Eversheds Sutherland Grows Its Tax Practice with Preeminent 12-Member Tax Controversy Team

The highly regarded team, which is based in the firm’s Atlanta office, has a proven track record as go-to advisors for tax controversy matters, and provides Eversheds Sutherland with additional depth in its internationally recognized Tax Controversy practice. In addition, the move will provide the team’s clients with access to the broader range of legal services that are offered by Eversheds Sutherland on its international platform.

With numerous cases currently before the U.S. Tax Court and a decades long track record of success, this team represents taxpayers in tax audits, tax appeals, and tax litigation in domestic and international matters. Their practice includes high-profile tax disputes, particularly in connection with IRS coordinated domestic issues including conservation easements, employee retention credits, Opportunity Zone disputes, R&D and R&E tax credit disputes, disputes relating to donor advised funds, family office disputes, and reportable transaction and listed transaction matters.

“I am thrilled to welcome Hale, Sandy, Sam and their team to the firm,” said Mark D. Wasserman, Co-CEO of Eversheds Sutherland. “Their reputation and track record demonstrate a commitment to providing exceptional results and superior client service that aligns with Eversheds Sutherland’s core principles. The team’s arrival will allow us to enhance our ability to serve our clients’ tax controversy needs.”

In addition to the three partners, two counsels and seven associates have joined the firm. All are seasoned tax litigation and trial lawyers with a proven track record in both domestic and international tax disputes across various sectors.

The arrival of this tax controversy team continues the global expansion of Eversheds Sutherland’s Tax Controversy practice. In 2023, the firm welcomed a prominent Federal Tax Controversy trio, and the recent addition of a senior tax disputes partner in the UK and an international tax duo in the Netherlands have enhanced our capacity to represent clients in all manners of domestic and international tax controversy.

“The expansion of our practice with this accomplished group provides us with the opportunity to further enhance our strong and growing service offering in tax controversies,” said Robert S. Chase, US Tax Practice Group Leader. “Their combined experience will be invaluable as we continue to navigate complex tax issues and work to deliver exceptional results for our clients. With enforcement matters expected to continue at pace, this is the perfect time to bring on this team and ensure our clients are well-positioned to adapt and capitalize on any upcoming developments. Each member of this team brings a wealth of knowledge, strategic acumen, and a proven history of success that will strengthen our practice and benefit our clients immensely.”

“My team and I are excited to have joined Eversheds Sutherland and integrate our practice with the firm’s esteemed and renowned Tax Practice Group,” said Mr. Sheppard. “Eversheds Sutherland offers our current clients access to a vast global platform that provides outstanding legal services across the globe and can address their most complex legal needs. We share a commitment to exceptional client service, and I look forward to contributing to the firm’s continued success.”

About the New Partners

Hale E. Sheppard is a renowned tax and litigation attorney with a robust practice in tax controversies. He has defended clients in numerous tax audits, appeals, and Tax Court litigations covering a wide range of issues including international tax, employee retention credits, and conservation easements. Hale has also published over 300 major articles in top law reviews and tax journals, establishing himself as a leading authority in the field.

Cassandra S. Bradford focuses her practice on domestic tax controversies for individuals and entities, with extensive experience in audits, appeals, and Tax Court litigation. Her experience spans a variety of tax issues, including penalty abatement, preparer fraud, and offshore compliance programs. Sandy’s comprehensive approach ensures effective resolution of tax disputes at all levels.

Samuel H. Grier brings significant experience in state and federal tax controversies, estate and business tax planning, and tax-exempt organizations. His practice includes representing clients in audit examinations, administrative appeals, and trials providing strategic solutions to complex tax issues.