A View from Meadows Collier

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matt Roberts walk through a wide-ranging update on recent tax cases and developments shaping the current tax controversy landscape. They begin with the Fifth Circuit's closely watched decision in Sirius Solutions LLLP v. Commissioner, examining the court's rejection of the Tax Court's functional analysis for limited partners and what the ruling means for self-employment tax exposure and audit strategy. They then turn to a series of cautionary tales from the Tax Court and federal courts, including an estate tax case illustrating the risks of late filings and executor liability. The discussion also covers evolving developments in FBAR willfulness following the Second Circuit's Reyes decision, as well as ongoing Seventh Amendment challenges to civil tax penalties. Joel and Matt offer practical takeaways for taxpayers and practitioners alike, highlighting how bad facts, procedural shortcuts, and shifting precedent can dramatically affect penalty exposure, litigation risk, and audit outcomes. 

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matt Roberts take a deep dive into several recent tax cases shaping today's tax controversy landscape. They begin with Patel, a precedential Tax Court decision addressing captive insurance transactions and the application of accuracy-related penalties for lack of economic substance, including what constitutes adequate disclosure and why the absence of a reasonable cause defense can be so consequential. Joel and Matt then turn to a series of jurisdictional cases following Boechler, examining whether statutory filing deadlines in Tax Court are truly jurisdictional or subject to equitable tolling and what recent circuit court decisions mean for taxpayers who miss those deadlines. The discussion also covers partnership audit timing issues under the former TEFRA regime, as well as emerging Seventh Amendment challenges to civil tax penalties in the wake of recent Supreme Court precedent. This episode offers practical insights into audit strategy, penalty defense, and procedural pitfalls.

In this episode, Mary Wood and Josh Ungerman break down two often-confused provisions in the Internal Revenue Code: Section 183, the hobby loss rules, and Section 469, the passive activity loss rules. They explain how the IRS determines whether an activity is a genuine business or a personal pastime, and why the distinction can mean the difference between deductible losses and permanent disallowance. From the nine factor profit motive test to the material participation standards, Mary and Josh discuss how taxpayers can document intent, track time, and substantiate their activities to withstand IRS scrutiny. They also share practical strategies for grouping activities, maintaining contemporaneous records, and addressing common audit pitfalls. This episode offers real-world guidance for defending profit motive and preserving valuable deductions.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matthew Roberts explore all things IRS statutes of limitations - the timeframes that govern how long the IRS has to assess or collect taxes, and how long taxpayers have to file refund claims. They break down the general three-year rule and dive into the many exceptions that can extend or suspend the clock, including issues involving foreign reporting, bankruptcy, and fraud. From assessment and collection to refund claims and protective filings, Joel and Matt  discuss common traps, strategic considerations, and real-world examples that illustrates how timing can make or break a tax case. Whether you're managing an examination, filing an amended return, or weighing an IRS extension request, gain practical insights to help taxpayers and practitioners navigate the ticking clock with confidence.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Mary Wood explore the IRS's renewed focus on private aircraft audits. They explain why the IRS views airplanes as "low-hanging fruit," how data analytics and FAA records are being used to flag potential abuse, and what documentation is critical for taxpayers to maintain. From navigating the 50% business-use requirement for bonus depreciation to handling personal and entertainment flights under TCJA, they break down the nuances that can make or break deductions. Mr. Crouch and Ms. Wood also share practical strategies for creating a recordkeeping system, addressing mixed-use flights, and preparing for questions that might arise during an IRS exam. Whether you're a business owner, advisor, or practitioner, this episode provides valuable insights into reducing audit risk and protecting the tax benefits of private aircraft ownership.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matthew Roberts dive into the IRS appeals process - what it is, how it works, and why it can be a crucial tool for resolving tax disputes. They explore when and how taxpayers can access Appeals after an audit, penalty, or collection action, as well as the advantages of forum's impartial approach. From strategies for preparing persuasive protests to navigating Collection Due Process hearings and avoiding common pitfalls, Mr. Crouch and Mr. Roberts share practical tips to help taxpayer achieve fair outcomes without litigation. Whether you're handling a complex exam issue or seeking penalty relief, this analysis offers guidance on making the most of the IRS Appeals process.

