What is the primary purpose of forensic accounting?

The primary purpose of forensic accounting is to investigate financial discrepancies and fraud. This specialized area of accounting combines accounting skills with investigative techniques to analyze financial evidence. Forensic accountants often work with law enforcement and legal professionals to detect and explain financial irregularities, including fraudulent activities such as embezzlement, money laundering, or other forms of financial misconduct. Their findings can be crucial in legal proceedings, as they provide the necessary expertise to present financial information in a clear and convincing manner to support litigation or investigations. This role is distinct from general accounting functions, such as managing records or preparing tax returns, which focus more on routine financial management and compliance rather than the investigative aspect.