Tax Audit Attorney: Protecting Your Rights

IRS audits fall into three primary categories: correspondence audits conducted entirely by mail, office audits requiring the taxpayer to visit an IRS office, and field audits where IRS agents visit the taxpayer's home or business. Each type presents different challenges and requires different strategies. A tax audit attorney evaluates which type of audit you are facing and develops an appropriate response strategy that protects your interests.

The IRS requests specific documentation to support the items reported on your tax return. Proper organization and presentation of records can make a significant difference in audit outcomes. Your tax audit attorney ensures that all requested documents are provided in a timely manner while protecting any information that may not be relevant to the audit scope.

Your tax audit attorney serves as your representative during all communications with the IRS. This includes attending audit meetings, responding to information requests, and negotiating any proposed adjustments. By having professional representation, you avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted or used against you in subsequent proceedings. Your attorney ensures that discussions remain focused on legitimate tax positions supported by applicable law.

When the IRS proposes adjustments to your tax return, your tax audit attorney can negotiate alternative positions or propose settlement arrangements. Options may include accepting certain adjustments while contesting others, requesting Appeals consideration, or pursuing litigation if necessary. Understanding these options and their potential consequences is essential for making informed decisions about your case.

In criminal tax investigations, you have the constitutional right to remain silent and avoid self-incrimination. Your tax audit attorney advises you on when to exercise these rights and ensures that any statements you make are made strategically and with full understanding of their implications. Early representation by qualified counsel can sometimes prevent criminal prosecution by demonstrating good faith efforts to resolve tax issues.

Tax audit matters often intersect with other tax planning considerations. Understanding gift tax reporting and IRS audit exposure becomes important when audits involve transfers of assets or family transactions. Similarly, knowledge of the annual gift tax exclusion helps your tax audit attorney identify legitimate tax planning strategies that may reduce your audit risk. These interconnected areas of tax law require comprehensive legal analysis to ensure all aspects of your tax situation receive appropriate attention.