I had a major tax problem and a friend recommended getting a tax attorney - he was quite adamant about it. He didn't recommended anyone but he insisted getting a tax attorney was the correct first step in getting my situation handled for good. I had issues with both the IRS and the State of California Franchise Tax Board (FTB).
I tried to handle the FTB situation myself. I figured I could just communicate my way through the process and end up with a reasonable solution. What works in the real world every day does not seem to apply to tax agencies (logic and kindness are unknown commodities with these organizations). I discovered (subsequently) that several FTB employees told me completely false information (which naturally was not in my favor). Even after escalating to supervisors, I was told the same thing. What I was unable to handle in several discussions over a 2-3 month period was handled by Colonial the very same day I signed up. It disturbs me to this day that as a taxpayer, state employees are evidently allowed to give false information to the very citizens that pay their salaries. This is just one example of why a good tax attorney is well worth it. They know the law and what a tax agency can and cannot do.
As for the IRS, Colonial was able to put my case into an noncollectable status, also done immediately, and we submitted an Offer in Compromise. My own financial circumstances changed significantly a year later while the OIC was still being considered and I ended up paying the tax bill. However, the process bought an incredible amount of time where I was untouchable by the IRS. I was able to get my life and business in order free from worry and this was enormously helpful. I wish the OIC had been approved quickly by the IRS - that would have been optimum, but the situation is now handled and I'm relieved and back to fully enjoying life.
I found Colonial to be upfront, understanding, ethical and honest throughout the process. They did not make me feel bad for getting myself into this situation. They were there to help. All my questions were answered and I believe they did everything by the book yet worked aggressively in my favor and within the law. There are a lot of tax attorneys promising everything under the sun, moon and stars. I know there are several good and bad ones. Colonial is one of the good ones for sure and I would not hestitate to recommend them to anyone with a tax problem. Thank you John and Beverly who worked on my case and giving me the needed relief to live my life.
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