MJN Forensics

As the brainchild of founder Vanessa Winspeare BSc., FCA, MJN FORENSIC ACCOUNTANTS LTD has built-up an impressive reputation since its inception for providing Forensic Accounting & Expert Witness Services throughout the UK and worldwide.

As well as boasting extensive experience of assisting in mediations and acting as an Expert Witness in Court and at arbitrations, the company’s principal areas of specialism also include:
• Accident & Injury Claims
• Commercial Disputes
• Valuations
• Insurance Claims

In a recent interview Vanessa let us in on the secret to the company’s year-on-year success:

“We provide a range of forensic accounting services to lawyers, accountants, solicitors, insurers, government, businesses and private individuals. Key to our success has been our commitment to provide a truly customer-focused, individually tailored service to meet the clients specific requirements. This combined with our attention to detail and proactive approach, gives us the ability to compliment any team of advisors.

Regardless of the size or nature of the claim, we strive to provide a cost effective solution that will meet, and in many cases exceed, the clients expectations.”

Vanessa Winspeare BSc FCA has been able to combine her academic qualifications, which include holding accreditation as a qualified Chartered Accountant since 1992, being a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales and a Council Member of Intellectual Property Institute, with the practical expertise she gained during her illustrious career.

Having trained with Deloittes as an auditor and in 1995, Vanessathen joined a specialist Forensic Accounting firm, now known as RGL International, where she spent almost 10 years providing forensic accounting services to the insurance industry; dealing with claims for product liability, business interruption, personal injury/fatal accident and fidelity. During this time she was instructed as the Expert in relation to litigated insurance claims and recovery/subrogated actions.

On joined mid-tier accounting firm Smith & Williamson in 2005, Vanessa was able to extend her knowledge in Forensic Accounting and receive instruction as an Expert on a number of different matters, as well as develop her own Practice. During her time at Smith & Williamson, Vanessa led the Personal Injury Team and she is now an expert recognised by the Association of Personal Injury Solicitors (APIL).

As Director of Forensic Services at MJN Forensic Accountants Ltd,Vanessa has been called upon to act as an Expert Witness, providing Forensic Accounting Services in relation to a wide range of commercial disputes, professional negligence actions, accident/injury claims, clinical negligence and fatal accident cases.

Having acted for claimants, defendants and as a single joint Expert, Vanessa has given evidence in the High Court, various County Courts and at International Arbitration; contributing to the successful resolution of disputes by negotiation and formal mediation: “We are experienced in the mechanics of the Civil Procedure Rules and often called upon to act as an advisor, pre-action, to identify the basis of a dispute and to assist in planning a practical resolution.”

“We can act as an Expert Witness in respect of injury/accident claims for either the Claimant, Defendant or as a single Joint Expert relating to personal injury; fatal accidents; medical/clinical negligence and catastrophic injury.”

CASE STUDIES:
• Rail - Loss of Revenue: Initially Vanessa was instructed by Railcare’s insurers to review the claim for loss of ticket and catering revenue as a result of a rail incident. However, the claims were not settled and GNER started proceedings against Railcare. She continued as the Expert for Railcare and her work included analysing ticket sales by types, revenue streams and factors influencing rail network(GNER v Railcare). The case was heard in the High Court and Mr Justice Gross awarded damages based on her calculation where he said “The Winspeare approach: As already foreshadowed, I favour Ms. Winspeare’s budget based approach…” [2003] EWHC 1608 (Comm) Case No: 2000/762

• Local Authority: Vanessa was appointed by the local authority to calculate the losses suffered after a major incident at a tower block. The calculation included the increased costs of re-housing the residents in neighbouring boroughs.

• Benefit claims: Vanessa was instructed to review the trading accounts to determine whether benefits had been fraudulently claimed. Following the provision of the report the benefits were reclaimed and criminal action taken.

• NHS overpayment: The NHS claimed to have overpaid agency nurses. Vanessa was instructed to investigate the payments made and to determine the value of any overpayment. Following a detailed review and report, the NHS recovered substantial amounts.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO DISCUSS YOUR INDIVIDUAL REQUIREMENTS..........CONTACT

Vanessa Winspeare BSc FCA
MJN Forensic Accountants Ltd
PO Box 1595, Dorset SP8 9AL
Tel: 01747 834412 Email: info@mjnforensics.co.uk
www.mjnforensics.co.uk