Tax Controversy Attorney Private Wealth & Business Advisory

Job Overview:
A law firm seeks a skilled and knowledgeable Tax Controversy Attorney to join its practice in Los Angeles, CA. This established boutique firm, serving private wealth clients for more than five decades, is renowned for delivering strategic legal counsel across tax, estate, and business matters.

In this role, the attorney will advocate on behalf of high-net-worth individuals and businesses in resolving complex tax disputes at both administrative and litigation stages. The successful candidate will interface directly with federal, state, and local tax authorities, navigating examinations, appeals, collections, and related proceedings.

This position is ideal for an experienced tax litigator, including candidates with prior experience working for the IRS, who thrives in a collaborative, client-focused environment and is seeking a path to future leadership within the firm.

Duties:

• Represent clients in administrative tax proceedings, including audits, appeals, and collection matters.
• Handle tax litigation before federal, state, and local courts, advocating for clients in both civil and criminal tax disputes.
• Develop and execute creative legal strategies to resolve high-stakes tax controversies.
• Engage directly with government agencies, including the IRS, California Franchise Tax Board, and local tax authorities.
• Advise clients on tax risks and dispute resolution strategies tailored to their unique circumstances.
• Draft persuasive legal documents, including responses to tax authorities, petitions, motions, and settlement proposals.
• Collaborate with estate planning and business attorneys on tax-sensitive matters related to private wealth and corporate structuring.
• Stay current on changes in tax law, policy, and enforcement trends to anticipate client needs.

Requirements:

• Extensive experience managing tax controversy matters, including both administrative resolution and litigation.
• Strong familiarity with federal, California, and local tax procedures.
• Exceptional advocacy and negotiation skills, with a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients.
• Ability to handle complex, high-value cases with minimal supervision.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with interest in contributing to practice growth and firm development.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications:

• Active and in good standing with the California State Bar.

Skills:

• Advanced legal writing and analytical skills.
• Strong oral advocacy and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
• Client service mindset with the ability to simplify complex legal issues into actionable advice.
• Collaborative team player who thrives in a collegial and mentorship-driven environment.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Opportunity for long-term career advancement, including potential for future equity participation.
• Collaborative office culture with a focus on teamwork and knowledge-sharing.
• Direct exposure to high-net-worth clientele and complex, challenging legal matters.

Work Location:

• In-person at the firm’s office in Los Angeles, CA (Westside).

This small firm is in the heart of Los Angeles. With several large practice areas, associates will have no trouble finding their niche pretty quickly. While compensation is not on the same level with larger firms, the relaxed environment and lower billable hour requirement gives this firm an advantage over many large firms. If you are energetic, ready to be challenged, and motivated, this firm will be a good fit.