Before choosing a Tax Court attorney, you should know what to expect. Tax court trials are typically open to the public, although few spectators actually attend. However, you can sit near the witness table if you know exactly where to sit. You should also let the judge know if you will be bringing a witness to the trial. In addition, you cannot sit at the witness table unless you have the judge’s permission. Here are some tips to choosing an IRS Attorney for your case.
A good reason to use a Tax Attorney for your case is because they have experience with your particular case. While it may be tempting to hire a local tax lawyer to help you, their experience and relationships with the IRS are limited. This may leave you with a less than stellar representation and a more difficult time getting your tax issue resolved. Plus, the lawyer you choose may require you to spend many hours in the car. If you have a family, you may not have the time to spend driving around.
Regular tax court cases, on the other hand, have taxes over $50k and therefore aren’t eligible for simplified small-case procedures. Regular cases can be appealed to a higher court. As such, most taxpayers hire a Tax Court attorney to handle a case of this magnitude. In fact, about 40% of regular-case petitions are filed by individuals without lawyers, and most cases settle before going to court. In these instances, you can even get by without paying for legal expenses.
The IRS offers many different types of payment plans for taxpayers with unpaid taxes. Your tax attorney will work with you to determine the most reasonable payment plan for your specific financial situation. The attorney will then handle the necessary filings. This will help you get the money you need to pay your taxes, while allowing you to keep your home and property. In some cases, you can also get your account placed in a Currently Not Collectible status if you can’t pay.
Tax court hearings are unique from IRS processes. The judge will not have a copy of the IRS file prior to the hearing. Therefore, it is vital to prepare for your trial several months in advance. You must convince the judge that the IRS is wrong, listing documents and witnesses that support your position. The IRS Attorney will use this information to make the most persuasive case possible. So, consider hiring a Tax Court attorney today and protect your rights. You can always appeal through the proper legal channels.
Before you hire a Tax Court attorney, you should ask around to get recommendations from trusted people. Check out their websites and online testimonials to get the best possible tax attorney. Ask for references from people who have been in your shoes. Do not pay full retainers up front or accept a hard sell. Instead, ask for references and testimonials and consider their experience and plan of action. By taking the time to do this, you can ensure that your case is handled in the most favorable manner.