Tax Controversy & Dispute Resolution

Tax & Wealth Management

Tax Disputes, Audits, and Litigation for Businesses and Individuals

WH Burkley advises businesses, individuals, and fiduciaries in tax audits, examinations, and disputes at the federal, state, and local levels. We provide strategic, practical guidance to help clients manage risk, navigate complex regulatory processes, and protect financial and business interests.

Tax controversies often require coordination across legal, financial, and operational considerations. We work closely with clients and their advisors to develop efficient strategies that resolve disputes and preserve long-term outcomes.


• Representation in federal, state, and local tax audits
• Advising on audit strategy and documentation
• Managing communications with taxing authorities
• Preparing and presenting positions during examinations

• Administrative appeals at federal, state, and local levels
• Negotiating settlements and resolving disputed positions
• Coordinating with accountants and financial advisors
• Structuring resolutions aligned with broader tax strategies

• Representation in tax court and other judicial proceedings
• Handling disputes involving income, estate, and gift taxes
• Addressing employment and payroll tax matters
• Managing multi-jurisdictional and complex tax disputes

• Offshore disclosures and compliance matters
• Voluntary disclosures and regulatory reporting
• Disputes involving complex or structured transactions

Practice Group Leader

Lacie L. O’Daire, Chair

216.928.2889
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  • Align dispute strategy with each client’s financial and business 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
  • Practical, strategic approach to tax audits, disputes, and litigation matters
  • Experience representing businesses, individuals, fiduciaries, and family enterprises in federal, state, and local tax controversies
  • Ability to manage both routine examinations and complex, high-stakes disputes efficiently
  • Integration with transactional tax planning, private wealth, and business succession strategies
  • Responsive, partner-level advocacy focused on practical resolution and long-term financial objectives

Best Law Firms | Cleveland

  • Band 1 – Litigation – Trusts and Estates
  • Band 2 – Tax Law
  • Band 2 – Trusts and Estates

*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.