College of Law receives federal grant for tax clinic

March 15, 2019 | News, Law
By Staff



The University of Toledo College of Law was awarded a Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic grant from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Taxpayer Advocate Service, making it the only academic institution in Ohio to receive the honor.

Tax Controversy Clinic Director Chris Bourell, left, works with law students Gregg Byrne and April Johnson. The clinic is the only academic institution in Ohio to receive a Low-Income Taxpayer Clinic grant from the Internal Revenue Service Taxpayer Advocate Service.

The grant can match funds up to $100,000 annually to support the law school’s existing Tax Controversy Clinic. Law students work under the supervision of Tax Controversy Clinic Director Chris Bourell to assist taxpayers in disputes with the IRS.

Bourell indicates that the federal grant will allow the tax clinic to expand its services and community outreach efforts, as well as provide structural support for the operation.

“We are especially honored to become a part of a network of recognized Low-Income Taxpayer Clinics across the country,” Bourell said. “The contacts we have made with other grant recipients, both at legal aid organizations and other law schools, and within the IRS itself have been beneficial to improving and expanding our services.”

Tax clinic students receive legal training from their experience of handling challenging legal cases, and they have the opportunity to serve the community.

Student attorney Stephen Domingue said, “I have learned how to be a better attorney through the clinic. It is a great program to improve my legal skills, but it also gave me insight into the challenges faced by many people who are not able to receive quality legal care elsewhere.”

Consultations for assistance from the tax clinic are made by appointment by emailing intake@ttcc.law or calling 419.484.8822.

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