We represent individuals and businesses in matters locally, regionally, and nationwide. Practice Areas
Below is a list of practice areas that the attorneys at The Law Offices of L.W. Cooper have the knowledge and experience to work on your behalf. Historically, the practice grew on its expertise of tax controversy, and tax and business litigation. Over the years, the Office by retaining a core gr
oup of corporate clients began providing more in depth business legal services, including asset and stock sales, capital formation through the use exempt securities, and the associated tax planning that accompanies any significant business transaction,
The Law Offices of L.W. Cooper is happy to discuss your issue with you. Please call the Office and schedule an appointment. Tax Controversy
Our tax lawyers represent clients who have tax problems with the IRS or the state taxing authorities. Whether it is a federal or state tax issue, our tax controversy attorneys can provide representation at any level of the administrative process, including audits, appeals, penalty abatement requests, or collections. It is advisable that taxpayers who receive audit notices seek representation at the initiation of the audit. By obtaining representation early, the scope of the audit may be limited reducing costs, and any audit issues can be addressed early. Tax Litigation
Although resolving tax disputes on the administrative level is usually the most economical and efficient solution, sometimes litigation with the IRS or state taxing agencies is an unavoidable necessity. Our litigation lawyers focus on tax litigation and are qualified to represent your interests in federal district court, tax court, and state courts. Our firm is experienced in litigating a wide range of tax issues, including economic substance, FLP valuations, responsible officer liability, penalty abatements, wrongful disclosure of taxpayer's return information, and tax shelter issues. Business & General Litigation
No matter the size of the company or who the individual is, a lot is always at stake in litigation. Our Office is committed to addressing clients' goals during litigation in the most effective and efficient manner. This Office is experienced in litigating business, contractual and accounting issues - mainly in federal courts. Since opening its office in Charleston, South Carolina in 2007, our lawyers have been active in litigating and trying cases. Tax Transactions & Compliance
By employing ongoing and comprehensive tax planning in advance, whether it pertains to a business or individual, our clients avoid unnecessary tax controversy and tax liabilities. For transactions, our attorneys take a two step approach: First, we ensure that the transaction complies with the technicalities of federal, state and local tax laws, and second, we ensure that the transaction withstands scrutiny from a litigation perspective. In addition to simply structuring a transaction, the IRS in the recent years has become more focused on the disclosure and reporting of certain financial transactions. As the reporting requirements are drastically changing and the associated penalties increase, we provide clients advice on what reporting and disclosure requirements are associated with certain transactions to ensure complete compliance with the tax laws. Business Formations and Restructurings
Because of the Office's focus on taxation, we are asked by our clients to form and restructure business entities on a regular basis. We are equipped to draft necessary legal documentation to achieve your business and taxation goals. Such documentation may include operating agreements, asset or stock purchase agreements, state and federal filings and employment contracts. Bankruptcy Litigation
Creditors are sometimes faced with the prospective of asserting and protecting their rights in bankruptcy. This office represents creditors in bankruptcy proceedings and litigates issues creditors may face. Also, bankruptcy is, under certain circumstances a highly effective forum for adjudicating tax issues and discharging tax debts.
