Start with the situation
Searchers are near the hiring stage and need a practical evaluation checklist.
What to check
Review credentials, scope of representation, fee structure, disciplinary history, written engagement terms, and who will actually handle the case.
Useful next steps
- Ask about credentials and representation rights.
- Ask how financial analysis will be handled.
- Ask what outcomes are realistic and why.
- Ask for written fees, scope, and communication expectations.
Risks to keep in view
- Vague answers may signal weak case review.
- A low fee may exclude important work.
- No professional should guarantee IRS acceptance.
Documents that usually help
- Engagement agreement
- Fee schedule
- Credential verification
- Case summary
- Prior correspondence
- Recent IRS or state correspondence
When a professional review may help
Get help from someone else if the professional avoids written terms or promises a result before reviewing documents.
Sources and official resources
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