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Evolution Tax and Legal

Evolution Tax and Legal

Reviews Summary

Evolution Tax & Legal receives mostly positive feedback, with many praising their expertise, professionalism, and clear communication, particularly for tax preparation and legal services. Several reviewers highlight a smooth, stress-free experience and appreciate the team's responsiveness. However, a few criticize high costs, subpar service, and questionable billing practices, including disputes over agreed-upon fees and aggressive collections. While many customers plan to return, others strongly discourage using the firm due to these issues.

About This Listing

Business Consulting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Mergers and Acquisitions
High-net-worth Individuals
Expatriates
Foreign Nationals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Professional Services
Complex Situations
Multi-state Experience
Cross-border Taxation
CPA License

Who Can Work with a CPA?

Individuals seeking tax prep, retirement planning, or financial advice
Small business owners needing bookkeeping, payroll, or tax compliance
Freelancers and contractors with 1099 income or complex returns
Couples planning finances together or managing joint returns
Investors with capital gains or rental property income
Anyone looking for year-round financial guidance and peace of mind

*Note: CPAs may specialize in different areas. Be sure to check credentials and service offerings.*

First-Time Clients

If this is your first time working with a CPA, don’t worry — most professionals offer a free consultation and will walk you through what to expect. You may be asked to complete an intake form, share financial documents, or set clear goals for your session.

What to Know Upfront:

Documentation Bring your most recent tax returns, income details, and any financial concerns
Availability Appointments fill up quickly during tax season — book early if possible

*Note: Every CPA operates a bit differently. Don’t hesitate to ask questions before committing.*

What to Bring

Government-issued ID for verification
Tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, investment summaries, etc.)
Receipts or logs for deductible expenses, donations, or mileage

*Tip: Organize your documents in advance to save time and ensure accuracy.*

Preparing for Your Appointment

Write down any financial goals or questions in advance
Check if your CPA offers virtual sessions or document uploads
Bring a notebook or use a notes app for key takeaways
Know your deadlines for filing, payments, or compliance

*Note: Preparation helps you make the most of your CPA’s expertise.*

How to Get Started

Use our directory to find highly reviewed CPAs near you. Reach out directly to schedule your consultation.

Other Helpful Info

Many CPAs offer both in-person and remote consultations
Fees may be flat-rate, hourly, or based on service complexity
Some CPAs specialize in industries like healthcare, real estate, or tech
Check for client reviews and credentials (CPA license, EA, etc.)

*Note: Every CPA is different — take time to find one who fits your goals and style.*

Features

Business Consulting
Tax Preparation
Tax Planning
IRS Representation
Entity Structuring
Estate and Trust Tax
International Tax
Mergers and Acquisitions
High-net-worth Individuals
Expatriates
Foreign Nationals
Individual Taxpayers
Real Estate
Professional Services
Complex Situations
Multi-state Experience
Cross-border Taxation
CPA License

Contact Information

Address

3500 Barranca Pkwy #100

Irvine, California 92606

Visit Website Call Now Get Directions

Hours

Sunday Closed
Monday 9AM-5PM
Tuesday 9AM-5PM
Wednesday 9AM-5PM
Thursday 9AM-5PM
Friday 9AM-5PM
Saturday Closed

Customer Reviews

A number of years ago I was introduced to Alton Moore. For me as a real estate Broker, it is a breath of fresh air to be able to speak to one person who knows tax law as a CPA and does Trusts/Probates as an attorney. At the time I met Alton I had been with my EA tax preparer for more than 15 years so when that person retired shortly after the pandemic my wife and I decided to utilize Alton and his team for our corporate and personal taxes. Alton is a great communicator as well as a teacher - having presen

I set up a consultation with Alton to help me work through a situation with my business that had been stressing me out and I thought was going to be a very complicated process. TBH...it was a black cloud that had been hanging over my head. He walked me step by step through everything I needed to do giving me very clear and detailed instructions and reassuring me along the way. I went in feeling stressed and overwhelmed and left our call feeling empowered and confident that I could handle everything I neede

Just don't. The high cost is not reflective of a high quality service. After having a great initial conversation, the service from there was subpar at best. I had taken a big leap spending that much on my taxes because I wanted to feel confident that they were being done correctly and thoroughly. Instead we had to go through multiple revisions because instead of asking clarifying questions about my worksheet, they decided to just take their best guess... on my taxes... things were mislabeled multiple times

2 GREAT experiences! I have had several excellent experiences working with Alton and his team at Evolution Tax & Legal when preparing my Estate this year and two years ago when starting our LLC. Each time the entire process was smooth and as stress free as possible. Alton has a depth understanding of the legal aspects and communicated with me in a way I could understand the complexity of different tax situations. He was patient and answered all my questions with clear explanations. He guided us through t

Top Notch service. Alton has done multiple things for me from yearly taxes, living trust, and financial planning. He is quick to respond with emails, making time for phone calls and meetings. He also has many resources and references to recommend and will make time to chat with others that may be involved with my financial plans. I highly recommend his service and the team he has built over the past 5yrs. Thank you Alton and team.

