San Francisco Bay Area Tax Attorney

Our Tax Law Practice

Weed Law Group, PC, helps people and businesses with complicated tax law issues. Our tax attorneys will advocate to the fullest extent possible to achieve the most effective result for your federal and state tax law matters. We handle our clients’ tax matters with a proactive, committed approach. We are committed to fighting for your best interests, whether you are dealing with tax disputes or compliance problems.

When complying with the IRS, delay and mishandling can make the process costly and time-consuming. In handling your federal tax situation, Weed Law Group, PC, takes a proactive and committed approach. We are committed to fighting for your best interests, regardless of whether you are dealing with compliance or a tax dispute.

Federal Tax Law

When it comes to federal tax matters, time and precision are critical. Delay or mishandling can turn a manageable issue into a costly, time-consuming problem. At Weed Law Group, PC, we take a proactive, strategic approach to IRS compliance and federal tax controversies.

As one of the leading tax law firms in the San Francisco Bay Area, we help both individuals and businesses address audits, appeals, and enforcement actions with clarity and control. Whether you are working to resolve a compliance issue or facing a tax dispute, our team is committed to protecting your best interests every step of the way.

Ignoring an IRS audit notice or delaying your response could result in serious consequences, including tax liens that damage your credit or levies that affect your wages and assets. We’re here to help you avoid those outcomes with strong, informed legal advocacy.

With years of focused experience, Weed Law Group, PC, is well-equipped to handle even the most complex tax law matters. Our attorneys bring deep knowledge and unwavering commitment to every case. We advocate relentlessly to achieve the most effective results in both federal and California state tax matters—so you can move forward with confidence.

Our Practice Areas Include:

• IRS Tax Audits

• Understanding the Outcome of CDP Hearing

• California Tax Law

• The Office of Tax Appeals

• Estate/Gift Tax

IRS Tax Audits

Don’t walk into your audit blind. Our attorneys offer IRS tax audit assistance, so let us work with you to make the process as simple as possible.

If you establish a poor tax record, it could cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars — even millions! An IRS audit reviews financial records from you or your organization to ensure that you are reporting within legal parameters.

Taxpayer Representation Before The IRS

If you’re facing an IRS inquiry or tax controversy, the right legal representation makes all the difference. At Weed Law Group, PC, we help clients understand their rights and approach each tax matter with clarity, confidence, and strategy.

Appearing before the IRS or the U.S. Tax Court can be intimidating, especially since taxpayers often carry the burden of proof. Our attorneys are well-versed in the rules and procedures of the U.S. Tax Court and will work closely with you to build a strong case and meet the legal requirements needed to challenge an audit or dispute.

Our team stays current on tax law developments and is committed to handling your case with the focused, persistent advocacy it deserves. We make sure you are fully informed, prepared, and supported every step of the way. If you want to better understand your rights as a taxpayer, we encourage you to review the Federal Taxpayer Bill of Rights—and reach out to us with any questions. We’re here to help you take control of your tax situation with confidence.

Gift Tax

The IRS defines a gift as nearly any transfer of money or property where the giver does not receive something of equal value in return. For example, if you give someone cash with no expectation of repayment, that’s a gift. If you sell a $300,000 home for $150,000, the $150,000 difference is also considered a gift.

These scenarios are based on the IRS concept of fair market value—what a willing buyer would reasonably pay a willing seller, with no pressure on either side. Fortunately, the tax code provides generous gift tax exclusions that allow individuals to give substantial gifts without triggering immediate tax consequences. There are two key exemptions to understand: the annual exclusion and the lifetime exemption.

For the 2025 tax year, the annual exclusion allows you to gift up to $19,000 per recipient completely tax-free. Because this exclusion applies per individual, married couples can combine their limits to give up to $38,000 per person, per year. This creates a powerful planning opportunity for families. For example, if you and your spouse have four married children, you could collectively give $152,000 to each child and each of their spouses annually without triggering any gift tax.

The lifetime exemption is even more substantial. As of 2025, individuals can transfer up to $13.99 million over their lifetime before gift taxes apply. It is important to note that this exemption is “unified” with your estate tax exemption; gifts made during your lifetime reduce the amount available to shield your estate after your passing. For instance, utilizing $1 million of your lifetime exemption now would leave your estate with $12.99 million in future tax protection.

Understanding how these rules interact—and implementing smart planning—is key to maximizing your exemptions and protecting your legacy. At Weed Law Group, PC, we help clients navigate the complexities of gift and estate tax planning with confidence. If you are considering significant gifts or have questions about how these 2025 updates apply to you, we are here to help you plan effectively and avoid unnecessary tax exposure.

Estate Tax

The federal estate tax applies to the transfer of assets after death, but it affects only a small percentage of estates—specifically those valued above the current multi-million-dollar exemption threshold. For high-net-worth individuals, however, this tax can be significant. Proper planning is essential to reduce or even eliminate this burden.

