Business Details
48 Years
experience
Trusted Forensic Accounting & Tax Services in Lake County, CA
Established in 1978, Joan Sturges CPA, CFE, CVA, PI has built a reputation as a trusted leader in forensic accounting, tax services, and auditing. With over 35 years of experience, our firm combines deep industry expertise with personalized service to meet the unique needs of individuals and businesses in Lake County, California. Our founder, Joan Sturges, holds prestigious certifications including Certified Public Accountant, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Valuation Analyst, and Private Investigator, ensuring comprehensive solutions for complex financial challenges. We specialize in forensic accounting, tax planning, IRS audits, business valuations, and fraud prevention, serving clients across Lake County from Kelseyville to Cobb. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our client-centered approach, which prioritizes transparency, ethical standards, and proactive communication.Whether assisting with tax compliance, litigation support, or business sustainability planning, we deliver actionable insights tailored to each client's goals. Our team's extensive experience in both accounting and investigative work positions us to provide unique value in resolving financial disputes and minimizing risk. We maintain offices on Soda Bay and offer on-site consultations to better understand our clients' needs. Recognized for expert testimony in court cases and a track record of exceeding expectations, we remain dedicated to advancing our clients' financial well-being through continuous education on evolving tax regulations and accounting standards.
Services
Forensic Accounting
Tax Services
Auditing & Attestation
Bookkeeping
Fraud Examinations
Business Valuations
IRS Audit Representation
Tax Planning
Internal Control Reports
QuickBooks Training
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of experience in forensic accounting and tax services.
- Our team holds elite certifications including CPA, CFE, and CVA credentials.
- We provide personalized on-site consultations tailored to local Lake County needs.
- Our private investigator expertise enhances fraud detection and litigation support.
- We guarantee year-round availability for critical financial decision-making.
Associations and certifications
- CPA
- CFE
- CVA
- PI
Services
Forensic Accounting
Our forensic accounting services combine accounting, auditing, and investigative skills to resolve legal matters. We specialize in fraud detection, embezzlement cases, business valuations, and expert testimony. Clients receive detailed financial analysis for litigation support, with services available across Lake County through on-site consultations.
Tax Services
We offer comprehensive tax solutions including individual and business tax returns, IRS audit representation, and year-round tax planning. Our expertise covers partnership, corporate, and trust tax filings, with strategic advice on maximizing deductions and credits for optimal financial outcomes.
Auditing & Attestation
Our audit services serve non-profits, government agencies, and businesses of all sizes. We conduct independent audits, review reports, internal control assessments, and single audits (OMB-133) to ensure financial transparency and regulatory compliance for organizations in Lake County.
Bookkeeping
We provide tailored bookkeeping solutions including QuickBooks training, payroll processing, bank reconciliations, and monthly financial statements. Our services help businesses maintain accurate records and make informed financial decisions with flexible on-site or remote support options.
Fraud Examinations
Our Certified Fraud Examiner conducts thorough investigations into suspected financial misconduct. Services include asset tracing, welfare fraud analysis, breach of fiduciary duty cases, and internal control improvements to prevent future fraud incidents for businesses and legal entities.
People
Joan Sturges
Certified Public Accountant
Joan Sturges established her practice in 1978 after graduating from the University of Washington. With CPA, CFE, CVA, and PI certifications, she specializes in forensic accounting, tax planning, and fraud prevention. Her 35+ years of experience include expert court testimony and serving Lake County businesses.
Toi Farrin
Bookkeeper
Toi Farrin joined Joan Sturges' firm in 2005, providing bookkeeping services including QuickBooks training, payroll processing, and financial statement preparation. She supports clients with day-to-day accounting needs and on-site consultations since joining the team.
Questions
What forensic accounting services do you offer?
We provide fraud detection, embezzlement investigations, income determination, property separation analysis, and expert court testimony for legal proceedings.
Do you handle both individual and business tax services?
Yes, we prepare individual, partnership, corporate, and exempt organization tax returns, plus IRS audit representation and year-round tax planning.
Are your accounting services suitable for small businesses?
Absolutely. We specialize in QuickBooks training, payroll processing, financial statements, and sustainability planning for small businesses in Lake County.
What credentials does Joan Sturges hold?
Joan Sturges is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), and licensed Private Investigator (PI).
Do you offer on-site consultations?
Yes, we recommend on-site visits for personalized service and better understanding of client needs, including business or home visits.
