How to Build an IRS Defense Strategy

When the IRS comes calling, clients turn to their attorneys first. But tax controversy is a highly

specialized field — and the wrong step can escalate a matter from manageable to overwhelming. That’s why smart attorneys and business advisors don’t go it alone. They bring in trusted tax resolution partners who know how to anticipate IRS moves, protect client rights, and deliver workable solutions.

At Watson on Taxes, we’ve built our reputation by helping attorneys safeguard their clients and strengthen their practices. Here’s the framework we use — and how we can support you when your clients face the IRS.

1. Assess the Situation Objectively

IRS notices can look intimidating, but not all carry the same weight. A defense strategy begins with triage:

• Identifying the type of notice (audit, levy, lien, or collections).

• Reviewing past filings for risk exposure.

• Flagging immediate deadlines to preserve rights of appeal.

This step is crucial for attorneys: it ensures you can confidently advise your client from day one, while our team translates IRS language into a clear financial roadmap.

2. Build a Complete Financial Picture

An effective IRS defense accounts for the whole client story — business and personal. We gather the details that can make or break a case:

• Historical and current tax filings.

• Cash flow and repayment capacity.

• Overlap between personal and business liabilities.

• Likelihood of expanded review across entities or years.

Attorneys benefit from this deeper due diligence: it arms you with the facts you need to counsel clients and manage their broader legal risks.

3. Develop a Tactical Response Plan

Every IRS case is different — a cookie-cutter defense won’t hold up. Depending on the circumstances, a tailored plan may involve:

• Filing missing or amended returns to restore compliance.

• Providing substantiation for disputed deductions or credits.

• Negotiating installment agreements, penalty abatements, or Offers in Compromise.

• Protecting assets within legal frameworks to prevent unnecessary exposure.

• Communicating with an IRS Revenue Officer where applicable. 

4. Manage IRS Communications Strategically

Attorneys know that every word matters. The same is true with the IRS. Our team:

• Manages all IRS contact to shield your client.

• Responds with complete, documented, and timely submissions.

• Escalates strategically when necessary to move cases forward.

This protects both the client and your reputation — ensuring that communications are handled with professionalism, precision, and discretion.

5. Focus on Long-Term Stability

The best defense doesn’t stop with resolution. We help attorneys and their clients look beyond the immediate case:

• Establishing future compliance practices.

• Strengthening bookkeeping and reporting systems.

• Reducing the risk of repeat issues that could damage credibility.

For your clients, this means peace of mind. For you, it means fewer repeat crises, happier clients, and stronger relationships.

Why Attorneys Partner with Watson on Taxes

• Specialized expertise: Years of tax resolution experience you can’t replicate in-house. 

• Proven results: From audits to complex collections, we’ve delivered solutions that protect clients and reinforce attorneys as trusted advisors.

Want to talk through your case? We’re always happy to consult. Contact Watson on Taxes today.