Emily M. Lam is co-head of the firm’s global Tax Group. She advises clients on a broad range of tax controversy matters, focusing on complex audits and appeals, closing agreements and creative resolution of tax disputes. Drawing on her prior experience at the U.S. Department of the Treasury and more than two decades of practice, she provides clients with sophisticated tax counseling on the most sensitive matters.
Lam, who began her career in Skadden’s Washington, D.C. office, rejoined the firm in 2010 after serving as an attorney adviser in the Office of Tax Policy at the U.S. Department of the Treasury. While at the Treasury Department, Lam worked closely with the Internal Revenue Service on administrative guidance, consulted with congressional staff regarding legislation and interfaced with other government agencies on various tax policy matters.
Lam also advises tax-exempt organizations and counsels on charitable giving issues.
Lawdragon Honors
| Honor | Year | Practice |
|---|---|---|
| The 2026 Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Tax Lawyers | 2026 | Tax, Controversy, Resolution |
| The Inaugural Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Tax Lawyers | 2025 | Tax, Controversy, Resolution |
Lam is a frequent speaker and panelist before private bar and industry groups, including the Tax Executives Institute and the American Bar Association’s Section of Taxation.
Lam is active in Skadden’s recruitment, development and retention initiatives and serves on the firm’s Ethics and Pro Bono committees. She previously served on Skadden’s Policy Committee, the firm’s highest governing body, and as head of the firm’s Palo Alto office.