The member completed Law Society Trust Report forms (the “Reports”) for a client without proper licensure. The member:
- completed the Reports carelessly and inaccurately;
- did not consult with their mentor before performing the engagements;
- was not independent of the client as the CPABC Code of Professional Conduct requires; and
- failed to maintain working papers.
The member also operated an unlicensed practice before obtaining a practice license from CPABC.
The Investigation Committee determined that the member contravened the Code as follows,
101.1&.2 – Compliance with governing legislation, bylaws, regulations and the Code
104.1 – Requirement to co-operate
201.1 – Maintenance of the good reputation of the profession
202.1 – Integrity and due care
202.2 – Objectivity
203 – Professional competence
204.1-.3 – Independence
205 – False or misleading documents
206.1 – Compliance with professional standards
218 – Retention of documentation and working papers
Bylaw 700(1)&(2) – Public Practice by CPA Members
The Committee recommended the member:
- accept a reprimand;
- pay a fine of $2,000;
- pay expenses of $2,475 plus GST;
- retain the services of a practice advisor acceptable to the Director, Professional Conduct (the “Director”). The practice advisor is expected to provide coaching and support related to accounting and tax matters. This requirement for a practice advisor will remain in effect until the Investigation Committee determines it is no longer necessary; and attend in-person and successfully completes the CPABC course PD Nexus: Public Practice Insights