Our strategy leverages the full extent of tax law to aggressively resolve your IRS challenges and protect the long-term success of your business.

 Ready to defend your tax rights

We have a dedicated team of aggressive tax attorneys ready to fight for you. Each Taxpayer has fundamental rights that should be protected.

 Credentials

A+ Better Business Bureau accredited law firm with years of experience litigating and resolving tax dispute cases nationwide.

 Track record

We have extensive experience and proven results in representing clients in Tax Court, halting IRS enforcement actions, achieving favorable resolutions, and reducing penalties.

Tax Preparer Audit
Defense

Criminal Tax Defense​

Tax Court

Tax Court

Tax Court

 Attorney Johnathan Whidbee

Professional Memberships and Awards:

• State Bar of Georgia

• U.S. District Court of Georgia, Northern Circuit

• United States Tax Court

• Supreme Court of Georgia

• 2024 Power 100 Honoree by the National Bar Association

WHAT TAX LEGAL SERVICES DOES THE FIRM PROVIDE?

Answer: Unsure how to proceed after receiving IRS notices? Our team of experienced tax attorneys are here to provide the guidance and support you need, regardless of the complexity or size of your case. We provide assistance to Taxpayers in the following areas: 

IRS & State Audits 
Due Diligence Tax Audit Defense
Sales & Use Tax Audits
IRS Appeals
Tax Preparer Penalties 
Tax Lien Release
Criminal Tax
Federal & State Tax Defense
Payroll Tax
Tax Court
Tax Preparer Counseling  

How should I prepare for a consultation with a Tax Attorney?

Answer: To make the most of your consultation with a tax attorney, it’s important to come prepared. Here are a few steps to ensure the meeting is productive and efficient:

1. Gather Relevant Documents
- Bring any IRS notices, letters, or correspondence you’ve received.
- Include copies of prior year tax returns (at least the last three years).
- Provide proof of income, expenses, and deductions (e.g., pay stubs, receipts, bank statements).

2. Organize Your Financial Records
- Summarize your financial situation, including outstanding tax liabilities, assets, and debts.
- If applicable, bring documentation of any prior payments or agreements with the IRS.

3. Outline the Issue
- Write down a summary of your tax situation, including key dates, amounts owed, and any actions taken so far.
- Include a list of questions or concerns you’d like to address during the consultation.

4. Be Honest and Transparent
-  Share all relevant details about your tax situation, even if they seem minor or uncomfortable. Full transparency allows your attorney to provide the best possible guidance.

5. Know Your Goals
- Be clear about what you hope to achieve, whether it’s resolving tax debt, avoiding penalties, or addressing an audit.
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I've been assessed civil penalties as a tax return preparer. What options do I have?

Answer: If you've been assessed civil penalties as a tax return preparer, it's crucial to understand why the penalties were imposed and to respond promptly. The IRS may assess penalties for various reasons, such as understating a client's tax liability, not signing a return, or not providing a copy of the return to the client.

For example, if you're penalized for not conducting due diligence when claiming the EITC for a client, the penalty could be $560 per failure (as of 2023). If you prepared 10 such returns with 25 failures that would amount to $14,000 in potential penalties.

If you believe the penalties are unjust or based on an error, you have the right to contest them. This can involve writing a letter of protest explaining why you disagree with the penalties, presenting evidence to support your claim, and possibly going to tax court.

If the penalty is justified, you may have options such as setting up an installment agreement with the IRS to pay the penalty over time, or making an Offer in Compromise, where you propose to settle your debt for less than the full amount owed.

In either scenario, it's wise to seek professional advice. Tax laws and IRS procedures can be complex, and a professional can help you navigate the process more effectively. Penalties can add up quickly, so it's important to address the issue promptly to minimize additional interest and penalties.

Disclaimer: Cumberland Law Group, LLC provides counsel and representation to clients facing hardships. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. This information on this website is for general informational purposes only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome you to schedule a consultation so that we can help you find a solution. The information on this website does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. © 2025 Cumberland Law Group, LLC 400 Galleria Parkway Suite 1500 Atlanta, GA 30339

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