Segal, Cohen & Landis, P.C.
IRS Audit Defense — Attorney-Led Representation
IRS tax attorneys — Beverly Hills, CA. National representation.
An IRS audit can begin as a simple letter and escalate into a comprehensive examination of your financial life. Whether you are facing a correspondence audit, an office examination, or a full field audit at your home or business, the way you respond in the first 30 days determines whether the matter stays contained or expands into something far more serious.
At Segal, Cohen & Landis, our IRS audit attorneys have handled hundreds of federal and California state audit matters. We take over all communication with the IRS on your behalf, control the scope of the examination, and develop a defense strategy based on the specific items under review — not a generic checklist.
Your first consultation is free and confidential.
How We Help
Our Approach to IRS Audit Attorney
Correspondence Audit Defense
Most IRS audits begin by mail — a CP2000 notice or Letter 525 questioning a specific deduction or unreported income. We review the notice, analyze what documentation is required, prepare a complete written response, and negotiate the adjustment. Many correspondence audits close without any additional tax owed when properly handled.
Office and Field Audit Representation
We attend office and field audits on your behalf. You are generally not required to be present. We prepare your records, brief you on what to expect, and manage every interaction with the IRS examiner — including preventing scope expansion into additional years or unrelated issues.
Scope Control and Expansion Defense
IRS auditors are trained to identify adjacent issues and expand audits. We know when an examiner is overreaching and how to push back within the procedural rules. Controlling scope is often the most valuable thing an attorney does during an examination.
Audit Appeals and Tax Court
If the IRS proposes adjustments we believe are incorrect, we file a formal protest with the IRS Office of Appeals. Over 85% of disputed audit adjustments are resolved at the appeal level. When necessary, we represent clients in U.S. Tax Court.
How It Works
The Resolution Process
Audit Notice Analysis
We review the notice, identify the exam type, determine what is being questioned, and advise on your legal rights before you respond to anything.
Document Preparation
We gather and review all relevant records — bank statements, receipts, contracts, tax returns — to assess your position before any examiner sees them.
IRS Representation
We communicate directly with the IRS. You are not required to speak with auditors. We control the narrative, the documents produced, and the timeline.
Settlement or Appeal
If proposed adjustments are unfair, we appeal. If a settlement is in your interest, we negotiate the best outcome — including penalty and interest reduction.
Ready to Resolve Your Tax Problem?
Our attorneys have helped thousands of clients resolve IRS matters. Your consultation is free and confidential.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggers an IRS audit?+
Common triggers include math errors, unusual deductions relative to income, missing 1099 income, high cash business income, foreign accounts, cryptocurrency transactions, and prior audit history. The IRS also selects returns randomly through its DIF scoring system.
Do I have to attend the audit myself?+
No. If you are represented by a licensed tax attorney, CPA, or enrolled agent, you are generally not required to appear at the audit. We strongly recommend you not attend — anything you say can be used to expand the scope of the examination.
How long does an IRS audit take?+
Correspondence audits typically resolve in 3–6 months. Office audits take 6–12 months. Field audits can take 12–24 months or longer for complex matters. Attorney representation generally shortens this timeline.
What years can the IRS audit?+
The standard statute of limitations is 3 years from the return due date. If the IRS believes income was underreported by 25% or more, the limit extends to 6 years. There is no statute of limitations for fraudulent returns or unfiled returns.
Can an audit result in criminal charges?+
Audits are civil proceedings. Criminal referrals are rare and require willful fraud, not mistakes. However, if an auditor uncovers evidence of fraud, the matter can be referred to IRS Criminal Investigation. Having an attorney from the start provides important protections.
Related Tax Services
Further reading
Beverly Hills · Los Angeles · National
Segal, Cohen & Landis, P.C.
9100 Wilshire Boulevard, 601 East Tower, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
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