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Southern California Tax Attorneys
If you are facing trouble with the IRS or the FTB, it can be a terrifying situation. These tax agencies are powerful and have the right to put a levy on your bank accounts and take what they believe you owe when the situation calls for it. They can freeze your accounts to recover unpaid taxes, leaving you unable to use your own, hard-earned money. This situation starts with several warning notices, followed by a final notice. No matter your tax situation, the legal team of Southern California tax lawyers from Dallo Law Group can help you seek the most favorable resolution.
Both the IRS and the FTB have the right to file tax liens, which place claims on your assets, including real estate, vehicles, and other valuable property. They can seize your property or, in some cases, file criminal charges for tax evasion, with fines of up to $250,000 for individuals plus imprisonment. What should you do to manage these issues? At Dallo Law Group, we urge you to contact us so we can advise you about an effective strategy for your situation.
Our firm, Dallo Law Group, has over 30 years of combined focus on tax controversy. Many of the firm’s attorneys are also licensed CPAs or have extensive tax and accounting backgrounds. In addition to being skilled and effective advocates, they possess the technical knowledge needed for effective and robust tax representation.
Our Practice Areas
Tax Problems in Southern California?
Let Us Help.
Tax problems vary widely, but they are a major source of stress and worry. The IRS is not always correct and can make serious errors, but while it must provide evidence to support its findings, the burden of proof may shift to the taxpayer in certain disputes. It is up to you to prove them wrong, and that’s where our firm excels.
The types of issues we can address include:
- Unfiled tax returns, federal and state
- IRS and FTB collection actions
- Bank levies
- Wage Garnishments
- Payroll and employment tax problems
- Criminal charges for tax evasion
- Tax audits
- Taxation problems involving foreign or overseas accounts
If you are in a dangerous position with the IRS or FTB, we can act to get the matter under control. Many clients feel immediate relief when they know their tax problem will be resolved with the help of a law firm with professional skills in this area of law. At Dallo Tax Group, we bring years of experience to tax law matters, and we are honored to be known for resolving even the most complex issues.
Client Success Stories
Your Advocate for Tax Problems in Southern California
Dallo Law Group’s CEO and Principal Attorney, Michael Dallo, is widely recognized for excellence across a broad range of tax law matters. As both a CPA and an attorney, he holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree . He is known as a skilled and strategic tax attorney in Southern California. He is a winning tax attorney in Southern California and a hardball negotiator. He has a carefully selected team of experienced tax lawyers, each bringing specialized expertise.
Whether you are worried about back taxes, have received notice of a tax audit, or have concerns about foreign bank accounts, we are familiar with every scenario. For any tax matter, the earlier we become involved, the more effectively your situation can be resolved.
Meet Our Team
Michael Dallo, CPA, JD, LL.M., the founder of Dallo Law Group in San Diego, California, is both a tax attorney and certified public accountant (CPA). Unlike most tax attorneys who usually only have a J.D., the basic law degree, he also holds a Masters of Law degree (LL.M.) in tax, is a Certified Tax Law Specialist, and is an adjunct professor of taxation in the Master of Tax program at the University of San Diego. His dual background in both law and accounting, his dedication to the tax profession, his passion to educate in tax, and his persistence in the face of difficult challenges give Michael a winning, strategic advantage that enables him to represent clients far better before the IRS and state tax agencies than the vast majority of tax attorneys.
Kevin Waldron, JD, LL.M., is a highly skilled attorney specializing in state and federal taxation with a focus on cryptocurrencies. With a strong foundation in Environmental Science and Philosophy from the University of California Santa Barbara, he completed his undergraduate degree in three years. Subsequently, Kevin earned his Juris Doctor and Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of San Diego School of Law. During his tenure at USD Law, Kevin distinguished himself as a member of both the Tax Law and Business Law societies, contributing to the San Diego Law Review
Brandon Burger, J.D., LL.M., is an Associate Attorney at Dallo Law Group. After two years of traveling throughout Europe and South America, Brandon moved to San Diego to attend the University of San Diego School of Law. During law school, he developed a strong passion for tax law, volunteering as a Student Attorney at USD’s Federal Tax Clinic, where he represented low-income taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). He was an active member of the Tax Law Society, Business Law Society, and Federalist Society, further honing his skills and connections in the legal community.
Charles Kurt, J.D., LL.M., is an associate attorney at Dallo Law Group with expertise in tax controversy, corporate tax planning, and international tax issues. Clients working with Charles can count on his dedication, problem-solving skills, and close attention to detail in every aspect of their case. Charles began his legal career as a Senior Associate at PwC National, where he focused on international tax issues. He later transitioned to EY San Jose as a Senior Associate, specializing in corporate tax planning and cross-border mergers and acquisitions. Most recently, Charles served as a General Attorney at the IRS Office of Chief Counsel, Large Business and International, handling advisory and tax litigation matters. In his free time, Charles enjoys exercising, reading, and playing the acoustic guitar.
