This question relates to the attribute of independence associated with the CPA's function of auditing and expressing opinions on financial statements. 

Required:

a. What is meant by "independence" as applied to the CPA's function of auditing and expressing opinions on financial statements? Discuss. 

b. CPAs have imposed upon themselves certain rules of professional conduct that induce their members to remain independent and to strengthen public confidence in their independence. Which of the rules of professional conduct are concerned (directly or indirectly) with the CPA's independence? Discuss

c. The Milton Company is indebted to Bradley, a CPA, for unpaid fees offered to issue unsecured interest-bearing notes. Would Bradley's acceptance of these notes have any bearing on independence or in relations with the Milton company Discuss.