When people picture a tax attorney, their ideas may be influenced by what they have seen in the media. Although tax attorneys can certainly handle many jobs, there's a lot more they can do for you. Here are four of the biggest tasks a tax attorney may be able to handle for a client.
Advice in Advance
It's understandable why some people have an adversarial view of tax agencies. For a tax attorney, though, the ideal scenario is to organize a client's affairs in a manner that reduces the odds they have such a collision with the government. This means thinking about the individual's circumstances well before they ever claim a deduction or file a form. For example, a lawyer can help a small business owner look at the potential benefits of a specific deduction and their eligibility to take it. If you're curious whether your business can take credit for moving to eco-friendly vehicles, that's a solid question for a tax attorney.
Estates
While anyone planning an estate will certainly want to consult with an attorney in that field, there are still likely to be some tax implications. A tax law firm can help you anticipate what your estate will owe so you can fund the finalization of those debts. Likewise, they can help you anticipate what beneficiaries will owe so you can keep anything you bequeath.
Liens and Garnishments
The tax system is often the go-to way for many people to seek assurances or money from at-fault parties in a variety of legal situations. Notably, these aren't always tax issues. They can emerge from property transfers, criminal court fines, child support cases, and even outstanding debts.
Unfortunately, liens and garnishments don't always stop when they're supposed to. If you're having trouble getting one removed, even after obtaining a court order in the related case, it may be time to hire a tax attorney. They can help you file the paperwork needed to get the court to straighten things out.
Financial and Retirement
Dealing with taxes is a big part of building a financial future. It's critical to understand what you can and can't do legally as part of a retirement plan. While you'll still want to talk things over with a financial advisor, it's wise to also run your financial ideas past a lawyer. That's especially the case if a specific plan or deduction seems a bit creative.
For more information, contact a tax attorney.
