Ethics: Court Orders, Confidentiality, and Compliance
2027-02-17 15:00 - 17:00 UTC
This course examines the ethical and legal responsibilities of tax professionals when responding to court orders, summonses, and other legal demands for taxpayer information. Participants will review the statutory and regulatory framework governing confidentiality and disclosure, including IRC §§7216 and 6713, Circular 230, and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA). The course explains when disclosure of taxpayer information is permitted, restricted, or prohibited under federal law and professional standards. Through practical analysis and scenario-based discussion, participants will examine common situations involving divorce proceedings, mediation settings, and conflicting client interests. Emphasis is placed on evaluating disclosure requests, applying ethical decision-making frameworks, maintaining proper client consent and scope limitations, and protecting taxpayer confidentiality while complying with legal mandates.
