A Bright Guide to a Career in Tax Law

You would be forgiven for thinking that tax law was all about number crunching and making enemies rather than friends. On the contrary, tax law is an area which is desperate for bright, young, characterful individuals who are able to develop meaningful relationships.

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The ideal candidate

A tax lawyer has strong analytical skills and a sharp eye for detail. You will have an enthusiasm to keep up to date with the numerous and complex changes in tax law. Alongside this, you will be a key team player, working across various departments and delivering information in a coherent and digestible way for your colleagues.

Working with colleagues and clients

Tax law is a people-focused industry, working with clients who are keen to get to know you as you are the specialist in an area that you can help with. Tax lawyers are also likely to be working alongside colleagues, helping out on matters from restructures to employee benefit packages.

Specialising within tax law

Working as a tax lawyer falls in to two categories – corporate and personal.

As a corporate tax lawyer, you will be working for organisations to ensure that the tax they are paying is in line with legal requirements. As a personal tax lawyer, you will be offering advice to individuals, many of whom will be private clients with a large asset management portfolio.

A keen eye for detail

A keen eye for detail is essential, and you will be required to have an expert and thorough knowledge of all tax matters including corporate, personal, National Insurance, VAT, international and inheritance tax.

A keen eye for detail is essential, and you will be required to have an expert and thorough knowledge of all tax matters including corporate, personal, National Insurance, VAT, international and inheritance tax.

Do I have to be a mathematician?

No – maths is not essential to being a successful tax lawyer, as full training will be given to enable you to specialise in tax law.

Where can I practice tax law?

Firms specialising in tax law include new legal body, PwC, who see tax practice as a way to help clients find innovative ways to reduce their tax burdens. In keeping track of various tax laws, a career at PwC would involve helping multinationals, UK companies, privately-owned organisations and family businesses to manage their affairs efficiently with regard to tax legislation.

Other firms working in tax law include CMS Cameron McKenna, Deloitte and Freshfields. Check out their profiles and opportunities they have currently available.