James S. LaHam

Tax Partner | Laham@bermanhopkins.com

Jim graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Business Administration – Accounting from Loyola University of New Orleans, as valedictorian and obtained his CPA license 1974.  He joined Berman Hopkins in 1989 and was appointed managing partner in 1995.  Jim is now the Senior Tax Partner for the firm and Certified Succession Planner.

The tax department lives by the famous quote of Federal Judge Learned Hand in the case of Gregory vs. Helvering where he states, “nobody owes any public duty to pay more than the law demands.”

EXPERTISE INCLUDES:

  • Business and entity structure
  • Sales and acquisitions
  • Exit strategies
  • IRS controversies
  • Succession planning
  • Liability protection
  • Strategic and organizational planning
  • Retirement planning
  • Legacy planning

EDUCATION

  • B.S., Business Administration – Accounting, Loyola University (NO) – 1971

CERTIFICATIONS

  • Certified Public Accountant, State of Florida (1988)
  • Certified Public Accountant, State of Louisiana (1974)
  • Certified Public Accountant, State of Wisconsin (1976)
  • Certified Public Accountant, State of Mississippi (1986)

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES

  • American Institute of Certified Public Accountants – Tax Division
  • Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants
  • Past Chairman of Leadership Brevard, Alumni year (1992)
  • Frequent lecturer
  • Author of various business articles

CIVIC ACTIVITIES

  • Brevard Symphony Orchestra, (past Chairman of the Board)
  • Estate Planning Council
  • King Center for the Performing Arts Board Member
  • Brevard Community College (BCC) Foundation Board Member
  • Stevenson School of the Arts – Student Advisory Committee