In the latest episode of the Meadows Collier podcast, Mike Villa welcomes Joe Rillotta, the newest partner at Meadows Collier, to discuss his unique career across private practice, the Department of Justice Tax Division, and serving as Counselor to the IRS Commissioner. Mr. Rillotta shares insights from his years as a prosecutor handling criminal tax cases, explains the distinctive DOJ Tax conference process, and reflects on the differences between advising government agencies and counseling individual clients. He also provides perspective on current IRS and DOJ enforcement priorities, including abusive trusts, data analytics, and high-profile investigations like the so-called "tribal tax credits." Whether you're a tax professional, advisor, or client navigating enforcement risks, this episode offers an inside look at government decision-making and what Mr. Rillotta's experience means for his new role at Meadows Collier.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matt Roberts break down the sweeping provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). They explain how the legislation makes key elements of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, while introducing new deductions and limitations that affect both individuals and businesses alike. From estate tax exemptions and R&D expensing rules to gambling loss limitations, tip and overtime deductions, and bonus and depreciation incentives, Mr. Crouch and Mr. Roberts highlight both the opportunities and challenges created by the OBBBA. Whether you're advising clients, planning for your own business, or just trying to keep up with the latest in tax reform, this episode provides timely perspectives to help you navigate the impact of the OBBBA.

In this episode, Jeffrey Glassman and Naveid Jahansouz explore the complexities of employment taxes, especially worker classification and IRS audits. They explain the difference between employees and independent contractors, highlighting the consequences of misclassification, and discuss practical strategies to avoid costly IRS reclassification. From proactive strategies, like voluntary settlement programs, to the nuances of Section 530 relief and what to expect if the IRS challenges your classification of works, Mr. Glassman and Mr. Jahansouz share profession perspectives to help companies understand the pros and cons of each type of worker. Whether you're a business owner, advisor, or practitioner, this episode offers practical insights to help navigate employment tax compliance and avoid costly missteps.

In this episode, Mike Villa and Damon Rowe explore the IRS's "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams and schemes, with a unique perspective from Mr. Rowe's 20 years of experience as an IRS criminal investor. They delve into how phishing attacks, misleading social media tax advice, and abusive credit claims can trigger criminal investigations and what practitioners need to know to spot these red flags. Whether you're a tax professional or hoping to understand how the IRS builds its criminal cases, this episode provides a practical inside look into the evolving world of tax enforcement.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Kristen Cox walk through the key legal and practical steps to take prior to selling a company, from the importance of keeping company records in order to the importance of getting legal counsel involved early. Building off of their blog post "15 Things You Should Know About Selling Your Business," Mr. Crouch and Ms. Cox delve into the step by step process of selling a business and how to minimize risks each step of the way, from avoiding generic NDA's to maintaining company privacy. If you're looking to sell your business or even just to be prepared for the future, this discussion is packed with practical advice and insights into strategies to not only protect yourself, but also your business.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matthew Roberts delve into the ever-expanding world of IRS penalties and how to defend yourself against them. They walk through the categories, thresholds, and abatement options taxpayers need to understand, while also exploring why cases such as Boyle and Huang matter, especially for those relying on software or professionals. If you're trying to understand and minimize your possibilities of penalties, this conversation is packed with insights into strategies, statutes of limitation, and how to defend yourself if the IRS comes calling.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Brian Spiegel break down IRS examinations of gift and estate tax returns, sharing insights of all topics relating to Form 709 and 706 filing. They delve into the IRS's handling of these audits and their triggers, from flawed appraisals to inconsistent documentation, even poorly disclosed transactions. Whether you're preparing returns or responding to an audit, this episode offers essential tips for avoiding costly mistakes.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Annie McGinnis discuss the basic types of business entities: sole proprietorships, partnerships, LLCs, and corporations. They examine the advantages and disadvantages of each entity type, focusing on how liability protections, tax classifications, and long-term objectives influence the best choice for your business. It's essential to consider ownership, structure, and succession plans from day one. Whether you're starting a new business or reassessing your current setup, this episode offers practical advice to help you make the right decisions.

