How J. David Tax Law Helps Florida Locals and Businesses Win Against State & Federal Tax Debt

Are you facing an unexpected tax debt notice from the Florida Department of Revenue ? Have you been warned of garnishments, liens, or even criminal charges for unpaid sales or corporate taxes? If so, you are not alone—and time is not on your side. Florida’s tax enforcement operates under aggressive statutes allowing the state to impose swift and severe collection actions. Unlike federal tax cases, where negotiations with the IRS often allow breathing room, Florida’s DOR can initiate asset seizures and criminal investigations with little notice, especially for trust fund taxes under Section 212.15 .

At J. David Tax Law , we understand the urgency of Florida tax issues because we have resolved them for countless clients. We do not rely on cookie-cutter IRS tactics. Instead, we use customized legal strategies, grounded in Florida’s specific regulatory environment, to protect your business, your assets, and your future. Whether you are dealing with sales tax disputes, wage garnishments under Section 213.67 , or complex audits under Chapter 220 , our Florida Tax attorneys provide clear, decisive solutions that bring results.

Florida’s Tax Enforcement System: Complex, Aggressive, and Distinct

The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) operates under statutory authority defined by Chapter 212 and Chapter 213 of the Florida Statutes, which establish obligations for sales tax, use tax, and enforcement protocols. Noncompliance can result in severe penalties, including criminal prosecution for trust fund tax violations under Section 212.15 . Our legal team carefully evaluates these provisions, crafting strategies that align not only with statutory requirements but also with the realities of DOR enforcement.

Strategic Insights from Industry Practices and Competitor Pitfalls

Our approach is informed by an in-depth review of industry practices and competitor missteps. We analyze common tactics used by firms unfamiliar with Florida’s tax statutes—such as applying generic IRS strategies or relying on procedural delays —and identify where these approaches fail. For example, stalling negotiations or expecting leniency can prompt the DOR’s Criminal Investigations Unit to escalate matters swiftly, particularly for trust fund violations. Unlike others, we proactively engage with the DOR, leveraging legal provisions like Section 213.21 to secure timely settlements and protect client interests. This proactive stance ensures our clients avoid unnecessary financial or legal exposure.

Differences Between Federal and State Tax Enforcement

The differences between federal IRS processes and Florida’s DOR enforcement are significant and require specialized legal strategies. The IRS follows federal statutes with formal administrative procedures, often allowing prolonged negotiations and appeals. In contrast, Florida’s DOR, under Section 213.67 , can impose wage garnishments and asset levies with minimal notice, and escalate enforcement through the Criminal Investigations Unit. Relying on tactics suitable for federal cases can exacerbate state issues, which is why our team applies Florida-specific solutions tailored to its legal and procedural environment.

Corporate Tax and Franchise Obligations in Florida

Unlike many other states, Florida does not impose a personal income tax. However, businesses operating in Florida must comply with corporate income tax and franchise tax obligations under Chapter 220 . Failure to meet these obligations can result in audits, penalties, and asset seizures. Our attorneys craft solutions that reflect both the statutory mandates of Chapter 220 and the DOR’s practical enforcement approach, ensuring comprehensive protection for our corporate clients.

Audit Oversight by the Florida Department of Revenue

While other states rely on Boards of Equalization for tax oversight, Florida’s audits and compliance matters are administered by the DOR’s Collections and Compliance Division . Our Florida tax lawyers engage directly with this division, negotiating settlements under Section 213.21 and leveraging an up-to-date understanding of enforcement trends and policies. This approach ensures that our clients benefit from both technical expertise and a strategic advantage in resolving complex state tax issues. For immediate assistance with Florida tax audits, call J. David Tax Law at (888) 373-8398 today.

Why State-Level Expertise Matters in Florida

Our legal team’s command of Florida’s tax statutes enables us to anticipate and counter the Florida Department of Revenue’s enforcement actions effectively. Under Section 213.67, the DOR has authority to execute wage garnishments and asset levies swiftly, often with minimal notice. The DOR’s Criminal Investigations Unit actively pursues criminal charges for trust fund violations under Section 212.15, a risk frequently underestimated by firms accustomed to federal processes. Unlike others who apply IRS-based strategies, we anticipate Florida’s expedited timelines and adapt our methods to align with the DOR’s legal framework . Our team’s proactive stance helps clients avoid escalations that could lead to financial loss or criminal exposure.

