The Member performed bookkeeping and compilation financial statements for a client. The Member resigned from the engagement prior to completing the annual financial statements. After resigning, the Member did not sufficiently assist the client in the transition to a new accountant, including failing to provide sufficient corporate records and documentation of the underlying transactions. The Member also delivered some of the corporate records to a third party, without the knowledge or authorization of the client.
The Investigation Committee determined the Member contravened the CPABC Code of Professional Conduct as follows,
201. – Maintenance of the good reputation of the profession
202.1 – Integrity and due care
208.1&3 – Confidentiality of information
303.1&2 – Provision of client information
The Committee recommended the Member:
- accept a reprimand;
- pay a fine of $1,000; and
- pay expenses of $2,016 plus GST