CPAs and the accounting profession adhere to what is known as the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct. In addition to other guidance for members and CPAs, the code consists of principles, rules of conduct, and interpretations. Which of the following statements is true regarding the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct? The code of professional conduct is optional; however, CPAs are encouraged to adhere to this code by both the AICPA and State Boards of Accountancy. Code interpretations have helped to establish minimum standards, requiring a justification by an CPA that departs from these standards. Code of professional conduct principles are generally considered to be more important than interpretations, and rules of conduct represent the only mandatory part of the code. A CPA that departs from a rule of conduct and/or an interpretation must be prepared to justify such a departure. f a CPA, during the course of an audit, needs to refer to the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct in an attempt to answer a question or resolve a dispute, the CPA should be cognizant of which of the following? The AICPA Code of Professional Conduct is extremely extensive and will be able to provide guidance on any situation or scenario the CPA needs assistance with. A reasonable and informed third party should be able to conclude, having been made aware of relevant information, that there is no threat to the CPAs compliance with the rules. While the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct is extensive, it may not address every situation or scenario. In this instance, the CPA should refer exclusively to the rules of conduct set forth in the code. While the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct is extensive, it may not address every situation or scenario. In this instance, the CPA should refer to the conceptual framework. Sunnyside External Auditors is working on the audit of Transparent Windows Co. The audit client is a relatively small firm who had historically been using a different external auditor. The client has recently apprised the auditor of ongoing litigation, and requested that the external auditor provide expert witness services to assist the client in their dense. In this situation, which of the following should the auditor be aware of