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Case Studies: Real Outcomes for Accountants

A professional lifeline to all accountants. We specialise in providing a full range of services to the accountancy profession. We are able to advise, assist, and represent accountants on a whole range of issues. We represent accountants before disciplinary, appeal, and regulatory tribunals, handling an average of 18-20 cases per annum.

Below is a summary of representative cases handled by Accountants National Complaint Services Limited, with a timeline of outcomes from November 2023 to October 2024.

Timeline of Key Hearings (Nov 2023 - Oct 2024)

Nov 2023 – Case A1 (ACCA DC)
Issue: Submitted tax returns without client approval, submitted incorrect amendments, failed to submit Suspicious Activity Report, and failed to send engagement letter.
Outcome: Misconduct and dishonesty found. Awaiting final order.
Jan 2024 – Case B2 (ICAEW DC)
Issue: Multiple audit reports not in compliance with client money rules and International Standards on Auditing.
Outcome: Severe reprimand, no fine, costs of £18,518 payable by 12 instalments. Publicity imposed.
Mar 2024 – Case F2 (ACCA ALC)
Issue: Application for readmission following exclusion.
Outcome: Readmitted to membership.
May 2024 – Case M1 (ACCA IOC/DC)
Issue: Mishandling of client monies over several years.
Outcome: No suspension, but restrictions placed on handling client accounts.
Jul 2024 – Case S1 (ICAEW DC)
Issue: Multiple failures in client account management, including not reconciling accounts and not correcting differences.
Outcome: Disciplinary action taken, compliance review ordered.
Sep 2024 – Case S3 (ICAEW DC)
Issue: Complaints regarding accounts breaching FRS 102, ISA 230/500, and Companies Regulations.
Outcome: Ongoing review, awaiting final decision.

Types of Hearings Handled (2023-2024)

Disciplinary
Appeal
Review
Fitness
(Relative number of cases by type, 2023-2024)

Key:
ALC = Admissions and Licensing Committee
AC = Appeal Committee
DC = Disciplinary Committee
RC = Review Committee
FC = Fitness Committee
IOC = Interim Orders Committee