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Board legal advisor outlines disciplinary and hearing procedures, potential sanctions
Summary
The Board received a detailed presentation on the disciplinary process, including statutory authority (RCW citations), investigation and hearing steps, settlement options, and potential sanctions such as fines up to $30,000 per violation.
The Washington State Board of Accountancy heard a detailed briefing from its Assistant Attorney General and executive staff on the Board's disciplinary and adjudicative framework April 24, 2026. The presentation summarized statutory authority and the step-by-step process from complaint intake through hearing and final order.
The legal advisor reviewed key statutes including RCW 18.04.015 (legislative intent), RCW 18.04.045 (Board authority), RCW 18.04.345 (unlicensed practice), and RCW 18.04.295 (disciplinary actions). The Board was told investigations may lead to administrative violations, negotiated consent agreements, Statements of Charges, formal hearings under Chapter 34.05 RCW, and final Orders that produce Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law. Potential sanctions listed included reprimand, suspension or revocation, fines (up to $30,000 per violation), restitution, and remedial education.
Board counsel emphasized procedural safeguards: prehearing conferences set filing dates, the presiding officer (typically the Chair) rules on admissibility, and deliberations occur in closed session. The presentation also noted that prosecution must prove violations by a preponderance of the evidence and that ex parte communications must be promptly disclosed.
The briefing serves as a procedural guide for Board members and staff as they address complaints and enforcement matters going forward. No formal action or vote on rule changes followed the presentation.
