Orange County, CA

Tax Attorneys in Orange County, CA

Address Complex Tax Issues with Specialized Legal Counsel

Dealing with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) can be a stressful and intimidating financial challenge. In the affluent and dynamic landscape of Orange County, CA, the complexity of state and federal tax codes demands legal representation that is both experienced and specialized.

Our dedicated tax attorneys provide comprehensive legal counsel and vigorous advocacy for clients throughout Orange County, including Irvine, Newport Beach, Anaheim, and Santa Ana. We combine extensive knowledge of federal and California tax laws with a commitment to protecting your financial interests and providing a clear path forward.

Skilled Representation for Complex Tax Matters

Dallo Law Group is a boutique tax law firm that focuses exclusively on tax problem resolution. Founder Michael Dallo is an Orange County and Southern California tax attorney who holds an advanced Master of Laws Degree in Taxation, is a CPA, Certified Tax Law Specialist, and a Professor of Taxation at the University of San Diego.

Michael personally oversees every case that comes into the firm and meets with each client to ensure tailored, strategic representation.As an Orange County tax lawyer, he has extensive experience in developing creative legal solutions for your tax problems. As a CPA, he is never blindsided by twists on tax returns. When it matters, ensure your representative has a proven track record and all the necessary skills to effectively stop the IRS and protect your assets. We are consistently rated as one of the best tax attorneys in Southern California and are endorsed by political analysts and hosts of AM 600 KOGO.

When you trust Dallo Law Group to protect your assets and reduce your tax liability, you can rest assured that we see the whole picture, never quit, and never accept no for an answer. We exhaust every possible avenue and keep you honestly informed about what to expect from the IRS. Whatever you are facing, our Orange County tax experts have dealt with it before. Whether you have been notified of an IRS tax audit, want to file an IRS audit appeal, owe back taxes, or have failed to report foreign bank accounts to the IRS, or need the assistance of an international tax attorney, we can help you, as we have helped thousands of others. You have a lot at stake and deserve a fresh start. Choosing the right tax lawyer and CPA can make all the difference in solving your tax problems.

When your assets and your future are on the line, you need a dedicated tax law firm with a complete arsenal of weapons to combat the IRS and the State of California. CPAs can analyze tax returns line by line, but they lack the legal training for high-stakes negotiation and complex tax law interpretation. But attorneys don’t have the background in analyzing tax returns line by line, which can put them at the mercy of the IRS. Achieving the best possible outcome for your case demands true double-barreled representation. You need Dallo Law Group, a firm that is singularly focused on tax problem resolution, featuring a team that includes a Tax Attorney, a CPA, and two Certified Tax Law Specialists.

Tax Resolution Services

Because we are both tax attorneys and CPAs, we can handle all types of tax resolution cases, from start to finish. Here are some common tax services that the tax attorneys of Dallo Law Group provide to our clients:

California EDD Audits

Employment Development Department (EDD) tax audits are a stressful process. It is no wonder the state of California has one of the largest state departments in the country overseeing the proper administration of payroll taxes. That means they want to ensure the proper calculations, exceptions, and exemptions are being utilized, and the special rules for each are adhered to. It is important to note that the EDD is not the IRS. California’s tax statutes are unique, which means that a typical IRS-focused tax attorney may not have the specialized expertise needed to guide you effectively through an EDD audit.

Dallo Law Group is unique in that our attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced with the California EDD. In fact, through the years, we have successfully guided individuals and businesses through EDD audits. Our attorneys and CPAs are so seasoned in these tax-related matters that we can also help to mitigate the chances of any triggers that would begin this audit in the first place.

California Franchise Tax Board Issues

The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is responsible for collecting personal and corporate taxes in the state. Its mission includes the timely and accurate filing of taxes that comply with the tax codes. Naturally, it is important that every individual and business pays their fair share because, in turn, this allows the services of California to continue in a well-organized and uninterrupted manner. To this end, the FTB takes compliance very seriously; therefore, audits are routinely administered.

If you are facing an FTB audit, there could be several reasons why. Whatever may have triggered it, there is no easy way to get through the several steps of the process. Your best bet is to have representation to aid you with the cumbersome and often difficult-to-understand procedures. Dallo Law Group is a top choice to have by your side. Our professionals are well-versed in the intricate tasks to complete an FTB audit. We can efficiently get you through this process and guide you in the ways to bring you and your business towards tax compliance.

