The state Labor Department says it expects the number of auto mechanics on Long Island to increase by about 600 from an estimated 8,150 in 1996. They are called by lawyers to testify in court cases concerning fraud and advise companies on whether to declare bankruptcy. Since the career is a mix between a public accountant and a detective, it takes a multitalented professional who is a good auditor with the ability to reconstruct past accounting transactions. A CPA license is strongly recommended. Although these certifications are not necessary, they serve to qualify the accountant as an expert in the field.
Many cases involve putting together a puzzle by reconstructing past accounting transactions.
The financial rewards can also be greater once you gain experience. At times there can be a great deal of pressure. If you do something wrong, you can lose a case. The schedule is demanding because your time revolves around court dates. The challenge of testifying effectively on the witness stand may be too great for some to handle.