Forensic investigation support examines suspected irregularities through transaction analysis, record preservation and an evidence-based chronology.
Understanding Forensic Audit and Investigation
When to consider this service
Creditors, business owners and authorised transaction teams reviewing distress, unpaid claims or a formal process can use this service to clarify a particular issue. A useful starting question is: “Why is a forensic investigation different from a routine audit?” Begin with the facts behind that question rather than assuming that a standard package will resolve it.
Scope of work
The engagement can cover the following workstreams. The proposal specifies which apply to your matter and what evidence or specialist input is needed.
- Define allegations and preserve relevant evidence.
- Trace transactions and test alternative explanations.
- Prepare findings and further-investigation priorities.
Documents and information to prepare
Start with the records below where available. They help establish the facts before a more specific checklist is agreed.
- Ledgers.
- Contracts.
- Bank records.
- Authorised communications.
Provide the relevant entity, transaction or reporting period and any existing notice or deadline. Identify missing or inconsistent records so they can be addressed explicitly.
A key issue to resolve
A forensic investigation differs from a routine audit; its scope follows specific questions and evidence-preservation needs.
How the engagement works
- Define the question: define allegations and preserve relevant evidence, using the available ledgers and the facts you provide.
- Examine the evidence: trace transactions and test alternative explanations. Record unresolved information and the assumptions that affect the analysis.
- Agree the action: prepare findings and further-investigation priorities. Set the required deliverables, responsible owners and any follow-up or external dependency.
Deliverables, fees and timing
The proposal for Forensic Audit and Investigation sets out the analysis, documentation or coordination deliverables and the work you retain. The availability of ledgers, contracts, bank records and authorised communications affects readiness and the amount of follow-up needed. Fees and the working schedule are agreed after that initial assessment. Any required independent report, legal representation or authority application is identified as a separate responsibility where relevant.
Official resources
Use these official resources for the relevant framework. Application to a particular entity, period or jurisdiction requires a separate assessment.
Discuss your requirement
Share a short summary of your Forensic Audit and Investigation requirement and the records already available. BIATConsultant can assess the proposed scope and explain the next steps.
FAQ
Practical questions about Forensic Audit and Investigation.
Why is a forensic investigation different from a routine audit?
A forensic investigation differs from a routine audit; its scope follows specific questions and evidence-preservation needs.
What records should I prepare for Forensic Audit and Investigation?
What can the scope of Forensic Audit and Investigation include?
How are fees and the schedule agreed?