To become a tax litigator, a law degree is required, along with knowledge and experience in tax litigation and negotiation skills. It is beneficial to take courses in tax law and gain experience in law firms specializing in tax negotiation. Tax litigators can work in law firms, government agencies, or open their own practices.
Tax litigants are attorneys who specialize in negotiating outstanding tax debt settlements with government agencies. To become a tax litigator, a law degree is required. Upon completion of law school, it is advisable to take elective courses in national and local tax law. Knowledge and experience related to tax litigation, as well as solid negotiation skills, are recommended for those wishing to become a tax litigator.
In the United States, a law degree or juris doctor (JD) is a graduate program beyond an individual’s first four years of college. Applicants are generally required to receive an acceptable score on a standardized entrance exam called the LSTAT®. The JD diploma typically takes at least three years to complete and qualifies candidates to sit for the bar exam in their local area. Before they can practice, aspiring lawyers must pass the exam and become licensed.
Specialized knowledge and experience is beneficial for individuals who wish to become a tax litigator. Educational courses and experiential learning related to tax laws and structures will help. It is important for tax litigants to understand not only the laws, but also the managerial procedures involved in enforcing them. Knowledge of how government tax agencies and their different functions function, including the responsibilities and tasks of agency representatives, is vital.
It is extremely important that anyone wanting to become a tax litigator understand the inner workings of government tax agencies, because these are the people that tax litigators work with on a daily basis. A tax litigator needs to understand who the decision makers are and what rules govern their possible behavior. They also need to understand how the debt settlement and negotiation process works in the legal courts to file necessary paperwork, comply with government requirements, and advise clients on the best possible solutions.
Individuals who wish to become a tax litigator may find it helpful to first work as an associate at law firms that specialize in tax negotiation. This experience will allow them to gain exposure to the legal system, the negotiation process and the types of likely cases. In addition to direct experience with the court system and government agency personnel, an aspiring litigator can also begin to build a network of professional contacts.
Tax litigants can work as partners or associates in established law firms or they can open their own private practices. Some may also work for government tax agencies or as a public defender. Litigants may also choose to specialize in certain types of settlements, including income tax and payroll.
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