Forensic

The criminal justice system is a series of institutions and practices within the government who are directed towards the preservation of social control, mitigation and deterring of criminal activities, (Law Criminal; Lawyer 2008). Forensic accounting fits firmly in the middle of the criminal justice system. Forensic accounting is the application of accounting principles to legal issues. Forensic accountants are accountants who are authorized for the legal review of business affairs and offer the highest level of assurance, (Buckhoff, T. and Schrader, R. 2000).

The Most Important Skills

Forensic accountants perform jobs in a scientific approach, hence the information they find are done using scientific methods. They then interpret the findings in a systematic manner. West Virginia University director of forensic development Max Houck defines forensic accounting as “the science of using accounting to identify and develop proof of money flow.” The court system can not function without forensic accounting assistance. Forensic accountants are highly trained to unfold all legal activities that include but are not limited to divorce settlements, corporate fraud, and other white collar crimes. When fraud is suspected and criminal investigations are pursued, forensic accountants are generally called into action. Forensic accountants aid in litigation. Forensic accountants plan roles in reconstruction, measurement and probate asset identification. In order to be a forensic accountant, they should have the following skills: analytical skills, good communication skills, vocational skills, mathematical and bookkeeping skills, integrity and patience. All these skills are needed in order to trouble shoot while going through the information to ensure they are collecting the correct data. The most important skill is the ability to do math and handle bookkeeping. Math and bookkeeping skills are needed to be able to understand and compare financial figures. Forensic...