Chamberlain Hrdlicka is best known for its work on contentious federal tax matters, whether criminal or civil, not least because many partners have in-house experience at the IRS, though it is able to handle all kinds of local, regional and national work. Philip Karter in Philadelphia is chair of the practice, which is home to a deep bench of tax controversy specialists. David Aughtry in Atlanta, ‘who would be on the Mount Rushmore of tax litigators’, and Larry Campagna in Houston, who has ’substantial experience in criminal tax investigations and in tax shelter matters’, are standout practitioners. Also in Atlanta, John Hackney works closely with Aughtry, frequently second-chairing litigation matters, and Tom Cullinan brings experience from his time as counselor to the IRS Commissioner. Jaime Vasquez in San Antonio handles federal, state, and international matters, and Patrick Martin has an active cross-border practice. Charles Rettig, who served as Commissioner of the IRS from 2018 through 2022, is a new hire in LA.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They are excellent at uncovering and developing unique strategies to overcome IRS challenges. Really good at developing positive relationships with IRS auditors.’
‘Extensive experience in the process and knowledge of how to structure an argument to bring about resolution.’
‘I don't know that the practice is unique, but their handling of my matters impressed upon me their professionalism and their pragmatic approach to things.’
‘I dealt primarily with Kevin Sweeney and Tom Cullinan. Their skills and styles were complementary and very effective. Tom was very focused on strategy for the (IRS) matter and containing it so that no new areas would be opened up. Kevin, used to dealing with IRS cases as a prosecutor, was focused on being responsive to the IRS agents and to providing them with all the evidence needed to appreciate our position and the strengths of our case. The two partners were definitely synergistic and not at all duplicative.’
‘David Aughtry was highly recommended to me when I had an IRS dispute over a charitable deduction for a gift of partnership interest holding an appreciated asset. The tax amount in dispute was several hundred thousand dollars, but David very efficiently involved Jasen Hanson, who at the time was a senior associate (now partner). They both had immense experience in these types of disputes. With Jason quarterbacking, the firm did a tremendous job, with a full win on IRS appeal.’
‘The underlying transaction was quite complex, and Jasen Hanson fully grasped the details and was excellent on strategy and advocating to the IRS. David Aughtry remained involved as a resource, even after Jason Hansen made partner.’
Key clients
- Alberto Aroeste
Work highlights
Representing Point72 Asset Management, LLC on whether a partner in a client company was subject to self-employment tax.
Successfully negotiated settlement in several façade easement cases for Legacy Preservation LLC.
Obtained a final ruling and decision by the federal District Court in favor of client in Aroeste vs United States in a case of first impression specific to the United States - Mexico, income tax treaty. The ruling has broad implications for individuals, companies and trusts that may be subject to tax treaties.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Phil Karter
Other key lawyers
David Aughtry
Kevin Sweeney
Stewart Weintraub
Larry Campagna
Jaime Vasquez
Tom Cullinan
Charles Rettig
Patrick Martin
Tom Cullinan
Kevin Sweeney