A
CPA is challenged in today’s work world to not only serve his/her client or
employer but also to protect the public interest by ensuring that there is
transparency in financial reporting or there is fair administration of the tax
laws. In balancing the two interests, a
CPA may find him or herself in an ethical dilemma. This course covers not only
basic ethical frameworks, but also specific rules governing CPA practice and
responsibilities. It concludes with a section on how a CPA can put his or her
ethics into action
- To educate licensees in ethics of
professional accounting as Texas CPAs.
- To convey the intent of the Rules
of Professional Conduct in the performance of professional accounting
services/work, not to adhere to the mere technical compliance of such
rules.
- To assist the Texas CPA in
applying ethical judgment in interpreting the rules and determining public
interest. Public interest should
be placed ahead of self-interest, even if it means a loss of job or
client.
- To review and discuss the Rules of
Professional Conduct and their implications for persons in a variety of
practices, including:
a. CPAs in client practice of public
accountancy who perform attest and non-attest services per § 501.52.
b. CPAs employed in industry who provide
internal accounting and auditing services.
c. CPAs employed in education or in
government accounting or auditing.