Alton and his team at Evolution Tax and Legal are the best! They make it so easy to upload all the forms and it's hands off until it's ready to be reviewed. Alton is so friendly and easy to work with, truly the best tax attorney in southern California! Cannot say enough good things about Evolution Tax!

I encountered highly questionable practices with Evolution Tax and Legal. I had a poor experience with them, that included one amount in written contract and a completely different one in subsequent phone calls. Now, I'm being saddled with collections calls on a ludicrous $ value that has no bearing on the initial agreement. It seems like this is their modus operandi. I would highly discourage usage of this firm and Alton.

Very good experience with Evolution Tax. Just filed my second year with them and will be returning next tax season! Thank you

I?ve been going to Alton Moore Esq./CPA at Evolution Tax & Legal for my taxes for a couple years now and as a small business owner, I would highly recommend him. He and his team are knowledgeable, professional, and the best tax specialists in California. I cannot thank him enough for all his help and tax expertise

Unethical. Alton provided an estimate for the work. It ended up costing more due to more work involved. We then had a verbal agreement on a higher amount (~50% more than the original estimate) that I would pay. Apparently that was a trap to get me to pay the higher amount and then have a collector come after me for even more.

I just want to thank Evolution for their great, professional and courteous service with in depth knowledge that done a phenomenal job with my taxes!!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should I look for in a CPA?

Look for a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, which ensures they’ve passed rigorous exams and meet state requirements. Check for relevant experience in your industry, additional certifications like CFA or CMA, and membership in professional organizations like the AICPA. Verify their credentials through state licensing boards.

How do I find a CPA in my area?

Use online directories like the AICPA, CPAverify, or state CPA societies. Search platforms like Yelp or Google for local CPAs with reviews. Ask for referrals from business associates, friends, or financial advisors. Local chambers of commerce can also provide recommendations.

What’s the difference between a CPA and an accountant?

A CPA is a licensed professional who has passed the CPA exam and met state requirements for education and experience. An accountant may lack this certification and could have varying levels of expertise. For complex tasks like tax audits or financial reporting, a CPA is typically more qualified.

How do I know if a CPA specializes in my needs?

Ask about their experience with your specific financial needs, such as tax preparation, small business accounting, or estate planning. Review their website or LinkedIn for case studies or client testimonials. Inquire about their client base to ensure they handle similar financial situations.

Should I check a CPA’s reviews before hiring?

Yes, reviews provide insight into a CPA’s reliability, communication, and performance. Check platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau for client feedback. Look for patterns in reviews, but verify their authenticity, as some may be biased or outdated.

How can I verify a CPA’s license?

Visit your state’s Board of Accountancy website or use CPAverify.org to check a CPA’s license status. Confirm their license is active and check for any disciplinary actions or complaints. This ensures they’re in good standing and meet professional standards.

What questions should I ask during a CPA consultation?

Ask about their experience with your financial needs, fee structure, availability, and communication style. Inquire how they handle tax filings, audits, or financial planning. Ask for references or examples of similar work to assess their expertise and fit.

How much should I expect to pay for a CPA’s services?

Fees vary based on location, services, and complexity. Basic tax preparation may cost $150-$500, while business accounting or audits can range from $1,000 to $10,000+. Request a detailed fee structure upfront and compare quotes from multiple CPAs.

Can I work with a CPA remotely?

Yes, many CPAs offer remote services through secure online platforms for document sharing and virtual consultations. Ensure they use encrypted tools for data security. Remote CPAs can be effective if they understand your local tax laws or business regulations.

How do I assess a CPA’s communication skills?

During consultations, evaluate their ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly. Ask sample questions about taxes or financial strategies and note their responsiveness and clarity. Good communication ensures you understand their advice and fosters a productive relationship.

What red flags should I watch for when screening a CPA?

Beware of CPAs who guarantee specific tax refunds, lack a valid license, or have disciplinary actions on record. Avoid those with poor communication, vague fee structures, or negative reviews highlighting unethical behavior. Always verify their credentials independently.

Should I choose a CPA from a large firm or a solo practitioner?

Large firms offer more resources and specialized teams but may charge higher fees. Solo practitioners often provide personalized service and lower costs but may have limited availability. Choose based on your needs, budget, and preference for personalized attention.

How often should I meet with my CPA?

For individuals, annual meetings for tax preparation may suffice. Businesses may need quarterly or monthly check-ins for bookkeeping, tax planning, or financial reporting. Discuss your needs upfront to establish a meeting schedule that aligns with your financial goals.

Can a CPA help with both personal and business finances?

Yes, many CPAs handle both, but confirm their expertise in both areas. Ask about their experience managing personal taxes and business accounting simultaneously. Ensure they can balance both without compromising attention to your specific financial needs.

What should I do if I’m not satisfied with my CPA?

Discuss concerns directly with your CPA to resolve issues. If unresolved, check your contract for termination terms. Seek a new CPA by researching reviews, credentials, and referrals. Request your financial records to ensure a smooth transition to a new professional.