In April 2025, the US District Court for the District of Arizona rejected a motion for a preliminary injunction filed by two tax preparation companies. These firms aimed to stop the Internal Revenue Service from using an automated “risk assessment model” to evaluate and reject Employee Retention Credit (ERC) claims, seeking to reinstate individualized reviews of ERC claims.
The Employee Retention Credit: IRS’s “Risking” Model Faces Legal Challenge
Posted In Employee Benefits

Shawn O’Brien is nationally recognized by his peers and clients as a leading tax practitioner with a focus on tax litigation and controversies involving state, federal and international tax authorities. Drawing on his 25 years of experience, Shawn represents clients in tax examinations and administrative appeals and, when necessary, serves as a forceful advocate in litigation before the US Tax Court, US district courts, the US Court of Federal Claims, state courts and federal appellate courts. Read Shawn O’Brien's full bio.

Samuel (Sam) F. Hamer focuses his practice on US and international tax matters. Read Samuel Hamer's full bio.

Michael J. Scarduzio focuses his practice on US and international tax matters, particularly civil and criminal tax litigation. From audit to litigation, he represents taxpayers in all phases of tax controversy, including novel issues of first impression such as financial hedging transactions using a captive insurer, US tax implications of a foreign master-feeder fund’s investment activities and matters arising under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Sections 7216 and 7212(a). Read Michael Scarduzio's full bio.
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