Forensic accounting, forensic accountancy or financial forensics is the specialty practice area of accounting that describes engagements that result from actual or anticipated disputes or litigation. “Forensic” means “suitable for use in a court of law”, and it is to that standard and potential outcome that forensic accountants generally have to work. Forensic accountants, also referred to as forensic auditors or investigative auditors, often have to give expert evidence at the eventual trial. 1

Forensic accountants often assist in professional negligence claims where they are assessing and commenting on the work of other professionals. Forensic accountants are also engaged in marital and family law of analyzing lifestyle for spousal support purposes, determining income available for child support and equitable distribution. 2

Engagements relating to criminal matters typically arise in the aftermath of fraud. They frequently involve the assessment of accounting systems and accounts presentation—in essence assessing if the numbers reflect reality. 3

What is ‘Forensic Accounting’

Forensic accounting utilizes accounting, auditing and investigative skills to conduct an examination into a company’s financial statements. Thus, forensic accounting provides an accounting analysis suitable for court. Forensic accountants are trained to look beyond the numbers and deal with the business reality of a situation. They are frequently used in fraud cases. 4

BREAKING DOWN ‘Forensic Accounting’

Forensic accountants analyze, interpret and summarize complex financial and business matters. They may be employed by insurance companies, banks, police forces, government agencies or public accounting firms. Forensic accountants compile financial evidence, develop computer applications to manage the information collected and communicate their findings in the form of reports or presentations. 5

Along with testifying in court, a forensic accountant may be asked to prepare visual aids to support trial evidence. For business investigations, forensic accounting entails the use of tracing funds, asset identification, asset recovery and due diligence reviews. Forensic accountants may seek out additional training in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) due to their high involvement in legal issues and familiarity with the judicial system. 6