In this episode of the Meadows Collier Podcast, Joel Crouch welcomes Stephanie Grissom to explore the basics of estate planning in Texas. They break down why estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, covering essential topics like wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and directives to physicians. Learn how proper planning can simplify the process for your loved ones, protect your assets, and ensure your wishes are honored.

In this episode of the Meadows Collier Podcast, attorneys Joel Crouch and Jeff Glassman dive deep into the world of tax litigation, offering a candid and practical look at the three main forums where tax disputes play out: U.S. Tax Court, U.S. District Court, and the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.Whether you're facing a stalled refund claim, an unresolved audit, or weighing your litigation options, Joel and Jeff break down the key differences between each forum—including prepayment requirements, jury trial availability, the types of judges involved, and how recent legislative proposals could shift the landscape. From the advantages of Tax Court’s small case docket to the nuances of refund litigation under the Flora rule, this episode is packed with insights for CPAs, advisors, attorneys, and taxpayers alike.

In this episode, Joel Crouch and Matt Roberts break down recent developments in tax law and IRS procedure that every tax professional and taxpayer should know. From the Murphy case's surprising taxpayer win to a criminal defendant who beat the IRS pro se, Joel and Matt explore fascinating case law, new IRS FAQs on ERC claims, fraud penalty jury trial arguments, FOIA bottlenecks, and a cautionary tale from the conservation easement world.Whether you're advising on trusts, facing civil fraud penalties, or trying to navigate delayed ERC claims, this episode offers real-world insight, humor, and practical takeaways. Tune in for expert commentary with a relatable edge.

In this episode of the Meadows Collier podcast, Jana Simons joins Joel Crouch to discuss asset protection. They discuss the ins and outs of asset protection in Texas—from exempt assets like homesteads and retirement accounts to strategic planning tools like irrevocable trusts and LLCs. Whether you're a CPA, financial advisor, estate planner, or simply someone looking to protect your hard-earned assets, this conversation will leave you better informed and prepared for the unexpected.

The IRS is undergoing significant workforce reductions, with thousands of employees leaving through layoffs, buyouts, and attrition. While some may welcome the idea of a smaller IRS, tax professionals should prepare for longer delays in audits, appeals, refund claims, and voluntary disclosure cases. In this episode of the Meadows Collier Podcast, Joel Crouch and Matt Roberts discuss how these staffing cuts will impact tax enforcement, compliance, and practitioner-client interactions.With fewer personnel, the IRS is expected to lean more heavily on artificial intelligence and data analytics to select audits and enforce tax compliance, raising questions about the accuracy and fairness of AI-driven enforcement models. The episode also examines ongoing legal challenges to the Corporate Transparency Act, potential rollbacks in crypto tax reporting obligations, and the likelihood of a resurgence in aggressive tax shelters and questionable tax positions as enforcement capacity diminishes.Tax attorneys, CPAs, and other professionals advising clients on IRS disputes, tax compliance, and federal reporting requirements will gain valuable insight into how these changes could reshape the tax landscape. Whether navigating delays in IRS interactions, shifts in voluntary disclosure policies, or evolving enforcement strategies, this discussion provides the critical updates needed to stay ahead of emerging challenges in tax administration.

In this episode of the Meadows Collier Podcast, attorneys Joel Crouch and Naveid Jahansouz provide an in-depth analysis of significant recent developments in tax law and IRS operations. They discuss the ripple effects of IRS staffing challenges, including hiring freezes, buyouts, and leadership departures, and what these changes mean for taxpayers and tax professionals. The episode also covers key tax court cases, such as the Langlois partnership basis case and the ongoing debate over 6038 penalties, along with potential tax legislation changes like TCJA extensions and IRS funding cuts. Joel and Naveid share valuable insights on navigating examinations, ensuring proper authorization in partnership filings, and staying compliant amidst shifting regulations. Additionally, the hosts examine high-profile cases like the Tom Goldstein tax indictment and the Dan Rada Swiss accounts case, providing practical takeaways for legal and tax practitioners. This comprehensive episode is essential listening for anyone wanting to stay informed and proactive in their tax strategy.

