A C.P.A., Brenda provides accounting services to Ernie's Earnings Corporation. The services include preparing Ernie's financial reports and issuing opinion letters based on the reports. In 2016, Ernie's falls into serious financial trouble, but neither Brenda's reports nor her opinion letters indicate this situation. Relying on Brenda's portrayal of Ernie's financial situation, the firm borrows a large sum of money to build a new shipping facility. In lending Ernie's the money, Mid-First Bank relies on Brenda's opinion letter. Brenda is aware of this reliance.
If Brenda did not engage in intentional fraud but was negligent, what is her potential liability? Explain your answer thoroughly.