Forensic accountancy – Internationally

Posted on24 October 2017

Many cases these days have an international element but the cost of appointing expert witnesses from more than one jurisdiction can often be disproportionate.

In an effort to solve this problem, Milsted Langdon partner, Roger Isaacs has founded the MGI Worldwide Global Forensic Group . http://www.mgiworld.com/about-us/mgi-global-forensic-group

By collaborating with other MGI member firms it is possible for one UK expert to take the lead and to rely on factual (non-opinion) evidence from accountants in other jurisdictions, typically focussing on tax and accounting issues.

Critically MGI gives access to forensic specialists and other accountants with relevant local expertise, all of whom have been found to meet exacting quality standards and who speak English.

The International Forensic Group focuses on:
• Cross Border Divorces;
• International Fraud; and
• International Arbitration.

Its recent work has included the provision of expert accountancy evidence for the defence team in relation to allegations by the UK Serious Fraud Office of a $100 million “Boiler Room Fraud”, tracing funds through the UK, US, Croatia, Hong Kong, Dutch Antilles, Holland and Switzerland.

The group has also been instructed to advise on an international property portfolio in the UK and Cyprus, and a commercial dispute between a US holding company and its UK subsidiary, as well as criminal confiscation proceedings involving assets in the Netherlands, Liechtenstein, Nigeria and the Isle of Man.

Burges Salmon has been an enthusiastic supporter of BLS for many years. BLS provides a valuable role in uniting and promoting the whole of the legal sector across Bristol to benefit both its members and the city. It facilitates collaboration across the sector to ensure that we can all make a difference. Whether that is driving important initiatives in, for example, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the use of new technologies, liaising with stakeholders and charities in our wider community or providing training to generations of lawyers, the service and support provided by BLS is invaluable. More recently BLS has taken a lead on promoting Bristol’s legal brand, encouraging legal and business services talent to come to the city, which in turn attracts clients and inward investment to our thriving and vibrant commercial community. BLS breaks down barriers and brings those in the profession together for the greater good. We are proud of our long-standing association with BLS.
Roger Bull - Managing Partner, Burges Salmon
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Chris Bull - Principal, Edge International
As one of the leading Insurance brokers for law firms in the UK and with a large presence in Bristol it seemed only natural for us to support the Bristol Law Society. Bristol Law Society is one of the oldest and most vibrant of the Law Societies in England and Wales. We are pleased to be working with them on important matters relating to law firms’ liability insurances and Risk Management. From Sole Practitioner to Top 20 law firms we are sure our two organisations can provide excellent support and assistance for the challenges faced by the legal profession.
Matthew Baker - Financial Lines Group, Howden Insurance Brokers Ltd
Joining BLS in 2013 and becoming President in 2018/19 has created many longstanding friendships and business relationships, whilst also unlocking doors to other opportunities in the City. BLS enabled a perfect balance of professional development and also opportunities to give back to the legal and wider community. I am pleased that my Firm has supported BLS in many capacities since 2013 and continues to do so.
Nicholas Lee- Managing Director of Paragon Costs Solutions and Past President of BLS