After receiving your assigned independence violation, please provide a thoughtful response to the following questions:
1. Provide the name(s) of the “Respondent(s)” in your assigned case (i.e., the person(s) being charged with violating independence).
2. Briefly summarize the key facts of the case.
3. Describe the specific threat to independence and classify it as one of the seven threat types from the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct (see threat types on next page).
4. Based on the enforcement document, what specific independence rule(s) were violated (e.g., S-X § 210.2-01)?
5. Describe why the violated independence rule exists and whether you think it is appropriate.
6. In your opinion, was the disciplinary action (e.g., fine, barred from practice) taken against the individual(s) and/or firm an appropriate response to the violation?