Tax Dispute Services

Strategic representation from first enquiry to final appeal

A tax dispute can have significant financial, operational and reputational consequences. It can also divert management attention and consume substantial organisational resources. Early, disciplined engagement is therefore critical to protecting the taxpayer’s position and achieving an effective resolution.

GrahamThompson represents businesses and individuals in disputes with the Department of Inland Revenue and other Bahamian revenue authorities. We advise from the first information request or proposed adjustment through objections, settlement negotiations, administrative appeals and court proceedings.

Our Tax Group combines specialist tax analysis with the capabilities of one of The Bahamas’ leading dispute-resolution practices. This enables us to assess not only the technical merits of a case, but also the procedural, evidentiary and strategic considerations that may determine its outcome.

We assist clients with:

• Responding to information requests, audit findings and proposed assessments.
• Analysing assessments, reassessments, penalties and interest and developing appropriate response strategies.
• Preparing notices of objection and supporting submissions.
• Developing the documentary and evidentiary record.
• Negotiating with revenue authorities.
• Pursuing administrative reviews and appeals before the Tax Appeal Commission.
• Seeking judicial review where the legality or procedural fairness of administrative action is in issue.
• Conducting tax litigation before the Bahamian courts and, where necessary, appellate courts.
• Managing related regulatory, contractual and reputational issues.
• Advising on settlements, payment arrangements and other resolution strategies.

Not every dispute should proceed to litigation. We identify the issues that matter, assess the strengths and risks of the taxpayer’s position and pursue the outcome best aligned with the client’s wider objectives. Many successful resolutions are achieved confidentially and without public proceedings. Where a negotiated solution is available, we work to secure it efficiently; where litigation is necessary, we advance the client’s position robustly.

Tax disputes are often shaped before a formal objection or appeal begins. Early involvement allows us to manage communications carefully, preserve the evidentiary record and develop a strategy with every possible stage of the dispute in view.

Throughout the process, our objective is to provide clear, pragmatic guidance while protecting the client’s legal position, commercial interests and reputation.