{"id":14705,"date":"2025-07-09T10:43:49","date_gmt":"2025-07-09T14:43:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/general-public\/complaints-and-recourses\/disputing-a-statement-of-fees\/faq-conciliation-de-comptes-dhonoraires-et-arbitrage-des-comptes\/"},"modified":"2026-02-18T15:14:14","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T20:14:14","slug":"faqs-conciliation-and-arbitration-of-accounts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/general-public\/complaints-and-recourses\/disputing-a-statement-of-fees\/faqs-conciliation-and-arbitration-of-accounts\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQs \u2013 Conciliation of accounts and arbitration of accounts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Find the answers to your questions in our frequently asked questions (FAQs) below.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"color-boxes-grid aligndefault\"\n>\n   <div class=\"color-boxes-grid__grid cols-2\">\n     \n\n<div class=\"color-box-item has-background has-mint-background-color\">\n\n    <h5 class=\"color-box-item__title\">Conciliation of accounts<\/h5>\n   \n\n      <div class=\"accordion-container\">\n          <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"color-box-item__links color-box-item__links--orientation-vertical\">\n                <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#openingconciliation' class=\"text-link\">Opening a conciliation of accounts file<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#allowedtocharge' class=\"text-link\">What are CPAs allowed to charge?<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#conciliationaccountsprocess' class=\"text-link\">The conciliation of accounts process<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#notcoveredconciliation' class=\"text-link\">What is not covered by the conciliation of accounts process<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#closingaccount' class=\"text-link\">Closing a conciliation of accounts file<\/a>          <\/span>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"color-box-item has-background has-tango-light-background-color\">\n\n    <h5 class=\"color-box-item__title\">Arbitration of accounts<\/h5>\n   \n\n      <div class=\"accordion-container\">\n          <\/div>\n    \n      <div class=\"color-box-item__links color-box-item__links--orientation-vertical\">\n                <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#arbitratorsrole' class=\"text-link\">The arbitrator&#8217;s role<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#openingarbitrationfile' class=\"text-link\">Opening an arbitration of accounts file<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#conciliationvsarbitration' class=\"text-link\">Conciliation of accounts vs arbitration of accounts<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#agreementparties' class=\"text-link\">Agreement between the parties<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#docsforwarded' class=\"text-link\">Documents forwarded in connection with an arbitration hearing<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#arbitrationhearing' class=\"text-link\">The arbitration hearing<\/a>          <\/span>\n                    <span class=\"color-box-item__links__item\">\n            <a href='#arbitrationawardcost' class=\"text-link\">Arbitration award and potential costs<\/a>          <\/span>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n   <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conciliationhonoraires\">Conciliation of accounts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The conciliation of accounts is a voluntary process. The Office of the syndic acts an intermediary to facilitate communication between the parties. It may not require the CPA to lower or cancel the fees in dispute or force the client to accept an agreement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"openingconciliation\">Opening a conciliation of accounts file<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"what-are-the-requirements-for-opening-a-conciliation-file\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What are the requirements for opening a conciliation file?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The invoice must have been issued by a CPA or a firm led by CPAs;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The invoice may not be the subject of any legal recourse aimed at recovering the amount charged;\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The invoice must not have been paid. If it has been paid in whole or in part, the conciliation must be applied for within 45 days of receiving the invoice.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For example, if the invoice was received on June 30 and paid on August 31, whereas the application for conciliation was filed on September 1, the application for conciliation will not be accepted.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"who-can-apply-for-a-conciliation-of-accounts\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Who can apply for a conciliation of accounts?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Only clients of CPAs may apply for a conciliation of accounts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"are-fees-charged-when-you-submit-an-application-for-conciliation-of-accounts-or-when-you-open-a-file\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Are fees charged when you submit an application for conciliation of accounts or when you open a file?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, fees are charged for the conciliation of accounts service.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:21px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"allowedtocharge\">What are CPAs allowed to charge?<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"my-cpa-charged-me-300-an-hour-is-that-normal\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>My CPA charged me $300 an hour! Is that normal?\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>The fees charged must be fair and reasonable. They are not subject to any specific schedule or scale. Fees are set based on the following factors:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the time required to provide the professional service;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the complexity and importance of the service;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the performance of unusual services or services requiring exceptional&nbsp; competence or speed;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the experience or expertise of the CPA;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>the importance of the responsibility assumed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other factors, such as the structure of the firm and the range of services it offers, may also play a role in how the fees are set.