(213) 596-0265
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info@teninalaw.com
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Mon - Fri 09:30am-6:00pm
(213) 596-0265
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info@teninalaw.com
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Mon - Fri 09:30am-6:00pm

IRS Tax Attorney Near Me

Tax Problems? We Have the Solutions!

With over 20 years of experience and a 98% success rate, our lawyers have helped thousands of California residents with their tax problems.

In a hurry? Call us now at (213) 596-0265

You are probably searching for an “IRS tax lawyer near me” so that you can come up with the best plan for filing your taxes. If you are facing fines and ongoing interest charges as a result of your negligence with the IRS, it could be time to consider seeking help. Taxation in the United States can be a challenging road. If you are facing problems with the IRS, finding an “IRS tax attorney near me” could be the first thing that you are searching for.

You could be facing a series of international tax consequences or local tax consequences if you’re failing to pay your taxes on time or if you are continuing to accrue interest over time. 

Even the process of submitting a complicated return can be tough. It’s not always easy to know what you may have to claim, what you can write off, and what your responsibilities as a business owner might be in the United States with the IRS.

Understanding your responsibilities and rights as a taxpayer in the United States can often mean seeking out legal assistance. Tax laws change often. If you’re entering into your first audit or you’re going to be undergoing a longstanding issue with the IRS from your business, it can help to have access to the answers that you need from someone that is qualified. 

Got an IRS Letter? We Can Solve It

If you receive a letter from the IRS, there’s no need to worry because we can assist. However, taking swift action is crucial. Tenina Law possesses the expertise to handle various tax debt matters both for federal taxes and California state taxes. When you face threats from the IRS, the state, or any tax-related offense such as non-payment, failure to pay, or non-filing, we are the team you can rely on. To prevent any further complications such as fines or criminal charges, it is essential to act promptly upon receiving a notice.

Meet the Best IRS Tax Lawyer in California: Alla Tenina

alla tenina - IRS Tax Lawyer California

We are dedicated to treating your tax issues with the same level of care and attention as if they were our own. With Alla Tenina, the tax lawyer you need on your team, we have a proven track record of success with our clients. 

At Tenina Law, we take your tax issues seriously and handle them as if they were our own. Our goal is to ensure that you fully understand the process, and we will always communicate clearly with you. We won’t delegate your case to a paralegal; instead, you will work directly with our team. We are committed to planning and following through on your case, providing you with constant updates, and being accessible whenever you need us. 

If the IRS becomes unyielding, we will fight back on your behalf. With our in-depth knowledge of tax laws and our ability to enforce them effectively, we will alleviate the stress caused by the IRS.

Tax Services We Offer

IRS Tax Audits

IRS audits are official government reviews of tax documents and financial data to determine if the correct amount of tax has been paid. A representative of the Internal Revenue Service will visit a person or business and review all necessary documents.

Tax information for the last five years is required, along with supporting documentation for any claims made by the individual or company being audited. The IRS agent will need to review all tax documents, including line items, deductions, credits, and other documentation. Documentation of any outstanding or unusual circumstances affecting tax payments should also be provided.

The IRS will then send the report to the business or individual. The IRS may request that the person or business pay additional taxes to compensate for their mistake, along with any applicable fines or fees. The audit findings can be accepted or rejected by the recipient, which may trigger further legal action.

IRS Notices & Letters

Internal Revenue Service (IRS), communicates with its taxpayers through letters and notices. Taxpayers may receive an IRS letter or notice for many reasons.

  • The IRS has an unpaid balance
  • Refund to the taxpayer was either too large or small, and it must be adjusted
  • The IRS has a concern or question about the taxpayer’s tax return
  • The IRS could not verify the identity of the taxpayer and had to do so
  • Tax documents must include additional information
  • The IRS has changed the taxpayer’s return
  • The IRS wishes to inform the taxpayer of a delay in processing their return

IRS letters and notices include detailed explanations of the purpose of the letter or notice, along with resources to help you understand its contents. Some IRS notices require action, while others provide information and do not require any action from the recipient. Taxpayers can call the provided numbers if they have questions or concerns about their notices.

The IRS will only contact taxpayers through the mail. They will not initiate communication by phone, text, email, or any other method. If you receive a “notice” from the IRS that was not sent by mail, it is likely to be fraudulent.