Chase Canevari, Esq. is an associate attorney at Dallo Law Group with specialties in tax controversy and ERC. When working with Chase, clients can expect good dedication, strong negotiation skills, and care in all aspects of his duties. His diverse background includes beginning his career as a law clerk and working himself up to being a lead tax attorney where he worked on a variety of matters including IRS and FTB controversies, EDD worker classification audits, corporate tax planning, and Employee Retention Tax Credit. Chase successfully negotiated numerous IRS offers in compromise and handled a mixture of real estate, fraud, and breach of contract cases.
Ciara Cooper is a Senior Paralegal at Dallo Law Group. She has been with our team for 2.5 years where she supports in ERC calculations and drafting of ERC related forms. Ciara also assists our attorneys in drafting documents, client communication, bookkeeping and tax prep. As a student at the University of San Diego, Ciara earned her BBA in Business Administration and Real Estate as well as her Juris Doctor. She was also an active member of Tax Law Society, Real Estate Law Society, and Business Law Society. Ciara’s diverse experience includes bookkeeping and assistance in preparation of financial statements for multiple small businesses. Ciara has extensive volunteer experience at the Vita Tax Clinic, where she assisted in the preparation of personal tax returns for hundreds of low income and elderly individuals in the San Diego area.
Cortney oversees the planning, development and execution of Dallo Law Group’s marketing and advertising initiatives. She is responsible for all aspects of the firm’s branding, marketing and business development strategy. She runs the website development, advertising, media placement, research marketing communications, public relations, and works closely with the lawyers to enhance their relationships with the firm’s clients as well as the San Diego community as a whole. She seeks out new ways to deliver messaging with mobile platforms, digital media, video, radio, and social media.
Hae-Jean Son is a seasoned Digital Marketing Manager and IT Support specialist with over 15 years of experience, currently focusing on the legal industry. As the Marketing Manager and IT Specialist at Dallo Law Group, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the firm’s digital presence and operational efficiency. In her 3+ years with the firm, she has worked closely with Principal Attorney Michael Dallo to develop marketing strategies that resonate with their clients, focusing on SEO, content creation, and outreach. She also partners with Hailey Shounia, the Content Manager, to drive the firm’s web presence and social media campaigns, covering platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Yelp. Before joining Dallo Law Group, Hae-Jean built her expertise in marketing and IT through her work across various industries, including biotech, eCommerce, and sports, working with NFL and NCAA teams, the OC Register, and home remodeling companies.
Hailey Shounia is a Content Manager and Legal Assistant at Dallo Law Group. She is responsible for creating and managing content that aligns with the firm’s branding, marketing, and communication goals. Hailey’s role includes producing written content and supporting various marketing initiatives that enhance the firm’s presence both online and within the community. Hailey collaborates closely with the firm’s attorneys to ensure the delivery of consistent and impactful messaging across all platforms, including the website, social media, and other digital channels.
Joanmarie Ehman is an experienced Executive Assistant with a diverse background spanning various industries, including commercial real estate, finance, aviation, and publishing. She currently serves as the Executive Assistant to Principal Attorney, Michael Dallo, at the Dallo Law Group. Joanmarie’s exceptional organizational and management skills have made her an integral part of the firm’s operations, overseeing the scheduling of client appointments and ensuring the timely management of agency deadlines. Her dedication and commitment to her work have earned her recognition, including being named a Top 50 Honoree of San Diego Business Journal’s 2023 Administrative Professionals.
Tara Jones is Dallo Law Group’s Firm Administrator, bringing a wealth of expertise and a broad skill set to her role. Since joining the firm in November 2021, Tara has excelled in managing multiple responsibilities, including facilitating client intake and overseeing a wide array of administrative tasks. As one of the first points of contact for clients, she ensures clear, concise communication and a consistently professional experience. Prior to joining Dallo Law Group, Tara built a diverse background in management.
Need the Right Tax Attorney?
How do you choose the right tax lawyer for a serious tax matter? Certified Tax Law Specialists are rare in Southern California, making Dallo Law Group’s team, home to two such specialists, uniquely qualified to handle complex tax matters. As of June 2019, only 311 Certified Tax Law Specialists practiced in California out of more than 190,000 attorneys. If you are facing a tax issue, the last thing you need is a law firm that simply follows the directives of the Internal Revenue Service. Our firm focuses on identifying strategies that provide the greatest relief in the shortest possible time.
When choosing a law firm for a tax matter, experience, skill, and a proven track record of favorable outcomes are essential. The firm maintains a five-star rating, its founder has been selected to the Super Lawyers list for California, and the firm is widely recognized for excellence in tax law.
Why Choose Us?
Tax Attorney & CPA Our founder is not only an experienced Tax Attorney (JD, LL.M. in Taxation) but also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). This combined legal and financial expertise provides a decisive tactical advantage, enabling us to understand the accounting details and the legal strategy required to prevail in cases involving the IRS and state agencies.
Our law firm is anchored by Certified Tax Law Specialists under The State Bar of California. This highly specialized certification demonstrates depth of knowledge and proven experience in complex tax controversy matters, ensuring you receive the highest level of technical competency and defense.
