Federal, State, & Local Tax Disputes
Litigation
Defense in Tax Audits, Litigation, and Enforcement Proceedings
WH Burkley represents businesses and individuals in tax disputes at the federal, state, and local levels. We provide strategic, business-focused counsel to help clients navigate audits, respond to enforcement actions, and resolve tax-related litigation efficiently.
Tax disputes often involve complex financial, legal, and operational considerations. We work closely with clients and their advisors to assess exposure, develop coordinated strategies, and pursue effective resolutions aligned with long-term business and financial objectives.
Tax Audits and Examinations
• Representation in audits conducted by federal, state, and local taxing authorities
• Advising on audit strategy, documentation, and response
• Managing communications with tax authorities
• Preparing and defending positions during examinations
Tax Litigation
• Representation in federal and state tax litigation
• Disputes involving income, sales, use, franchise, and other taxes
• Defense of assessments, deficiencies, and penalties
• Coordination with broader commercial or administrative litigation
Administrative Appeals and Proceedings
• Representation in administrative appeals at all levels of government
• Negotiating settlements and resolving disputed positions
• Preparing submissions and supporting documentation
• Coordinating strategy with financial and tax advisors
Enforcement and Collection Actions
• Defense against enforcement and collection actions by taxing authorities
• Addressing liens, levies, and other collection efforts
• Advising on exposure arising from unpaid or disputed obligations
• Managing multi-jurisdictional enforcement matters
Our Approach
- Align dispute strategy with each client’s financial and operational objectives
- Move matters forward efficiently through audits, appeals, and litigation
- Coordinate across legal, tax, and financial advisors to deliver cohesive solutions
- Focus on resolving disputes while minimizing risk and disruption
- Prioritize responsiveness, clear communication, and practical guidance
Why WH Burkley
- Experience representing businesses, owners, and individuals in federal, state, and local tax controversies
- Ability to manage matters from audit and examination through appeals, litigation, and collection proceedings
- Strategic coordination of dispute resolution with broader tax planning and business objectives
- Integration with litigation, corporate, private wealth, and tax capabilities
- Responsive, partner-level advocacy focused on practical resolutions and risk managemen
Recognition
Best Law Firms | Cleveland
- Band 1 – Litigation – Bankruptcy
Best Law Firms | Pittsburgh
- Band 1 – Litigation – Bankruptcy
- Band 2 – Litigation – Commercial
Best Law Firms | US
- Band 2 – Litigation – Bankruptcy
*Certain recognitions displayed on this page were earned prior to the formation of WH Burkley LLP and may reflect the accomplishments of our legacy firms, Walter Haverfield LLP and Bernstein-Burkley, P.C.