In Akerman LLP‘s tax practice, the SALT group is the largest component, and it handles complex tax controversy cases nationwide, be they administrative appeals or trials. It frequently handles cases for well-known corporates, among them Skechers and PetMeds, that address novel tax issues and matters of first impression. Alongside state and local matters – where its network of offices across the US proves to be a key differentiator – the firm is increasingly involved in contentious tax matters at federal level, including recent cases in the aviation and healthcare sectors. Peter Larsen in Jacksonville and David Blum in Chicago are co-chairs of the tax practice. Stefi George in New York leads the SALT practice, which is active nationwide. Michael Bowen in Jacksonville and Lorie Fale in Miami are mainstays of the firm’s tax litigation practice in Florida. Bowen recently acted for Skechers in a case concerning $500m in deductions claimed by the company.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Key clients
- Deutsche Post DHL Group
- Hertz
- Macy’s Retail Holdings, Inc.
- Plan Administrator of Bed Bath & Beyond
- Ally Financial (formerly General Motors Acceptance Corporation)
- Home Depot USA, Inc.
- Capital One
- Skechers
- PetMed Express, Inc. d/b/a PetMeds
Work highlights
Handling all aspects of Bed Bath & Beyond's post-Chapter-11-filing IRS audits and litigation, including an adversary proceeding against the IRS to pursue claims and seek relief in the amount of approximately $3 million.
Representing online pharmacy PetMeds in a case of first impression and first challenge to the state of Illinois' "Leveling the Playing Field" Law.
Representing footwear company Skechers in a case addressing a novel issue that potentially impacts countless Wisconsin taxpayers.
Lawyers
Practice head
Peter Larsen; David Blum; Stefi George
Other key lawyers
Michael Bowen; Lorie Fale