What Does a Tax Attorney Do?

By Trev Gami •  Updated: 01/23/24 •  5 min read

The government of South Africa generates its revenue from collecting taxes from individuals and businesses that earn or generate taxable income. However, the subject of tax involves many things, which makes it complex. However, the good news is that you can enlist the services of a professional to help you handle your tax issues. This guide explains everything you want to know about the role of the tax attorney, career path, and potential earnings. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

What Does a Tax Attorney Do?

The major role played by a tax attorney is to advise clients about the tax implications of different payments. They also help with the interpretation of the tax laws to help taxpayers make informed decisions to avoid penalties that may be imposed by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). 

If a taxpayer is subject to undergo an audit, this is when a tax lawyer comes in handy. They help the clients by drafting the necessary objections or appeals if a dispute arises. They know the law to advise their clients better regarding litigation and settlement of disputes. 

Experienced attorneys also contribute to the drafting of fiscal legislation and engage the authorities when changes to tax laws are required. They also recommend amendments to certain tax laws if they do not specify the circumstances of different clients. 

What do Tax Lawyers Do in South Africa?

Tax lawyers in South Africa play a crucial role in helping individuals and corporations deal with legal issues related to taxes. These professionals should have a strong background in accounting, finance, and taxation law. They help taxpayers fulfil their tax obligations, including filing tax returns and explaining complicated tax codes to help clients make the best decisions. 

Corporations also enlist the services of tax attorneys as part of their legal teams to help businesses prevent costly mistakes that can be caused by inaccurate revenue reporting. Tax lawyers also provide legal representation to clients who might be facing legal proceedings emanating from their past tax payments or facing penalties. An attorney plays a crucial role in this case to provide the best advice to their clients to make the best settlement. 

In the case of penalties, SARS will recover its money in one way or the other from the taxpayer involved. Therefore, the role of the attorney is to help the client choose the best settlement option. Attorneys have a deep understanding of tax laws in South Africa, and they must also have law degrees from accredited universities. A strong background in tax law is required. 

Other common duties performed by tax attorneys include the following. 

Major tax litigation in South Africa is handled by law firms comprising professionals with a strong background in tax law. Experienced lawyers can handle the tax dispute process, and they engage all parties involved equally. 

How Much Does a Tax Attorney Make in South Africa?

Pursuing a career as a tax attorney in South Africa can be rewarding and lucrative. Tax attorneys can perform a wide range of tasks, and they have access to diverse job opportunities. If you want to join this field, you will be in the right direction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are growth prospects of about 10% in the legal fraternity between 2021 and 2031. This means you will never find yourself unemployed after completing your tax-related law course. 

The legal profession is lucrative in South Africa since tax attorneys get different pay scales depending on their experience. For example, the average gross salary of a tax attorney in South Africa is R1,097,986 per year, which translates to about R527.88 per hour. Additionally, tax attorneys also get bonuses in the range of R77,957 per year. 

Compensation in this field is based on experience. If you are a fresher from university, your entry salary will be pegged at an average of R762 720, while senior tax attorneys earn R1 381 234 per year. 

Handling tax matters can be a big challenge, especially if you have no legal background in tax law. If you want to make your life easy, you need to engage a tax attorney to deal with your tax issues because they have experience and knowledge in tax law. Professional attorneys can perform several tasks related to the tax field. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Keep Reading

How to Become A Tax Practitioner At SARS

How to Become A Tax Practitioner At SARS

We’re here with the details you need about becoming a tax practitioner at SARS today. 

How to Access SARS ITA34 Form?

How to Access SARS ITA34 Form?

How to Register for Tax at SARS?

How to Register for Tax at SARS?

Today we will walk you through the complete process of registering for tax with SARS.

How to Get EMP201 On eFiling

How to Get EMP201 On eFiling

EMP201 can be submitted and paid electronically via eFiling, a free, convenient, and secure online service SARS provides.

Stamp Duty – Everything You Need to Know

Stamp Duty – Everything You Need to Know

How Much Tax Does SARS take From Your Salary?

How Much Tax Does SARS take From Your Salary?

How Much Tax Does SARS take? The most common type of tax is Income Tax. Here’s how much SARS takes from your salary.

How Long Does SARS Take to Respond to Disputes?

How Long Does SARS Take to Respond to Disputes?

You should read on if you want to know how long it takes SARS to resolve a disagreement or disputes

Who Qualifies for Tax Returns in South Africa?

Who Qualifies for Tax Returns in South Africa?

Not everyone qualifies for tax returns. This article explains everything you want to know about tax returns. 

eFiling Payments (Credit Push): How to Set Up Credit Push on eFiling

eFiling Payments (Credit Push): How to Set Up Credit Push on eFiling

Credit push payments are one of the methods for paying for returns due to SARS. Here’s everything you need to know to utilize this SARS payment method

How to Lodge a Complaint With SARS

How to Lodge a Complaint With SARS

SARS has a method to help disgruntled or dissatisfied clients lodge complaints. This article explains the steps to lodge a complaint with SARS. 

What Is The Tax Threshold In South Africa?

What Is The Tax Threshold In South Africa?

Understanding the tax threshold is an integral part of financial planning.. Read on to find out all the details about the tax threshold in South Africa

How to Register a Company On SARS eFiling

How to Register a Company On SARS eFiling

In this article, we will be taking you through the process of how to register a company on SARS eFiling

How Much Does SARS Tax On Retirement Annuity?

How Much Does SARS Tax On Retirement Annuity?

We focusing on giving insight into the SARS tax on retirement annuity, the tax components and percentages, etc. 

How to Cancel a Payment on eFiling

How to Cancel a Payment on eFiling

Learn how to cancel, suspend, or make corrections to a payment or tax return on the SARS eFiling platform, eligible taxes, and required documentation.

How to Check for Agent Appointment on SARS eFiling

How to Check for Agent Appointment on SARS eFiling

How to Check for Agent Appointment on SARS eFiling. Today we walk you through everything you need to know about the process.