We are a full-service firm located in beautiful Carmel, California. We represent clients in all business, real estate, wills, trusts, trust administration, probate and tax transactions, in addition to representation before administrative bodies such as the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, Board of Equalization, Bureau of Real Estate, California Franchise Tax Board, and the Internal Revenue Service.
Business Matters
Business Formation
We work with clients in all stages of their business. We counsel clients on the various forms of entities through which they can conduct business, from corporations to limited liability companies to partnerships to Delaware Series Limited Liability Companies, and advise clients on the liability protection, benefits, drawbacks, and tax ramifications of each entity.
Together with the client, we are able to help the client determine the appropriate business form so that the client can have the peace of mind knowing that it has the protection from liability, flexibility of purpose, and tax savings to allow the business to thrive.
Business Transactions
We assist business with ongoing matters from employment agreements and independent contractor agreement, to shareholder agreements and contracts with vendors, suppliers and even franchising agreements.
We have extensive experience in Business Purchases and Sales, and are knowledgeable with the business escrow process. This experience allows us to fully represent clients in the purchase or sale of a business.
Administrative Law Matters
Our firm advises and represents clients in administrative matters, including
Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Liquor Licenses
We help clients obtain liquor licenses, catering permits, and other licenses from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Our representation doesn't stop when the license is issued. Our firm continues to represent clients when they have problems with their license or face administrative action by the ABC.
Sales and Use Tax
Our firm represents clients in sales and use tax matters before the California Board of Equalization. We also represent clients in federal excise tax matters before the Internal Revenue Service.
Bureau of Real Estate Recovery Account
We assist clients who are the victims of fraudulent acts by licensed real estate agents and brokers in applying from recovery from the Bureau of Real Estate (BRE) Recovery Account. The Recovery Account is funded from the dues paid by real estate agents and brokers. Victims of fraudulent acts by brokers and real estate agents can apply to this Recovery Account for a recovery of some, if not all, of their funds lost due to the fraudulent acts of the real estate agent or broker. We have represented clients in all stages of this complicated process, including representation in interpleader actions filed by the California Attorney General to settle conflicting claims owed to numerous victims of the same real estate broker or agent.
Real Estate Matters
Our firm represents clients in business and residential real estate matters. This includes reviewing and preparing purchase agreements, easements, deeds of trust, leases, and all other real property issues.
Tax Matters
As a CPA and attorney, Ana Soares has developed an extensive practice before both the California Franchise Tax Board and Internal Revenue Service. Ms. Soares represents clients in all tax matters, including examinations and audits by both the FTB and IRS.
Non-Profit Organizations
Our firm advises non-profit clients on all aspects of operation, from formation to governance to regaining tax exempt status after revocation of tax-exempt status by the IRS. We have the experience to help clients obtain the appropriate tax-exempt classification based on the complicated rules set forth by the IRS.
