Washington State Board of Accountancy Complaints and Violations

Results of Investigations - 2001

In carrying out its mission "to promote dependable, accessible financial information" the Board is responsible for investigating complaints against CPAs. Complaints can originate from clients, other CPAs, federal or state regulators, or identified through agency oversight and review programs. Complaints result from allegations of technical errors, or ethical or legal violations. The Board closed 32 cases during 2001. Complaints or inquiries originated from the following sources:

Source Percent

Agency oversight programs 37%

Clients 19%

Other CPAs 16%

Miscellaneous 16%

Anonymous 12%

The 32 cases closed during 2001 resulted from the following allegations:

Use of title or holding out in public practice by a nonCPA 8 25%

Records retention 5 16%

Noncompliance with technical standards 4 13%

Noncompliance with code of conduct including conflict of interest 3 9.3%

Failure to respond to Board oversight 3 9.3%

Failure to meet/substantiate CPE 3 9.3%

Use of title or holding out in public practice with a lapsed license/certificate 2 6%

Good character determination for initial licensure 2 6%

Embezzlement, fraud, dishonesty, or negligence 1 3%

Fiduciary malfeasance or breach of fiduciary duties 1 3%

Total: 32 100%

The Board resolved the 32 cases during 2001 as follows:

Closed via Board Order 44%

Lack of evidence of violation 37%

Closed via an informal agreement (other than a Board Order) 19%

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