Brian joined the team at Ireland Stapleton in 2024 to continue his 20-year practice of representing clients in all manners of disputes (civil and criminal) with federal, state, and local taxing authorities—a practice commonly referred to as “tax controversy.” In his practice, Brian applies a practical and creative approach to de-mystify the procedural avenues available to taxpayers and combat the intimidation tactics employed by taxing authorities to ensure his client’s rights are protected, and they pay no more in tax than required.

Over his career, Brian has represented hundreds of clients in all manners of tax controversy, including:

• Representing individual and business taxpayers of all sizes in IRS audits;
• Protecting taxpayers in federal and state criminal tax investigations and litigation;
• Advocating for Colorado businesses in state and local sales, use, occupational privilege, and business personal property tax audits;
• Representing taxpayers in litigation with taxing authorities in the U.S. Tax Court, United States District Court, and Colorado state courts;
• Helping non-compliant taxpayers (i.e.- non-filers) get back into compliance, including through the IRS’s regular and offshore voluntary disclosure programs;
• Resolving tax liens and levies/garnishments; and
• Negotiating past-due federal and state tax liabilities through Offers in Compromise, Installment Agreements, or being placed in “Currently Not Collectible” status.

Brian also enjoys representing members of the accounting profession in all manners of disciplinary proceedings (Colorado State Board of Accountancy, AICPA, the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility, and IRS Return Preparer Office); as well as defending them against malpractice claims.

As a recognized expert in his field, Brian is a highly sought after lecturer and panelists for continuing education courses to CPAs, accountants, and lawyers on both the technical and ethical aspects of his (and their) practice. He is also a past adjunct professor at the University of Denver’s Graduate Tax Program, teaching the nuts and bolts of federal and state employment taxes.