Book excerpt: The financial expert's guide to best practices for litigation services Litigation Services Handbook is the litigation "bible" for accountants, economists, and other financial experts. Newly updated to reflect recent rulings and changes in law and procedure, this uniquely useful guide covers all aspects of litigation services, with a focus on investigation throughout. Each chapter is written by an expert in the field, and draws upon their institutional knowledge, experience, and techniques to give you a concrete framework for trial preparation, testimony presentation, deposition, fraud investigation, and more. A wealth of cases illustrates how to prove damages, and gives you real-world insight into the entire litigation process from a financial expert's perspective. The discussion includes Sarbanes-Oxley implementation, new technological tools, and the practical consideration of court appearances. The need for financial experts to act as witness and consultant to litigating attorneys is growing faster than litigation itself, and it's important for practitioners offering their services to have a firm grasp of the necessary procedures and expectations surrounding effective financial litigation consultation. This guide provides the most up-to-date case law and best practices financial experts need to know. Understand the accountant's role in litigation Conduct a thorough investigation that proves damages Present your testimony accurately, thoroughly, and eloquently Maintain authority under direct and cross examination Twenty years ago, few certified public accountants or economists offered litigation-related services; now, a large number devote their practice to this area. As the practice evolves, so do the procedures, tools, and methods. Comprehensive and up-to-date, Litigation Services Handbook is the indispensable reference that every practitioner needs to succeed in offering litigation support services.