The tax laws, both domestic and international, are complex and challenging. There are also intersecting federal, state and foreign laws that frequently will impact tax planning, controversy and litigation matters. Rendering advice on the tax laws may also raise legal, ethical and compliance questions for which law and accounting firms will seek outside tax counsel. Jerry has frequently been called upon for rendering tax management advice.
- Law and Accounting Firms. Jerry has provided legal advice to law and accounting firms on risk and practice management, tax opinions standards and professional code of ethics matters involving the practice of tax law, including conflicts of interest.
- Fiduciaries Including Trust Companies, Home Office Managers, Trustees and Executors. Advising corporate and individual fiduciaries of trusts or estates, as to tax and tax compliance issues relating to estate and trust administration with emphasis on state, local and international taxation and tax compliance issues. This includes fiduciary liability under as well as financial advisor firms on tax and related legal matters.
- Consultant on Legal and Tax Malpractice. Frequently asked to advise law and accounting firms as well as corporate fiduciaries and financial advisory firms on tax matters involving current or prior representation of clients. Serving as legal consultant to law and accounting firms and their legal advisers in defending against professional liability or malpractice claims, including alternate dispute mechanisms through trial and appeal.
- Representing accountants or lawyers in disciplinary and enforcement proceedings before the Office of Professional Responsibility of the Internal Revenue Service in accordance with Circular 230, state licensing authorities and professional law and accounting associations.
- Implementing measures to reduce professional liability exposure, including reviewing and drafting engagement and disengagement letters, second opinion protocols, risk management review of draft opinions.
- Expert Witness. Jerry has served as an expert witness/consultant in tax malpractice cases filed against legal and tax advisors. Mr. August is also asked to review and comment on tax opinions issued by other firms and tax advisors involving federal domestic or international taxation.
