Overview
Abe Benson is a tax attorney specializing in minimizing taxpayers’ exposure to property taxes as well as other state and local taxes. With property tax valuation disputes spanning multiple states, including Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Arizona, California, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington, Abe has successfully represented taxpayers before administrative bodies and reviewing courts. His approach is grounded in a thorough understanding of both appraisal theory and state-specific tax laws, enabling him to effectively represent a diverse set of property types from office and retail to hospitality, multifamily and industrial.
Abe plays a pivotal part in Faegre Drinker’s national property tax appeal group, addressing a variety of valuation and legal issues. He prepares valuation models using market evidence to help taxpayers secure lower assessed values, and he addresses legal issues, including what constitutes real property subject to ad valorem taxation. His work is enhanced by active engagement with industry leaders, including national developers, real estate investment trusts, property managers and appraisers, which enables Abe to identify and utilize real estate market trends for the benefit of taxpayers.
Prior Experience
Previous to joining Faegre Drinker, Abe managed the Indiana office for Ryan, a national provider of property tax services. While at Ryan, Abe provided clients consulting services to help them better understand Indiana property taxation. He also worked closely with county officials across the state to help reduce his clients’ property tax assessments, and regularly provided property tax due diligence reports and tax estimates detailing the potential impact a sale or purchase of real estate could have on future property assessments.
Personal Interests
When not practicing law, Abe spends his spare time with his wife, Olivia, and their three children, Violet, Izzy and Birdie. The family enjoys spending time outdoors, engaging in activities such as park visits, neighborhood walks and bike rides. Abe is also passionate about cooking and enjoys various do-it-yourself projects at home.
Related Legal Services
Credentials
Bar Admissions
Indiana
Education
Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
J.D. (2018)
Indiana University, Bloomington
B.S. in Business (2010)
Insights & Events
Leadership & Community
Professional Associations
- Indianapolis Bar Association — Tax Section, Executive Committee Chair
Civic Activities
- Jewish Community Center (JCC) — Board of Directors, 2023-current
Honors
- Faegre Drinker — Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2020-22
- Faegre Baker Daniels — Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2019
No aspect of these recognitions has been approved by the highest court of any state.