Tax lawyers

Tax lawyers

Taxation or tax law refers to all the laws, rules, and measures that govern a country’s taxation system. In Québec, like everywhere else, taxation is highly regulated and controlled, hence the importance of choosing the right tax lawyer.

Income tax

Any legal or natural persons who live or work on Canadian soil or who do business there are required to pay provincial and federal income tax. In Canada, this tax is deducted at the source – that is to say, taken directly off the paycheque in certain cases, or through a voluntary declaration in others. Each person must file an annual tax return. Depending on the case, the Canada Revenue Agency will then calculate your tax rate and reimburse you part of what has been collected or contributed from you. As for companies, they’re subject to both provincial and federal tax laws and may, like individuals, take different steps to reduce their tax rate and their notices of assessment (R&D expense accounts, various tax credits).

Tax disputes

If an anomaly is detected during an audit of your income tax return, we strongly recommend contacting a lawyer, since, in this field, any mistake can have serious consequences. You can also be advised, informed, assisted, and represented by a professional from Sabbagh & Associé Inc., who will help you correct your notice of assessment or negotiate an agreement with the tax authorities. If a dispute is inevitable, a lawyer can help you contest a decision before the courts, oppose a notice of assessment, request a more thorough tax audit, or ensure your defense in case of civil or criminal proceedings.

International tax lawyer

Today, more and more companies and individuals develop their professional activities abroad. This may involve investments, relocation, impatriation or expatriation of a company, or income earned in a foreign country. In order to make informed decisions, it is therefore essential to know the taxation in force in the targeted destinations. This branch of law also concerns the tax situation of newcomers and expatriates.

Calling upon an international tax lawyer allows one to learn about the different tax treaties, international financial flows and tax law rules in the country or countries concerned. The objective of this expert is to ensure the legality of his client’s transactions and to minimize his overall tax rate in his activities outside of Montreal, Quebec and Canada. He can determine, for example, what income will be taxable and how to avoid inconveniences such as double taxation.

When it comes to a multinational company carrying out various transactions such as exports, imports, cross-border restructuring, etc., the know-how and experience of an international tax specialist makes these steps much easier.

Finally, thanks to our associates – and more specifically, our network of expert tax lawyers in Montreal and abroad – we can offer you a legal solution when it comes to assets, capital gains, sales or rollovers of businesses or assets, inheritance, taxation of Canadian non-residents, or double taxation. Mastering these complex rules lets you face your tax obligations responsibly and with peace of mind.