Tax Attorney
Job Description:Tax attorneys, also known as tax lawyers or tax advisors, are legal professionals who specialise in matters related to taxation. They provide legal guidance and representation to individuals, businesses, and organisations to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations while minimising tax liabilities
Job Category:What you will do:
Here are the key responsibilities and activities typically associated with the role of tax attorneys:
- work with clients to develop strategic tax plans that minimise their tax liabilities while remaining in compliance with tax laws
- analyse financial situations and provide recommendations for legally reducing tax burdens
- help clients prepare and file tax returns accurately and on time
- attorneys represent clients in negotiations, audits, and appeals
- represent clients in tax court
- prepare legal arguments, present evidence, and advocate for their clients in court proceedings
- assist clients with estate and gift tax planning to minimise tax liabilities when transferring wealth to heirs or beneficiaries
- address international tax issues, such as transfer pricing, foreign tax credits, and tax treaties
- conduct extensive research on complex tax issues, staying up-to-date with changes in tax laws and regulations
Skills:
You’ll need:
- relevant bachelors degree
- Juris Doctor (JD) degree
- maths knowledge
- customer service skills
- the ability to read English
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisation skills)
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure (adaptability skills)
- excellent verbal communication skills
- analytical thinking skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Tax Attorney, you’ll need to pursue a comprehensive educational path that includes both undergraduate and legal education. While there are no specific qualifications required for this profession, certain subjects and skills can be valuable as a foundation for your academic and legal career. Here are some subjects that can be beneficial for aspiring Tax Attorneys:
- English: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for legal research, drafting legal documents, and communicating effectively with clients and colleagues.
- Mathematics: Basic math skills are important for understanding financial and tax-related concepts, as well as for conducting financial analysis.
- Business Studies: Business studies can provide you with foundational knowledge of business principles and concepts, which are relevant in tax law.
- Economics: Courses in economics can help you understand economic principles, taxation systems, and how they impact individuals and businesses.
Post School
University
Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as accounting, business, finance, economics, or a related discipline. This program should include coursework that covers tax-related topics.
Law School
Attend law school and earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Law school typically takes three years of full-time study and includes coursework in various areas of law, including tax law.
Tax Law Focus
During law school, you can focus on tax law by taking relevant courses and participating in tax law clinics or internships.
Bar Exam
After completing law school, you’ll need to pass the bar exam in your jurisdiction to become a licensed attorney.
Specialisation
Consider pursuing further specialisation by obtaining a Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Taxation, which can provide advanced knowledge and skills in tax law.
Experience
Gain practical experience by working in law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments that specialise in tax law.
Tax Attorneys play a crucial role in advising clients on tax matters, representing clients in tax disputes, and ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. Building a strong educational foundation, gaining practical experience, and staying informed about tax law developments are essential for a successful career in tax law.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work standard office hours, 38-40 hours a week, Monday to Friday, with possible overtime at busy periods like the end of the tax year.
You’ll be office-based but will also travel to meet clients.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could open your own tax consultancy.