Institute for Career Research

Career as a Lawyer Institute for Career Research

TAXATION IS HOW THE GOVERNMENT COLLECTS the money needed to provide services to its citizens. The most commonly recognized taxes are income tax and sales tax. There are also many other forms of taxes that we do not notice or think about, such as use taxes, real estate taxes, gas taxes, trade tariffs, and "sin taxes" (taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, etc.). Taxes are not voluntary, but rather enforced under various laws. Those laws are extremely complex and in constant flux. Tax attorneys have extensive knowledge of the Tax Code and they follow the changes as they develop. They are able to identify key deductions, exemptions, and credits that could make a significant impact on an individual or company's tax obligation. They help people, businesses, and organizations minimize taxes without getting into legal trouble. The IRS is responsible for administering and enforcing the laws regarding federal income tax. There are numerous other authorities that create and enforce tax laws and collect tax revenues, ranging from the smallest townships to the federal government. They include agencies, transit districts, utility companies, schools, and more. Tax attorneys can represent clients, both individuals and organizations, before any taxing body. They negotiate with tax authorities or defend clients in court if a dispute with government tax officials arises. Most people think of tax attorneys in connection with tax evasion or audits. Tax attorneys do represent individuals in those situations, but most deal with organizations, which may be businesses or nonprofit groups. As complex as the tax code is for individuals, it is many times more complicated for businesses. It is such a broad area of the law that tax attorneys often focus in a specific area, such as international tax, partnership tax, tax litigation, executive compensation, pension funding, or tax-exempt organizations. It takes considerable education and training to become a tax attorney. A law degree is the minimum requirement and a master's degree in tax law is recommended. Those who make it through the seven or eight years of intense study will find that the job outlook and the earnings are excellent. Highly competent tax attorneys are in constant demand, and it is a very flexible career path. Tax attorneys can join the in-house staff of a big corporation, work at a law firm or accounting firm, or go into business for themselves. Wherever they choose to practice, they will be rewarded with six figure incomes and a very satisfying career.