Auditors' Liability
The accounting profession is governed by a wide range of professional standards, which accountants strive to uphold to the best of their ability. Nevertheless, we are seeing a growing trend of damage claims being brought against accountants. Not only clients, but increasingly third parties, are challenging the quality of accountants' work. Claims may arise, for example, when an accountant has failed to properly verify figures in financial statements or has issued statements that later prove to be inaccurate. The key question, however, is: when is a liability claim truly justified, and when does it amount to professional misconduct?
Our approach
A liability claim or disciplinary complaint can have a serious impact on any accountant. Our Corporate Litigation & Investigations team specialises in handling cases involving both civil and disciplinary (professional) liability of accountants. We advise and represent both accountants accused of professional misconduct and parties bringing claims against them. Wherever possible, we aim to resolve such matters amicably, avoiding court or disciplinary proceedings. When a settlement cannot be reached, we provide full support in any ensuing litigation – whether in ordinary civil courts, before disciplinary tribunals, or in liability proceedings initiated by insolvency receivers.
What can you contact us for?
Our team advises and, where necessary, litigates in matters such as:
- Professional liability claims brought by clients against accountants
- Auditor liability claims initiated by third parties
- Auditor liability issues arising in bankruptcy proceedings
- Disciplinary complaints before the Chamber of Auditors and the Administrative Court for Trade and Industry (CBb)
Who do we work for?
Our team acts for both accountants and their counterparties.
