Paul M. McLaughlin

Mr. McLaughlin’s tax controversy work covers audits/appeals and litigation, with a particular focus on creative resolutions of complex disputes. In tax planning matters, he advises clients regarding the potential impacts of legislative and regulatory proposals, as well as with regard to legislative, regulatory and administrative processes.

Mr. McLaughlin’s previous government experience includes serving as legislation counsel at the Joint Committee on Taxation, where he contributed to the development and drafting of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and the CARES Act, among other pieces of proposed and enacted legislation. During this time, Mr. McLaughlin was responsible for advising Congress on the taxation of business income, capital markets and financial products, and assisting with JCT review of large refunds.

He also served as special counsel in the IRS Office of the Associate Chief Counsel (International), where he drafted guidance and advised on complex controversy matters, including appearing on behalf of the IRS in numerous IRS Appeals proceedings. In 2023, Mr. McLaughlin oversaw IRS legal positions in the transfer pricing and FDII areas as branch chief (acting) of ACCI Branch 6. In recognition of his government regulatory work, Mr. McLaughlin received awards from both IRS Chief Counsel and the Department of the Treasury.

Mr. McLaughlin also serves as an adjunct professor at George Washington University Law School, where he teaches a class on federal income tax, and is a frequent speaker on domestic and international tax topics at various bar association events and conferences. Prior to his government roles, Mr. McLaughlin worked as an associate at Skadden for the first five years of his career.