What to look for in a certified fraud examiner
http://www.accountingfacts.net/articles/3154/1/What-to-look-for-in-a-certified-fraud-examiner/Page1.html
Art Gib
North Western Warehouse (http://www.nwwcom.com/records/records.php) is a private record storage group who provides secure space for storing a variety of records material as well as adequate shredding options for businesses both public and private. The author, Art Gib, is a freelance writer. By Art Gib
Published on 06/17/2009
If your business is suspected of fraud or if you are suing another party for fraud, you want to have the best accountants on your side that will get to the bottom of the facts and help your case. Here are some qualities to look for when choosing a certified fraud examiner to collect information and serve as an expert witness.
What to look for in a certified fraud examiner
If your business is suspected of fraud or if you are suing another party for fraud, you want to have the best accountants on your side that will get to the bottom of the facts and help your case. Here are some qualities to look for when choosing a certified fraud examiner to collect information and serve as an expert witness.
-- Education
Although only a bachelor's degree is a required for CFE certification, higher degrees are desirable in a candidate. He should have extensive training in one of more of the following fields: accounting, auditing, criminology and sociology, fraud investigation, and the legal aspects of fraud.
-- Experience
Education is essential, of course, but nothing matters quite as much as extensive experience in all aspects of criminal forensics. Choose a CPA who has been on both sides of litigation in areas such as lost profits, lost business value, antitrust, breach of contract, lender liability, in a wide variety of different business settings. Having a broad background helps a CPA to be better able to recognize and detect fraud when it happens. Someone who has extensive experience makes a more credible witness in the courtroom and brings a high degree of ethos and gravitas.
-- Adheres to a strong ethical code
A CPA's reputation should be stellar among his peers. When it comes to investigation of a potential crime, you want to know that the person who is going over the numbers is known for his honesty, integrity, and lack of bias. His record should be one of diligence, professionalism, and accuracy. He should always be in compliance with lawful orders of the court and know how to follow proper procedure in all situations and contexts. He should never reveal or discuss confidential information without having permission from the proper parties.
-- Check references
A CPA should be able to show evidence of and provide references for his claims to education, experience, and reliability. Call the references and ask for honest opinions about the experiences they had with him and how they feel about the quality of his work. Take the time to do an extensive check on the professional's background and areas of expertise to make sure that he has plenty of experience with the type of fraud you are dealing with and that you will be getting the best possible candidate who will do the job right. It will be well worth the effort.
-- Education
Although only a bachelor's degree is a required for CFE certification, higher degrees are desirable in a candidate. He should have extensive training in one of more of the following fields: accounting, auditing, criminology and sociology, fraud investigation, and the legal aspects of fraud.
-- Experience
Education is essential, of course, but nothing matters quite as much as extensive experience in all aspects of criminal forensics. Choose a CPA who has been on both sides of litigation in areas such as lost profits, lost business value, antitrust, breach of contract, lender liability, in a wide variety of different business settings. Having a broad background helps a CPA to be better able to recognize and detect fraud when it happens. Someone who has extensive experience makes a more credible witness in the courtroom and brings a high degree of ethos and gravitas.
-- Adheres to a strong ethical code
A CPA's reputation should be stellar among his peers. When it comes to investigation of a potential crime, you want to know that the person who is going over the numbers is known for his honesty, integrity, and lack of bias. His record should be one of diligence, professionalism, and accuracy. He should always be in compliance with lawful orders of the court and know how to follow proper procedure in all situations and contexts. He should never reveal or discuss confidential information without having permission from the proper parties.
-- Check references
A CPA should be able to show evidence of and provide references for his claims to education, experience, and reliability. Call the references and ask for honest opinions about the experiences they had with him and how they feel about the quality of his work. Take the time to do an extensive check on the professional's background and areas of expertise to make sure that he has plenty of experience with the type of fraud you are dealing with and that you will be getting the best possible candidate who will do the job right. It will be well worth the effort.