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Forensic Accounting

We can help with:

  • Expert Witness Reports
  • Commercial Disputes
  • Matrimonial Disputes
  • Proceeds of Crime
  • Loss of Earnings & Profits
  • Financial & Fraud Investigations
  • Breach of Contract
  • Business & Share Valuations
  • Corporate Governance Review & Risk Analysis
  • Computer forensics and cyber crime

Focused on the Detail!

When the stakes are high, it’s the little things that make a BIG difference.

A successful litigation strategy depends on choosing the best forensic consultant to analyse and explain complex accounting, finance and valuation issues.

At FPM, our specialist Forensic Accounting team, led by Seamas Keating, provide expert reports and testimony for a wide range of commercial litigation, family law, estate disputes and insurance litigation matters.

Combining industry and sectoral expertise with modern forensic accounting techniques, our Forensic Accounting team provide skilled analysis and opinions on financial complexities in all types of legal matter, vital to supporting a winning case.

The help, advice and expert forensic reports provided by FPM on behalf of our clients has proved key to reaching a solution in what are very complex scenarios. Their assistance and professionalism in cases is exceptional and has been imperative, whether during mediation, the negotiations stage or in their delivery of expert evidence in court that can be understood by all.

Sabrina McKay, Faloon & Co Solicitors.

Our Forensic Accounting Clients

Our clients include Government agencies, insurance companies, businesses, partnerships, charities, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations. We also provide forensic accounting services for individuals involved in personal litigation, family and marital disputes.

Working With You

With more than 30 years experience behind us, we have learned how to get to the heart of most problems quickly. We know how to chase down the issues and our focus is on resolving cases as quickly and painlessly as possible for our clients. We use traditional forensic techniques along with new technologies and modern data analytics in our work.

We understand that what can appear to be minor irregularities at the start of an investigation sometimes escalate bringing to light serious issues that may lead to legal proceedings. We have the resources to bring in specialist advice such as tax or restructuring and recovery expertise if required.

The importance of a forensic assignment being professionally undertaken cannot be over-emphasised. Forensic accountants must be able to adapt to constant change and look behind the obvious characteristics of a transaction to the substance and purpose. Our forensic engagements are carefully planned and meticulously conducted and we have a proven track record in providing expert reports as part of litigation proceedings, from personal injury to personal and business disputes.

International Forensic Accounting Cases

On international cases, we closely work with our AAB group colleagues who have impressive global connections and experience working on large deals internationally. This gives us access to state-of-the-art data analysis techniques, as well as a broad range of in-country international finance and litigation specialists

 


FORENSIC ACCOUNTING : FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


 

What is forensic accounting?

Forensic accounting is a specialist branch of accounting used in commercial and partnership disputes, investigation of financial crime, fraud investigations, marital disputes, negligence cases and insurance claims.

 

What is the difference between forensic accounting and forensic auditing?

Forensic accounting is the term used to describe the whole process of conducting a financial investigation, gathering evidence, reporting and giving expert evidence when that is required. Forensic auditing is a narrower term for covering the techniques that are used to gather evidence in a forensic investigation. Forensic audits are therefore just one aspect of a forensic accounting engagement.

 

What does a forensic accountant do?

A forensic accountant is an accountant with special accountancy skills who is hired to investigate, interpret and analyse financial information, often for use in legal proceedings. Forensic accountants can conduct investigations and, when necessary, provide expert witness testimony in legal proceedings. The expertise of forensic accountants is also useful in many other situations.

 

How can I become a forensic accountant?

First, you need to qualify as an accountant. Then you can specialise in forensic work and enhance your qualification through continuing professional education and development. Special diploma courses in forensic accounting are provided by professional accountancy bodies like Chartered Accountants Ireland.

 

Where do forensic accountants work?

Forensic accountants are employed by accounting firms, insurance companies, banks and financial institutions, police, public sector and Government agencies.

 

What skills does a forensic accountant need?

A forensic accountant needs technical accountancy skills to analyse financial information. In addition, they need similar skills to a law enforcer so as to be able to interview witnesses, secure evidence, prepare reports, exhibits and other documents. Good communication skills are also important as forensic accountants often act as expert witnesses.

 

What is an expert witness?

In legal proceedings, expert witnesses assist the court by providing evidence on complex technical issues. When acing as an expert witness, a forensic accountant must have good communication skills so as to be able to convey technical financial information in a manner that can be understood by the court.

 

Why are forensic accountants sometimes compared to detectives and law enforcement agents?

The investigative nature of their work is the main reason why forensic accountants are sometimes compared to detectives. Forensic accountants use their investigative skills to obtain, secure and analyse financial data, interview witnesses, and prepare reports.

 

Can a forensic accountant help if I think cash or stock is missing?

Yes. Most businesses suspect from time to time that cash, stock, equipment or other assets are missing. If you suspect that you are a victim of theft or financial crime you will need to conduct a financial investigation.

 

Can I conduct an in-house financial investigation myself?

Minor financial irregularities have a habit of escalating into more serious issues. Unless you have the necessary specialist skills in-house, it is usually advisable to hire a forensic accountant so as to be sure that the investigation is professionally carried out in case you later need to use the evidence in legal proceedings.

 

Do forensic accountants assist in partnership disputes?

Yes—for example, financial forensics may be needed if you have to go back over a number of years to track profits or other assets. Partnership disputes sometimes escalate, leading to court proceedings so it is important that the forensic accountant handles the investigation carefully as their evidence may be needed in litigation proceedings.

 

How can a forensic accountant help in a marital dispute?

When marriages break down, a forensic accountant is sometimes needed to track down and value cash and other assets.

 

Why do you need a forensic accountant for insurance claims?

In insurance claims, claimants and/or insurance companies may need a forensic accountant to quantify losses arising from damage to stock or buildings or loss of earnings as a result of accident or illness.

 

Do forensic accountants conduct other types of valuation?

Yes — for example, if you are thinking of selling your business, a forensic accountant can prepare a valuation ahead of the transaction. Similarly,  if you want to expand your business through an acquisition or merger and need to verify the financial information you are given ahead of the transaction, a forensic accountant can value the target business for you.


 

NEED MORE HELP, ASK THE EXPERT...

Seamas Keating

s.keating@fpmaab.com