Any accounting that may be litigated can be classified as “forensic accounting.” So, whether you need to account for an estate, or you hire a CPA who may testify concerning a partnership dispute, a matrimonial issue, a fraud investigation, or how an elder was exploited, these fit the definition of “forensic accounting,” since the CPA may testify in court.

The forensic accountant can be hired as either a consulting expert or a testifying expert. A consulting expert is usually covered by the attorney’s work product doctrine and any work done is not subject to discovery. The advantage of hiring a consultant is that the consultant will work as an advocate for the client and is available to assist with strategy. As a testifying expert, the forensic accountant is hired to provide an independent opinion with regard to damages.

Return