When you’re ready to hire a new California tax attorney, you need to ask the right questions. Knowing what to ask can reduce the risk you face, gain better clarity about the issues, and help you pick a competent lawyer. Whether you’re dealing with an FTB or EDD audit, are doing proactive tax planning, or have other tax questions, we are the team that can help.
At Weed Law Group, PC, our California tax law attorneys are here to help. We help businesses handle tax-related claims, planning, and other issues the right way.
1. What Experience Do You Have With My Specific Tax Issue?
California tax matters vary widely. Some attorneys focus on FTB audits, others on EDD payroll disputes, and others on IRS controversies or complex business planning. Ask:
- Whether they’ve handled cases similar to yours
- How often they deal with your type of audit or tax problem
- What outcomes they typically achieve
This helps you understand whether the attorney has the right background for your situation.
2. How Do You Approach FTB or EDD Audits?
If you’re facing an audit, you need to know how the attorney manages the process. Important questions include:
- How do you help me prepare for an upcoming audit?
- What documents should I gather for the audit?
- How should I communicate with the auditor?
- Do you handle appeals if the audit results are unfavorable?
California’s tax agencies are aggressive, and their audit methods differ. A strong attorney can help you know what to expect.
3. What Are the Potential Penalties or Consequences in My Case?
A good tax attorney is direct and won’t sugarcoat any risks you might face. Ask them to outline:
- Possible tax assessments
- Interest and penalties
- Payroll tax exposure (for EDD matters)
- Residency or apportionment consequences (for FTB matters)
- Criminal exposure, if applicable
4. What Steps Can We Take Immediately to Protect Me or My Business?
Taking steps early can help prevent problems in the future. Ask your attorney:
- What should I be doing right away to be proactive?
- Is there anything in particular I should avoid?
- Do I talk with the tax agency before you represent me?
- Are there any deadlines I need to know about?
This gives you a clear action plan from day one.
5. How Do You Handle Communication With Tax Agencies?
Tax agencies greatly prefer talking to an experienced tax attorney, because they know the process. Ask your attorney:
- Will you speak to the IRS, FTB, or EDD on my behalf?
- How often will you update me?
- Do you prefer email, phone, or secure portals?
6. What Documentation Will You Need From Me?
Tax cases are document-heavy. Ask:
- Which records are essential?
- How far back should I gather documents?
- Do you help clients organize or analyze records?
7. What Are My Options for Resolving This Issue?
A strong attorney should outline multiple pathways, such as:
- Audit defense
- Administrative appeals
- Settlement negotiations
- Payment plans
- Offers in compromise
- Penalty abatement
- Litigation, if necessary
8. How Do You Charge for Your Services?
Tax matters can be unpredictable, so clarity on fees is essential. Ask:
- Do you charge hourly or flat fees?
- Are retainers required?
- What costs might arise during an audit or appeal?
- How do you bill for communication or document review?
9. What Is Your Experience With California Residency and Apportionment Issues?
This is especially important for:
- Remote workers
- Individuals moving in or out of California
- Multistate businesses
- Tech workers with equity compensation
Residency audits are common, and apportionment rules are complex.
10. What Can I Expect in Terms of Timeline?
Ask the attorney to explain:
- How long audits typically take
- When you’ll see progress
- What delays are common
- How long appeals or negotiations usually last
This helps you set realistic expectations.
Get the Tax Answers You Need in California
A consultation with an experienced California tax attorney needn’t be confusing or stressful. Ask these questions, and any good attorney can give you answers. It also helps you pick an attorney with the experience and dedication you need.
Our team at Weed Law Group, PC are ready to help with your needs. Contact us today for a consultation.