Join Joel Crouch, Mary Wood, and Jeff Glassman as they discuss what’s ahead for IRS enforcement in 2025. From cutting-edge technology and AI to changes in cryptocurrency reporting and high-net-worth audits, the team shares insights from the December 2024 ABA Tax Section Tax Fraud and Tax Controversy Conference in Las Vegas. This episode also covers key tips for audit preparedness, updates on the Employee Retention Credit, and strategies for navigating complex tax issues. Whether you're a business owner, tax professional, or just interested in the evolving tax landscape, this episode is packed with valuable information.

In this episode of our podcast, you will discover the latest trends in IRS criminal tax investigations, cryptocurrency compliance and voluntary disclosure programs with Joel Crouch and Mike Villa. This podcast will discuss some of the presentation highlights from the December 2024 American Bar Association (ABA) Criminal Tax Fraud Conference, such as funding, data analytics and areas of priority for the IRS. In addition, the evolution of the voluntary disclosure program continues to be a hot topic for the IRS and practitioners. The program has become increasingly formal, and practitioners feel that its usefulness is limited, and the penalties are too high. Practitioners are well advised to watch out for matters that are ripe for potential criminal tax investigations. We know employment taxes, fuel tax credits and ERCs are areas of interest for IRS criminal cases. Remember to consult with a tax attorney before being interviewed by the IRS.

In this episode of our podcast, A View from Meadows Collier, we are excited to share a special replay of the December 3, 2024 webinar titled, "Divisive Corporate Reorganizations: Threading the Eye of the I.R.C. § 355 Needle," featuring Firm Partner, Stephen A. Beck. In general, the distribution of appreciated assets from a corporation results in income tax liability to both the distributing corporation and the distributee shareholders. I.R.C. § 355, however, provides an exception through which a corporation can divide and distribute appreciated assets without triggering income tax liability to either the corporation or the shareholders. But qualifying under I.R.C. § 355 can be very difficult – like threading the eye of a needle. Mr. Beck discusses the many requirements that must be satisfied under I.R.C. § 355 to support deferral of taxable gain recognition, as well as potential pitfalls that could cause a divisive transaction to result in double taxation to the corporation and shareholder.

In this episode, firm lawyers Joel Crouch and Naveid Jahansouz delve into key recent developments in the tax landscape. They discuss noteworthy IRS procedural changes, including the revised penalty assessments for late-filed foreign gift forms, offering taxpayers more leniency with reasonable cause statements. They explore significant court cases like Ruby Tang v. Commissioner, where an IRS employee's unusual tax deductions led to a public trial, and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter v. Commissioner, which reveals that even celebrities aren't immune to tax disputes. The hosts also cover the IRS’s recent focus on pass-through entities and complex partnership audits, as well as the rising importance of compliance with the Corporate Transparency Act and evolving crypto regulations. This episode is packed with insider knowledge and practical insights, valuable for tax professionals and anyone keen to understand the latest in tax enforcement and policy changes.

In this episode, Firm Partner, Joel Crouch is joined by Firm Associate, Cody Gackle to explore the latest developments in tax law. They dive into the complexities of Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims, discussing the IRS backlog, refund lawsuits, and how collection due process can intersect with ERC filings. Joel and Cody also share insights on recent cases, including Franco v. Commissioner, which examines the challenges of securing innocent spouse relief, and Schwartz, where a taxpayer successfully avoided penalties through reliance on a tax preparer.The conversation extends to real estate professionals and passive losses in Warren v. Commissioner, highlighting the difficulties of qualifying for deductions while holding a full-time job. They also explore lien disputes, whistleblower claims, and key procedural issues, such as the importance of filing proper refund claims with powers of attorney. With humor and practical advice, Joel and Cody offer a candid look into the challenges taxpayers and advisors face, all while preparing listeners for Meadows Collier’s upcoming virtual firm conference on November 21st.Tune in for a dynamic and informative discussion packed with real-world insights, case breakdowns, and actionable advice for navigating tax controversies.

In this episode of the Meadows Collier podcast, Joel Crouch and Brian Spiegel discuss recent tax developments, including updates from the U.S. Tax Court, alternative dispute resolution methods, and key estate tax cases. Brian shares insights from his experience clerking for U.S. Tax Court Judge Juan Vasquez, while both attorneys explore the Tax Court’s growing bench, ADR successes, and notable tax cases. They also touch on cryptocurrency taxation and changes to the IRS voluntary disclosure program, offering valuable insights for tax professionals and those interested in the latest IRS updates.

