IRS Audit Rule No. 1 states “DO NOT GO to an IRS audit without IRS Representation.” IRS Audit Rule No.2 states “DO NOT GO to an IRS audit without IRS Representation.” The importance of going to the IRS with proper representation cannot be stressed enough because as the IRS Audit Rule No.3 states, “The IRS is not looking out for the taxpayer in an IRS Audit.” Here are some basic questions that you need to ask when shopping around for possible tax problem attorneys.

1. Are you a member of the state bar?

It is important to know that the lawyer you are thinking of hiring can practice law in your state. This is the first thing you need to determine because you cannot retain the services of someone who is not authorized to represent you.

2. Are you an enrolled agent or a CPA?

Good tax attorneys will have a background in accounting to understand the nature of tax problems. It is also preferable if your tax problem attorney was or is an enrolled agent because he/she has had experience working with the IRS and will therefore have a deeper understanding of its processes.

3. What is the extent of your experience in dealing with tax problems involving the IRS?

You need to make sure that your tax attorney has at least five years experience in the areas of Appeals and Collections. This will ascertain that someone capable of negotiating deals in your favor will represent you.

4. What area of tax law do you specialize in and how long have you been working in that area?

Since tax law covers a broad subject, you need to narrow your search down to lawyers who are experts in the field where you need help with IRS problems. For example, if you have problems regarding income tax, you need to find an income tax lawyer. Make sure that he/she has had extensive experience in dealing with that particular domain of tax law.

5. Can you help me with my tax problem?

It is not enough for your tax lawyer to be an expert in the area of your tax problem. He/she should be capable of handling your tax issue in particular.

6. How many cases like mine have you handled and what is your success rate?

There will be a greater chance of success if your lawyer has handled tax cases like yours in the past. For one, he/she will be prepared for all the potential results of the legal process.  In addition, your lawyer can work out the best deals possible.

7. Can you provide a list of references?

It is crucial to ask for a list of references from a prospective tax problem attorney to ensure his/her credibility and if possible, to ask those references how satisfied they were with the way the lawyer handled their cases. However, due to the sensitive nature of tax cases, obtaining a list of references may not be that easy.

8. What is included in your professional fees?

It is at this point where you want to determine how much you will pay for the lawyer’s services and if it reasonable in connection to the nature of your tax problem.

Once you are done interviewing your first prospect, you are now ready to interview the next one. Screen as many candidates as possible until you feel confident to decide whom to hire.

To know more about tax attorneys who can help with IRS problems, visit TaxProblemAttorneys.