Tax Law
Hire a Tax Lawyer with experience in tax court - Federal Tax Court and California State Tax CourtWith our years of experience at Mendes Weed, LLP, we are here to help businesses and individuals with their complex tax law problems. Our tax attorneys, led by partner Christina Weed, will advocate to the fullest extent possible to achieve the most effective result for your federal and state tax law matters.
We assist taxpayers with:
- Federal (IRS) tax and appeals
- California state income tax, employment tax, and sales and use tax matters, including appeals
- Real estate tax issues in California
And when needed, we will litigate your tax issues.
Federal Tax Law
When complying with the IRS, delay and mishandling can make the process costly and time-consuming. As one of the leading federal tax attorneys in the San Francisco area, we apply a proactive, dedicated approach to handing your federal tax law situation. Whether you are working with compliance or a tax controversy, we are dedicated to advocating for your best interests.
California State Tax Law
California state tax lawyers at MWLawCA.com know the tax laws and procedures and how they vary from federal tax laws and procedures in some instances. It is important to consult with a tax attorney who has experience in California tax matters if a taxpayer has a California tax matter.
We are able to assist taxpayers nationwide with all of their California tax-related matters, including matters related to moving out of state and conducting business in California.
Whether you have a California income tax matter with the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), an employment related matter with the Employment Development Department (EDD), or a sales and use tax matter with the State Board of Equalization (SBE), we will fully advocate for you and advise you of your options.
Tax Litigation
Going to court to litigate a taxpayer’s matter occurs when it cannot be resolved at the administrative level. San Francisco and Walnut Creek tax litigation attorneys at Mendes Weed we assist taxpayers in going to U.S. Tax Court, including filing a petition, litigation, and trial.
Taxpayers often have the burden of proving their case. A tax attorney who is familiar with the rules and procedures of the U.S. Tax Court will provide you the best chance of meeting this burden of proof.
Foreign Assets
The IRS actively finds taxpayers who do not disclose their foreign bank account information, and we are here to help. It is crucial that you disclose correctly, covering all account details that the IRS requires. Accounts with an aggregate amount of $10,000 or more, over which a taxpayer has signatory authority, must be reported.
Inherited foreign accounts could be liable.
If you do not voluntarily disclose any foreign accounts by filing your FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report), and the IRS discovers your assets, you can be liable for up to 50% in civil penalties. We will guide your through the reporting process and work on your behalf to diminish your financial risk.
Failure to disclose foreign accounts to the IRS can also result in criminal prosecution. Criminal penalties can include fines of up to $250,000, 5 years in prison, or both. In addition, criminal and civil penalties can be imposed at the same time.
Read through the IRS Guidance on reporting foreign bank accounts to learn more.
Business Taxation – Partnerships, Corporations, and LLC’s
Accountant malpractice claims can impact your livelihood and reputation. Move quickly to start your defense. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or other tax professional, you are aware of the professional guidelines for your field. CalCPA calls these the CPA Code of Professional Conduct. The Failure to follow the industry standards of California or Federal guidelines can result in angry clients, professional malpractice, and legal ramifications.
Taxation of Real Estate Transactions
When dealing with property tax law or property exchanges, it is crucial to have a thorough knowledge of federal and state tax laws so that you can avoid unnecessary taxation. Blindly going into a transaction or exchange could cost you tens of thousands of dollars or more.
Federal and California State Tax laws are always changing. Mendes Weed, LLP is experienced in providing up-to-date advice for property tax concerns in California.
Tax Audits and Examinations
Faced with an audit, individuals are often tempted to agree to whatever the IRS asks, usually to make the situation disappear. This will rarely work out in the taxpayer’s favor.
Tax Appeals
The government has the ability to seize your assets to satisfy your tax liabilities. Before the IRS can do so, you must be offered the opportunity to request a Collection Due Process (CDP) hearing before the IRS Office of Appeals. A CDP hearing may be your last best chance to resolve a tax controversy with the IRS short of tax litigation.
Accountant Malpractice
As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or other tax professional, you are aware of the professional guidelines for your field. CalCPA calls these the CPA Code of Professional Conduct. The Failure to follow the industry standards of California or Federal guidelines can result in angry clients, professional malpractice, and legal ramifications.
California Tax Law Specialist
Partner Christina Weed has years of experience helping businesses and individuals with their complex California tax litigation issues. She is a licensed attorney with an LL.M. in Taxation from the University of San Diego and a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy. She serves as Chair of the Tax Section of the Contra Costa County Bar Association and is also a member of the Estate Planning Council Diablo Valley and the Tri-Valley Estate Planning Council.
In 2018, Christina became one of the first lawyers to argue a case in front of California’s Office of Tax Appeals.
Christina has been designated a Certified Specialist in Taxation by the State Bar of California.
Walnut Creek Main Office
1990 N. California BLVd.
Suite 1020
Walnut Creek, CA 94596