience with audits, appeals, collections, and criminal tax defense.
3. Brager Tax Law Group
Brager Tax Law Group helps clients resolve IRS and California tax problems, including audits, unfiled returns, payroll tax issues, and offshore account compliance. The firm also assists with criminal tax investigations and offers practical solutions for individuals and small businesses.
4. Moskowitz LLP
Moskowitz LLP is a tax-focused law firm that handles tax controversy, international tax compliance, and tax planning. Its team includes attorneys and accountants who work together to resolve complex tax matters and help clients avoid future problems.
5. Freeman, Freeman and Smiley
Freeman, Freeman and Smiley is a Los Angeles firm with strong tax, estate planning, and business law practices. It advises closely held businesses and families on tax-efficient structures, succession planning, and wealth preservation.
6. Greenberg Glusker Tax Practice
Greenberg Glusker's tax attorneys advise businesses and individuals on transactional tax planning, real estate tax issues, and controversy matters. Its integrated approach allows clients to address tax considerations alongside corporate and real estate needs.
7. Sheppard Mullin Tax Group
Sheppard Mullin's tax practice handles federal, state, and international tax planning and disputes. Companies benefit from its expertise in corporate tax, partnership tax, and California tax controversies, including complex state residency and apportionment matters.
8. Fox Rothschild Los Angeles
Fox Rothschild's Los Angeles office provides tax planning and controversy services for businesses and high-net-worth individuals. The team helps clients with audits, appeals, and transactional tax structuring.
9. Bilingual Tax Resolution Attorneys
Many East LA residents and small business owners prefer working with smaller, bilingual tax resolution practices. These attorneys help with installment agreements, offers in compromise, penalty abatement, and wage garnishment relief. Their accessibility and ability to communicate in Spanish make complicated tax issues easier to understand.
10. Loyola Law School Tax Clinic
Loyola Law School, located near Downtown Los Angeles, operates a low income taxpayer clinic that provides free assistance to qualifying individuals facing disputes with the IRS. Supervised law students help clients with audits, collections, and tax court cases. For East LA families with limited income, it is a valuable community resource.
Common Tax Problems Tax Lawyers Solve
Tax attorneys help clients respond to IRS and state audits, ensuring their rights are protected and that they provide only necessary information. They negotiate payment plans and settlements, such as offers in compromise, when taxpayers cannot pay in full. They seek penalty relief for reasonable cause. They represent clients in tax court. They help business owners resolve payroll tax liabilities, which the IRS treats seriously. And they defend clients facing criminal tax investigations.
For businesses, tax lawyers also provide proactive planning. They structure transactions, advise on entity selection, plan for the sale of a business, and help families transfer wealth efficiently through estate planning.
Tax Trends Affecting East Los Angeles
Sales tax audits remain a major concern for restaurants and retailers. Worker classification disputes are common under California's strict rules for independent contractors. Cryptocurrency reporting has become an enforcement priority. And the IRS has invested heavily in technology to identify discrepancies, making accurate reporting more important than ever.
Choosing a Tax Lawyer
Look for an attorney who focuses on tax law and has experience with your specific issue, whether it is an audit, collections matter, or criminal investigation. Credentials such as a Master of Laws in Taxation or certification as a tax specialist by the State Bar of California indicate advanced expertise. Ask about fees, expected timelines, and how the attorney will communicate with you throughout the process.
Final Thoughts
Tax problems rarely go away on their own, and delays often make them worse. The tax lawyers on this list offer the knowledge and experience needed to resolve disputes, reduce liabilities, and plan strategically for the future. Whether you are a small business owner in East LA facing a sales tax audit or a family planning for the next generation, the right tax attorney can provide clarity and protection.