Do Tax Attorneys Cross State Lines?

If you are looking for a tax attorney who can help you organize your finances, meet all tax requirements, maximize deductions, or even defend you in an IRS audit, you may wonder where to begin your search. Is it important to hire an attorney who exclusively practices in your state? Or do tax attorneys cross state lines? 

Tax attorneys can practice in multiple states as long as they have the proper licensing. Here’s what you need to know about multijurisdictional tax attorneys. 

Can a Tax Attorney Practice in Multiple States?

Tax attorneys can expand their jurisdictions across multiple states. They have a few different methods of doing so. 

First, some states have reciprocity agreements, allowing attorneys to practice in two or more specific states without needing additional licensing. For example, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont have a reciprocity agreement. An attorney can apply for reciprocity with another state’s bar and begin offering services there. 

Alternatively, a tax attorney can apply for state bar admission in another state. To meet the state’s admission requirements, the attorney may need to take another bar exam. 

You may also see a tax attorney practice pro hac vice, which means they are representing a case in a jurisdiction in which they are not licensed to practice. This may happen if a tax case could benefit from a specific attorney’s knowledge, even if they are not licensed in that jurisdiction. 

So, do tax attorneys cross state lines? Yes, but an attorney generally cannot practice in another state without going through at least a short process. They will need to gain admission to that state’s bar, which may or may not require an exam, or meet the state’s pro hac vice requirements. 

What To Look for in a Multijurisdictional Attorney

Are you considering partnering with an attorney who primarily practices in another state? Or maybe you found a tax attorney with a multijurisdictional practice and are wondering whether they are legitimate. Follow these tips to find and evaluate tax attorneys who cross state lines. 

• Look for knowledge in state and federal tax matters: Each state has its own tax laws, deductions, credits, and policies. A tax attorney who crosses state lines should have a deep knowledge of all laws in each jurisdiction as well as a clear understanding of federal tax matters. They should have extensive experience representing cases in your state. 
• Seek clear evidence of bar admission: An attorney should be able to show you that they meet bar admission requirements for your state. Many states with reciprocity agreements require multijurisdictional attorneys to meet other requirements, like having practiced law for a certain number of years. 
• Avoid unauthorized practice: A multijurisdictional tax firm may claim it can provide legal guidance, yet it does not offer any evidence of its licenses across states. Avoid any unauthorized practices and look for tax attorneys who clearly state their qualifications. CPAs and other tax professionals may not have the knowledge to provide sound legal advice. 
• Ensure an attorney can handle their caseload: Attorneys who practice in multiple states may have a lot on their plates. Ensure that the tax attorney you are considering has enough time to dedicate to your tax needs. 

Do Tax Attorneys Cross State Lines? Ask Levy & Associates

At Levy & Associates, we can answer, “Do tax attorneys cross state lines?” based on our own experience. Our tax attorneys practice in both Michigan and Florida, as well as on a national scale. 

We can provide reliable assistance across a range of tax issues. Call us today at 313-447-1704 or fill out the contact form to request a consultation.