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19 Jul, 2023 by Loren
Wally Glausi is a legal luminary in a class all his own. I have collaborated with him for upwards of two DECADES- and during that time his insight has proven indispensable to myself- and countless other serial entrepreneurs. While his acumen is unsurpassed- it is his genuine humility and active listening skills that set him apart. This rarest combination of expertise, unrivaled experience- and emotional intelligence- has propelled him to the highest levels of sophisticated clientele, by producing superlative results. He has no credible detractors.
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19 Jul, 2023 by Nolan
Wallace Glausi has been helping our family through 2 generations of family serial entrepreneurs. He is not just the attorney I call on a bad day or a to solve a problem, but more importantly as an advisor with a depth that I have not found in other attorneys or representatives. He has helped in the structuring of acquisitions, partnerships, and sales. He has even been ahead of developing issues giving me a heads up before I was even aware of a problem. When it comes to our businesses and family affairs, he has my trust and respect.
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08 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Criminal record here https://crimeinformer.com/arrestArticle/Oregon/66151 This lawyer is incompetent and has multiple criminal issues. Look at his arrest record. I am surprised he has not been disbared. He has a terrible reputation with other local lawyers I have spoken to.
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13 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
He was all about the money and paying him alot of it. Sitting in court waiting he was working on other clients cases and charged me for the time. Never answered emails and was very condescending. After 7 months, 3 days before trial he gave me a letter saying he didnt want to represent me at trial. I scrambled and got a new attorney in the three days and he refused to release my file to my new attorney before I paid over $60,000. When I paid what we agreed to, he still refused to turn my file over saying he got a new bill for an additional $11,000 and refused to turn over my file till I paid that. This all three days before trial. I ended up paying him over $85,000 for basically nothing. My new attorney had to start from scratch. My new attorney was fantastic actually getting the case dismissed when Blackman told me plead guilty or face prison.
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12 May, 2013 by Blackmanwillripyouoffbeware!
The bizarre thing was that I feared nothing was being done so I was offerring to help any way I could and I was assured that all research was being done, etc., to further my case. However, that did not seem to be the case when the case started and went on. After the first day Mr. Blackman asked if I wanted to go to the library to do research. Apparently he needed help. At that point I was too tired and distraught to work overnight. He should have asked earlier, but maybe he thought I would fire him. I may have. The case could have been settled, but Blackman made a big fight of it. He probably knew that if he asked earlier I would have fired him, so constantly assured me that everything that needed to be done was being done. However, obviously it was not. Also, I suppose every time he assured me he intended to "get around to it", but never did. In any case, mid trial I was being asked to figure my own case to help this so called attorney. WOW. That really blew me away. The attorney permitted the constant misstating of the law by the District Attorney and failed to object. It was as if he had not cracked a book to learn anything about the law. What a disaster it was. After the case was over I did crack those books and learned he had completely botched the case. It was simple research that a lawyer experienced, blah blah blah as Mr. Blackman claims to be could easily find in a few minutes, at most an hour, maybe a little more. He never took the time. He just bumbled into court all sure of himself with a factually innocent client. He also failed to make any efforts to prepare or go over testimony. Apparently he does NOT know how to do that, or research a case. He'll expect you to do all the work to get yourself off. During the litigation he was still trying to issue subpoenas and things which should have been done beforehand. He was unable to do so. He was too late. However, he also did not "fall on the sword" and tell the judge he needed a continuance and why (that he had not done his job). Apparently it is more important to Blackman to keep up appearances than to serve the interests of his clients. This lawyer is a disaster. If you want a lawyer who thinks he is better than other people, but too dumb to realize he's not really very smart at all this is your man. And he'll charge you a HUGE amount of money as well, and when you try to go away after he screws up your case and your life he'll sue you for 10s of thousands of dollars or more, all for the incompetent "work" he performs which you'd be better off doing yourself. Do yourself a favor and save the money and go with the public defender. If you don't qualify for the Public Defender then look for ANYBODY else. Probably most troubling is an element of bigotry in Blackman. He thinks he's superior to everybody else and though he was superior to the brand new DA opposing him. However, that brand new DA was able to effectively violate the law right and left with improper instructions, improper statements of what the law is not, and improper questioning and more including sheltering witnesses we needed from subpoenas. Blackman claimed the DA's actions were "unethical" but was unable to do a damn thing about them. If I wasn't paying the price for his incompetence, it would have been quite entertaining watching that brand new DA kick Blackman. There could be a movie about it. It might be pretty good. Worst of all, he still thinks he's better than everybody else even as he loses. He doesn't have a clue. But he's all about the money -- your money -- and he will sue you too even as he ruins your case and life by being so incompetent and lazy.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Bob
So so I was like hey Alicia hey girl whats up. Like what's going on. And she's all like. Um... Shut up... You're fat and ugly. And I'm all like girl what's your beef with me. And she's all like girl you need to shut your stank mouth up and I was appalled so I was like girl don't you be talking to me like that girl I can get you out of a job b*tch. So then she started throwing hands but like I totally owned her girl. Anyways. Like. She is so not a lawyer you want to have around because she is just not the vibes.
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22 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I engaged Caitlin for a small project. She estimated the time to complete at roughly 3 hours. Caitlin initially sent me an email stating that she would begin the research immediately and check in by the end of the week. A month later, I've heard nothing - no status updates, no work product. I then write her an email on a Tuesday checking in to ask for a status update and to request that she have the project completed within the next 10 days. She writes back that she'll have it to me by the end of the current week. End of the week arrives, nothing. Tuesday of the following week, she emails me to she had a multi-day emergency the previous week but that she would get it to me the following morning. She did not. She also did not send me any notice that she would be delayed by the emergency. A few days after that, I emailed her to terminate my engagement with her and asked for a refund. Ignoring my email, she sent me the work product for the project soon thereafter. If you're looking for a responsible, responsive attorney who will complete work in a timely manner, I strongly recommend that you look elsewhere. Caitlin exhibited a clear pattern of excuse making throughout the engagement that I would have never tolerated from any of my own employees. I suspect that if I hadn't followed up the project would have never been completed.
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What a Tax Lawyer Can Do for You

