Lydia Southern is a tax disputes specialist with over 13 years’ experience advising private clients, entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses and corporates on complex disputes, investigations and litigation matters.
She specialises in HMRC enquiries, civil investigations and disclosures, including Code of Practice 8 and 9 cases, Worldwide Disclosure Facility disclosures, cross-border tax disputes and tribunal litigation. Lydia supports clients through every stage of a dispute, from strategy and disclosure through to negotiation, settlement and, where necessary, litigation.
Lydia has a strong track record of resolving complex and high-value matters, helping clients manage financial, commercial and reputational risk. Known for her pragmatic and collaborative approach, she is valued by clients and professional advisers for delivering clear advice and effective solutions in challenging circumstances.
Professional expertise
- HMRC investigations and disclosures
- HMRC enquiries and tax risk management
- Tax disputes and litigation support
- Tax expert witness work
- Contentious tax advisory services
Representative experience
- Negotiated the successful settlement of a complex cross-tax serious fraud investigation involving a company with turnover exceeding £7 million and tax liabilities in excess of £3 million.
- Secured a successful Closure Notice application in relation to an Employee Benefit Trust loan arrangement, resulting in the closure of a dispute involving approximately £500,000 with no additional liabilities.
- Resolved a long-running VAT and Corporation Tax dispute for a high-net-worth individual, successfully challenging HMRC procedure and achieving full mitigation of penalties.
