Client Testimonials

Client Testimonials — Brotman Law, San Diego’s premier tax defense and strategy law firm.

Sam Brotman, J.D., LL.M.

Last updated July 2026

Read all of the good things some of our happy clients have to say about Brotman Law.

The Audit Process Step by Step

Here’s what happens from the moment you receive an audit notice to resolution:

Notice received

The IRS sends a letter explaining what they’re examining and what documentation they need

Power of Attorney filed

We sign Form 2848, which means the IRS talks to us, not you

Document review

We review every document before anything goes to the IRS. We provide exactly what’s needed — nothing more

Examination

The IRS reviews your records. For office and field audits, we attend all meetings in your place

Proposed adjustments

If the IRS wants to make changes, they issue a written proposal. We review it line by line

Negotiation or appeal

We challenge anything we disagree with. If we can’t resolve it at the exam level, we take it to appeals

Resolution

Case closed. We make sure you understand the outcome and what it means going forward

Appeals & Next Steps

If you disagree with the audit results, you have the right to appeal. The IRS Office of Appeals is independent from the examination division, and they settle the majority of cases they hear.

We’ve won over 100 appeals by building cases that are thoroughly documented and legally sound. The key is presenting a clear, well-organized argument that makes it easier for the appeals officer to rule in your favor.

If appeals doesn’t resolve it, the next step is Tax Court. We’re prepared for that too, but in our experience, most cases settle well before they get to trial.

How to Prevent Future Audits

Once your audit is resolved, the last thing you want is another one. Here’s what we recommend to minimize your risk:

Keep meticulous records — especially for deductions and business expenses
Report all income — even if you didn’t receive a 1099
File on time, every time
Use actual calculated figures rather than round numbers — while not a major audit trigger on its own, it’s a best practice that signals accuracy in your records
Work with a qualified tax professional who understands your situation
Consider a proactive tax strategy engagement to optimize your structure and reduce risk

Want to make sure this doesn’t happen again? After resolving your audit, we can help restructure your taxes to minimize future risk. It’s the other side of what we do — and it’s just as important as the defense. Learn about our tax strategies

Frequently Asked Questions

Client Testimonials FAQs

How long do I have to respond to an IRS audit notice?

Typically 30 to 60 days from the date on the notice. However, some notices have shorter or longer deadlines. Don’t wait — contact us as soon as you receive any correspondence from the IRS.

Can the IRS audit me if I used a CPA to prepare my return?

Yes. Using a CPA doesn’t prevent an audit. You are ultimately responsible for the accuracy of your return, regardless of who prepared it. However, having professional representation during the audit is critical.

What if I can’t find the documents the IRS is requesting?

We can often reconstruct records using bank statements, third-party records, and other sources. The sooner you engage us, the more options we have to build your case.

Will an audit affect my future tax returns?

Not directly. However, if the IRS made adjustments, those changes may affect carryforward items like losses or credits. We’ll review the impact and make sure your future returns reflect the correct figures.

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