Tax Collections

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does everything possible to inform taxpayers about outstanding payments, unpaid taxes, fees, or other important financial obligations. The IRS will only make phone calls to collect overdue payments if they have been unable to contact the taxpayer through other means. If the IRS has exhausted all efforts to reach the taxpayer, they may assign the debt to a private contractor or collector to handle the collection process. However, the IRS prohibits collectors from using certain aggressive tactics to recover money from taxpayers.

Avoiding collection is relatively straightforward. It is advisable to promptly pay any overdue taxes and fees upon receipt of notification. However, this may not always be feasible. If taxpayers are unable to pay their debts immediately or in full, they have the option to arrange payment plans, request tax lien assistance, explore need-based discounts, or consider other alternatives offered by the IRS. These options can prevent the debt from being sent to collections and help individuals avoid the predatory practices employed by certain collection agencies.

Before transferring the debt to a collection agency, the IRS will make contact with the taxpayer to collect payment.

Tax Audit Representation

The IRS will conduct a tax audit to verify that the correct amount of tax has been paid. The IRS will send a written notification to individuals or companies, informing them of the audit and the scheduled date. Generally, auditees receive sufficient notice to prepare their financial and paperwork documents. During this period, the auditee has the option to hire legal representation to ensure a fair and lawful audit process.

All auditees have the right to appoint a tax audit representative if they wish. These representatives can include certified public accountants, enrolled agents, or attorneys. The representative can negotiate reduced fines and identify errors made by the auditors. They may also protect the rights of the auditee. However, those who choose not to have representation bear the responsibility of being aware of their rights and the information they need to provide during the audit. If the person lacks the necessary paperwork, receipts, or documentation before the audit, they must obtain copies. Failure to comply may result in additional penalties.

Tax Resolution

When a taxpayer encounters issues with their taxes, returns, or other tax-related matters, they collaborate with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to find a resolution. Depending on the individual’s circumstances, other tax professionals may also become involved.

There are various reasons why someone may require tax resolution. For instance, the IRS may wish to verify the accuracy of reported income and deductions, especially if the tax return is complex or unusual. This situation can arise if the taxpayer’s income is low or if their deductions are unusually high.

During the tax resolution process, individuals have the right to be represented by a designated representative. This representative ensures adherence to the IRS’s procedures and guarantees the accuracy and fairness of all information and interpretations. While hiring a tax professional is not obligatory in these cases, taxpayers possess the legal right to engage one if they so desire. If a taxpayer believes that a tax resolution or a portion of an audit is unjust, they have the option to appeal the IRS decision.

Tax Appeals

Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which is responsible for monitoring and accepting or refusing tax returns based on accuracy, is in charge of this process. The IRS has the authority to audit a tax return or demand that the taxpayer pay fees or penalties if an error is identified. However, despite their purpose, mistakes can still occur. To address such errors, taxpayers can utilize the tax appeals process.

The IRS Appeals Office serves as the appropriate venue to file a tax appeal. This office operates neutrally and can provide a fair judgment. Its role involves assessing the IRS decision and audit application, akin to the role of a jury or judge. While it is not mandatory, individuals have the option to hire a representative to assist them during the appeals process. Many find it comforting to have someone represent them in this capacity.

To initiate a tax appeal, it is essential to document your complaint or protest in writing. In a formal letter, include a statement affirming your right to appeal and enclose a copy of the IRS notice.

Tax Relief

Tax relief encompasses a wide range of tax-related issues. It refers to policies or programs implemented by the government to lessen taxpayers’ taxable income and reduce their tax burdens. Tax relief can be utilized to address IRS or tax debt concerns, and it comes in various forms.

Some examples of tax relief include:

  • Tax reductions apply to the general public
  • Tax cuts target specific taxpayer groups, such as veterans or other designated programs
  • Tax credits
  • Tax deductions
  • Incentives
  • Debt relief

Tax relief can lead to a decrease in taxable earnings, an increase in tax refunds, or a change in one’s tax bracket. Taxpayers have the opportunity to explore various tax relief options.

