Likely the financial (and social family) cost of "gross negligence" litigation would well exceed any measurable benefit. If the owner has a strong case, a private settlement for 30-50% damages is the most likely outcome.

Even in the unlikely event the accounting firm broke/abused their fiduciary duties AND a circuit/general court tort verdict was in this owner's favor, it would take years for the funds to work their way through the system.

Most courts resolve small cases like this within a year or two, including appeals. Indeed, a case that lasts more than 2 years is considered anomalous unless a huge corporation or very wealthy clients are involved. It would take about 1 week to 10 days once appeals have resolved for the funds to work their way through the system. Every state has a deadline for paying off judgments. The only reason payment of a judgment would be delayed is if the defendant declared bankruptcy.

Maybe the accountant, if he even exists, was doing exactly what he was told? By far the most likely scenario IMO.