Adapting Remote Investigation Techniques to Hybrid Work Environments (Presented Virtually) (Forensic Accounting)
For many corporations around the globe, the pandemic accelerated the use of remote techniques to execute investigative mandates, particularly in scenarios where outside counsel and forensic teams had previously relied largely on in-person meetings. With two years of remote investigative experience established, and as we move into the next stage of hybrid workplaces, internal investigations can deploy these tools and ensure that the efficiencies offered by remote tools and techniques can be blended with traditional “boots on the ground” methodologies, to offer our clients an optimal level of accuracy, integrity and value.
Caryn Trombino, JD – Partner, Perkins Coie LLP, Chicago, IL
Gina LaMonica, JD – Partner, Perkins Coie LLP, Chicago, IL

More Data, More Problems? (Business Valuation)
According to the Journal of Accountancy, Big Data tops the list when it comes to pressing concerns facing forensic and valuation services accountants. Of course, this begs the question: what else is on that list? Analyze the leading valuation issues today and gain insight on the different implications of various valuation inputs.
Brian M. Bakker, CFA, CPA/ABV – Director, Stout, Grand Rapids

Once More Into the Breach: Business Data & the Dark Web (Forensic Accounting)
Electronic data breaches make headlines the most often, but physical and skimming breaches are still a threat to businesses of every size. Find out how you can address the three forms of data breach at your organization and discover how company emails can become a portal to the dark web.
Joseph Sveska – Department of Homeland Security, Detroit

The Important Role of Process in Litigation (Litigation Support Services)
In the case of a litigation matter, from case acceptance to conclusion, your process management is critical. When troubleshooting common issues (IE evidence that doesn’t materialize) or protecting your own professional and ethical integrity, ensure there is always reliability in your operations.
Gary Leeman, CPA/ABV/CFF, CGMA, CMC – President, Gary Leeman, CPA, PC, Farmington
Kathryn Eisenstein, CPA, JD, M.Cs. – Associate, Mantese Honigman, PC, Troy

Analyzing Opportunities & Reviewing SSFS in Expert Testimony (Litigation Support Services)
In 2019, the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) issued a new forensic accounting standard, providing the first codified best practices for the litigation and investigation performed by consulting forensic accountants. Not only did this offer guidance to CPAs it also added a layer of credibility to their work. Discuss application of AICPA Standards for Forensic Services (SSFS) to your expert testimony work. Neutral and court-appointed services are now more navigable than ever- learn about these assignments, pros, cons and more.
Michelle Gallagher, CPA/ABV/CFF – Owner, Gallagher Flintoff & Klein, PLC, Lansing

Whistleblowing 101: A Practical Guide (Forensic Accounting)
According to a 2018 study, tips from whistleblowers are the most common way in which occupational fraud is initially detected, but what facilitates this crucial mechanism of detection? Discover the elements of effective whistleblower programs, including internal and external entity assessment, managing stakeholder expectations, continuous monitoring and more.
Tricia Fratto – General Counsel, Ethics Suite, Scottsdale, AZ
Juliette Gust, CFE – President, Ethics Suite, Scottsdale, AZ

A View From the Bench (Litigation Support Services)
Taking the stand to deliver testimony can be a daunting prospect, especially for the uninitiated, but understanding the process from a different perspective can improve confidence. Gain perspective from an expert panel of judges that preside over a range of cases from family law and civil disputes to criminal and federal cases. Bring your burning questions and be prepared to view financial expert testimony from the judge’s bench.
Judge Terence Ackert – Family Division and Specialized Business Docket, Kent County Circuit Court, Grand Rapids
Judge Eric L. Clay – United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, Detroit
Judge Kathleen McCarthy – Michigan 3rd Circuit Court, Detroit
Moderator: John Alfonsi, CPA, ABV, CFE, CFF, CVA – Managing Director, Cendrowski Corporate Advisors LLC, Bloomfield Hills

Beyond the Veil: Cryptocurrency & Crime (Forensic Accounting)
Recent reports state that $4.26 billion in cryptocurrency was stolen in 2019 through various means, from cybertheft to insider fraud. Find out what challenges are facing forensic accountants by gaining insight on how cryptocurrency works, and how it is used. Examine recent cases and discover how cryptocurrency and cryptoassets are utilized by criminals and deanonymized by those that pursue them.
Katerina Gaebel, CPA, CFE – Forensic Accountant, Citrin Cooperman Advisors LLC, New York, NY

In the Weeds: Fraud Risks in the Cannabis Industry (Forensic Accounting)
The cannabis industry in Michigan is poised for opportunity having experienced substantial growth and meeting with continued demand, however, it also presents great opportunity for fraud. Review Michigan’s industry situation, federal tax complications, cannabis-centric internal controls, fraud diamond concerns & more.
Chris Peterson – Principal, UHY LLP, Farmington Hills 
Todd Tigges – Partner, UHY LLP, Farmington Hills

The Disparate Nature of Working Capital in M & A Transactions (Business Valuation)
Working capital serves a multitude of purposes. CFOs and controllers, for example, might use a GAAP focused working capital analysis to give weight to their own assessments on how and where money should be allocated. However, in M & A transactions net working capital (NWC) is a growing issue and is typically defined in the LOI and definitely in the closing statement and purchase agreement. There are pitfalls inherent to the everyday practice as well as the M & A approaches, especially with the change in lease accounting pursuant to ASC 842. Learn how to avoid those pitfalls by understanding the theory behind working capital analysis, its methodologies, best practices and more.
Jeff Groen, CPA/ABV, CFF, CGMA, MST – Managing Partner, Groen Kluka & Company PC, Troy
Nick Groen, CPA/ABV, CMEA, SBA, MMP, MBA/MSF – Client Relationship Manager/Shareholder – Groen Kluka & Company PC, Troy