Here are some of the most common tax relief programs:

  • Eco-tax credits for the installation of energy-efficient appliances and window upgrades.
  • Itemized deductions for charitable donations, mortgage interest payments, and more.
  • Child tax credits are provided for each dependent child in a family.
  • Exclusions related to employer-sponsored health insurance.
  • Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status indicates that a taxpayer is currently unable to make payments.

It is highly encouraged for all taxpayers to explore and utilize the tax relief programs they qualify for. These programs aim to ensure a fair and equitable tax burden for individuals and businesses alike. The majority of people are eligible for at least one type of tax relief program.

Tax Negotiation

Back taxes are accumulated when individuals or businesses fail to fulfill their tax obligations. They refer to unpaid taxes that carry an outstanding balance. The longer taxes remain unpaid, the faster interest accrues. Settling back taxes can be challenging for many people.

Tax negotiations provide an opportunity for taxpayers who owe back taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to negotiate the amount they owe. By engaging in negotiations with the IRS, many individuals can reduce their debts to a manageable level. Following a successful tax negotiation, the IRS will accept either a lump sum payment or a payment plan.

To qualify for negotiations with the IRS, taxpayers must present compelling evidence that they are unable to pay the taxes owed. Negotiations are more likely to occur as the expiration date of the debt approaches. Generally, the IRS expires most debts within 10 years. As time passes, the IRS prefers to receive some payment rather than nothing, even if the amount is reduced.

IRS tax negotiations typically take place through written communication, but there may be instances where an in-person meeting becomes necessary. Taxpayers have the option to hire a representative to negotiate on their behalf.

Tax Liens

When a taxpayer fails to pay their taxes, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has the authority to initiate a legal claim against them. This claim involves the IRS asserting a right to some of the taxpayer’s assets, and it is known as a tax lien. The purpose of a tax lien is to ensure that the IRS receives payment for the debt owed. In case the taxpayer does not pay the correct amount or establish a payment schedule with the IRS, the IRS can seize the asset that is subject to the tax lien.

If an individual owes money to the IRS, the IRS may place a lien on their home. Subsequently, the IRS will require the person to collaborate with them to repay the outstanding debt. Failure to respond or comply with the IRS may result in the IRS claiming the individual’s home.

To inform the taxpayer about the situation and the amount owed, the IRS will send a letter detailing the matter. If the taxpayer does not respond to the IRS, a lien may be imposed on their property.

Bank & Tax Levy

A tax levy occurs when the IRS seizes a taxpayer’s property to settle their outstanding tax debt. It is distinct from a tax lien, although a levy can be imposed after the placement of a tax lien by the IRS.

Tax liens can be utilized to seize various assets, including bank accounts and wages. On the other hand, a tax levy specifically refers to the seizure and sale of specific types of property, such as houses, cabins, vacant land, and so on.

When a taxpayer is subject to a tax levy, the IRS will send them a “notice of demand for payment.” At this stage, the taxpayer has the opportunity to contact the IRS to discuss potential payment plans or seek a resolution. However, if the taxpayer fails to engage with the IRS, they will receive a final notice of intent and a “notice of the right to a hearing.” The IRS may deliver the levy notice in person or send it by mail to the taxpayer’s home or business.

To gather information about the taxpayer’s financial situation and liabilities, the IRS will notify the individual that it may contact their employer, bank, and family members. This is done to aid in the collection of the taxpayer’s outstanding tax obligations.

Wage Levies

If a taxpayer owes taxes but has not made any attempts to pay or establish a payment plan, the IRS has the authority to levy their wages. Through a wage levy, the IRS can deduct money from a person’s accounts, including checking and savings accounts. The IRS can retain control over these accounts if necessary. This means that the IRS can retain all funds deposited into the account until the tax debts are fully paid. Taxpayers should also be aware that the IRS can potentially seize their employer’s bonuses.

To avoid wage levies, taxpayers need to respond to the IRS debt notices. It is not required to pay the full amount immediately. Instead, taxpayers can avoid wage levies by agreeing to a payment schedule with the IRS. Through negotiation, taxpayers may be able to establish a manageable repayment plan while still maintaining control over their finances and accounts.

To initiate a wage levy, the IRS must file an appeal through the legal system and successfully obtain a favorable outcome. Only after winning the appeal can the IRS proceed with the wage levy.

