Forensic Accounting: A Fusion of Law and Accounting

Forensic accounting deals with conducting research on financial activities and preparing facts for use in a court of law. Thus Forensic accounting is a study of finance with law to solve Accounting Issues. It is a combination of Accounting Principles and investigation ability. This area of accounting mainly deals with crimes related to Accounting firms such as authority misuse, money laundering and securities fraud.

Forensic Accounting

Work in this field of Accounting may involve:

•  Investigation of financial records and transactions.
•  Using computer applications to find out evidence.
•  Assembling findings and preparing reports and conclusions.
•  Testifying in court as an expert and providing supporting facts and data.


There are three major areas that are included in forensic accounting.

•  Investigation: Investigation is to determine whether or not criminal activities have occurred. While forensic accounting plays an important role in criminal law, it may also be used in civil cases.
•  Litigation Support: This is a sub area of the forensic accounting which involves assembling and presenting evidence of financial matters related to an existing or pending litigation.
•  Dispute Resolution: Forensic accountants also help in resolving legal disputes that occur during courtroom proceedings. Some may pursue specialized training to work in alternative dispute resolution.