Those of us who are Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF) believe we are among the elite in our field. This is with good reason. According to The American Institute of CPAs, “The CFF credential is granted exclusively to CPAs who demonstrate considerable expertise in forensic accounting through their knowledge, skills, and experience. The CFF encompasses fundamental and specialized forensic accounting skills that CPA practitioners apply in a variety of service areas…” This, of course, includes Family Law.

The American institute of CPAs concludes that the CFF credential:

• positions CFF accountants as the premier forensic accounting service providers
• demonstrates a commitment by CFF accountants to continuously improve their forensic accounting skills, resulting in increased professional competency
• ensures that the CPA has met the qualification requirements, which are based on passing the CFF examination, business experience and education

In addition to passing a challenging examination, CFF candidates must possess a minimum of 1,000 hours of experience in forensic accounting within a ten-year period preceding the date of the CFF application. The candidate must also have completed 75 hours of forensic accounting related continuing professional education. All hours need to have been acquired within the ten-year period prior to the date of application, with at least 50 percent obtained in the five-year period proceeding credential application submission. Thus, we who have attained the CFF credential not only believe we are the elite in our field, but offer a strong argument that attorneys who wish to be best served by a forensic accountant ought to limit their consideration to those who have attained this prestigious certification.

Ron J. Anfuso CPA, ABV, CFF, CDFA, FABFA

When you ask a Forensic Accountant to appear in court to deliver expert witness testimony, you presume your witness will suitably present himself and serve as an asset for your client. You expect the CPA to thoroughly prepare for the case. If he is considered a credible witness in the eyes of the judge, all the better. There is, however, one additional asset you hope your CPA possesses— a strength so essential it can make or break the success of his testimony. Successful litigators certainly possess this crucial forte. Unfortunately, most CPAs do not.

It is rare to come by a Forensic Accountant who consistently thrives on the witness stand under adversarial conditions. When confronted with tough cross-examination, you will probably shudder if your CPA becomes anxious and flustered. Rather, you yearn for your witness to remain enthusiastic, confident and to welcome even the most demanding challenge.

To achieve this, your testifier must possess the ability to remain unwaveringly extroverted—attention focused on the opposing counsel rather than on himself. This CPA will more likely stay alert and instantly draw from his knowledge of forensic accounting and the case to respond accurately, effectively and succinctly. When under cross examination aimed at reducing the sharp CPA’s credibility, most attorneys’ attempts at dishonoring him will rarely succeed, leaving the attorney fettered with only the following words left to utter… “No more questions Your Honor.”

I enjoy opportunities to present expert testimony. I know my field, I believe in myself and I always thoroughly prepare for court.

Ron J. Anfuso CPA, ABV, CFF, CDFA, FABFA

Why Family Law Attorneys Choose Ron J. Anfuso, CPA/ABV

Not just any accountant is qualified to perform litigation support services. The accountant must have a detailed knowledge of the principles enunciated in this particular area of practice. For that reason, it would be a huge mistake to select an accountant who does not comprehend family law and the related financial issues.

• Ron has qualified as an expert in court over 300 times, is always prepared and knows exactly what to expect

• Ron never misses a deadline unless something is delayed beyond his control

• Ron always keeps referring attorneys informed

• Judges consider Ron to be an honest witness. (Ron has been appointed by judges more than 20 times pursuant to Evidence Code §730)

• Ron’s hourly rate is typically $50 to $100 less than larger accounting firms

• Ron is also accredited in business valuation (ABV)

• Ron thrives under stress and time-constricted circumstances