A Synthesis of Non-Fraud Forensic Accounting Research

Abstract

ABSTRACT We synthesize the academic literature and court rulings related to non-fraud forensic accounting topics to better understand the nature and extent of relevant works and to highlight areas where there is a need for future research. We concentrate on non-fraud forensic accounting issues relevant to academics and practitioners in several areas, including the forensic accountant as the expert witness, valuation, individual damages (sometimes referred to as forensic economics), and commercial damages: lost profits. We discuss prior research findings and court opinions related to the qualifications, work product, and communication skills required of forensic accountants to complete the work to a reasonable degree of scientific certainty. We close with a critical examination of how emerging technologies are likely to impact forensic accounting. JEL Classifications: G12; G14; G32; G34; G39.