Tax Attorneys Job Description, Duties & Salary

Outlook

The outlook for tax attorneys is bright. Tax laws are complicated and continually changing, and people will continue to need tax lawyers to explain the laws to them and help them manage their taxes and save money. There will be 4 percent employment growth, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations, for all lawyers through 2029. The coronavirus pandemic impacted many industries in 2020, causing lockdowns and an economic slowdown. Many court cases and legal proceedings have been either postponed or are being conducted remotely by video conferences. People still need tax attorneys to help them comply with tax laws and to help them protect their businesses. Also, when the pandemic ends, new businesses will emerge and will need tax attorneys to help guide them. In general, many companies will be cost-conscious, however, and aim to reduce legal expenses by looking for less expensive lawyers and paying close attention to their invoices. On a positive note, large corporations are expected to continue growing their in-house legal departments in an effort to decrease the need for outside counsel. Opportunities are expected to be good for attorneys that work for financial and insurance firms and health care providers. The federal government will also continue to need attorneys to prosecute civil and criminal cases, and collect monies owed to the federal government.

Competition for tax law jobs will be keen. The American Bar Association's National Lawyer Population Survey reported that as of July 2020, there were more than 1.3 million resident and active attorneys. There are far more lawyers than jobs to fill, which is why some start in temporary positions while seeking permanent placement. Tax attorneys who are willing to take additional state bar exams and to relocate for work have better chances of securing a job.

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