Final answer:
True, secondary research is beneficial for forensic accountants to refine hypotheses and select appropriate analysis methods by analyzing existing research and data.
Step-by-step explanation:
Secondary research is indeed helpful to a forensic accountant in refining hypothesis, arriving at critical assumptions, and selecting analysis methods. The correct answer to the question is A) true. Secondary research involves the analysis of existing data and information gathered by other researchers or organizations, such as court systems, police databases, and prison records, to inform and support research work.
This form of research is invaluable in helping forensic accountants to refine their hypotheses and assumptions, which aids in identifying the most effective analytical methods to employ in their investigations. The nature of forensic accounting often requires the examination of complex financial data and circumstances, thereby making secondary research a key step in formulating informed hypotheses that can guide further investigation and support conclusions drawn from financial data analysis.