Chris J. Sheldon
Attorney
Jason Silver
Attorney
Experienced Tax Lawyers Serving all of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah
Tax Litigation, Tax Audit Representation, Innocent Spouse Relief, Collections & More
CONTACT US TODAYOur Tax Attorney Practice Areas
From Audits to Criminal Investigations — Comprehensive Legal Defense
At the offices of Silver Law PLC in Scottsdale, Arizona, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Salt Lake City, Utah, and Silver Law LLP in San Diego and Coronado, California, we have more than 100 years of combined experience protecting the rights of individuals and businesses involved in tax controversies. Because all of our attorneys formerly worked for the Internal Revenue Service, we have a comprehensive understanding of both sides of a tax dispute. We know how tax authorities handle different types of issues and will use our knowledge and skill to protect your interests.
Tax Litigation
Tax Audit Representation
Tax Collections
Innocent Spouse Relief
Marijuana Industry Tax Law
White Collar Criminal Defense
Foreign Tax reporting/ Offshore Voluntary Disclosure
Tax Expert Witness & Representation For Federal & State Tax Disputes
Representation For CPAs Before The Arizona State Board Of Accountancy
Our Story
Tax Attorneys with Over 20 Years of History. Serving Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah
In January of 2001, Jason Silver, a former IRS trial attorney in Los Angeles, joined Silver Law PLC as the second generation tax controversy attorney. Much like his father, Jason got a great education.
After graduating from Chaparral High School, he went on to obtain his Accounting Degree from the University of Arizona, followed by a Law Degree from the renowned Gonzaga University.
2001
Since 2007, Silver Law PLC has also been lucky to have our excellent legal assistant, Lindsay. Not only are we a team of capable and professional lawyers, but we are a family.
2007
In 2014, they added another great attorney to their team, Chris Sheldon, also a former IRS trial attorney. Chris graduated from Mesa High School and received both his finance and law degrees
from Arizona State University, graduating with Honors Summa Cum Laude and Cum Laude, respectively. Chris was a senior trial attorney and associate area counsel with the IRS, working at the IRS from 2004-2013.
2014
In 2021, attorney Ric Hulshoff joined the Las Vegas office of Silver Law. Having worked with Jason and Chris at the Office of Chief Counsel, he finally departed the IRS after 23 years as a senior attorney
in SBSE and LBI and an SBSE Associate Area Counsel. Ric graduated with honors from Seattle University School of Law, with a tax specialization, after graduating with honors from the University of Utah in Economics and Japanese. He tried over 30 cases in his years with the IRS, settled hundreds more and advised on thousands.
2021
In 2022, Lauren Hulshoff joined the Silver Law office in Las Vegas as a paralegal. Lauren attended the University of Nevada Las Vegas from 2017 to 2020. Lauren then obtained her certificate in paralegal studies
from Boston University in 2021. Lauren has previously worked in tax preparation.
2022
In 2022, Shad Brown joined his practice with Silver Law after many years managing his own law firm concentrated in estate planning, tax planning, business planning, business transactions
and tax controversy. Prior to entering private practice in 2013, Shad was an attorney for the IRS, Office of Chief Counsel where he represented the IRS in civil and criminal tax matters. Shad has a Bachelor’s degree in business marketing from the University of Phoenix and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Juris Doctorate and Master of Laws from University of Florida. Shad worked with Chris Sheldon and Ric Hulshoff while at the Office of Chief Counsel.
2022
In 2025, Jacob Silver joined the Silver Law office in San Diego, California. Jacob has an Accounting and Masters of Accounting Degree from the University of Arizona, graduating magna cum laude and suma
cum laude, respectively. Jacob is also a Certified Public Accountant, previously working as a Tax Associate at RSM US LLP, where he worked with clients in preparing trust, estate, S Corporation, C Corporation, partnership and individual returns. Jacob graduated cum laude from the University of San Diego in May 2025 with his law degree. Jacob has worked for United States Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Patrick Bumatay and United States federal District Court Judge Andrew Schopler in addition to working at the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of California Criminal White Collar Fraud Section.
2025
In 2025, Brian Plaut joined the Silver Law office in San Diego, California. Brian has a degree from New York University and a Law degree from LMU Loyola Law School. Brian is a former Internal Revenue Service
attorney in San Diego, California and previously worked for the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. Brian is a member of the American Bar Association and was on the Board of Governors and Strategic Planning Committee.
2025
Our Tax Law Experience
From Tax Audits to Criminal Investigations & Comprehensive Legal Defense
Our attorneys, all former IRS lawyers, handle a wide range of tax controversies, including litigation, tax audits, collections, and innocent spouse claims. We also represent clients in complex criminal tax investigations, providing comprehensive legal defense and strategic advocacy at every stage. We are licensed to practice in the state courts of Arizona, California, Utah, and Nevada, as well as in the federal courts of those states, the U.S. Tax Court, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, the Ninth and Tenth Circuit Courts of Appeals, the Federal Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court. This broad licensing enables us to represent clients seamlessly across jurisdictions, delivering skilled advocacy in everything from local disputes to cases before the nation’s highest courts.
