ForensicAccounting-AAT.docVIP

Forensic Accounting This guidance was written by Rob Hampson, Associate Director, Grant Thornton Publication Date: 19 December 2011 Disclaimer This guidance has been drafted as an introduction to forensic accounting. It is no substitute for familiarising yourself with the relevant legislation and does not constitute legal advice. Whilst all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that this guidance is accurate as at the date of publication, the AAT accepts no liability for loss caused to any person as a result of following this guidance.  Forensic Accounting The AAT recommends that you consult a solicitor or expert in forensic accounting if you are unsure of the meaning of any of the legal terms or explanations in this document. Contents (Ctrl+Click on an item below to go to directly to the page) Page What is Forensic Accountancy? 3 Personal Injury Forensic Accounting 4 Expert Witness 5 Insurance Claims 7 Matrimonial 8 Investigations 9 Criminal Defence 11 Compulsory Purchase Orders and Compensation 12  WHAT IS FORENSIC ACCOUNTANCY? Forensic means suitable for use in a court of law and so forensic accountancy refers to all of the circumstances in which accountants might be asked to report to the courts. Forensic accountancy therefore covers a wide range of different circumstances but is often sub-divided into two groups: litigation support or expert witness; and investigations. LITIGATION SUPPORT Within England and Wales, expert witness work tends to arise from either civil litigation or criminal proceedings and is governed by the Civil or Criminal Procedure Rules. Instructions can come about as a result of a wide range of different types of commercial dispute, personal injury, divorce, and compulsory purchase orders, as well as in criminal proceedings. Whilst not necessarily associated with litigation, forensic accountants are also often instructed to assist with insurance claims. The instruction can come from just one party to the litigation o