The CalCPA Forensic Services Section recently gathered at Loyola Marymount University for the Joint Sections Conference that brought together experts from across the profession for practical technical education, meaningful collaboration and conversations about what it takes to be an effective forensic expert in today's evolving legal environment.

The conference featured two concurrent learning tracks designed to serve the diverse specialties within the Section. Sessions covered emerging fraud schemes, white collar criminal defense, trust litigation, business valuation, family law, private equity, fraud prevention and the effective use of forensic data in litigation. Attendees also explored how forensic accountants, attorneys and investigators can work together to uncover financial evidence, strengthen expert analysis, and deliver more compelling testimony.

A standout keynote from Jerry Won, founder of Just Like Media, challenged attendees to think beyond technical expertise and embrace storytelling as a professional advantage. His presentation, Storytelling as a Superpower, explored how professionals can build influence by communicating their expertise with authenticity and purpose.

The conference concluded with an engaging session from Paul Marchegiani of Vox Vera, Stanford Law School and UC Berkeley Law, who shared practical techniques for developing executive presence, communicating with confidence, and delivering expert testimony that resonates with judges, juries and clients alike. The session reinforced an important takeaway from the day: exceptional forensic professionals are distinguished not only by what they know, but by how effectively they communicate it.

Throughout the conference, attendees had opportunities to reconnect with colleagues, meet professionals from across California and strengthen the relationships that make the Forensic Services Section one of CalCPA's most collaborative communities.

Thank you to our speakers, volunteers, section leaders and attendees for making this year's Joint Sections Conference another outstanding success. We look forward to seeing you at upcoming Forensic Services Section programs throughout the year.