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Former Tax Inspector turns ‘Gamekeeper’ to join our Firm - 14/10/2009

We have taken on a former HMRC inspector to enhance their tax services. Catherine Scott has come straight from a nine-year stint at HMRC to work for Baines Jewitt, and is thought to be the only former senior tax inspector operating in the area.

During her time with HMRC Catherine completed HMRC’s full inspectors training covering all aspects of tax. She undertook enquiries into businesses ranging from sole traders with small turnovers to FTSE listed companies, establishing underpaid tax, and charging penalties where appropriate. She was also involved in enquiries into individuals, reviewing a wide range of situations.

From April 2008 Catherine worked in a team specialising in banks and building societies, dealing with some of the tax consequences of the fall-out from the ‘credit crunch’. She decided to move to Baines Jewitt because she grew up in the area and wanted to return to her roots. She was delighted to join such a long established, well respected firm.

Catherine says: “In some cases tax investigations may have little to do with tax law, but everything to do with investigation, interpretation and tactics.

“I have the HMRC training and expertise to assist people who are under investigation, using my experience to ensure that clients can obtain the best possible outcome. The training, knowledge and experience I have gained in dealing with HMRC investigations is at a level that very few accountants have, and so I am better placed to deal with HMRC enquiry work to arrive at the best possible result for the client.

“Throughout my HMRC career, I reviewed a significant number of contracts such as purchase, sale and shareholder agreements, and with my knowledge I can assist with the wording of such agreements to minimise the risk of any future problems with HMRC.”

Janet Holden, tax partner, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Catherine to the team, and we know her valuable experience will be a real asset to our clients. Her understanding of how HMRC works means she has vast technical knowledge of tax, what HMRC can do and when they are acting outside their remit.”

For more information, contact Baines Jewitt on 01642 632032

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