A tax lawyer specializes in the complex area of tax law, offering legal advice and representation on matters related to tax compliance, disputes with tax authorities, and tax planning. Tax lawyers help individuals, businesses, and organizations navigate the intricacies of federal, state, and local tax laws. They ensure that clients are compliant with tax regulations, minimize tax liabilities, and represent them in audits, appeals, or disputes with tax authorities such as the IRS.

Whether you need assistance with personal taxes, corporate tax strategy, or resolving an audit, a tax lawyer can protect your rights and help you manage your financial responsibilities.

When Should I Hire a Tax Lawyer?

Hiring a tax lawyer is advisable in several situations where tax issues are complicated, disputes arise, or legal strategies are necessary to manage tax liability. Common reasons to hire a tax lawyer include:

  • Tax audits or disputes with the IRS: If you are facing an audit or have received a notice of deficiency from the IRS, a tax lawyer can represent you and defend your rights during the process.
  • Tax debt relief: If you owe back taxes or face significant tax liabilities, a tax lawyer can help negotiate a payment plan, settlement, or Offer in Compromise with the IRS.
  • Tax planning for businesses or individuals: A tax lawyer can advise on strategies to minimize tax liabilities through legal deductions, credits, and other tax-saving mechanisms.
  • International tax issues: If you have foreign assets or income, a tax lawyer can help you comply with international tax laws, such as the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) or Foreign Bank Account Reporting (FBAR) requirements.
  • Tax fraud or evasion accusations: If you're being investigated or charged with tax fraud or evasion, a tax lawyer can provide a defense and negotiate with the authorities to minimize penalties.
  • Corporate tax law compliance: Businesses, especially large corporations, benefit from the expertise of a tax lawyer who can handle complex issues such as mergers and acquisitions, employee benefits, and international tax planning.
  • Estate and gift tax planning: A tax lawyer can help you minimize estate taxes and ensure your assets are passed on efficiently through trusts, wills, and other tax-efficient structures.

Hiring a tax lawyer early can prevent costly mistakes and ensure you are fully compliant with all applicable tax laws.

What Does a Tax Lawyer Do?

