Tax Law

Tax considerations shape nearly every significant business and personal decision. New tax legislation, shifting regulations, heightened enforcement, global economic pressures, and increasing complexity across jurisdictions make tax planning and compliance more challenging—and more consequential—than ever before. In this environment, informed strategy is essential.

At Smith Gambrell & Russell, we help clients navigate tax complexity with clarity and confidence. Our Tax Law team delivers practical, forward‑looking advice designed to mitigate risk, unlock value, and support long‑term objectives across an ever‑changing tax landscape.

Our Capabilities

We advise corporations, partnerships, private equity funds, closely held businesses, investors, high‑net‑worth individuals, and tax‑exempt organizations on a wide range of federal, state, local, and international tax matters.

Our experience includes:

• Transactional tax planning for mergers, acquisitions, dispositions, restructurings, and joint ventures
• Entity formation, capitalization, and operational tax structuring
• Tax‑efficient financing and investment strategies
• Executive compensation and employee benefits tax matters
• Tax planning for real estate, energy, manufacturing, and other asset‑intensive industries
• State and local tax (SALT) planning
• Cross‑border and international tax planning

We work closely with colleagues across our corporate, M&A, private equity, real estate, employee benefits, and international practices to ensure tax considerations are fully integrated into every transaction and strategic initiative.

Our Approach

Effective tax advice is not delivered in isolation. We take the time to understand each client’s business model, growth plans, risk tolerance, and operational realities—allowing us to craft solutions that are both technically sound and commercially practical.

Our team focuses on anticipating issues early, identifying opportunities, and providing clear guidance that supports confident decision‑making. Whether clients are navigating a complex transaction, managing ongoing compliance obligations, or planning for long‑term value creation, we deliver advice that is tailored, efficient, and aligned with broader business goals.

Tax Controversy and Dispute Resolution

When tax matters become contentious, we bring the same strategic mindset to resolving disputes. Our attorneys regularly represent clients in audits, administrative proceedings, and disputes with federal, state, and local taxing authorities.

We assist clients with:

• IRS and state tax audits and examinations
• Administrative appeals and negotiated resolutions
• Civil tax controversy and enforcement matters
• Voluntary disclosure and compliance remediation
• Penalty mitigation and dispute strategy

Our goal is to resolve tax controversies efficiently while protecting financial interests and reputational concerns.

A Partner in Long‑Term Planning

Tax law is a critical component of sustainable growth, succession planning, and wealth preservation. By combining deep technical knowledge with a broader understanding of our clients’ businesses and personal objectives, we help ensure that tax strategy supports future opportunity.