Independence of mind and independence in appearance
Question 1: In Module B you read about independence of mind and independence in appearance. State at least two activities that may not affect independence of mind but are likely to affect independence in appearance.
Question 2: Do you believe that a CPA can be truly independent when their (the CPA’s) payment of fees is dependent on the client?
Question 3: You are a CPA and have accepted a new client for an audit engagement. You come to realize that the client’s industry is more complex and technical than your initial assessments. In fact, you realize you are not competent to audit in certain areas of this client.
What are your options?
Question 4: The PCAOB / SEC has placed restrictions on public accounting firms when conducting audits of their publically traded clients. These non-audit services are listed on pages 606 & 607 of our text. Do you really believe these should be prohibited services? Wouldn’t performing more services for a client increase the audit firm’s knowledge of the client? What are your thoughts?
Question 5: Many professionals begin their careers by entering the public accounting profession. What types of knowledge and skills are needed by those entering this field?