When You Need a Tax Lawyer
Most taxpayers work with accountants for routine filings, but certain situations call for a tax attorney. These include IRS or California Franchise Tax Board audits, unpaid tax debt, liens and levies, criminal tax investigations, complex business transactions, and estate planning. Tax attorneys provide legal representation and attorney-client privilege, which can be important when disputes arise.
For Clovis business owners, farmers, and families with significant assets, tax lawyers also provide strategic planning to minimize liability and protect wealth across generations.
How We Chose These Firms
We evaluated tax attorneys and firms serving Clovis based on specialization, experience with tax controversies and planning, reputation, and client service.
The Top 10 Tax Lawyers Serving Clovis
1. Montgomery & Wetenkamp
Montgomery & Wetenkamp focuses on tax resolution, representing clients in IRS and Franchise Tax Board audits, back taxes, liens, levies, and wage garnishments.
2. Valley Tax Law
Valley Tax Law provides attorney-led IRS debt resolution, including offers in compromise, installment agreements, and currently not collectible status.
3. The Law Office of Frank Huerta Jr.
The Law Office of Frank Huerta Jr. handles tax controversy and estate planning, helping clients resolve disputes and plan for the future.
4. Kennedy Tax Solutions
Kennedy Tax Solutions, led by Dale R. Kennedy, focuses on IRS tax resolution, tax court representation, and unfiled returns.
5. Rimon Law
Rimon Law offers tax and estate planning services in Fresno through attorney Joe Doerr, combining local presence with the resources of a national firm.
6. Baker Manock & Jensen PC
Baker Manock & Jensen handles complex tax matters, business planning, and estate planning for individuals and companies throughout the Central Valley.
7. McCormick Barstow LLP
McCormick Barstow offers tax strategy, planning, and controversy resolution, supporting clients with sophisticated tax needs.
8. Guerrero Mears LLP
Guerrero Mears focuses on tax-efficient structuring for business and real estate transactions, helping clients reduce liability.
9. Wanger Jones Helsley PC
Wanger Jones Helsley provides tax and succession planning, particularly for agricultural and family-owned businesses.
10. Fishman, Larsen & Callister
Fishman, Larsen & Callister combines business representation with tax planning, helping clients structure operations and transactions.
Tax Law Trends
Federal tax legislation continues to shift estate tax exemptions and business deductions, making proactive planning important. IRS enforcement and modernization efforts have increased attention on audits and collections. California's own tax rules add another layer of complexity.
How to Choose a Tax Lawyer
Determine whether you need dispute resolution or planning. Ask about experience with your specific issue, fee arrangements, and coordination with your CPA. A strong tax attorney communicates clearly and provides realistic expectations.
Tax Attorney, CPA, or Enrolled Agent?
Taxpayers often wonder which professional they need. CPAs are licensed accountants who prepare returns, perform audits, and provide tax planning. Enrolled agents are federally licensed tax practitioners who can represent taxpayers before the IRS. Tax attorneys are lawyers who can provide legal advice, represent clients in tax court, and offer attorney-client privilege, which can be critical when there is any risk of criminal exposure. For routine filings, a CPA is usually sufficient. For disputes, large liabilities, complex transactions, or potential criminal issues, a tax attorney is often the better choice, frequently working alongside the client's CPA.
Tax Issues Common in the Clovis Area
Clovis taxpayers frequently encounter issues related to small business payroll taxes, self-employment income, rental properties, and agricultural operations. Business owners who fall behind on payroll tax deposits can face serious penalties, including personal liability for certain unpaid amounts. Families with farmland or closely held businesses often need estate and succession planning to transfer assets efficiently. Taxpayers who move into or out of California may face residency audits from the Franchise Tax Board.
Steps to Take If You Receive an IRS or FTB Notice
Do not ignore the notice. Read it carefully, note the response deadline, and gather relevant records. Avoid calling the agency to argue before understanding your position. Contact a qualified tax professional who can review the notice, explain your options, and respond on your behalf. Acting quickly can preserve appeal rights and prevent enforced collection actions such as levies or liens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an offer in compromise?
An offer in compromise allows qualifying taxpayers to settle tax debt for less than the full amount owed, based on their ability to pay. Eligibility rules are strict, and many applications are rejected, so professional guidance is valuable.
Can tax debt be reduced through bankruptcy?
Some older income tax debts may be dischargeable in bankruptcy if specific conditions are met. A tax attorney can evaluate whether this option applies.
Planning Ahead to Avoid Tax Problems
Many tax disputes can be avoided with proactive planning. Keep organized records, make estimated payments on time, separate business and personal finances, and review entity structures as your business grows. Meeting with tax advisors before major events such as selling property, transferring a business, or receiving an inheritance can reduce liability and prevent costly surprises.
Final Thoughts
Tax issues can be stressful and costly, but the right attorney can provide clarity and protection. Clovis residents and businesses have access to experienced tax lawyers ready to help.