Wage Garnishment

The IRS has the authority to utilize a portion of a taxpayer’s income to satisfy their outstanding debts. In collaboration with the employer, the IRS ensures that the necessary payment amount is redirected to them before the taxpayer receives it. This payment is obtained by the IRS without any action required from the taxpayer. It is important to note that wage garnishment for reasons other than IRS debts falls under the jurisdiction of different agencies. For instance, individuals who fail to pay child support may be subject to wage garnishment.

It is essential to understand that an employee cannot be terminated solely due to their wages being garnished. The garnishment process should not jeopardize the individual’s job security. Taxpayers are also protected by laws that establish limits on the amount of money the IRS can take from each paycheck. These laws are designed to safeguard individuals and families from falling into bankruptcy or poverty as a result of wage garnishment, despite the inconvenience it may cause. The percentage garnished must be proportionate to the individual’s debts and allow for the financial well-being of their family.

The wage garnishment process can encompass various forms of income, including bonuses, commissions, pensions, or retirement income, in addition to the employee’s regular salary or wages.

Offer In Compromise

A taxpayer who is unable to pay their taxes or back taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may be able to create a compromise. The compromise allows a taxpayer to pay less taxes than they owe while still officially settling their IRS debt. In such situations, both the IRS and the taxpayer benefit from the compromise.

To qualify for an Offer in Compromise, a taxpayer must demonstrate to the IRS that paying taxes would cause them a great deal of financial hardship. If the taxpayer pays what they owe, they may face problems such as homelessness, poverty, or severe financial instability. If the IRS accepts the offer, it will make an offer of compromise to allow the taxpayer to pay less to settle the debt.

The IRS considers a taxpayer’s income, household expenses, assets, financial ability, and other factors when deciding if they qualify for an offer in compromise. It is only available to certain taxpayers. If a taxpayer does not qualify for an offer in compromise, they may still be able to set up a payment plan or explore another arrangement.

Asset & Property Seizures

In certain cases, the IRS may seize and retain ownership of a taxpayer’s assets to collect the money owed by the taxpayer. It is a drastic step, and taxpayers usually have several opportunities to settle their debts or rectify the situation.

During this process, the IRS can seize a variety of assets, such as a taxpayer’s home, automobile, furniture, jewelry, and personal belongings, among others. The IRS has the authority to seize most assets.

When an individual or company fails to pay a debt or loan they have had for some time, their assets and property can be seized. The IRS provides taxpayers with many opportunities to negotiate, settle debts, or create a repayment plan. They will only seize a taxpayer’s property if the taxpayer has not contacted them in the past or if the amount owed is substantial with no alternative resolution. The IRS can help you avoid asset seizure if you work with a representative and the IRS to create a payment schedule or obtain an offer of compromise.

Innocent Spouse Relief

Innocent Spouse Relief, a tax law revised in 1998, allows a spouse to be exempt from paying taxes if their partner has underreported or underpaid them. If one spouse conceals their financial situation from their partner, and the IRS discovers that there are back taxes owed, the innocent spouse can apply for innocent spouse relief to avoid being responsible for their partner’s mistake. Even if both spouses have filed a joint return, innocent spouse relief may still be applicable.

The obligation to pay usually arises when one spouse fails to accurately report their income or exceeds the legal deduction limit. To be eligible for innocent spouse relief, the spouse must meet certain criteria.

  • The spouse committed a serious mistake in the amount of income or deductions.
  • The mistake or miscalculation was not known to them.
  • The IRS begins the collection process within two years after the spouse of the innocent is notified.
  • IRS has agreed that the innocent spouse’s relief is appropriate for this situation.

Innocent spouse relief is not available to all couples. It is difficult to prove the spouse did not know about the mistake before filing.

Audit Reconsideration

The IRS has the authority to reassess the findings of an audit it has conducted. The audit may result in additional tax charges or the reversal of tax credits. The taxpayer has the opportunity to provide information that was not included in the initial audit, which could potentially impact the outcome.

Audit reconsideration is commonly utilized by individuals who have missed the deadline to dispute the findings of their original audit. Taxpayers can request a review of the audit at any time, as long as there are outstanding taxes owed and the audit has the potential to adjust the amount owed.