Set Up a Confidential Consultation With a Team of Tax Law Specialists Near You
Silver Law PLC
Silver Law LLP
Main Office
7033 E. Greenway Pkwy Suite 200
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Phone: (480) 429-3360
Fax: (480) 429-3362
[email protected]
Las Vegas
2470 Saint Rose Parkway Suite 207
Henderson, NV 89074
Phone: (702) 801-1000
[email protected]
Coronado
724 1st St.
Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: (619) 612-5337
[email protected]
Our Legal Team
Top-Rated Tax Lawyers in the Western U.S
Our attorneys bring extensive expertise in tax law, IRS representation, and complex tax disputes, providing strategic guidance and advocating for client interests at every stage of a controversy. All of our attorneys previously worked for the Internal Revenue Service, giving them unmatched insight into how the government approaches audits, tax litigation, and compliance matters. With admissions to multiple state and federal courts, our team is equipped to handle complex tax controversies with skill and professionalism.
Silver Law In Action
Ninth Circuit Oral Argument
U.S.A. v. Patterson
Case Number: 23-631 Case Panel: RAWLINSON, COLLINS, Fitzwater Hearing Location: Phoenix, AZ
In this video, we cover the oral arguments for the case USA v. Patterson before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Watch as both sides present their legal positions on key issues, with insights into the legal strategies, precedents, and questions raised by the judges.
Award-Winning
Tax Litigation Attorneys
Excellence in Tax Law – Best Law Firms® 2024
At Silver Law PLC, our team of former IRS attorneys—boasting over a century of combined experience across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah, delivers elite representation in tax controversies, from audit defense and litigation to collections and expert witness testimony. We are honored to have been recognized nationally as one of the Best Law Firms® for 2024 by Best Lawyers®, a testament to our unwavering dedication to client success and our trusted reputation among peers in complex tax matters.
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FAQ’s About Our Tax Law Services
What Are The Penalties For White Collar Tax Crimes?
White-collar tax crimes carry serious consequences, including lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and restitution to victims. They can also have lasting collateral effects, such as loss of professional licenses, damage to reputation, and difficulties with future employment or housing.
Can I Reduce Or Eliminate IRS Penalties?
Yes. The IRS may reduce or remove penalties through programs like First-Time Penalty Abatement or Reasonable Cause Relief. First-Time Abatement is available if you have a good compliance history, while Reasonable Cause applies when circumstances beyond your control prevented compliance, such as illness or natural disasters. Requests are typically made via Form 843 or by phone, and denied requests can be appealed.
How Long Do I Have To Respond To An IRS Audit Notice?
You typically have 30 days from the date on the notice to respond, though deadlines can vary depending on the type of audit. Responding promptly is crucial to protect your rights and avoid additional penalties. If needed, you can request an extension, but it’s best to consult a tax attorney to ensure a proper response.
What Are Common Tax Evasion Penalties?
Tax evasion can result in hefty fines, interest on unpaid taxes, and, in serious cases, criminal charges. Federal penalties may include up to five years in prison and fines up to $100,000 for individuals or $500,000 for corporations. State authorities can also impose additional penalties, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the offense.
How Can An Attorney Help With Complex Tax Disputes?
Engaging a tax attorney provides comprehensive legal expertise and strategic representation, helping you navigate audits, negotiate with the IRS or state tax authorities, and defend your interests in court. Their guidance safeguards your financial interests and provides peace of mind when facing complex tax disputes.
What Types Of Tax Controversies Can Your Firm Handle?
Our firm handles a wide range of tax disputes, including IRS and state audits, collections, tax litigation, innocent spouse claims, tax fraud investigations, and disputes over deductions or credits. We represent both individuals and businesses, providing strategic guidance and defense at both the federal and state levels.
How Do I Prepare For An IRS Audit?
To prepare, gather all relevant financial records, organize receipts and statements, and review your tax filings for accuracy. Remember, the goal of the audit is to ensure accurate tax reporting and compliance. Consulting a tax attorney beforehand can help you stay organized, respond correctly, and protect your rights throughout the process.
Can Businesses Negotiate Settlements For Unpaid Taxes?
Yes. Businesses can negotiate with the IRS and state tax authorities through options such as Offer in Compromise, installment agreements, or penalty abatements. In some cases, Currently Not Collectible (CNC) status may temporarily halt collections for severe financial hardship. Compliance and thorough documentation are essential, and consulting a tax attorney can help businesses secure the most favorable terms while navigating complex negotiations.
Contact Silver Law PLC
We handle all types of tax disputes, large and small, whether you are involved in litigation, face a tax audit, need protection in a collections matter, or are an innocent spouse in need of relief.