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-cpas-charge-fees-for-telephone-conversations-or-meetings\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can CPAs charge fees for telephone conversations or meetings?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Nothing prohibits CPAs from charging fees for telephone conversations or meetings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-cpas-charge-fees-for-providing-or-transferring-documents-to-another-professional\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can CPAs charge fees for providing or transferring documents to another professional?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Reasonable fees may be charged for providing or transferring documents to another professional.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:19px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conciliationaccountsprocess\">The conciliation of accounts process<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"how-much-time-does-the-process-take-after-the-file-is-opened\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>How much time does the process take after the file is opened?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Under the&nbsp;<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca\/en\/document\/cr\/C-48.1,%20r.%2027\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Regulation respecting the conciliation and arbitration procedure for the accounts of members of the Ordre des comptables professionnels agr\u00e9\u00e9s du Qu\u00e9bec<\/a><\/em>, if the conciliation does not lead to an agreement within 60 days from the date of receipt of the application for conciliation, the file is closed and a report is sent to the parties. However, this is not a compulsory time limit&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"what-are-the-steps-in-the-conciliation-process\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What are the steps in the conciliation process?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Each party fills out a questionnaire.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The applicant must specify what they feel is a fair value for the work done by the CPA.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A representative of the Office of the syndic, who acts as a conciliator, communicates by telephone or email with each party to see if an agreement can be reached.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The parties do not have to communicate directly with each other, but they are not prohibited from doing so.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The conciliation of accounts is a confidential process: Only the parties involved (client and CPA) and the staff members of the Office of the syndic are privy to the information.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"notcoveredconciliation\">What is not covered by the conciliation of accounts process<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"can-the-conciliation-of-accounts-process-require-a-cpa-to-finish-work-they-have-begun\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          Can the conciliation of accounts process require a CPA to finish work they have begun?      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No. The application for conciliation could potentially break the bond of trust and end the relationship between the client and CPA. However, if there are diligence issues, a request for an inquiry may be submitted to the Bureau of the syndic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"does-the-conciliation-process-allow-for-the-client-to-be-compensated-if-their-cpa-has-committed-a-professional-fault-or-caused-damage\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Does the conciliation process allow for the client to be compensated if their CPA has committed a professional fault or caused damage?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, the conciliation process does not allow for the client to be compensated if a CPA has committed a professional fault or caused damage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"does-the-conciliation-of-accounts-process-determine-whether-a-cpa-has-behaved-unprofessionally-or-unethically\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Does the conciliation of accounts process determine whether a CPA has behaved unprofessionally or unethically?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No. The conciliation of accounts process is solely aimed at reaching an agreement on the amount of fees that have been charged.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit our website to find out more about your potential recourses if you believe that a CPA:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>has failed in their&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cpaquebec.ca\/en\/general-public\/complaints-and-recourses\/reporting-the-conduct-of-a-cpa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ethical obligations or violated the law<\/a>;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>has&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cpaquebec.ca\/en\/general-public\/complaints-and-recourses\/improper-use-of-funds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">used funds inappropriately<\/a>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>has committed an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/cpaquebec.ca\/en\/general-public\/complaints-and-recourses\/professional-liability-insurance-claims\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">error that has caused you monetary damage<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"closingaccount\">Closing a conciliation of accounts file<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"when-the-conciliation-of-accounts-process-ends-in-an-agreement-can-the-cpa-then-sue-the-client-to-recover-the-balance-of-the-invoice\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>When the conciliation of accounts process ends in an agreement, can the CPA then sue the client to recover the balance of the invoice?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No. The agreement is final: It is a transaction within the meaning of the&nbsp;<em>Civil Code of Quebec<\/em><\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"what-happens-when-an-agreement-cannot-be-reached\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What happens when an agreement cannot be reached?