Title: Tax controversy for small businesses: When should you involve a lawyer?
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As small businesses grow and develop, having a team of skilled and knowledgeable professional advisors is essential for continued success. Typically, the financial team includes a CPA, financial advisor, and lawyer. While each plays a distinct role, the skills and knowledge of each are most effective when working together. There is value in having multiple advisors who can inform and improve each other’s contributions.
There are times when it may be necessary to discuss matters primarily with one member of the trusted advisor team. For example, CPAs are typically the main advisors for small businesses when it comes to tax compliance and planning. They prepare tax returns, manage payroll reporting, advise on estimated payments, and help with routine correspondence from the IRS or state revenue departments.
However, because of rules of evidence, confidentiality, and other legal standards, when a tax issue escalates into controversy, a small business owner may need to work directly with a tax lawyer. Understanding the distinct but complementary roles of a CPA and a lawyer — and when each is best positioned to help — allows business owners to respond strategically rather than reactively.
Quick answer: Small businesses should involve a tax lawyer when a tax issue escalates beyond routine compliance into a dispute — such as audits with proposed penalties, notices of deficiency, or collection actions like liens or levies. In many cases, the best approach is a coordinated effort between a CPA and a tax lawyer.
When does a tax issue become a controversy?
A tax controversy arises when a matter moves beyond routine compliance and into a more formal dispute process. This can happen in several ways, including the initiation of an audit, proposed penalties, a disputed assessment, or the beginning of collection activity. At this point, the issue often shifts from accounting and documentation toward questions of legal rights, procedural strategy, and risk management.
Common signs that it’s time to involve legal counsel in coordination with a CPA include:
A great first step is to consult with your CPA to determine whether and when it makes sense to involve a tax lawyer.
What is a tax lawyer’s role in a controversy?
Tax lawyers focus on managing disputes with the IRS and state authorities, negotiating settlements, and, when necessary, litigating — typically working closely with the client’s CPA throughout the process. Discussions with a lawyer are protected by attorney-client privilege, which can be critical if sensitive issues are involved.
When a business faces penalties, challenges an assessment, or explores resolution options such as installment agreements, offers in compromise, or alternative dispute resolution programs, a tax lawyer adds legal analysis and advocacy to the financial and factual groundwork already developed by the CPA.
In more serious cases — such as those involving alleged misclassification of workers, aggressive credit claims, or complex deductions — a lawyer can help manage legal exposure and ensure the issue is addressed strategically as it progresses.
Do you need both a CPA and a tax lawyer for a tax controversy?
In many cases, the best results come from early and ongoing collaboration between CPAs and tax lawyers. CPAs provide the financial and operational context; lawyers apply legal strategy and advocacy. Small businesses benefit most when professionals work together early, before positions harden or deadlines are missed.
Waiting too long to involve legal counsel, or doing so without coordinating with a CPA, can limit available options. The key is recognizing when the conversation with the IRS shifts from informational to confrontational.
When should you involve a tax lawyer?
If the issue involves filing and compliance, a CPA is usually the right starting point. If you receive notice of an IRS audit, or if the situation involves interpretation of the law, penalties, collections, or the potential for litigation, it may be time to consider adding a tax lawyer to the team.
For small businesses in Tennessee, tax controversies are disruptive, but they don’t have to be overwhelming. Understanding when to involve the right professional can protect your business, reduce stress, and lead to more favorable resolutions.
“Many business owners wait too long to bring in legal counsel,” says Chad Roberts, a tax attorney at Harris Shelton. “Involving both your CPA and a tax lawyer early can often preserve more options and lead to better outcomes.”
If your business is facing an IRS audit, tax dispute, or other controversy, Harris Shelton’s experienced tax lawyers regularly work alongside CPAs and financial advisors to help businesses navigate audits, disputes, and resolutions efficiently and strategically.
Title: Eight Harris Shelton Attorneys Recognized by Super Lawyers
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Harris Shelton Hanover Walsh, PLLC, one of Memphis’ largest law firms, today announced that eight of its attorneys have been recognized as Super Lawyers, including four more named Rising Stars.
Super Lawyers identifies top attorneys nationwide across a variety of practice areas and firm sizes, using a patented process of independent research and peer input. The honor recognizes both seasoned professionals and emerging leaders in the legal field. The full list of attorneys includes:
Attorneys named to the Rising Stars list in their respective practice areas are Emily Huseth (appellate), Megan Lane (civil litigation), Lauren Meriwether (real estate), and Jacob Swatley (personal injury and medical malpractice).
The Super Lawyers selection process is conducted annually on a state-by-state basis and evaluates candidates using peer nominations, independent research, and 12 indicators of professional achievement and peer recognition. Rising Stars are attorneys under 40 or in practice for less than 10 years who demonstrate significant professional accomplishments.
The recognized attorneys can be searched online by city and legal specialty, providing the public with information on their credentials, experience, and practice areas. Super Lawyers also features an advisory board of accomplished attorneys from across the country who lend insight into the selection process.
Title: 33 Harris Shelton Attorneys Receive Best Lawyers Designation
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The peer review-based publication also designated four attorneys as Ones to Watch
Harris Shelton Hanover Walsh, PLLC, one of Memphis’ largest law firms, today announced 33 of its attorneys have received the Best Lawyers® designation in the 2026 edition of the annual publication. J. Matthew Kirby has been named Lawyer of the Year in Worker’s Compensation Law – Employers.