Listen to this podcast with Joel Crouch and Anthony Daddino, partners at Meadows Collier, as they discuss the complexities surrounding micro-captive insurance, particularly focusing on the IRS's increasing scrutiny and the implications for taxpayers. Other topics of the podcast include the IRS' settlement program and a potential shift in the IRS's approach. The challenges faced by taxpayers is emphasized in navigating these complexities and the importance of proper disclosure to mitigate penalties. The discussion continues with a look at the strategic decisions taxpayers may consider, including the choice between tax court and district court, and the potential for jury trials in tax cases. This podcast provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of micro-captive insurance and the IRS's regulatory environment, encouraging taxpayers to stay informed and seek professional advice in this challenging area.

Listen to this podcast with Joel Crouch and Jeff Glassman, partners at Meadows Collier, for a summary of what has transpired to-date with regard to ERC claims, the questions that currently exist and thoughts as to what the IRS’ position will be in the future.

Join Joel Crouch for his conversation with Annie McGinnis. Ms. McGinnis grew up in Frisco, TX, graduating from Centennial High School. When she graduated there were four (4) high schools in Frisco, TX now there are twelve (12) high schools in Frisco, TX. Ms. McGinnis joined the firm as a lawyer in 2019 after being admitted to practice law in Texas in 2018. She attended Texas A&M University receiving her B.S. in Political Science, magna cum laude, in 2015. After graduating, she continued her education at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law receiving her J.D., magna cum laude, and Order of the Coif, in 2018. She then moved to New York to attend New York University School of Law receiving her LL.M. in Taxation in 2019. Upon graduating from NYU, she joined the firm. Find out what transpired during her college years that led her down the career path to become a lawyer as well as why she chose the colleges she attended. While in New York, she lived in a 424 sq. ft. apartment (aka a shoebox). Hear what her favorite things to do were while living in New York when she had time. After receiving her LL.M. in Taxation, she knew she wanted to come back to Texas to start her legal career. She knew of Meadows Collier and the firm's reputation from the law schools that she attended and the professors that she had while attending several law schools. She determined in her second year of law school that she had an interest in partnership tax, corporate work, reorganizations and mergers and acquisitions. Learn what her favorite and least favorite activities are about practicing law, what she attributes her success to and her advice to new, young lawyers.

Joel Crouch sits down and talks with firm lawyer, Cari B. LaSala, whose practice areas include Commercial Litigation, White Collar and Government Regulatory Litigation, and Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets. Cari spent a portion of her childhood outside of New Orleans, LA before moving first to Austin and then to the Houston area, graduating from Austin High School in Sugar Land, TX. After high school, she attended the University of Texas McCombs School of Business earning her B.B.A., with honors, in Management and Consulting. In her junior year of college, she found herself at a crossroads, considering whether she wanted to pursue a career in teaching or to continue her career path to become a lawyer. Ultimately, she and her fiancé (now husband) were both accepted to the College of William and Mary, Marshall-Wythe School of Law. She talks about her clerkships, both in the U.S. and abroad, and the judges she has had the pleasure to work for. After clerking, she began her career with a small litigation boutique in Dallas where her practice included commercial litigation and pharmaceutical product liability. She was with this firm for six years before joining Meadows Collier. She reflects on changes she has seen since COVID and discusses her favorite and least favorite things about the practice of law. Learn her best advice to a new lawyer, as well as what she attributes her success to: skill and hard work or luck.

Join Joel Crouch for his conversation with Jana Simons, attorney in the firm's Estate Planning group. Jana was born and raised in Aubrey, TX. Hear her stories about growing up on a horse ranch with parents who were horse trainers. She talks about the types of horses that were bred, raised, and trained at the ranch as well as the defined roles of the family members to maintain and run the family business. Jana began her college journey at TCU and then transferred to UNT where she received her undergraduate degree in Finance. Hear about several other career choices she considered along the way. After graduating from college, she spent nine years helping run the family horse business and then decided it was time to try something different. She moved to Lubbock to attend Texas Tech where she received her master’s degree in financial planning and her Law degree. From there she continued her education in DC attending Georgetown receiving her LL.M. in Tax. Hear about her mentors that helped guide her legal education and her employment choice to join the firm. After five years of practicing law find out what her favorite and least favorite things are and how much of her success she attributes to hard work, luck, or both. When she is not practicing law, you can find Jana enjoying her passion for horses. She is still involved in the family horse business focusing on buying, developing, and selling horses with her sister and mother.

