Taxation

Individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations throughout New Mexico rely on our tax lawyers for straight-forward, practical advice on a full range of federal and state tax matters. Whether the situation calls for strategic planning for future transactions, detailed analysis of current operations, or a skillful advocate during an encounter with the IRS, the attorneys in our tax group know how to identify and achieve favorable tax positions and outcomes for our clients.

Advice and Tax Planning

Planning ahead is the best way to avoid costly federal or state tax controversies, but careful planning requires knowledge of complex and ever-changing tax laws and regulations. The individuals and businesses we represent count on not only our tax lawyers’ up-to-date expertise but also their extensive experience in virtually all types of business and personal tax issues, including:

Analyzing tax consequences of business entity choices
Structuring tax-efficient corporate mergers, acquisitions, or liquidations
Designing tax-favorable compensation packages and plans
Negotiating and implementing tax-deferred 1031 exchanges
Preparing offshore voluntary disclosures
Minimizing gift and estate tax liabilities

IRS Assessments, Audits, and Appeals

When faced with IRS scrutiny, getting a tax professional involved as early as possible often makes a crucial difference in the outcome. Our tax lawyers understand taxpayers’ rights and responsibilities, and we have broad experience with the timing and consequences of the IRS procedures for tax assessment and collection. We can identify information that may strengthen a taxpayer’s position, and our responsive and cooperative approach to handling the IRS can often resolve or mitigate issues before they escalate. Whether we’re engaged in negotiations with the IRS to reduce an individual’s tax liability or drafting a convincing response on behalf a corporation during an audit or appeal, we know our clients appreciate the fact that well-presented, reasonable arguments go a long way toward reaching favorable settlements without the need for costly litigation. Each client’s situation is unique, but we regularly assist clients with a variety of tax problems, including:

Responding to notices of levy and garnishments
Working out payment plans and reducing tax debt through offers in compromise
Acting as counsel for taxpayers during audits
Preparing protest letters and advocating for taxpayers on appeal
Representing taxpayers during Tax Court litigation

State Tax Matters

Navigating New Mexico’s unique state tax system—in particular, its gross receipts and compensating tax—can be a challenge for both domestic and foreign companies. Our clients benefit from the advice of experienced tax lawyers who know the ins and outs of the New Mexico tax structure. Our tax lawyers provide high-quality services, including:

Representing clients before the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department in formal hearings, protests, and claims for refunds
Litigating tax disputes in the New Mexico State courts
Applying for property tax exemptions
Protesting property valuations for property tax
Obtaining revenue rulings
Identifying available tax credits