J. David Tax Law’s attorneys leverage provisions in Section 213.21 to negotiate settlements that preserve assets and reputations. We engage directly with the DOR’s Collections and Compliance Division, providing legally supported arguments and demonstrating compliance efforts. This approach minimizes the risk of aggressive collection actions and positions our clients for favorable resolutions. By understanding Florida’s statutory nuances and enforcement priorities, we develop strategies tailored to the complexities of state tax law. Our method ensures each case is handled with precision, backed by extensive legal knowledge and experience.

Expanded Compliance Expertise for Florida Clients

Florida’s sales tax framework, detailed in Chapter 212 , presents substantial compliance challenges, particularly for businesses that collect and remit sales taxes. The state’s trust fund doctrine treats sales tax as funds held in trust for the government, making non remittance a potentially criminal offense. J. David Tax Law assists clients in proactively reviewing their sales tax processes, identifying errors such as misclassification of taxable items, and ensuring accurate filings. By addressing these issues before audits occur, we help clients avoid severe penalties and protect business operations.

Protesting and Appealing DOR Assessments

When a business or individual receives a notice of assessment from the Florida Department of Revenue, immediate action is required. J. David Tax Law represents clients throughout the formal and informal appeals process, including informal conferences and protests filed under Section 213.21 . For complex disputes, we also represent clients before the Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH), preparing compelling legal arguments supported by comprehensive documentation. Our proactive engagement often results in reduced assessments, penalty abatements, and negotiated resolutions that protect client interests.

Industry-Specific Solutions for Florida Businesses

Certain industries, including hospitality, construction, retail, and professional services, face heightened scrutiny from the DOR. Each sector encounters unique tax challenges, from cash transaction reporting in restaurants to use tax compliance in construction. Our tax lawyers in Florida develop customized strategies for these sectors, aligning legal arguments with Florida’s regulatory framework.

Proactive Compliance Measures and Risk Reduction

Our commitment to client success extends beyond resolving immediate tax disputes. We assist clients in implementing proactive compliance measures, such as internal audits, voluntary disclosure agreements, and managed audits offered by the DOR. These tools enable businesses to correct past errors, limit penalties, and demonstrate good faith to the state. Our legal team works closely with clients to design and implement compliance programs , train staff on best practices, and establish reporting systems that minimize future tax risks.

A Leadership Team Built on Expertise and Recognition

J. David Tax Law is led by Jonathan Sooriash, whose exclusive focus on tax compliance and audit issues has earned recognition from Martindale-Hubbell with an AV Preeminent Rating, Florida Super Lawyers , and an Excellent rating from Avvo . These distinctions reflect both professional achievement and peer acknowledgment of his legal acumen and ethical standards. Under his leadership, our firm integrates Florida-specific knowledge into every case strategy, delivering exceptional results for clients across the state.

Recognition and Commitment to Florida Clients

With over 500 five-star client reviews, industry recognitions and awards , J. David Tax Law is committed to delivering outcomes grounded in legal precision and client trust. Our presence in Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa reflects a dedication to serving Florida residents and businesses confronting aggressive tax enforcement. By integrating Florida’s tax laws into our legal strategies, we ensure that every client receives representation informed by both technical mastery and an unwavering commitment to success.

The Trusted Legal Partner for Florida Taxpayers

Florida’s tax laws, including Chapters 212, 213, and 220, contain complex provisions that require rigorous legal interpretation and decisive action. J. David Tax Law’s attorneys possess the expertise, experience, and authority to resolve these challenges effectively, ensuring compliance while minimizing financial and reputational risks. For clients facing enforcement actions by the Florida Department of Revenue, we deliver clear and decisive solutions that reflect our deep understanding of the law and our commitment to protecting client interests. Whether you are facing a DOR audit, wage garnishment, or complex tax dispute, our Florida tax attorneys deliver precise solutions that protect your assets and reputation.