If you are currently defining your legal specialization, you will certainly consider a career in Tax Law, since tax lawyers are among the most valued by companies and law firms in the country.
Undoubtedly, the relevance of a tax lawyer is related to their in-depth knowledge of taxation and, consequently, how to help their clients generate cash flow and cut expenses in a tax system as complex as the Brazilian one.
In this article, we will discuss more about the tax lawyer and their main professional characteristics in the career.
What are the advantages of becoming a tax lawyer?
For professionals who choose to build a career in Tax Law, the advantages are numerous, including high market demand, interaction with multiple areas of knowledge, and good salary prospects.
High market demand: tax lawyer
First and foremost, a significant advantage is related to market conditions. Our country is currently experiencing a period in which tax burdens are difficult for citizens to understand with certainty.
The impact of this is the latent need for a technical professional to clarify and resolve disputes and foresee more effective tax solutions.
Furthermore, tax obligations occur at all levels (federal, state, and municipal). The consequence of this is a wide range of legislation that favors the existence of professionals specialized in specific niches, taxes, and/or instances.
Interface with multiple areas of knowledge.
Secondly, for those who enjoy a dynamic routine, the need for a tax lawyer to maintain contact with other fields of activity such as accounting, to understand the client's core business , and to constantly update their legal knowledge may be interesting.
According to an interview with Diogo Pignataro, recognized as " Lawyer of the Year 2020" and considered a leading lawyer, he advises:
"Let them study, be curious, ask questions, inquire, research, strive (...) time, easily and quickly, will show those who will stand out ."
Building a career in Tax Law is therefore no different. It requires seeking knowledge, and certainly one way to do this is by investing in specialization, seminars, and postgraduate studies in Tax Law.
Good salary prospects
Thirdly, according to Exame magazine, senior lawyers with experience in tax legal consulting generally earn between R$ 9.500 and R$ 17.500 per month.
Therefore, tax lawyers are valued in the market with salaries that generally are above the legal average.
Given the above, let's talk to a leading expert in Tax Law and understand this esteemed professor's perspective from IDP on the current opportunities and scenario.
Interview with Dr. Rafael Fonseca
Dr. Rafael Fonseca is a doctoral candidate in Financial Law, advisor to a Supreme Court Justice – involved in some of the biggest tax law cases in the country – a distinguished professor at IDP Online, and certainly a leading figure in tax law.
Dr. Rafael Fonseca, what opportunities do you see as interesting for a tax lawyer today?
Dr. Rafael Fonseca: On one hand, I see international trade as an opportunity. This is because the market has been opening up since the 90s. The impact of this is an inevitable trend due to the need for professionals dedicated to this demand.
On the other hand, within the domestic sphere, I would highlight the mining, agribusiness, and non-profit sectors. More recently, there is also the niche of new technologies.
Finally, given the significant backlog of litigation, I believe there are real opportunities for tax lawyers to work in tax transactions and alternative dispute resolution methods.
And what are your thoughts on tax lawyers earning well, Dr. Rafael Fonseca? Does this happen?
Dr. Rafael Fonseca: Objectively, the average salary of a tax specialist is higher in these market research studies; HR firms really do show this differentiation.
It is important to emphasize that the values of the cases are generally high, and the lawyer's remuneration is consequently tied to them, making the financial return quite profitable.
However, the remuneration is good for those who manage to establish themselves in the field, but it takes a lot of time, sometimes six, seven or more years. I believe, therefore, that medium- and long-term career planning is essential for a tax lawyer.
Dr. Rafael Fonseca, what would you highlight for someone considering a career in Tax Law?
Dr. Rafael Fonseca: First of all, there's the need for constant updating. Even for someone who enjoys hands-on work, it's essential to stay updated, whether through major seminars or an academic career.
Secondly, the person needs to have a broad range of interests, to be knowledgeable in other subjects, because the professional needs to solve the client's problems. There is a maxim in the legal world that "if a lawyer only knows law, he doesn't even know law."
Finally, I believe it's very important for professionals to have a long-term plan. I think that's it: constant updating, extensive knowledge, and planning.
Conclusion
To be a leading tax lawyer, it is necessary to plan, seek knowledge, and stay constantly updated.
Certainly, one way to do this is by investing in specialization through courses, seminars, and postgraduate studies in Tax Law. Learn about the IDP course and gain access to the best professors in the market to learn and excel in the field.
Broadening horizons – both in terms of networking and theoretical knowledge – is relevant for building a significant legal career. Indeed, it's fundamental for a professional who seeks to be a leading figure in the legal field and to stand out in the market.
