Environmental Law

Environmental Law

Environmental laws are designed to protect people from harm and our world from permanent damage. Understanding the full scope of environmental laws requires knowledge about federal legislation, state statutes, agency regulations and civil and criminal laws. C. William Smalling, PLLC assists companies with compliance and advises individuals and communities about protecting their rights.

In a recent Supreme Court case, an Idaho couple was threatened with fines of up to $75,000 a day from the Environmental Protection Agency for starting to build a home. Mike and Chantell Sackett bought a residential lot across the road from a lake in northern Idaho. But a few days after they laid gravel in 2007, three EPA officials gave them a compliance order saying their land included wetlands. If they failed to restore the land to its natural state, they were told, they faced fines of up to $37,500 a day for violating the Clean Water Act and another $37,500 a day for violating the EPA order.

The Sacketts asked for a court hearing to contest the order. They said their dry lot was not a wetlands. But the agency and two lower courts said no hearing was called for until the threatened fines were actually levied.

EPA responded by saying that compliance orders issued by the EPA give a "warning" to landowners that they may be violating the Clean Water Act. In the Sacketts' case, the EPA asserted that laying gravel amounted to "discharging a pollutant" into a protected wetland.

We can represent you if you are threatened with enforcement action from a powerful agency such as the EPA. Many times such agencies issue actions under the guise of a "warning". In reality, if not contested, such actions can lead to fines or penalties. If you or your company receive an enforcement notice or violation from the EPA or any other state or local environmental agency, you should begin your legal defense early. Many times these agencies use bureaucratic red tape, such as permit requirements, to establish a "record" early in the process. Later, this record is used against the individual or company in court proceedings.

We can assist you in this process by negotiating with and, if necessary, contesting the agencies early in the process. Thereby, the case likely can be resolved prior to having to go to court. If the case cannot be resolved, we can provide a sound defense for your court case.

Protecting your creative property

Intellectual property is created by the human mind. The creativity element distinguishes it from personal, intangible or real property. Unlike protecting other assets, when handling intellectual property, attorneys must consider how to preserve the value of concepts, designs, ideas and innovations, rather than merely tangible items. C. William Smalling, PLLC safeguards and maintains the value of books, music, art, inventions, slogans, branding and business secrets through copyrights and trademarks.

Taxation and IRS Problems: Helping Texas Businesses and Individuals

Tax filings and audits can create substantial stress. Yet, taxes are an inevitable part of life that cannot be eluded or delayed. William Smalling alleviates some of the anxiety by helping you formulate viable tax strategies to avoid potential pitfalls and solve problems that do occur.

Understanding complex U.S. tax codes

Because you work hard to support your family, you likely do not have the time to study the complex U.S. tax codes. William Smalling analyzes your unique circumstances and goals and understands how to effectively apply this intricate web of regulation and law to your case. Knowing that your taxes are in the hands of a knowledgeable attorney, you can concentrate on what you do best developing a successful business and your own personal financial future.

Protecting you and your business

Owing taxes to the government can cause serious problems for your family, your business and your future. The government is entitled to collect what is owed, and it can seize your bank accounts, your wages, your business assets, and in certain cases, it can even seize you. Attorney Smalling efficiently maneuvers through the convoluted government bureaucracies to help you get the best possible results in your case.

A legacy of excellence in federal tax cases

William Smalling knows that time is money and acts immediately to protect your finances. He seeks to stop any filing of charges against you and works to negotiate payment plans with your best interest in mind. Mr. Smalling zealously defends your rights in court and in front of tax agencies and works to ensure that your assets are secure now and in the future.

The first step to resolving your tax issues

To find out more about how William Smalling can help you or your company with tax issues, contact C. William Smalling, PLLC to arrange a consultation.