Tax Manager / Plaintiff Tax Director

About Deborah

For many years we’ve specialized in advising and preparing tax returns for plaintiffs and plaintiff firms. We advise on tax strategies to reduce taxable income, maximize deductions, defer tax liability, and more. We draft tax opinions, vet tax-saving arrangements, and help financial advisors balance potential tax savings with added complexity.

Deborah has 20 plus years of experience in public accounting. She likes the customized and complex problem solving that comes with the territory, as well as the opportunity to build comprehensive strategies that result in the best possible outcomes for her clients.

Deborah has published and presented on tax treatment and strategies for plaintiffs and plaintiff lawyers. Recoveries almost never make plaintiffs whole, which makes tax-saving strategies all the more important.

Coming to us from Long Island University/C.W. Post Campus in Brookville, NY where she received both her Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and Master of Science in Taxation, Deborah brings an infectious joy and professionalism to our office. She enjoys a good puzzle, which is what attracted her to the accounting profession. Her analytical and strategic mind affords her the grand perspective of seeing the big picture while staying keenly attuned to the littlest details.

Deborah grew up on Long Island, New York and relocated to Tampa Bay 3 years ago for family, career growth, and opportunities.  In her free time, (when not at Disney World), you can find her enjoying a good book, spending time with her family and 2 adorable cats, baking and creating amazing chocolates and sweets, or just travelling the world!

Phone: 813.286.7373

Email: Dhresko@clvalue.com

See Deborah's feature articles below

TAX DIRECTOR

About Richard

Richard Freund, CPA is a distinguished tax and accounting expert with a wealth of experience and a keen understanding of the corporate world, accounting regulations and the tax code. Currently, he serves as a Tax Director at C&L Value Advisors, a role he has held since 2022...

Richard Freund

In this position, Richard provides invaluable insights and guidance to clients navigating the intricate landscape of taxation.

Prior to his role at C&L Value Advisors, Richard owned his own CPA practice from 2018 to 2023. During this time, he played a pivotal role in shaping his client’s financial strategies and contributing to their growth. Richard also owned and operated his own CPA practice, Freund & Associates in Chicago from 1989 to 1998, gaining significant experience in business ownership and financial leadership.

Richard's impressive financial journey includes two CFO positions at Financial Groups in Tampa Bay from 2002 to 2018, where he demonstrated his talent for leading operations and showcasing his financial acumen and strategic financial management skills.

A Tampa resident since 1999, Richard is deeply rooted in the local community and is a devoted family man. He is married and has two sons, both of whom graduated from Jesuit High School in Tampa, underlining his strong ties to the community.

Richard's philosophy centers around the belief that every enterprise has a unique and compelling story to tell. These stories go beyond industry rankings and focus on the journey that led them to their current position. Richard positions himself as the bridge between good and great, helping companies assess their existing financial situation, identify areas for growth, and establish measurable goals, all while actively leading the company towards these objectives.

Throughout his career, Richard Freund has consistently demonstrated his ability to transform companies. His impressive track record includes taking five million-dollar businesses and propelling them to fifty million dollars in a remarkably short time. He has also played a key role in various acquisitions, brand building endeavors, and profitable divestitures.

Richard's expertise spans a wide range of financial disciplines, including financial planning and analysis, operational finance, budgeting, forecasting, strategy development, accountancy, people management, consumer behavior, and economics. Richard's passion for driving business transformation, coupled with his extensive financial knowledge, makes him a trusted partner for companies striving to reach new heights.

Phone: (813) 286-7373

Email: rfreund@clvalue.com

Resources

How to Negotiate Plaintiff Tax Savings - Bloomberg Tax

This article explores the importance of plaintiff tax strategies, defendants’ role in effecting those strategies, why defendants object, and how to overcome their objections.

Read the article

CLE on Plaintiff Tax Strategies - Strafford Webinars

Walk through this "issue spotter" CLE for plaintiff lawyers on tax treatment, strategies, and common arrangements. Presented by Deborah and tax lawyer, Jeremy Babener.

Watch the On-Demand CLE