FAQ: Why Do I Need a Tax Lawyer Rather than an Accountant?
Why should I hire an attorney to represent me before
the IRS or the State tax authority?
Should I represent myself? A Taxpayer always has the right to represent him/herself in any tax matter. The problem with representing yourself in a tax matter is that many lay people and even most attorneys are totally unfamiliar with the rules and procedures which come in to play in tax matters involving the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities, like the Michigan Department of Treasury. Taxpayers representing themselves are also at a disadvantage because they typically are not familiar with their rights and often reveal information not legally required which could then be used against them.
Many Taxpayers who have tried to represent themselves found the experience extremely stressful, time consuming and ended up only making the situation worse. It is nearly impossible not to become emotionally involved or defensive when you are forced to act as your own advocate against agents of the Internal Revenue Service and State tax authority who have been trained on how to interrogate, manipulate and intimidate a Taxpayer.
Taxpayers often subject themselves to the myth that if they hire a tax attorney, the IRS will think that they are guilty of something or get mad at them for not facing their problems alone. This thinking could not be further from the truth. IRS auditors and collectors prefer dealing with an experienced tax professional because it often makes their jobs easier. A good tax professional knows what the IRS wants and the problem becomes one that is between two professionals to resolve rather than an emotional situation.
Taxpayers have the right to designate an authorized representative to appear on their behalf and represent them. An experienced tax lawyer will help make sure that only information that is legally required will be provided and that when it is provided, it is presented in the best light possible. The tax lawyer will also make sure that your rights are protected and that the Internal Revenue Service or State Tax Revenue Agent abides by the rules. Most importantly, an experienced tax attorney will be able to properly advise you when it comes time to make decisions that will affect the ultimate outcome of the case and negotiate the best resolution possible.