We assist clients with a range of FTB issues, including the following:

  • Residency and sourcing audits: These audits involve disputes over whether you are considered a resident for tax purposes, which can be a major concern for high-net-worth individuals and businesses with cross-state operations.
  • Business entity taxation: We can protect your rights and advocate for the best possible resolution of disputes related to corporate, partnership, and LLC taxes.
  • Income tax penalties: The FTB imposes penalties for late filing, late payment, and underpayment of estimated taxes. Under California Revenue & Taxation Code §19131, the late filing penalty is 5% of unpaid tax per month, up to 25% maximum. The FTB may grant penalty relief for “reasonable cause” or through the one-time penalty abatement program if eligibility criteria are met. We can help you prepare and file the necessary documentation to seek relief.

California Sales Tax & BOE Audits

The California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) is now responsible for collecting and enforcing most of the state’s sales and use taxes. Sales tax generates significant funds for California and keeps the state running smoothly. Due to this responsibility, the CDTFA routinely audits retailers to ensure they are paying the correct amount of sales tax. In fact, if you are a business owner, we can guarantee you will face a BOE audit or two at some point.

Our attorneys and CPAs at Dallo Law Group can assist you in the preparation, post-audit process, and even the BOE appeal, if needed. A sales tax audit can be daunting and intricate, and it is not something you want to attempt getting through on your own. The areas that will be heavily scrutinized are the general ledger, state, federal, sales tax returns, in addition to sales and purchase invoices, among others. You want to be well prepared, and our lawyers at Dallo Law Group can aid you from start to finish.

Unfiled Tax Returns

Unfiled tax returns are often not an easy fix. When the IRS catches up with you, you can rest assured that your life will be made miserable. Besides the endless accumulation of penalties and interest in back taxes, you are likely to have earned a bad credit history and eventually have your wages garnished. In the end, you may be paying back way more than you actually owe since your tax returns have not been filed. All in all, you may be putting your life on hold until you can get out of this predicament.

All hope is not lost. Dallo Law Group has assisted many clients in catching up on their unfiled tax returns and planning out how to get their back taxes paid off. Our team, which consists of tax professionals and attorneys, can get your back taxes finally filed, and we also offer resolution work towards debt repayment that can greatly benefit your circumstances. Our professionals have the goal to achieve tax compliance for you. Contact us right away to begin your tax resolution and get you straight with the IRS.

IRS Audits and Examinations

Receiving a notice of an IRS audit can be stressful. The IRS conducts audits in the following ways:

  • Correspondence audit: Conducted by mail; the IRS requests documentation for specific items on your return.
  • Office audit: You meet with an IRS agent at a local office.
  • Field audit: A comprehensive review where the agent may visit your home, business, or attorney’s office.

In all audit types, taxpayers are entitled to representation, and you have the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, including the right to confidentiality, professional treatment, and appeal.

In all cases, you are entitled to representation. Our experienced tax attorneys understand the boundaries of the inquiry and the legal strategy necessary to resolve the matter favorably. We can manage all correspondence and meetings, work to gather and organize the required records, and present your case clearly and concisely to the auditor.

Tax Litigation

There are times when the IRS appeals process may fail to reach a right and equitable resolution. Whether you are a business or an individual involved in a tax dispute, our team at Dallo Law Group can provide you with decades of experience in tax controversy and litigation. We always have our client’s best interests in mind and can advocate energetically to defend you in your dispute.

We understand that sometimes negotiations are necessary, while other times we must fight. Our attorneys at Dallo Law Group are experts at organizing facts and documents to strengthen your case and strategize for trial. Our experience puts us ahead of others because we best know the tax court rules.

Employee Retention Tax Credit

The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is a refundable credit businesses could claim on qualified wages, including certain health insurance costs, paid to employees. The credit generally ended September 30, 2021, though limited exceptions exist for certain “recovery startup businesses.” Businesses may still file retroactive claims by submitting amended employment tax returns (Form 941-X) for qualifying periods, though these claims are subject to IRS review. Our tax professionals can guide you through this process.

Our tax professionals at Dallo Law Group are experts in the CARES Act and particularly matters associated with the ERTC. We can help you determine what wages qualify for this credit and how your business can claim these funds retroactively. There is no reason you should lose out on claiming this credit. We are here to navigate you through this multistep process, which we are well-versed in.

