The Unique Risks Faced by Tax Return Preparers
Tax return preparers play a vital role in the financial lives of millions of Americans. But with that responsibility comes heightened scrutiny from the IRS. Unlike individual taxpayers, preparers face a unique set of enforcement actions that can threaten not only their livelihood, but also their freedom.
The IRS has many enforcement tools available, and preparers often underestimate their scope until it’s too late.
Due diligence audits: The IRS routinely audits preparers for compliance with credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, and American Opportunity Credit. These audits can result in steep penalties—often thousands of dollars per return—if the IRS believes proper due diligence was not followed.
Injunction suits: The Department of Justice can file civil injunction suits, at the IRS’s request, to shut down a preparer’s business entirely. These suits can permanently bar a preparer from preparing returns, effectively ending their career.
Criminal investigations: In the most serious cases, the IRS pursues criminal charges. Allegations of fraud, false statements, or conspiracy can lead to indictments, trials, and even prison sentences.
For preparers, these enforcement tools represent existential threats. One audit or investigation can undo years of hard work, damage reputations, and devastate families.
The Emotional Toll of IRS Enforcement
Facing IRS scrutiny is not just a professional challenge—it is deeply personal.
Insult: “Where does the IRS get the nerve to question my professionalism?”
Fear: The possibility of losing your business or facing criminal charges is overwhelming.
Shame: Preparers often feel stigmatized, as if their integrity is being questioned.
Sleeplessness: The uncertainty of what the IRS will do next keeps many awake at night.
These emotions are intensified by the complexity of tax law and the IRS’s aggressive tactics. Preparers often feel isolated and unsure of where to turn for help.
Why Gregory Law Group Is Different
This is where Gregory Law Group steps in. Founded by former IRS attorneys Garrett and Deborah Gregory, we offer something few others can: insider knowledge of how the IRS builds and prosecutes cases against tax return preparers.
Former IRS Attorneys on Your Side
At Gregory Law Group, we once worked inside the IRS. We understand the agency’s enforcement priorities, investigative methods, and litigation strategies. This experience allows us to anticipate IRS moves and craft defenses that protect preparers from the full force of government action.
Proven Track Record
We have represented more than 400 tax return preparers across the country. From small independent preparers to large firms and service bureaus, we have successfully defended clients against audits, injunction suits, and criminal investigations. This experience means we’ve seen nearly every scenario—and know how to respond effectively.
Tailored Defense Strategies
No two cases are alike. Some preparers face due diligence penalties, others battle injunction suits, and some are under criminal investigation. At Gregory Law Group, we develop customized strategies for each client, whether that means:
Negotiating with the IRS
Representing preparers before the IRS Office of Appeals
Mounting a complete criminal defense
Common IRS Actions Against Preparers
At Gregory Law Group, we have helped clients navigate challenges including:
Due diligence (and other penalty) audits: Preparing documentation, challenging penalties, and negotiating settlements to reduce financial exposure.
Injunction suits: Defending preparers throughout the injunction process to prevent business shutdowns and protect livelihoods.
Criminal investigations: Representing clients during IRS interviews, grand jury proceedings, and trials to safeguard their rights.
Each scenario requires not only legal expertise but also an understanding of IRS culture and tactics—something only former IRS attorneys can provide.
Breaking the Cycle of Fear
The hardest step for many preparers is reaching out for help. Fear of the IRS often leads to silence—but silence only strengthens the government’s case. At Gregory Law Group, we emphasize that preparers are not alone. With experienced counsel, it is possible to:
Defend your reputation
Protect your career
Push back against aggressive government action
Clients often describe their first consultation as a turning point—the moment they realize they do not have to face the IRS alone. Relief replaces fear, and confidence begins to return.
A Path Toward Protection and Peace of Mind
Imagine continuing your practice without the constant dread of IRS enforcement.
Imagine knowing that if the IRS knocks on your door, former IRS attorneys are ready to defend you.
Imagine sleeping through the night with the assurance that your case is in capable hands.
This peace of mind is possible. We have already helped more than 400 tax return preparers navigate audits, injunctions, and investigations. Our combination of insider knowledge, legal expertise, and compassionate support makes us uniquely qualified to protect preparers from the IRS’s most powerful enforcement tools.
Taking the First Step
If you are a tax return preparer facing IRS scrutiny—or fear you may be next—the most important step is to act now. The IRS does not hesitate, and penalties grow with time. But with the right help, you can protect your business, your reputation, and your future.
We offer free confidential consultations where you can discuss your situation openly. Our attorneys will explain your options, outline a defense strategy, and begin protecting you immediately.
Conclusion
Tax return preparers face unique and powerful threats from the IRS, including due diligence audits, injunction suits, and criminal investigations. These enforcement tools can devastate careers and lives. But with our former IRS attorneys on your side, you gain not only technical expertise but also advocates who understand the IRS from the inside.
With over 400 preparers already defended, we stand ready to protect you from the IRS’s most aggressive tactics. Relief is possible, protection is achievable, and peace of mind is within reach.
