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 from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, and the California Regulations,
Administrative Rules and Code of Professional Conduct. These sources govern the
practice and responsibilities of California CPAs. It concludes with a section
on how a CPA can put his or her ethics into action
Learning Objectives:
- To apply
the ethics of professional accounting as CPAs through the analysis of case
studies involving both actual situations and hypothetical facts. - To apply
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 analyze and apply the AICPA
Code of Professional Conduct
and California law that pertain to CPAs licensed to practice in the state
of California. Students will become familiar with the California Statues,
Administrative Rules and Code of Professional Conduct, and the Policies
adopted by the Board currently in effect and how the statutes, rules, and
policies pertain to them. - To determine
the course of action that would uphold the intent of the rules in the
performance of professional accounting services/work, not just to adhere
to the mere technical compliance of such rules. - Apply lessons learned from
misconduct which is the subject of
historic and recent disciplinary actions taken by the Board. - To
review and discuss the rules and their implications for persons in a
variety of practices, including:
a. CPAs who provide
assurance, attest or compilation services.
b. CPAs who
provide tax services.