Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP advises on federal and state tax controversies, including disputes involving transfer pricing, foreign tax credits, research credits, employee retention credits, and conservation easements. The team represents clients throughout the dispute lifecycle, from examinations and administrative appeals to trial and appellate proceedings. The Houston-based practice is jointly led by Juan Vasquez, who handles examinations, appeals, and litigation, and Peter Lowy, a state and local tax specialist with significant experience in the energy sector. David Medina focuses on litigation and appellate matters, drawing on his experience as a former justice of the Texas Supreme Court. Stuart Clements handles controversy and planning matters with an emphasis on captive insurance, while Ranesha Fountain advises on tax planning.
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Key clients
- KBR, Inc. & Subsidiaries
- Memorial Hermann Hospital and Memorial Hermann Accountable Care Organization
- David and Kathryn Halbert
- HIS Partners
- Las Vegas Resort Holdings, LLC (dba Sahara Las Vegas Resort)
- Amigos Meat Distributors
- HDZ Construction, Inc. and Gerardo Hernandez & Leticia Rodriguez
- Clear Channel Outdoor/iHeartMedia Worldwide
- Urban Construction and Revitalization Business
- DC Partners, LLC
- BMW of North America
Work highlights
Served as tax counsel for KBR in a proceeding before the United States Tax Court related to tax years 2007-2015. The case addresses more than $500 million in proposed adjustments and credits, covering matters such as foreign tax credits, transfer pricing, subpart F issues, research credits, self-insurance, and additional topics.
Provided buyer-side structuring and tax controversy advice to Amigos Meat Distributors for acquiring several companies across meat distribution, real estate, and trucking businesses, including limited partnerships and S corporations.
Representing BMW of North America in proceedings before the US Court of Federal Claims concerning a statute of limitations issue and a nearly $40m Foreign-Derived Intangible Income (FDII) deduction.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Juan Vasquez; Peter Lowy
Other key lawyers
David Medina; Stuart Clements; Ranesha Fountain
