Focus on Firms

Introduction

This introduction has been co-authored based on our experiences on the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC). The PCC’s function is to investigate and prosecute complaints against registrants, suspended registrants, and former registrants.

The theme for the firm newsletter is inspired by the quote from Viktor Frankl, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.”

The PCC has seen many cases recently where practitioners respond either too hastily or not at all to a difficult situation. Responses are also taking a variety of mediums – formal letters, text messages, phone calls, emails, or social media – which has become problematic to keep organized and stay on top of in some cases. Much of the content of this newsletter is focused on being mindful of and improving our communication. Responsive and timely communication is critical in our changed world, as the disparities of opinions are severe, and clients are becoming more vocal about their demands.

When a matter relating to inadequate or untimely communication comes before the PCC, the PCC decision models consider the registrant’s ability to take corrective action. It is important that we observe evidence that a registrant can act in a manner that reduces harm. For example, if a practitioner files something late, they can communicate the issue with the client and relevant stakeholders and design and execute a proactive action plan to ensure that the client is not significantly harmed. Often, how we work to rectify an error or something missed shapes the path going forward.

The choices you make as members and as firms have an impact, good or bad, on yourself, your firm, your clients, and the profession. It is important to take time to pause between a difficult situation and your response. Being intentional about how you choose to react will serve both your clients and yourself well in the long run.

CPA Saskatchewan is here to provide assistance in difficult situations and we encourage members to reach out for direction and assistance proactively as potential issues arise.

Content and Editing

Nicholas Carteri

Marilyn Flaman, CPA, CA

Marc Franklin, CPA, CMA

Jeff Hansen, CPA, CA

Pam Hoffart

Leigha Hubick, CPA, CA

Vivian Nicholas, CPA, CA

Sherri Schmidt

Jennifer Zerr, CPA, CA

Production

Pam Hoffart Chess Club Agency

Disclaimer

The content within this newsletter is provided for informational purposes and is not an official interpretation of any applicable rules or standards.

We live and work on lands covered by Treaties 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10. These are the territories of the Anihšināpēk/ Saulteaux, Dakota, Dene, Lakota, Nakoda, nêhiyaw/Plains Cree, néhinaw/Swampy Cree, nehithaw/Woodland Cree, and Stoney Nations. They are also the homeland of the Métis/Michif Nation. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another.

We respect and honour the Treaties that were made on all territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we are committed to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous Nations in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.