Perrie Brenigen, CPA, is an in-charge accountant for the firm of Duben & Associates. During her four years with Duben & Associates, Brenigen has served on the audit teams for several health care clients. Brenigen recently received an employment offer from one of her audit clients, Health Initiative Partners (HIP). Brenigen is being recruited to work as an associate in HIP’s new financial planning department, where her responsibilities would include evaluating investment options and capital expenditure alternatives, assistance with departmental budgeting, and tax planning,

Required:
a. If HIP is a public company, will Brenigen be able to accept the position without impairing the independence of Duben & Associates? Explain.
b. If Brenigen accepts the new position with HIP, what changes will occur with regard to her obligations under the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct?
c. If HIP is a public company, will Brenigen be able to accept the position without impairing the independence of Duben & Associates? Explain.