Anthony Daddino talks with Joel Crouch about Meadows Collier being the only firm where he has practiced law his entire career. Joel has been with the firm for almost 35 years building his legal practice in the areas of IRS controversies, tax planning and estate planning. Discover a little bit about his childhood, his college years including how he chose to become a lawyer, and what he enjoys about practicing law. Joel talks about some of the cases he has tried, including a few criminal cases early in his career with Mr. Meadows, a 5th Circuit argument, being admitted to the Supreme Court and watching a firm case tried in front of the Supreme Court. Last but not least, listen to Joel talk about some office pranks over the years and his exceptional taste in special occasion suits.

Joel Crouch and Firm Partner, Brian Spiegel have an interesting conversation about how he went from working towards a career in sports journalism to practicing tax law. He talks about his favorite sports teams that he began following when he was a young boy. Brian's college education started in Arizona and after his first year, he returned to Texas going to school at UT in Austin. He spent time in college writing about various sports events and he became the News and Sports Director at an Austin Radio Station while in college. After receiving his Bachelor of Journalism degree, he decided to apply his math and analytics expertise to becoming a lawyer. He moved to Dallas to attend law school at SMU Dedman School of Law and then furthered his education at NYU School of Law receiving his LL.M. in Tax. He clerked for a Tax Court judge for almost two years in Washington, DC and then joined the firm. Find out about his law practice, how and what has created change in his practice and his advice to young lawyers just starting to practice law.

Joel Crouch talks with Firm Partner, Alex Pilawski about his journey into practicing law. Alex started practicing in 2010, joined Meadows Collier in 2013, and focuses on state tax controversy and litigation, state tax planning, and commercial litigation. Hear about where Alex grew up, his background, and education. Learn what his favorite and least favorite things are about practicing tax law, how he sees things have changed in the 13 years of his practice, what he attributes his success to, and his advice to young lawyers.

Firm Partner, Joel Crouch sits down with one of the newest firm partners, Damon Rowe, who joined the firm in March of 2022.  Mr. Rowe's areas of practice with the firm include White Collar Crime, Tax Controversy, Government Regulatory Litigation, and Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets.  Joel talks to Damon about his education and what led him to become a tax lawyer. Mr. Rowe spent 24 years of his legal career with the IRS.  His first position with the IRS was as a Special Agent and he finished his IRS career as Executive Director of the Office of Fraud Enforcement.  Hear him talk about the types of crimes and investigations he was involved in at the IRS.  He attributes some of his business success to, "being in the right place at the right time" and to having great mentors.  Hear what he likes best and what he likes least about practicing law as well as his best advice to someone wanting to be a lawyer.

Joel Crouch sits down for a conversation with Stephen Beck. Mr. Beck has been with the firm for 17 years. He joined the firm in 2005 and became a partner in 2011. He attended the University of Texas and earned his BBA, with high honors, in 1995. He also attended the University of Texas School of Law earning his J.D., with honors, in 1998. After law school, he moved to Washington, D.C. where he worked at one of the nation's premier litigation firms and attended Georgetown University School of Law earning his LL.M. in Taxation, with distinction, in 2000. He remained in Washington, DC for five years practicing tax law and then returned to Texas with his family and joined Meadows Collier. From an early age, Steve knew he wanted to be a lawyer. His first year of law school was tough and he wasn't sure what type of law he wanted to practice but after taking several tax courses, he discovered taxes impact all business decisions. As a tax planning lawyer, Steve works with entrepreneurs, privately-held companies, individuals buying and selling businesses and is involved with cross-border transactions involving taxpayers owning businesses outside the U.S. Mr. Beck enjoys problem-solving, especially difficult tax problems that clients are uncertain how to treat. His favorite thing about practicing law is the relationships he develops and his least favorite thing about practicing law is billable hours and the housekeeping items associated with a law practice. He attributes the success of his practice to caring about his clients and colleagues. Hear Steve's best advice to new lawyers and whether he thinks his law practice is successful due to his hard work, luck or both.

