Shawn O’Brien is a Tax partner in the Houston office. Shawn represents clients in all types of tax disputes with taxing authorities on international, federal and state levels. He routinely advises clients on various tax issues during tax examinations, in administrative appeals and as an advocate in trial and appellate litigation before the US Tax Court, US District Courts and US Court of Federal Claims. Shawn's tax controversy and litigation experience spans a broad range of areas, including transfer pricing controversies, debt v. equity issues, international withholdings, advance pricing agreements, “tax shelter” disallowances, estate and gift tax valuations, research and development tax credits, excise taxes, and changes in accounting methods.
Shawn also advises foreign and domestic corporations, partnerships, and LLCs seeking corporate and tax advice in connection with various types of foreign and domestic transactions, including mergers and acquisitions, restructurings, divestitures, leveraged buyouts, structured financings and oil and gas transactions.
Shawn is particularly focused on a variety of tax issues facing the energy industry including tax controversy, restructuring, acquisition and disposition of energy assets. Shawn serves as Chair of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee of the State Bar of Texas Tax Section.