Laura Watts | Lawyer

Laura Watts advises public and private companies on federal income tax issues arising in corporate transactions (including mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs, and restructurings), and represents companies in private letter ruling requests and controversy matters before the IRS.

For over 25 years, Laura has worked closely with general counsels and corporate officers planning and executing tax efficient transactions, from term sheet to closing. In addition, she helps businesses navigate the IRS advance ruling process and resolve IRS controversy matters.

Representative Experience

Advised and worked directly with corporate officers and departmental groups on all tax aspects of the restructuring and spin-off of a public technology company subsidiary.
Advised U.S. based green energy investment fund on structure in light of 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
Advised a private coffee company on significant venture capital investment, equity issuance, and LLC joint venture structure.

Advised a public technology company on tax-free and taxable acquisition transactions ranging from $20 million – $1.5 billion in value.

Advised a large private equity fund on tax due diligence and structuring of series of portfolio company acquisitions.

Advised a stock exchange on tax issues related to restructuring and subsequent acquisition.

Represented a public technology company in obtaining private letter ruling related to cross-border restructuring from IRS, Office of Chief Counsel, National Office.

Advised a public technology company on tax structuring related to disposition of a joint venture interest.

Represented corporations, individuals and trusts in obtaining a private letter ruling from IRS, Office of Chief Counsel, National Office.

Professional Highlights

Laura is a frequent lecturer on corporate tax issues, with speaking engagements at NYU Tax Institute; ABA; State Bar of California, Tax Section; and TEI.

Associations

American Bar Association (Tax Section)

Education

LL.M., Taxation, Georgetown University Law Center, 1996

J.D., University of Georgia School of Law, 1991

B.A., History and English, Wellesley College, 1988

Admissions