Best Accounting & Auditing Lawyers in Skive

About Accounting & Auditing Law in Skive, Denmark

Accounting and auditing in Skive are governed primarily by national Danish law. Local businesses and organisations in Skive follow the same legal framework as the rest of Denmark - including rules on bookkeeping, preparation and filing of annual reports, tax reporting, and statutory audit requirements. Auditors and accountants in Skive operate under Danish professional regulation and supervision, and they carry responsibilities toward the company they audit, shareholders and public authorities.

This guide outlines when you might need legal help, the main legal instruments that affect accounting and auditing, common questions people ask, and practical next steps to take if you face an accounting or auditing issue in Skive.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Accounting and auditing problems often have legal consequences. You may need a lawyer when:

- You face an audit that identifies irregularities and you need to understand legal exposure or respond to demands from authorities.

- You suspect accounting fraud, embezzlement or deliberate misstatement of financial statements and require representation in criminal or civil proceedings.

- You are involved in a dispute with an external auditor or certified public accountant over services, liability or professional conduct.

- You receive a tax assessment or penalty from the tax authorities and need help appealing or negotiating.

- You are restructuring, merging, selling or buying a business and need legal review of accounts, warranties and liabilities.

- Your company faces insolvency, creditor actions or enforcement proceedings related to accounting issues.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of the Danish legal framework relevant to accounting and auditing include the following laws and rules:

- Financial Statements Act - sets out rules for preparation, presentation and filing of annual reports for companies and other entities. It also sets accounting standards for different size categories of companies.

- Bookkeeping Act - governs the duty to keep accounting records, retention periods for documents and basic bookkeeping requirements.

- Auditors Act and related professional regulation - defines who may call themselves a registered or authorised auditor, auditor duties, independence requirements and professional standards.

- Companies Act - contains rules that affect directors and shareholders, including duties of care and loyalty, reporting obligations and rules that apply in company reorganisations and insolvency.

- Tax law - governs corporate and personal taxation, VAT, penalties and tax assessments. The Danish Tax Agency administers tax audits and enforces tax law.

- Criminal law - includes offences such as accounting fraud, false declarations and embezzlement, which may lead to criminal investigation and prosecution.

It is important to note that some obligations differ by company size and legal form. For example, not all small private companies are subject to mandatory statutory audit - exemptions exist for small entities - and retention periods for accounting records are specified by law. Professional oversight bodies and supervisory authorities have procedures for complaints against auditors and may impose sanctions. Because numeric thresholds and certain rules are updated from time to time, always check the current criteria with the relevant authorities or consult a lawyer or certified accountant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need a statutory audit for my company in Skive?

Not always. Whether a company needs a statutory audit depends on its legal form and size classification. Small companies can be exempt from mandatory audit if they meet specific criteria under the Financial Statements Act. Thresholds and rules change, so check current rules or ask a lawyer or authorised accountant to confirm your companys status.

What is the difference between an accountant and an auditor in Denmark?

An accountant typically prepares accounts, handles bookkeeping, advises on taxes and may provide accounting services. An auditor - often a registreret revisor or statsautoriseret revisor - performs independent audits of financial statements and issues an audit opinion. Auditors are subject to stricter professional regulation and independence rules.

What should I do if I suspect accounting fraud in my company?

Preserve evidence and limit further access to potentially compromised systems. Notify senior management or the board, and consider engaging an independent forensic accountant and a lawyer experienced in fraud and criminal matters. If criminal conduct is suspected, you may need to report to the police and cooperate with authorities.

How can I complain about an auditor or their work?

There are formal complaint routes through professional supervisory bodies and disciplinary authorities that oversee auditors. A lawyer can help you prepare and submit a complaint and advise on whether parallel civil claims for negligence or breach of contract are appropriate.

Can auditors be held liable for mistakes in an audit?

Yes. Auditors can face civil liability for negligent audits that cause loss to shareholders, creditors or third parties. Liability depends on the nature of the failure, contractual terms, and legal causation. Time limits and procedural rules apply to such claims, so act promptly.

What records must I keep, and for how long?

Danish law sets out minimum retention periods for accounting records and supporting documents. These requirements vary by document type. Retention obligations are important for tax audits and legal disputes, so keep accurate records and consult an accountant or lawyer if you are unsure.

What happens if the tax authorities find errors in my filings?

The tax authorities may issue assessments, demand additional taxes, impose interest and levy penalties. You usually have a right to appeal administrative decisions. A lawyer experienced in tax law can help evaluate the assessment, prepare an appeal and negotiate with authorities.

How long do accounting or auditing disputes typically take to resolve?

Timelines vary widely. Administrative tax matters may be resolved in weeks to months. Civil litigation or disciplinary proceedings can take many months or longer. Early legal advice can help identify faster alternatives such as negotiation or mediation.

How much does legal help for accounting or auditing issues cost?

Costs depend on the complexity of the matter, the type of lawyer, hourly rates or fixed fees, and whether litigation is required. Many lawyers offer an initial consultation. Check whether you have legal expenses insurance or access to legal aid schemes that might cover part of the cost.

How do I choose a lawyer for accounting and auditing matters in Skive?

Look for a lawyer with specific experience in accounting, audit-related disputes, tax law or corporate law. Check professional credentials, local knowledge, client references and fee structures. A good lawyer will explain options clearly and propose a cost plan.

Additional Resources

Useful authorities and organisations to consult or contact include:

- Erhvervsstyrelsen - Danish Business Authority - supervises company reporting and certain accounting rules.

- Skattestyrelsen - Danish Tax Agency - handles tax assessments, VAT and tax audits.

- Finanstilsynet - Financial Supervisory Authority - supervises auditors in regulated sectors and financial institutions.

- FSR - danske revisorer - professional association for auditors and accountants - guidance on professional standards and ethics.

- Revisornævnet - disciplinary body for complaints about auditors and their professional conduct.

- Datatilsynet - Danish Data Protection Agency - relevant for handling and storing financial and personal data.

- Advokatsamfundet - Danish Bar and Law Society - for finding qualified lawyers and understanding professional standards for lawyers.

- Local business support - Skive Kommune business service and local chambers or business networks can provide practical guidance and referrals to local accountants and lawyers.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with an accounting or auditing issue in Skive, follow these practical steps:

- Identify the problem clearly - audit report, tax assessment, suspected fraud, contractual dispute, or insolvency issue.

- Gather and preserve relevant documents - financial statements, audit reports, contracts, emails and bookkeeping records.

- Contact an authorised accountant or forensic accountant if you need immediate technical assessment.

- Consult a lawyer experienced in accounting, audit and tax matters. Prepare a short summary of the issue and a timeline of events for the initial meeting.

- Ask about likely legal options, expected timeline and estimated fees. Check whether you have legal expenses insurance or other resources to cover costs.

- Consider mediation or negotiation where appropriate. If filing complaints with disciplinary bodies or authorities, let your lawyer coordinate submissions and communications.

- Act promptly to protect evidence and meet statutory deadlines for appeals or claims.

This guide is informational and does not substitute for personalised legal advice. For a tailored assessment of your situation contact a qualified lawyer or authorised accountant in Skive.