Almost everyone has heard divorce horror stories. For example, during the divorce process, the parties exchange financial information in what should be a transparent process with full disclosure. Based on this disclosure of assets and debts, the parties reach a settlement, or they head to trial to have the assets and debts divided by the court. A year later, they learn that their spouse had a pension plan that they didn’t know existed. Or, maybe there was a secret bank account as well as other … [Read more...] about Conducting a Forensic Financial Analysis in Divorce Proceedings: Part 1
Jenny Staskey
Avoiding Financial Court When Caring for a Family Member
There comes a time when many of us face the realities of caring for an aging family member, and ultimately, planning for our own care. In the financial arena, mental impairment of a loved one may result in the appointment of a guardian and conservator. When this happens, the conservator has control over the assets, and as such, must file financial accounting reports to the courts. A few years ago, I was engaged to review the accounting reports (and any supporting documentation) submitted to the … [Read more...] about Avoiding Financial Court When Caring for a Family Member
Considering Technology and Mindfulness
Go to a restaurant or even a university classroom at the beginning of a class and you will undoubtedly see people staring intently at their cell phones. Some are texting, others are tweeting, looking at Instagram or Snapchat, and others are busy replying to emails. Let me also add that in the university setting, I often see my students not only with their devices, but with ear buds or headphones on as well. Out on the trail, bikers and runners are “connected” to Strava or some other App that is … [Read more...] about Considering Technology and Mindfulness
Reviewing a Case of Employee Fraud
She was the perfect employee. She could do it “all.” She was a long-time employee of the company and as time went on, had been given additional responsibilities so the owners wouldn’t have to be inconvenienced to sign checks each time the bills were paid. As the company bookkeeper, she was tasked with handling the payroll and monthly bill pay operations as well as preparing the monthly financial statements and reconciling the bank account. When the owners were out, she had the authority to sign … [Read more...] about Reviewing a Case of Employee Fraud
