Esmeralda is an attorney. Before 2018, she is employed by the law firm of Ellis and Morgan
Question:
Esmeralda is an attorney. Before 2018, she is employed by the law firm of Ellis and Morgan (E&M). Esmeralda is not a partner in E&M; her compensation consists of a fixed salary and a percentage of any fees generated by clients she brings or refers to the firm. In January 2018, she becomes a partner in the law firm of Thomas, Gooch, and Frankel (TGF). As a partner, Esmeralda agrees to turn over to TGF any income from the practice of law from the date of her admittance to the practice. In leaving E&M, it is agreed that she will continue to receive her percentage of fees from clients she referred to E&M during her employment there. In return, Esmeralda agrees that, upon request she will consult with E&M attorney's regarding these clients. During 2018, she consults with 2 of her former E&M clients and receives $12,000 from E&M per their agreement. The $12,000 consists of $10,000 as a percentage of fees for client referrals after she left E&M and $2,000 as a percentage for work done before she left E&M. Esmeralda turned the $12,000 over to TGF per her partnership agreement. Write a letter to Esmeralda explaining whether she is taxed on the $12,000 she receives from E&M.
Step by Step Answer:
Concepts In Federal Taxation
ISBN: 9781337702621
26th Edition
Authors: Kevin E. Murphy, Mark Higgins