Forensic Accountant
Forensic Accountants combine their accounting knowledge with investigative skills, using this unique combination in litigation support and investigative accounting settings. Forensic Accountants may be employed by public accounting firms’ forensic accounting divisions, by firms specializing in risk consulting and forensic accounting services, or by lawyers, law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, government organizations, or financial institutions. Due to society’s heightened awareness and growing intolerance of fraudulent activity, demand for forensic accountants is rapidly increasing.
Engagement Area Examples
Money laundering
Insurance claims
Employee fraud investigations
GAAP violations
GAAS violations
Telemarketing fraud
Check kiting
Contract and procurement fraud
Asset misappropriation
Securities fraud
Financial statement fraud
Bankruptcy fraud
Credit card fraud
Embezzlement
Types of services performed
Financial data analysis
Evidence integrity analysis
Computer application design
Writing reports
Compiling information
Testifying as an expert witness
Eliciting other experts’ assistance
Maintaining documentation
Damage assessment
Tracing illicit funds
Locating hidden assets
Due diligence reviews
Forensic intelligence gathering
Business valuation
Useful skills, characteristics and subject areas of knowledge
Accounting procedures
Legal system and its procedures
Present value and discount rates
Regression analysis
Computer applications
Interpersonal communication
Oral communication
Written communication
Summarize results
Research skills
Detail-oriented
Analytical
Professional skepticism
Professional judgment
Professional competence
Integrity
Objective
Independent
Credible
Education and Training
Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in Accounting
Additional education in Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement
Certified Public Accountant designation
Certified Fraud Examiner credential