#USA #Washington, D.C. #Latham Watkins #Tax Controversy #Steven Johnson

Steven Johnson Joins Latham & Watkins in Washington, D.C.

Latham & Watkins LLP has announced a significant addition to their legal team with the joining of Steven Johnson as a partner at their Washington, D.C. office. Johnson brings considerable expertise in tax litigation and controversy, particularly in dealing with employment and payroll tax disputes. This move is part of Latham’s ongoing strategy to bolster its capabilities in navigating complex tax issues that clients face today.

Johnson's background is impressive; he is a seasoned trial lawyer with extensive experience in federal tax controversies, having worked as an attorney in the Tax Division of the US Department of Justice. His deep understanding of IRS administrative procedures and litigation positions him as a valuable asset to the firm, especially in high-stakes tax disputes. Johnson’s tenure at Latham comes at a time when the complexities of tax laws are evolving, often leading clients into challenging confrontations with tax authorities.

Mandy Reeves, the Managing Partner of Latham's Washington, D.C. office, expressed enthusiasm over Johnson’s addition, noting that his skills complement the firm’s existing capabilities. “Steve is an outstanding tax litigator whose addition reflects the continued growth of our capabilities in Washington and enhances our ability to help clients navigate their most consequential tax disputes,” she stated.

Johnson’s practice will cover a wide array of federal tax issues, including audits, IRS examinations, and defenses during litigation. His particular focus on employment and payroll tax matters is expected to further amplify Latham's tax controversy offering, allowing the firm to provide enhanced legal support to clients navigating these challenging areas.

Brian McManus, the Global Chair of Latham's Tax Controversy Practice, highlighted Johnson’s unique experience as a factor that will greatly benefit clients. “Steve's extensive trial experience at the DOJ, coupled with his sophisticated understanding of IRS administrative processes, will be invaluable to our clients,” he remarked. This synergy is expected to strengthen the firm's ability to manage the full lifecycle of tax controversies, from initial examinations and administrative appeals to more complex litigation phases.

For clients who often encounter intricate tax disputes with significant financial implications, Johnson's expertise is a welcome development. “Clients today face increasingly complex tax disputes, often involving significant financial and operational consequences,” Johnson shared. “Latham’s leading Tax Controversy Practice, breadth of expertise across practices, and global platform position the firm exceptionally well to help clients navigate those challenges.” As he integrates into the firm, Johnson looks forward to collaborating with his new colleagues on pivotal matters that impact client operations.

Before joining Latham, Johnson was affiliated with Morgan Lewis, where he honed his skills in tax controversy. He boasts impressive academic credentials, having obtained his BS, summa cum laude, from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, followed by a JD, cum laude, from Tulane University Law School and an LLM from Georgetown University Law Center. Additionally, Johnson's experience as a clerk for Judge Tucker L. Melancon in the US District Court for the Western District of Louisiana showcases his strong foundation in legal practice.

Latham & Watkins continues to be a leading global law firm, recognized for its exceptional legal talent and ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. With the addition of Steven Johnson, the firm reaffirms its commitment to providing top-notch legal services to clients facing the rigors of tax litigation and controversy.

In conclusion, Johnson’s arrival marks a new chapter in Latham & Watkins' efforts to enhance its legal services in the tax sector, promising to help clients effectively address and resolve their tax disputes in an increasingly complicated financial landscape.