When this happens, taxpayers may file a lawsuit seeking to further reduce the property’s assessed value. These lawsuits are generally more stream- lined and less expensive than typical litigation. But there are rigid deadlines and procedural requirements for these lawsuits. Many lawyers do not know these deadlines and requirements. Each year, numerous taxpayer lawsuits are dismissed due to a taxpayer’s inadvertent non-compliance with these requirements. Engaging a lawyer who is familiar with the requirements will both minimize the taxpayer’s costs, and also minimize the risk that the lawsuit might be thrown out on procedural grounds.

Successful lawsuits are also based on strong factual and legal arguments. If your tax agent believes that you have a good basis for a suit to lower your property’s taxable value, you should probably proceed with a lawsuit. Similarly, if your tax agent tells you that the Appraisal Review Board’s value is appropriate, you should probably not file suit.