We are a boutique firm focused exclusively on tax dispute resolution, including audits and appeals, and criminal defense and litigation. Unlike general practice firms, this singular focus means all our resources, experience, and innovative strategies are dedicated to solving your specific, serious tax problem.
Our founding and principal attorney serves as an Adjunct Professor of Taxation at the University of San Diego. This commitment to educating young lawyers on current tax law, regulations, and legislative changes also provides clients with an informed, cutting-edge, highly technical approach.
While we deliver the sophisticated legal defense you would expect from a large national firm, we offer boutique, customized service. The principal attorney oversees your case, ensuring you receive direct communication, meticulous attention, and a strategy tailored to your unique financial and family circumstances.
As a local San Diego-based firm, we understand the nuances of the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and other California agencies. We also have the experience and credentials to represent you effectively in the U.S. Tax Court in IRS matters nationwide.
Tax Attorney & CPA Our founder is not only an experienced Tax Attorney (JD, LL.M. in Taxation) but also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). This combined legal and financial expertise provides a decisive tactical advantage, enabling us to understand the accounting details and the legal strategy required to prevail in cases involving the IRS and state agencies.
Michael Dallo is a Certified Tax Law Specialist by The State Bar of California, a designation held by very few attorneys. This highly specialized certification demonstrates depth of knowledge and proven experience in complex tax controversy matters, ensuring you receive the highest level of technical competency and defense.
We are a boutique firm focused exclusively on tax dispute resolution, including audits and appeals, and criminal defense and litigation. Unlike general practice firms, this singular focus means all our resources, experience, and innovative strategies are dedicated to solving your specific, serious tax problem.
Our founding and principal attorney serves as an Adjunct Professor of Taxation at the University of San Diego. This commitment to educating young lawyers on current tax law, regulations, and legislative changes also provides clients with an informed, cutting-edge, highly technical approach.
While we deliver the sophisticated legal defense you would expect from a large national firm, we offer boutique, customized service. The principal attorney oversees your case, ensuring you receive direct communication, meticulous attention, and a strategy tailored to your unique financial and family circumstances.
As a local San Diego-based firm, we understand the nuances of the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) and other California agencies. We also have the experience and credentials to represent you effectively in the U.S. Tax Court in IRS matters nationwide.
Worried About Financial Losses Due to a Tax Issue?
When a tax problem exists, you can expect the IRS or FTB to start adding substantial penalties and accumulating interest, causing your tax liability to grow week by week. The agency imposes penalties for non-compliance, late filing, or underreporting income.
The penalties they have the right to impose include the following:
- Failure to file (FTF): You can owe 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month when the return is late, and up to 25% of the unpaid taxes after five months.
- Failure to pay (FTP): You can owe .5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of the month the taxes remain unpaid.
- Combined FTF and FTP: When both the failure-to-file and failure-to-pay penalties apply for the same month, the IRS reduces the failure-to-file rate, resulting in a combined penalty of 5% per month for up to five months. The failure-to-file penalty maxes out at 25%, while the failure-to-pay penalty can continue to accrue up to an additional 25%, depending on how long the tax remains unpaid.
- Underpayments: The IRS may assess an accuracy-related penalty of 20% on the portion of tax underpaid due to negligence, disregard of rules, or a substantial understatement of tax.
- Interest: The IRS charges interest on any unpaid tax, penalty, and interest. The rate is the federal short-term rate plus 3%, and interest compounds daily.
It is crucial to initiate the resolution process as early as possible, as penalties and interest can increase your total liability over time.
Our Latest Blogs
Mistakes Businesses Make In CDTFA Sales Tax Audits And How To Avoid Them
Brandon Burger Presents On BBA Audits To The California Society Of Tax Consultants
How To Stop An IRS Levy or Wage Garnishment
Living Abroad? June 16 Is Your U.S. Tax Deadline
Can The IRS Revoke or Deny Your Passport Over Unpaid Taxes?
Michael Dallo Named Finalist For SDBJ’s 2025 CEO Of The Year Award
Tax Debt Resolution
Resolving a tax problem requires a tailored legal and financial strategy. Choosing the right approach can significantly reduce your overall tax liability.
Your options can include:
- Offers in Compromise: These programs may allow qualifying taxpayers to settle tax debt with the Internal Revenue Service for less than the full amount owed. Negotiating an acceptable settlement amount can be critical to long-term financial stability.
- IRS Penalty Abatement: You may qualify to have late-filing and late-payment penalties reduced or removed.
- Hardship Relief: Being placed in currently not collectible status may temporarily halt collection efforts.
- Unfiled Tax Returns: Bringing unfiled tax returns into compliance can resolve outstanding issues with both the Internal Revenue Service and the California Franchise Tax Board.
- Business Tax Issues: Payroll, corporate tax, and partnership tax problems can all be resolved with representation by professionals experienced in agency procedures and enforcement practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Top Rated Tax Lawyers