A tax lawyer provides a wide range of services to assist clients with tax compliance, tax planning, and legal disputes. Their key responsibilities include:

  • Tax planning and advisory: Helping individuals and businesses plan their tax strategies to reduce liability, avoid penalties, and maximize deductions and credits.
  • Representing clients in tax disputes: Defending clients in disputes with the IRS or state tax authorities, including audits, appeals, and collections actions.
  • Filing Offers in Compromise: Negotiating settlements with the IRS for clients who owe more than they can afford to pay.
  • Handling tax litigation: Representing clients in tax court or other legal proceedings if a tax dispute escalates beyond the administrative level.
  • Estate and gift tax planning: Advising clients on how to structure their estate to minimize estate and gift taxes, including creating trusts, family partnerships, or charitable giving plans.
  • Assisting with tax fraud investigations: Defending clients accused of tax fraud, evasion, or criminal tax offenses.
  • International tax compliance: Advising clients with offshore assets on U.S. tax compliance and reporting requirements, including FATCA and FBAR.

How Are Tax Lawyers Paid?

Tax lawyers typically charge for their services in various ways, depending on the complexity of the work involved and the nature of the legal assistance required. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many tax lawyers charge by the hour, especially for complex cases or ongoing legal work such as audit defense, tax litigation, or corporate tax planning. Hourly rates can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as preparing a legal document, filing an Offer in Compromise, or handling a routine audit, some lawyers charge a flat fee.
  • Retainer: For businesses or individuals with ongoing tax needs, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment used to secure the lawyer’s services and billed against as work is completed.
  • Contingency fee: In rare cases, particularly when negotiating settlements or resolving tax debts, a lawyer may charge a contingency fee based on the outcome of the case. This means they only get paid if they succeed in reducing your tax liability.

Always ask about the fee structure during the initial consultation to avoid surprises and ensure you understand how the lawyer will charge for their services.

How Much Does a Tax Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a tax lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the specific services required. Here are some general cost estimates:

  • Simple tax issues: For straightforward cases such as filing an Offer in Compromise or handling a routine audit, fees may range from $2,000 to $7,500.
  • Complex tax disputes: For more complicated cases, such as defending against tax fraud accusations, handling a significant IRS audit, or resolving international tax issues, costs can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the time and effort involved.
  • Hourly rates: Tax lawyers typically charge between $200 and $600 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases involving high-stakes outcomes.
  • Flat fees: For specific services, such as tax planning for an estate or preparing a legal document, a flat fee may range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the task.

Always get a detailed estimate of fees during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.

Top Questions to Ask a Tax Lawyer

Before hiring a tax lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your situation. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with tax law?
    Ensure the lawyer has specific experience handling cases or issues similar to yours, whether it’s IRS disputes, corporate tax planning, or estate taxes.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify the lawyer’s fee structure - whether it’s hourly, flat fee, or retainer - and ask for an estimate of the total cost of your case.
  3. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask the lawyer to provide an honest assessment of your situation and the possible outcomes, such as tax reductions, settlements, or litigation results.
  4. Have you handled cases like mine before?
    Find out if the lawyer has experience with issues similar to yours, such as international tax compliance, criminal tax defense, or complex estate planning.
  5. What is the timeline for my case?
    Ask how long it will take to resolve your tax issue or dispute, as some tax matters can take months or years to fully settle.
  6. Will you handle my case personally?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work. Clarify who will be handling your case day-to-day.

How to Check the Credibility of a Tax Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable tax lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing, with no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for specific tax law expertise: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in tax law and have handled cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s expertise and service.
  • Ask for references: A credible tax lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their ability to handle complex tax matters.
  • Look for professional affiliations: Membership in organizations like the American Bar Association’s Section of Taxation or the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) can indicate that the lawyer stays current with tax law developments.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with a tax lawyer, it’s essential to come prepared with all relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Tax returns and records: Bring copies of recent tax returns, especially those related to the issue you're facing.
  • IRS correspondence: If you’ve received notices from the IRS or state tax authorities, bring all relevant documentation.
  • Financial records: Bring records of income, expenses, assets, and any other relevant financial documents that the lawyer may need to understand your tax situation.
  • List of questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask the lawyer about your case, the legal process, and the potential outcomes.
  • Timeline of events: Provide a clear timeline of any interactions with the IRS or tax authorities, including audits, notices, or payment demands.

By being well-prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and help the lawyer assess your situation effectively, providing you with the best legal advice moving forward.

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