The IRS can deny your request to reconsider an audit. They often approve audit reconsideration if you:

  • The taxpayer moved and did not receive the initial audit notice
  • The IRS made a mistake in calculating the amount owed by the taxpayer
  • The audit appointment was missed by the taxpayer
  • New information may have changed the amount owed by a taxpayer

Taxpayers are allowed to retain a representative, just as they were able to do during an initial audit. During audit reconsideration, the IRS will determine what back taxes, interest, penalties, and criminal sanctions a taxpayer owes.

Criminal Tax Investigation

A criminal tax investigation is initiated when a taxpayer or a business deliberately fails to pay taxes or falsifies tax documents to reduce their tax liability. The individual or company will be charged with criminal offenses and may face significant penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and other punishments. Tax evasion occurs when an individual or business fails to fulfill their tax obligations or pays less than what they owe. In some cases, this can involve the taxpayer not reporting their income to the IRS or underreporting their income. It can also involve the failure to disclose large amounts of cash in their possession or under their control.

The IRS is required to demonstrate that a taxpayer intentionally or knowingly evaded paying taxes or paid less than their required amount. An individual who unknowingly made an error in their tax filings or unintentionally violated the law will not be subjected to a criminal tax investigation.

Tax crimes can be committed using a false name or social security number. In such cases, the taxpayer may be charged with identity theft in addition to facing tax penalties. A criminal investigation will be conducted to examine the crime and determine the appropriate punishment.

Tax Litigation

Tax litigation can arise when significant questions or conflicts arise regarding taxes and tax payments. The court system is utilized to resolve both civil and criminal tax disputes. During the litigation process, IRS officials, taxpayer representatives, and legal officers will examine tax documents, receipts, deductions, and other relevant paperwork to determine the extent of any wrongdoing. Following the investigation, the court may charge the taxpayer with a crime and impose appropriate legal penalties.

Tax litigation can be heard in both civil and criminal courts, depending on the severity and nature of the allegations. Taxpayers will be assigned to a specific court based on these factors. It is in the best interest of the taxpayer to engage the services of a lawyer specializing in tax law for any tax litigation proceedings.

Tax litigation courts, which are part of the federal administration, are third parties. Also, tax litigation courts are independent of the IRS and offer impartial rulings to both taxpayers and IRS. Tax litigation can include the following:

  • Income disputes
  • Tax return errors
  • Gift Tax
  • Estate tax
  • Tax on Income
  • Tax deficiency

IRS doesn’t need to initiate tax litigation. Taxpayers can also bring a lawsuit against the IRS in a tax litigation court.

Tax Planning for Investments & Estates

When creating an estate plan, individuals consider the assets they wish to leave to their loved ones after their passing. However, many people overlook the potential impact of estate taxes on beneficiaries and their inheritance. These taxes can be substantial and burden future generations with a significant financial obligation. Federal estate taxes can reach up to 40%, leaving beneficiaries with only 60% of the intended inheritance.

The same consideration applies to investments. Taxpayers should be aware of investment taxes and how they are paid. Taxes may be due on certain accounts at the time of deposit, while others require payment when funds are withdrawn. Federally, estates are subject to both gift and estate taxes. If an individual transfers funds to a person who is two or more generations removed, they may be liable for a tax known as the “generation-skipping” tax. State taxes are additional and must be paid in addition to what is already paid by the taxpayer.

Tax planning is essential for taxpayers to prepare for these costs and make informed decisions accordingly. Seeking the assistance of a tax attorney or investment accountant is often advisable when engaging in tax planning.

Unpaid Taxes

Taxes that have not been paid but are owed by the taxpayer are referred to as back taxes. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) can impose fines and penalties on these unpaid taxes if they are overdue. Back taxes can be owed to the state, the federal government, or both.

There are various reasons why a person may owe taxes. Some individuals simply failed to pay their taxes on time, while others claimed excessive deductions, resulting in a shortfall between what they owed and what they paid. In some cases, individuals misrepresented their income, leading to a significant tax liability.

The IRS provides options to taxpayers who owe back taxes due to financial hardship. Establishing a regular payment plan can make the repayment process more manageable for the taxpayer. If you owe back taxes and are unable to pay, it is important to contact the IRS. Often, there are solutions available to help avoid unfavorable outcomes.