Unlike the estate tax, an inheritance tax is imposed by a few specific states and is paid by the beneficiary based on the value of the gift received. Many of these states provide exemptions for close relatives, and in some cases, a will may direct the estate to cover these costs on behalf of the heirs.

At Weed Law Group, PC, we guide clients through these complex rules with clear advice and smart planning strategies, helping to protect your assets and simplify the process for your loved ones.

California Tax Law

Weed Law Group, PC, is here to assist with your California tax matters. Whether you’re a California resident, relocating out of state, or conducting business in California, our experienced team can help you navigate the complexities of state tax law.

We represent clients in matters involving the Franchise Tax Board (FTB), the Employment Development Department (EDD), and the State Board of Equalization (SBE). We also have a strong record of success before the California Office of Tax Appeals (OTA). Take a proactive step toward resolving your tax concerns—contact us today.

Considering Innocent Joint Filer Relief in California? Here’s What You Should Know

Much like the IRS’s innocent spouse relief program, California’s Franchise Tax Board (FTB) offers an Innocent Joint Filer program designed to provide relief to qualifying taxpayers. However, because California is a community property state, these cases can be significantly more complex—and pursuing this type of relief is not always the most strategic option. Before taking action, it is important to speak with a qualified tax attorney who can walk you through the potential risks and benefits to determine the best path forward.

Whether you are dealing with the FTB, the Employment Development Department (EDD), or the State Board of Equalization (SBE), we have extensive experience navigating California’s tax agencies. Our team is committed to finding a tailored solution that fits your specific situation. Failing to respond to a notice can lead to serious consequences, including tax liens that damage your credit or wage garnishments. Don’t wait—reach out today to protect your finances and your peace of mind.

State Tax Litigation

California state tax inquiries arise for many reasons and often differ significantly from IRS matters. Without proper handling, these issues can quickly become a heavy financial and personal burden.

Because California’s tax codes and procedures do not always align with federal rules, a precise and compliant response is critical. Our deep understanding of California state tax law informs every step of our litigation strategy, ensuring you are supported by experience and expert guidance.

California Franchise Tax Board (FTB)

The California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) is the agency responsible for collecting personal income and corporate taxes within the state. Known for strict deadlines and aggressive collection practices, the FTB is often considered more difficult to navigate than the IRS.

Audit triggers vary, but a common reason for selection is an outstanding balance with the IRS. Other triggers include late filings, calculation errors, underpayments, or personal liability for business taxes. Notably, the FTB also acts as a collection agent for other agencies, pursuing debts such as vehicle registration fees, court fines, and back child support.

If you or your business is selected for an audit, the process begins with an initial contact letter outlining the issues under review. The FTB will then issue Information Document Requests (IDRs) to verify reported items. Upon conclusion, you will receive a written summary of findings.

If additional tax is assessed, you will be issued a Notice of Proposed Assessment. Should you disagree, you have the right to file a written protest, which will be reviewed by a hearing officer. Given the FTB’s aggressive enforcement of taxes, penalties, and interest, immediate action is critical. Our experienced tax attorneys represent individuals and businesses in all aspects of California state tax matters, including audits, protests, and appeals.

California State Board of Equalization (SBE)

The California State Board of Equalization (SBE) oversees the administration of sales and use taxes within the state. While related, these taxes function differently:

• Sales Tax: Applies when a business conducts a taxable transaction inside California. The business is responsible for collecting this tax from the consumer.

• Use Tax: Applies when a California consumer purchases a taxable good or service from outside the state. In this scenario, the consumer is responsible for paying the tax directly to the state.

Sales tax audits verify that businesses are correctly collecting and remitting tax. During an audit, the SBE may compare total sales revenue against reported taxable sales, reconcile sales figures across income and sales tax returns, and verify that the tax collected matches what was remitted.

Use tax audits determine if a business has incurred liability by using, storing, or consuming goods in California that were previously exempt—such as inventory or out-of-state purchases. If you are facing a sales or use tax audit, experienced legal guidance is essential. We help businesses understand their obligations, organize necessary documentation, and respond strategically to minimize risk and liability.

California Employment Development Department (EDD)

The California Employment Development Department (EDD) is responsible for collecting the payroll taxes that fund vital state programs, including unemployment insurance, disability insurance, and paid family leave. Beyond tax collection, the EDD has the authority to audit any business operating within the state, primarily to detect and prevent employment tax fraud.

If your business receives an audit notice, it is essential to first determine which type of audit you are facing:

• Verification Audits: These are randomly selected and are generally less severe in nature.

• Request Audits: These are more serious and are typically triggered by specific information provided to the EDD, often by a current or former employee or through internal EDD investigations.

Preparation is critical. You must compile organized records and documentation, specifically written agreements with independent contractors. These agreements should be carefully drafted to support the worker’s classification as a contractor rather than an employee. Additionally, filing quarterly taxes on time, issuing 1099 forms correctly, and tracking cash payments are vital steps. Solid documentation and experienced legal guidance can significantly reduce your risk and protect your business throughout the process.

Contact A Tax Attorney Today