With each new publication, attorneys must maintain their votes in subsequent polls to remain listed. Harris Shelton attorneys who have received the Best Lawyers designation in 2026 include: Patricia E. Adrian; Robert K. Alvarez; G. Rice Byars, Jr.; Susan Callison; Christopher S. Campbell; M. Anderson Cobb, Jr.; Kannon C. Conway; Steven Douglass; Charles C. Drennon III; Allison T. Gilbert; W. Bradley Gilmer; A. Neal Graham; Jeffrey L. Griffin; W. Timothy Hayes, Jr.; Milton “Dee” Hobbs; Brett Hughes; James B. Jalenak; J. Matthew Kirby; James L. Kirby; Karen S. Koplon; Barbara B. Lapides; Jonathan T. Martin; Paul A. Matthews; Edward J. McKenney, Jr.; William P. Moss III; Jerry O. Potter; William Chad Roberts; Abigail J. Sala; Tricia M. Y. Tweel; Richard Underwood; J. Kevin Walsh; George T. Wheeler, Jr.; and William J. Wyatt.
“Receiving this recognition is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment our attorneys bring to their clients every day,” said Harris Shelton Chief Manager Christopher S. Campbell. “These honors reflect the strength of our team and our continued pursuit of excellence in the legal profession.”
Four attorneys also received recognition in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America, extended to attorneys in the earlier stages of their legal careers for outstanding professional performance. Those who received this year’s honor include Kelsey Duckett, Sara Garner, Megan Lane, and Amber Griffin Shaw.
First published in 1983, Best Lawyers is the oldest and most respected ranking guide in the legal profession. It recognizes top legal talent in more than 70 countries using peer review methodologies.
Title: Amber Griffin Shaw Appointed to Tennessee Supreme Court’s Advisory Commission on Rules of Practice and Procedure
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Harris Shelton is proud to announce that Amber Griffin Shaw has been appointed by the Tennessee Supreme Court to serve on the Advisory Commission on the Rules of Practice and Procedure. Amber’s term on the Commission will span three years, during which she will contribute her extensive experience and insights to help shape the rules governing court practice and procedure across Tennessee.
The Advisory Commission plays a critical role in Tennessee’s judicial system. Its members are entrusted with reviewing and proposing updates or amendments to the procedural rules that guide how cases are managed and resolved in state courts. From civil litigation processes to rules of evidence, the Commission’s work helps ensure that the state’s legal system operates efficiently, fairly, and in line with evolving legal standards and community needs.
Amber’s appointment to this important body is a reflection of her significant contributions to the legal profession and her reputation for excellence both in and out of the courtroom. For more than 17 years, Amber has built a diverse practice focused on complex civil litigation, including catastrophic personal injury, products liability, fraud, and multi-district litigation. Her trial experience is extensive, with successful jury and bench trials across numerous Tennessee and Mississippi counties.
Beyond her impressive legal work, Amber is recognized for her commitment to community service and professional leadership. She has been honored by the Tipton County Chamber of Commerce as Outstanding Woman of the Year and was named Tipton County Pro Bono Attorney of the Year by Memphis Area Legal Services. She serves as Vice President of the Boys and Girls Club of the Hatchie River Region and remains actively involved in several civic and economic development organizations in her community.
Amber’s numerous accolades, including recognition by National Trial Lawyers, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, and Martindale Hubbell’s AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review, reflect the respect she has earned from peers and clients alike.
Please join us in congratulating Amber on this well-deserved appointment. We look forward to seeing her continued impact on the practice and administration of law in Tennessee.
Title: Jacob Swatley appointed to Uniform Law Commission
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Harris Shelton is proud to announce that attorney Jacob Swatley has been appointed by Tennessee Lt. Governor Randy McNally to serve as a member of the Uniform Law Commission (ULC). His term begins immediately and will run through June 30, 2028.
The ULC, also known as the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws, works to draft and promote the enactment of uniform laws across all 50 states, ensuring legal consistency in areas where uniformity is practical and beneficial. Commissioners are selected for their legal expertise and dedication to public service, and their contributions play a key role in shaping model statutes adopted nationwide.
In his letter of appointment, Lt. Governor McNally expressed full confidence in Jacob’s professionalism, integrity, and dedication to the citizens of Tennessee.
Jacob brings to this role extensive litigation and advisory experience across healthcare law, corporate transactions, and election law. He represents healthcare providers in liability and workers’ compensation matters across Tennessee and Arkansas and serves as outside counsel to several businesses on corporate legal strategy and acquisitions.
In the election law space, Jacob has represented candidates and government officials before Tennessee’s highest courts, including in redistricting litigation and proceedings before a three-judge panel. He currently serves as litigation counsel to the Shelby County Election Commission.
An honors graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law, Jacob was a staff editor on both the Mississippi Law Journal and the Federal Courts Law Review. He earned his undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Memphis, graduating with honors and membership in Phi Kappa Phi.
His appointment to the ULC underscores his commitment to legal excellence and public service. We congratulate Jacob on this well-deserved honor and are proud to see him represent Tennessee on the national stage.