Joel Crouch talks with firm partner, Kristen Cox about how she earned a spot on a famous game show during High School when she was 17-18 years old and what she did with her winnings.  Kristen determined she wanted to be a lawyer at a very young age and she thought she wanted to be a litigator.  Find out how a two-year clerkship turned her interest from Litigation to a Corporate and Real Estate practice.  She feels luck played a role in her joining the firm 15 years ago.  With great mentors and excellent teachers at the firm who allowed her to participate in all stages of various transactions, she has developed a very rewarding practice.  Find out what her favorite and least favorite things are about practicing law as well as one thing  she believes has changed the most in the last 15 years of her law practice.

Join Joel Crouch as he sits down and has a conversation with Michael (Mike) A. Villa, Jr. about growing up in Louisiana, his heritage, including living through Hurricane Katrina, his education, and practicing law. Mike is a 7th generation New Orleans native. Both his father and uncle were lawyers and this was something he always wanted to do. He was very interested in politics and initially thought he would have a career that focused on law and politics. Ultimately, he decided to stay on the lawyer path. Mike joined a New Orleans law firm in August of 2005 and then Hurricane Katrina hit later that same month. His entire family lost their homes as much of New Orleans was totally destroyed. He began working out of the Lafayette office of his firm and worked many hurricane-related matters. Mike decided to go to NYU to obtain his LL.M. in Tax in 2007. New York was a cultural shock for him. Mike had already taken the LA and TX bar examines back-to-back. For personal reasons and the business climate, he came to Texas. He joined Meadows Collier in 2007 and quickly began working on tax shelter cases. Currently, his practice is 60-75% criminal tax, and he sees civil inquiries too on his cases from the government. Listen to Mike and Joel discuss how the practice of law has changed since 2007, and finally Mike's advice to anyone who is thinking about becoming a lawyer.

Joel Crouch talks with Managing Partner, Anthony Daddino about becoming a tax lawyer and what lead him down this career path. Mr. Daddino may have been destined to become a tax lawyer due to being born on April 15th. He started his legal career with a large law firm in Dallas where he spent 2-3 years in the tax planning area researching and writing. From there, he joined Meadows Collier and he has been with the firm for 17 years, partner for 13 years, and managing partner for 3 years. He has a successful tax controversy and tax planning practice. Learn what his favorite and least favorite things are about practicing tax law, and his advice on having a successful tax practice.

Joel Crouch sits down with David Colmenero to talk about his law practice.  David leads the firm’s State and Local Tax practice.  Joel learns a little Texas history while talking with David about where he was born and raised.  Find out about two Texas towns—Quanah and Chillicothe.  After completing his education, David became a CPA, then decided to continue his education and went to law school at Texas Tech.  After graduating from law school and passing the bar exam, he began practicing law.  David received his Masters in Taxation Law (LL.M.) from SMU Dedman School of Law while practicing at the firm.  David has been recognized for his volunteer efforts with the State Bar of Texas, TXCPA and TXCPA Dallas.  David joined Meadows Collier in 2002 and became a partner in 2006. He has been with the firm for 21 years.

Joel Crouch and Paul Budd continue their conversation with Chuck Meadows and Trey Cousins in Part II.  Chuck and Trey discuss a major firm change in 1989, the savings and loan crisis continues with an abundance of cases, the firm finding success in estate tax litigation and criminal cases, a view on contingency cases, and conclude with the question of how much of their success is attributable to luck and how much is attributable to skill and hard work?

Charles (Chuck) M. Meadows, Jr. and William (Trey) R. Cousins III – join Part I of the conversation Joel Crouch and Paul Budd have with Chuck Meadows and Trey Cousins.  Chuck is a founding partner of the firm and Trey was an associate at the time the firm was established in 1983.  Learn what it was like to share space with the firm you were leaving to start your own practice. What were the challenges and rewards, and some of the highlights along the way.