Discussion: Ethics COLLAPSE
I have definitely violated the professional code of conduct. The code specifically states, "In the performance of any professional service, a member shall maintain objectivity and integrity, shall be free of conflicts of interest, and shall not knowingly misrepresent facts or subordinate his or her judgment to others." (AICPA, 2014) I am knowingly misrepresenting facts when I intentionally leave out audit procedures that lead to the audit conclusions.
When I save the client money leaving out procedures, I could also be guilty of providing a contingent fee. The code defines, "a contingent fee is a fee established for the performance of any service pursuant to an arrangement in which no fee will be charged unless a specified finding or result is attained, or in which the amount of the fee is otherwise dependent upon the finding or result of such service." (AICPA, 2014) By this definition, one could consider this situation as a contingent fee since the client is under the impression they will receive a favorable audit, like in prior years, for a reduced fee.
References:
AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. (2014).