Forensic Accountant
OFO No:
What is a Forensic Accountant?
A Forensic Accountant has specialised in investigative accounting. They help legal teams when necessary. A Forensic Accountant therefore needs accounting, investigating and legal skills to interpret financial evidence.
Forensic Accountants are often called as expert witnesses in a trial.
Forensic Accountants work for private companies, governments, legal teams or police departments.
What is investigative accounting?
- Criminal activity such as theft, fraud and breaches of contract will be investigated. The Forensic Accountant will have to search and compile evidence for the company and courts for trial.
What is litigation support?
- Litigation support means legal support given by NON-legal people like Forensic Accountants etc.
What does a Forensic Accountant do?
- researches financial information in detail
- investigates possible criminal financial activity
- collects supporting data and evidence
- writes reports
- liaises with legal teams
- acts as a witness at trial
- helps divorce lawyers with financial settlements
- keeps up to date with legal terminology, laws and regulations
Are you . . . ?
- good at mathematics?
- detail orientated?
- systematic?
- thorough and responsible?
- logical?
- reliable?
- a good communicator?
- a puzzle solver?
- confident?
How do I become a Forensic Accountant?
To become a Forensic Accountant you will need a degree in Accounting.
- CLICK HERE for Accountant
- CLICK HERE for Chartered Accountant
You will also need some legal knowledge and skills. Any training in this area will be extremely advantageous.
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Actuary or Economist
Is becoming a Forensic Accountant the right career choice for me?