Ethical Issues for the Tax Practitioner

West, Thomas J., Clevenger, Novella N., The National Public Accountant

In today's dynamic and competitive environment, tax practitioners are faced with increasing risk of lawsuits from clients, penalties from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and sanctions from professional bodies. In order to survive professionally, the tax professional would be well advised to consult a variety of sources to maintain the highest possible standards.

The ethical issues relating to potential conflicts arising from the various aspects of the tax practitioner's role are examined below.

The Practitioner as Advisor

The practitioner's role as advisor is one of helping the taxpayer to create transactions and develop facts, rather than being limited to the presentation and legal characterization of historical facts. This places the practitioner in a position where it is necessary to satisfy the client's desires to minimize the tax burden while at the same time considering the rights of third parties, the public and particularly the tax system when devising a strategy for the client.

Ethical Prohibitions Concerning Recommendations

The nature …

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Publication information: Article title: Ethical Issues for the Tax Practitioner. Contributors: West, Thomas J. - Author, Clevenger, Novella N. - Author. Magazine title: The National Public Accountant. Volume: 40. Issue: 11 Publication date: November 1995. Page number: 29+. © 1999 National Society of Public Accountants. COPYRIGHT 1995 Gale Group.

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