Taxpayers who do not pay their back taxes or reach a compromise with the IRS may face legal consequences, such as potential jail time, tax liens, and wage garnishment.

Tax Fraud & Tax Evasion

When an individual or business intentionally fails to pay their taxes, it is referred to as tax fraud or tax evasion. The federal government can impose severe penalties on individuals who commit this crime. Tax evasion occurs when an individual either completely avoids paying taxes or pays less than the amount owed, resulting in a substantial outstanding balance.

Tax fraud and tax evasion are the result of deliberate actions. The IRS is required to prove that the individual or business purposefully and knowingly failed to pay their taxes. If found guilty, the IRS will demand that the person or business pays the taxes owed, along with additional interest, penalties, and federal fines. The defendant, if convicted, may face up to five years of imprisonment and fines ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 for individuals and $550,000 for businesses. These charges are considered criminal offenses.

Tax fraud and evasion can sometimes involve identity theft or fraud. When tax fraud is committed by an individual or company using fraudulent documents, such as false social security numbers or names, it becomes a criminal offense. These charges carry criminal implications and additional penalties.

Penalty Abatement

If a taxpayer has tried to meet their tax obligations but was unable to do so due to circumstances beyond his control, he may be eligible to reduce or eliminate the penalties. Penalty abatement is available only in certain circumstances. Tax abatement is not available for all penalties.

The taxpayer must write to the IRS and ask for a penalty reduction. The letter must include the following:

  • What is the nature of the penalty?
  • You must provide a detailed explanation of any circumstances beyond your control that prevented you from complying with your tax obligations.
  • Documents that prove your perspective

The IRS will review the letter of abatement and any other relevant documents to determine whether to grant an abatement. This process often favors first-time applicants, but first-time benefits only apply to taxes for a single year. If the abatement covers multiple tax years, the taxpayer may not be eligible for the same abatement as a first-time applicant.

Abatements can take various forms, such as a reduction in taxes owed, a decrease in penalties, or a rebate. Penalty abatements are utilized to reduce fines and penalties that a taxpayer may owe due to a tax error, late payment of taxes, or another tax-related issue.

Why Hire an IRS Tax Attorney?

Working with a tax attorney can make sure that you can avoid the chance of paying penalties. As well as navigate your way through a variety of tax issues with the IRS. An experienced tax attorney can help and act as your advocate. Whether you need a few quick answers about taxation law in the United States or you could use assistance in handling tax disputes with the IRS. 

Tax disputes can come up with the IRS especially if you are running a business or there has been a flag made on your personal tax return. Tax attorneys know the law. They stay updated on the latest in taxation law so that it’s possible to manage and control taxation issues. Working with a taxation attorney with IRS experience can help you to save thousands of dollars on your taxes. They also make sure that you are not subject to a series of new finds and issues you might face.  You’ll never have to search for an “IRS Tax Attorney Near Me again”, Tenina Law has the expertise you need.

Why Should You Choose Tenina Law?

Tenina Law has a team with over two decades of experience in taxation law. We are well-versed in working with the IRS as well as acting as your representation in taxation cases. We can make sure that you have access to ongoing assistance. Whether you are the owner of a business or someone that is facing a series of taxation problems with your personal return. There’s no reason for your tax penalties and extra interest charges to stack up. We’re a team that can provide you with real answers to your current tax problem. Tenina Law can also offer the assistance that you need in the form of quality advice. There’s no reason for you to be in the dark regarding your taxes. With the help of our team, it’s possible to guide you through even the most difficult of taxation matters.

FREE Case Evaluation with an Experienced Los Angeles Tax Attorney

Phone: (213) 596-0265
Address: 15250 Ventura Blvd Suite 1200 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403

Financial and legal consequences can be severe when tax issues escalate, ranging from wage garnishment charges to tax evasion. You don’t need to face your tax problems alone. With the assistance of a tax lawyer from Tenina Law in Los Angeles, California, you can find the support you need.

Finding the right “IRS tax lawyer near me” is easier than you think, just reach out and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Contact us today if you have tax questions in the state of California.

Other Services We Offer

In a hurry? Call us now at (213) 596-0265