Luce Forward’s tax attorneys can carefully guide clients through a labyrinth of tax rules whether at the national or domestic, state, or local level. We have significant experience in planning for start-ups and early stage companies, including choice of entity, conversions to or from limited liability companies, joint ventures, and other partnership arrangements.
Prior to filing tax returns, we work closely with clients to formulate an audit strategy and often interface with independent CPA firms. If we are retained after the audit is completed, or while the matter is in settlement, we consider all possible resolutions to achieve the best result for clients. We have had success in negotiating settlements with the IRS and the Franchise Tax Board. In our experience a negotiated settlement may produce a better result. However, if negotiation is not fruitful, we litigate the matter.
Our tax controversy practice represents our clients in front of the IRS, Appeals Division, District Counsel, and Tax Court. With respect to the State of California, our attorneys represent taxpayers in front of the Franchise Tax Board, State Board of Equalization, and California Superior Court. Our attorneys work with clients and advisors from the beginning of an audit through litigation.
We represent both domestic and international corporations and unincorporated entities in structuring both taxable and tax-free acquisitions of equity and assets. We assist clients in raising capital in the most tax-efficient manner. We advise owners with respect to strategic and buyout possibilities and we also assist clients in structuring executive compensation, including 409(A) issues, tax-deferred employee benefits, and employee stock ownership plans.
We have advised clients on complex international cross border transactions and multi-national agreements. We structure both inbound and outbound transactions. We work closely with an in-house attorney licensed to practice in Mexico an our firm is a founding member of the Pacific Rim Advisory Counsel, a by invitation only information and knowledge-sharing network of 31 major independent law firms worldwide with over 11,000 practicing attorneys in 41 countries.
Our services include:
- addressing property tax issues
- corporate tax
- employee benefits
- ESOPS
- executive compensation
- international tax
- nonprofit and tax-exempt entities
- organizing business entities
- partnerships and limited liability companies
- planning for capital gains
- private equity
- real estate tax
- structuring tax-free exchanges
- tax controversy
- tax-free reorganizations
- tax planning