Is it possible for a member to be tried and convicted for violating the Statements on Standards for Tax Services?

A member of the profession can indeed be tried and convicted for violating the Statements on Standards for Tax Services (SSTSs). These standards are established by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) to guide CPAs in their tax practice. While they primarily serve as guidelines for ethical conduct and best practices rather than statutes, violations can lead to disciplinary actions from regulatory bodies, professional organizations, or even legal proceedings in certain circumstances.

In instances where a CPA is found to have willfully violated these standards, especially if such violations result in significant harm or denote a lack of professionalism, the CPA may face legal consequences. This could include penalties imposed by the IRS, sanctions from state boards of accountancy, or civil liability. Therefore, it is essential for all tax practitioners to adhere closely to these standards to maintain their professional integrity and avoid legal repercussions.