how to become a taxation lawyer

by Keyshawn Schumm 3 min read

What degree do you need to be a tax lawyer?

Jan 31, 2022 · Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree Program. When thinking about how to become a tax lawyer, the first thing you'll need to consider is earning a bachelor's degree. The majority of law schools require that applicants complete a bachelor's degree program prior to applying for admission.

How long will it take to become a tax lawyer?

Mar 07, 2022 · HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO BECOME A TAX ATTORNEY? The path to becoming a tax attorney typically consists of the following steps: Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree, preferably in accounting, business, or mathematics. This typically takes four years.

What is it like to be a tax lawyer?

The following education requirements will be needed in order to start practicing as a tax lawyer: Bachelor’s Degree LSAT Law School Admission Juris Doctor Law Degree MRPE Bar Examination The first step on that path is to earn a bachelor's degree. There is no specification in terms of which undergraduate degree should be earned.

How to know if you need a tax attorney?

Dec 30, 2021 · How to become a tax attorney Follow these steps to become a tax attorney: 1. Earn a bachelor's degree Before applying to law school, you need to earn a bachelor's degree. While law schools may not have a requirement for what you choose to major in, it may be a wise idea to prepare you for a career in tax law by choosing a relevant area of study.

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How much does a tax lawyer make?

The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the annual salary of a lawyer to be $120,910.

What does a tax lawyer do?

A tax lawyer helps individuals and organizations with all aspects of their taxes. This could mean generating a legal way of reducing tax exposure or representing clients in the courtroom during disputes with the IRS or other government entities. Tax lawyers spend a typical work day doing a variety of tasks.

What is the LSAT?

This examination is called the LSAT (Law School Admission Test). No student will be granted admission to a law school without first taking this test and earning a favorable score.

How many times can you take the LSAT?

That's why it's important for aspiring tax lawyers to achieve a high score on this test. The LSAT can be taken more than once, although policy requires that all test scores will be reported for a period of 5 years. That stresses the importance of performing well during the first attempt.

What is the next step after law school?

After graduation from law school, the next step involves passing the MPRE (Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination). This must be done in order to be eligible to take the State Bar Examination. The MPRE is a 60-question exam that focuses on ethics.

What is MPRE exam?

The MPRE is a 60-question exam that focuses on ethics. After a passing score is achieved, students are eligible to take the Bar Examination in their respective state. The Bar Exam is considered the most difficult part of becoming a tax lawyer and some students spend months preparing.

1. Earn a bachelor's degree

Before applying to law school, you need to earn a bachelor's degree. While law schools may not have a requirement for what you choose to major in, it may be a wise idea to prepare you for a career in tax law by choosing a relevant area of study. Consider studying political science, finance or accounting.

2. Prepare for law school

During your undergrad program, you can begin to prepare for law school. Show law schools that you are a well-rounded applicant by building your resume throughout college. You can do this by joining law-related student organizations or by interning at law firms. There may even be volunteer opportunities that can boost your law school application.

3. Take the LSAT

Getting a high score on your LSAT can improve your chances of getting into law school. This exam tests your analytical reasoning, reading and critical-thinking skills. This test is comprised of a series of challenging multiple-choice questions. Most people take their LSAT by the summer of their junior year or the fall of their senior year.

4. Attend law school

In order to become a tax attorney, you need to earn your Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree through an accredited law school. Most full-time law school programs last three years. During your first year of law school, you'll learn all about basic law subjects.

5. Pass the bar exam

Before practicing as a tax attorney in your state, you must pass its bar exam. While each state's bar exam may vary, you can anticipate several days of exams that involve multiple-choice questions and essay questions.

6. Apply for jobs

Now that you can legally practice as a tax attorney, it's time to start finding your first job after law school. Look for roles at government agencies, law firms or private companies. When looking for a job, consider attending some networking events or job fairs to explore your options.

How to become a tax lawyer?

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A tax lawyer typically has a background in business or accounting. To obtain this background, you can complete an undergraduate degree program in business or accounting. A bachelor's degree is required to apply to law school.

What is tax lawyer?

Tax lawyers are legal professionals who specialize in assisting clients in issues regarding state or federal taxes. They may work with both individuals or corporations and provide legal advice regarding how to declare their taxes properly, especially when dealing with complex regulations or large amounts of income.

What are the factors to consider when selecting a law school?

Tuition, location, student body size and the overall quality of the school are factors to consider when selecting a law school, according to the Law School Admission Council. All states require lawyers to graduate from a law school that is accredited by the American Bar Association.

Do lawyers need continuing education?

Additionally, all lawyers must complete continuing education in order to maintain their licensure. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for attorneys, including tax lawyers, will grow by 6% from 2018 to 2028. There are many other branches of law that individuals may wish to consider.

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Tips

These steps are mostly focused on students in the United States. For the process in other countries, check with local regulations. To become a tax attorney in the UK, for example, visit https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/practice-areas/tax.

About This Article

This article was co-authored by Lyle Solomon, JD. Lyle Solomon is an Attorney and the Owner of the Law Office of Lyle D. Solomon. With nearly three decades of experience, he practices civil law and specializes in consumer debt relief services and bankruptcy.

What is tax law?

Tax law. legal practice areas. Tax law. Tax lawyers are involved in advising their clients (such as private individuals, companies, or the government) on the best way to mitigate their tax liability.

What is tax legislation?

Tax legislation is a huge and complex area of law, which changes every year. You will need to be academically able in order to understand complicated, lengthy and detailed legislation and have a genuine interest in the subject in order to keep up. Additional qualifications (for example, Chartered Tax Adviser status) may be required.

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