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Lead Tax Attorney · Valor Tax Relief

James Leon Sharmat, Esq.

Senior IRS & Tax Resolution Counsel

25+ years representing taxpayers before the IRS. Licensed California attorney since 1990.

James Leon Sharmat, Esq. — Lead Tax Attorney at Valor Tax Relief

California State Bar #150888 · Verify license ↗

Loyola Law School · Admitted to U.S. Tax Court · Nationwide representation

James brings 25+ years of federal tax resolution experience to the cases that matter most—audits that won't go away, collection pressure that keeps escalating, and disputes where the wrong move can cost you everything. He has represented thousands of taxpayers before the IRS and secured hundreds of accepted Offers in Compromise.

Clients who qualify for attorney involvement work directly with James and his support team. That means clear answers, protected communications, and a strategy built for your situation—not a one-size-fits-all playbook.

“You deserve straight answers—not scare tactics. I'll review your situation honestly, explain your real options, and fight for the best outcome your case allows.”

25+

Years Tax Resolution

1990

Licensed Attorney

50

States Served

Areas of Practice

IRS Audits & Appeals

Examination defense and negotiated outcomes

Collections & Levies

Liens, garnishments, and hardship relief

Offers & Payment Plans

OIC, installment agreements, CNC status

Business Tax Matters

Payroll, trust fund, and entity disputes

Free consultation · No obligation · No scare tactics

Attorney-Client Privilege

Sensitive tax matters stay confidential. You can speak openly about your situation without worrying your words will be used against you.

Senior-Level Attention

James oversees the legal strategy on qualifying cases—so you're not lost in a volume shop where no one knows your name.

Nationwide Representation

Based in Huntington Beach and serving clients across the country who need serious IRS help—not just another sales pitch.

Why Clients Choose Valor's Tax Counsel

Most firms talk about attorneys in the footer. We put ours front and center—because the right counsel at the right moment can change everything.

Real Legal Authority

A licensed attorney can represent you before the IRS, in appeals, and in court—with the full weight of attorney-client privilege behind every conversation.

A Partner, Not a Pass-Off

James stays involved in the cases that require legal judgment. You get counsel who understands the stakes—not someone reading notes from the last call.

Strategy That Fits

From penalty abatement to Offers in Compromise, every path is evaluated honestly—so you know what's realistic before you commit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Working With a Tax Attorney

Get answers to common questions about hiring a tax attorney and how we can help resolve your tax issues.

Talk to Someone Who Can Actually Help

If your tax situation needs more than a quick fix, start with a free consultation. We'll review where you stand and whether attorney involvement makes sense for your case.