Tax Law · European Union

Face a Tax Audit With a Lawyer Who Knows the Process

A tax audit means the authorities are reviewing your returns, your records or your business — and how you respond in the first weeks often decides how it ends. We match you, free of charge, with a tax lawyer who manages the examination, protects your position and negotiates the outcome.

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14
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155+
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24–48h
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Who this is for

For anyone whose returns, records or business are under the authority’s microscope

A tax audit is a formal examination by the tax authorities into whether your returns are correct — whether it is a routine check, a targeted enquiry triggered by something in your filing, or a broader review of a business’s accounts. It can be announced or arrive as a simple letter requesting documents, and it matters far more than most people assume: what you hand over, how you answer questions and what you sign can all shape the final assessment. Audits are common, and most are resolved without any wrongdoing being found, but the process can be intimidating, time-consuming and consequential if handled casually. You are typically entitled to representation, and the way you respond can materially affect whether an enquiry closes quietly or escalates into an assessment, penalties or a dispute. We match you with a tax lawyer who has been through this many times.


Why audits feel overwhelming

An audit is not just about whether your tax was right.
It is about how you handle the process once it starts.

What you provide, say and sign during an audit can change the outcome — and most people go through it without representation.

01

A letter out of nowhere

An audit often begins with a request for documents or an interview, with little explanation of what is really being examined. Without experience of the process, it is hard to judge what the authority is actually looking for and what a response should look like.

02

Handing over too much

Providing more than was asked, or documents that are not properly organised, can widen an enquiry or raise new questions. What you disclose, and how, is a decision with real consequences.

03

Pressure to agree

An auditor may press for a quick settlement or a signed acknowledgement. Agreeing without understanding the full picture can lock in an assessment you might have reduced or challenged with proper advice.


What you get

A tax lawyer who runs your audit, so you do not have to

We only match you with tax lawyers who represent clients through tax authority examinations and negotiate the outcome.

Scope & risk assessment

Your lawyer works out what the authority is actually examining, assesses your real exposure and sets a clear strategy — so you are never left guessing about what matters and what does not.

Managed document disclosure

Requests are handled precisely and proportionately, providing only what is required while avoiding unnecessary disclosure that could widen the enquiry or create entirely new questions.

Representation throughout

Meetings, interviews and written responses are handled on your behalf, so you are not put on the spot or left to answer questions you should not answer alone.

Negotiated resolution

If the authority proposes an adjustment or penalty, your lawyer negotiates the amount and terms, and advises whether to accept, settle or challenge — protecting your position to the end.


Coverage

Tax audit lawyers across Europe

Audit procedures are governed by each country’s own rules on powers, deadlines and appeal rights, so the right lawyer is one who works with the specific authority examining you. We match cases across the following countries and beyond:

SpainPortugalGermanyFranceItalyNetherlandsBelgiumIrelandAustriaPolandGreeceSweden+ more EU / EEA countries

Frequently asked

Tax audits — common questions

Why have I been selected for a tax audit?

Audits can be triggered for many reasons — random selection, anomalies in a return, industry risk profiling or information received from other authorities. Being selected does not imply wrongdoing, and many audits close with no adjustment. A lawyer can help you understand what is likely being examined.

What should I do when I receive an audit letter?

Do not ignore it, and do not respond informally before you understand the scope. Note any deadlines, gather the relevant records, and seek advice promptly — early, careful handling often determines whether an enquiry stays narrow or widens.

Can I have a lawyer represent me during an audit?

In most countries, yes. You are generally entitled to be represented, and a lawyer can handle correspondence, attend meetings and negotiate on your behalf. Being represented helps you avoid statements or disclosures that could weaken your position.

What happens if the audit finds an error?

The authority may issue an adjustment, and in many cases interest or penalties. The outcome depends on the nature and scale of the error and how you respond. A lawyer can negotiate the amount and advise whether to accept or challenge the assessment.

How long does a tax audit take?

It varies widely by country, the complexity of the matters under review and how you respond. Some enquiries close in weeks, while larger or contested ones can run for months or longer. A lawyer can help keep the process moving and contained.

Should I just pay what the auditor asks to end it quickly?

Not without understanding the full picture. Agreeing quickly can lock in an assessment you might have reduced, or create precedent for later years. A lawyer can advise whether settling is sensible in your case or whether the amount should be challenged.


Free case review

Do not face an audit without someone on your side

Tell us about the enquiry you have received, and we’ll connect you with a tax lawyer who manages audits for clients every day — free of charge, with no obligation to hire.