Proactive Tax Planning and Compliance

A tax attorney is an invaluable asset in ensuring long-term compliance and minimizing future risk. In a complex financial environment, the right legal advice can prevent costly disputes and help secure your financial future. We advise Orange County clients on proactive planning in areas such as the following:

  • Business formation and structure: We help you choose the most tax-efficient entity for your business operations.
  • International tax matters: A tax attorney can help ensure compliance with foreign reporting requirements, such as FBAR and FATCA, for individuals with overseas assets or income.
  • Estate and gift tax planning: Strategically planning the transfer of wealth can minimize future tax liabilities for your heirs.

Why Hire an Orange County Tax Attorney?

While a CPA may be essential for routine tax filings, a licensed tax attorney offers a critical layer of protection and legal expertise, particularly when you are facing controversy or potential litigation. At Dallo Law Group, our founding attorney brings the rare advantage of CPA training and experience combined with the legal skill of a Tax Attorney, giving clients a deeper, more comprehensive perspective in complex tax matters. Our clients are afforded the protections of attorney-client privilege, a vital safeguard, particularly in cases involving sensitive disclosures. Communications between you and your attorney regarding your tax liability are confidential and generally cannot be disclosed to the IRS or other government authorities.

If you happen to be facing tax problems, hiring a tax attorney will help you fight the IRS and end the nightmare in as short a timeframe as possible. No one wants to face tax liens on bank accounts or their home, or wage garnishments. Our expert attorneys have experience specifically dealing with IRS agents in Irvine, Orange County, and the surrounding areas.

Dallo Law Group has a proven history of winning in Irvine and Orange County. We have successfully fought off IRS bank holds and represented clients in a wide array of circumstances, including innocent spouse releases, offers in compromise, and penalty abatements. Our team includes individuals from diverse backgrounds, all with impressive track records. Reach out to us for a complimentary consultation to discuss our strategies.

Contact Our Tax Attorneys

Navigation of the tax litigation process is a matter of having superior knowledge of tax court rules and presenting matters correctly with full documentation and the best organization. Dallo Law Group’s top-notch team has a reputation for performance and professionalism. We attain the most favorable representation for our clients. We currently have an office in Irvine to make it convenient for our clients. Give us a call to schedule a consultation.

Irvine Tax Lawyer FAQs

Do I Need a CPA or Tax Attorney?

A tax attorney is a state-bar exam-qualified lawyer specializing in the legal aspect of taxation. Having vast expertise in tax law, tax attorneys are your best option in dealing with any potential legal matters related to taxes. At our firm, we defend clients facing tax lawsuits.

On the other hand, CPAs can keep your account books in order, track your finances, fulfill tax obligations, file tax returns, and provide auditing services. Since they hold thorough financial expertise, they can even advise their clients on financial planning to bring more significant monetary benefits.

When Should You Consult a Tax Attorney?

A tax attorney is a specialist in tax law and can help arrange a client’s finances to optimize their tax situation. You will likely need to hire a tax attorney if you need to handle legal disputes with the IRS. Additionally, it is especially advisable to consult a tax attorney for estate planning, starting a business, tax disputes, and tax relief.

Do Tax Attorneys Really Help?

Tax attorneys can especially be of great assistance when it comes to resolving complex tax matters and provide the right and efficient guidance through an audit. They can also represent you in tax court and save you money when you owe back taxes. All these areas are complex and difficult for average individuals to tackle on their own.

How Much Does a Tax Attorney Cost?

Many factors go into how much a tax attorney will cost you. Among these factors are the case type, the resolution type, and the length of time to resolve the matter. It is most prudent to speak about this area during your tax attorney consultation to give you the best idea of the fee structure. Ask a lot of questions!

How Do I Choose the Best Tax Attorney?

Your best bet is to find the picks of the top-rated ones in the area. As we mentioned earlier, we have decades of experience dealing with the local IRS officers in Orange County, covering Irvine, Huntington Beach, Anaheim, Laguna Beach, and other local cities. You may also consult with the attorney’s bar association, where, at the very least, you can find out if they are in good standing. You want to make sure you work with a reputable professional who brings top-tier skills to the case. Take the time to read testimonials and reviews; oftentimes, you can also find former clients from the area who can attest to the tax attorney’s work.

Our founding attorney holds an advanced Master of Laws degree in taxation. He is a CPA, a Certified Tax Law Specialist, and a Professor of Taxation at the University of San Diego. Contact Dallo Law Group at (949) 812-6930 for experienced and award-winning legal representation in your tax matters.