About the Role
The Forensic Auditor is an Accounting Specialist responsible for investigating issues related to the professional conduct and competence of lawyers and paralegals. This role involves independent planning and execution of investigations in accordance with forensic accounting practices, identifying potential breaches of regulations, and providing recommendations for file disposition.
Responsibilities
- Investigates serious and/or complex matters including professional misconduct, conduct unbecoming, competence, licensing, capacity, and unauthorized practice.
- Independently plans, conducts, and makes recommendations for the disposition of investigative assignments.
- Identifies risk and conducts ongoing risk assessments.
- Applies forensic auditing and fraud detection principles to investigations.
- Develops case files to prosecutorial and evidentiary standards, acting as an expert witness when required.
- Assesses the need for and recommends resolutions for investigation files, including practice controls, seizure of practices, and freezing of trust accounts.
- Identifies candidates for remedial diversion initiatives and alternative dispute resolution opportunities.
- Prepares reports for the Proceedings Authorization Committee (PAC) and recommends conduct applications.
- Follows procedural and administrative requirements for searches, seizures, and evidence handling.
- Records and produces witness statements, cooperating with Litigation Services.
- Examines and audits licensee accounting records for compliance with rules and regulations.
- Contributes to the development of standardized practices, guidelines, and procedures for investigations.
- Manages own caseload and collaborates with other departments to improve processes and performance targets.
- Manages a varied and substantial caseload.
- Identifies and advises on the need for policy development or changes based on legal issues encountered.
- Assesses policies and procedures, identifying opportunities for policy development or changes in regulation procedures.
- Participates in the development of policy and processes when assigned.
- Works closely with management and staff in the conduct of coordinated investigative and regulatory responses.
- Promotes knowledge and information sharing among team members.
- Acts as an expert witness and advisor in prosecuting forensic audit case files.
- Develops and maintains relationships with law enforcement, government agencies, judicial systems, and financial institutions to facilitate information exchange.
Requirements
- A university degree, or equivalent training and/or experience.
- A professional accounting designation.
- Membership in a recognized Canadian professional accounting body.
- Minimum of five years of forensic experience, preferably in a regulatory environment.
- Required to work out of their home office and on an as-needed basis, attending licensees’ offices.
- Required to attend the Law Society’s office as required and directed.
- Occasional requirements for overnight travel.
- Solid understanding of the Law Society’s mandate, services, legislation, and policies.
- In-depth understanding of current trends and developments in accounting practices, their practical applications, and forensic investigation techniques.
- Knowledge of specialized areas such as real estate, estates, mortgage fraud, anti-money laundering, and financial schemes.
- Knowledge of interview and investigation methodologies, principles, and practices.
- Knowledge of a variety of dispute resolution techniques and their appropriate application.
- Expressive and persuasive in both spoken and written language.
- Concise, well-organized writing skills.
- Superior analytical ability.
- Able to reason through complex spoken and written information.
- Computer literacy, including word processing software, advanced spreadsheet functions, accounting system software, and internet search capabilities.
- Specific familiarity with Microsoft OneDrive, SharePoint, and Adobe Pro are definite assets.
- Broad understanding of the application of technology, preferably in a regulatory/legal environment.
Skills
- Forensic accounting practices
- Investigation methodologies
- Interviewing techniques
- Dispute resolution
- Spoken and written communication
- Writing reports
- Analytical reasoning
- Computer literacy
- Word processing software
- Advanced spreadsheet functions
- Accounting system software
- Internet search capabilities
- Microsoft OneDrive
- SharePoint
- Adobe Pro
- Technology application
Location
- Home office
- Law Society's office
- Licensees' offices
Work Type
- As-needed basis
- Occasional overnight travel
Experience Level
- Minimum of five years forensic experience
Education Level
- University degree or equivalent training/experience
- Professional accounting designation
Benefits
- Defined contribution pension plan
- Health and dental benefits plan
- Robust Employee and Family Assistance Plan (EFAP)
About the Company
- The Law Society of Ontario believes in the importance of a collaborative and supportive work environment that provides high quality and professional service to the public, lawyers and paralegals, and other stakeholders.
- Values each member of the team and invests in professional learning and development.
- Provides access to resources supporting professional growth.
- Prioritizes mental health and well-being.
- Offers competitive compensation.
- Located at the historic Osgoode Hall.
Equal Opportunity
- The Law Society of Ontario values and respects diversity.
- Committed to creating an accessible, barrier-free and inclusive workplace in compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
- Requests for accommodation during the recruitment process should be made known when contacted.
- The Law Society of Ontario does not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, or select applicants during the hiring process at present.