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>If an agreement cannot be reached, the client may apply for an arbitration of the account within 20 days of receiving the report.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"if-an-agreement-cannot-be-reached-can-the-cpa-sue-the-client-to-recover-the-amount-of-the-invoice\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>If an agreement cannot be reached, can the CPA sue the client to recover the amount of the invoice?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, once the 20-day period has expired.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"notification-message aligndefault notification-message--info notification-message--outline\"\n>\n   \n\n<p>To find out more about the conciliation of accounts, refer to the&nbsp;<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca\/en\/document\/cr\/C-48.1,%20r.%2027\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Regulation respecting the conciliation and arbitration procedure for the accounts of members of the Ordre des comptables professionnels agr\u00e9\u00e9s du Qu\u00e9bec<\/a><\/em>&nbsp;or email the Office of the syndic at&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:conciliationhonoraires@cpaquebec.ca\">conciliationhonoraires@cpaquebec.ca<\/a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-28f84493 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arbitragecomptes\">Arbitration of accounts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure that this process is independent, it is managed by the Records Department and not by the Office of the syndic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arbitratorsrole\">The arbitrator&#8217;s role<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"who-will-render-the-decision-on-my-arbitration-file\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Who will render the decision on my arbitration file?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>One or three arbitrators (if the amount in dispute is higher than $15,000).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The arbitrator, who does not work at the Order, is a CPA who has experience in all of the profession\u2019s areas of expertise.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"what-is-the-arbitrators-role\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What is the arbitrator\u2019s role?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>In addition to issuing the arbitration award, the arbitrator hears any dispute relating to a CPA\u2019s statement of account, receives documents submitted as evidence by the parties, and analyzes them. The arbitrator may act as an amiable compositeur before or during a hearing.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"openingarbitrationfile\">Opening an arbitration of accounts file<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"is-it-mandatory-to-go-through-the-conciliation-of-accounts-process-before-submitting-an-application-for-arbitration\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          Is it mandatory to go through the conciliation of accounts process before submitting an application for arbitration?      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, a statement of fees that has not been considered in a conciliation process may not be included in an arbitration process afterward.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"who-may-apply-for-an-arbitration-of-accounts\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Who may apply for an arbitration of accounts?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>This recourse is reserved for clients of CPAs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-i-withdraw-my-application-for-arbitration\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can I withdraw my application for arbitration?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, unless you have obtained authorization from the CPA.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-i-submit-an-application-for-arbitration-even-after-the-20-day-period-stipulated-in-the-regulation\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can I submit an application for arbitration even after the 20-day period stipulated in the regulation?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes. However, you will need to provide reasons for submitting your application after the prescribed period of time. The chair of the Council for the arbitration of accounts will decide whether your application is accepted.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-i-submit-an-application-for-arbitration-that-has-not-been-signed-by-a-commissioner-for-oaths\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can I submit an application for arbitration that has not been signed by a commissioner for oaths?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, this signature is mandatory. If you have difficulty finding a commissioner for oaths, we suggest that you visit the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.assermentation.justice.gouv.qc.ca\/ServicesPublicsConsultation\/Commissaires\/Proximite\/Criteres.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Justice Qu\u00e9bec<\/a>&nbsp;website. A notary or a lawyer can also administer oaths for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conciliationvsarbitration\">Conciliation of accounts vs arbitration of accounts&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"does-the-arbitrator-consider-the-discussions-that-took-place-during-the-conciliation-of-accounts\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Does the arbitrator consider the discussions that took place during the conciliation of accounts?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Arbitrators are not required to consider these discussions. The Council for the arbitration of accounts is not bound by the conciliation report prepared by the Office of the syndic\u2019s representative.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"will-the-person-from-the-office-of-the-syndic-who-acted-as-intermediary-during-the-conciliation-of-accounts-be-present-in-the-arbitration-process\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Will the person from the Office of the syndic who acted as intermediary during the conciliation of accounts be present in the arbitration process?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, since these are two separate processes and the Office of the syndic does not participate in the arbitration process.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-the-council-for-the-arbitration-of-accounts-decide-on-applications-regarding-disciplinary-issues-claims-for-damages-and-other-disputes\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can the Council for the arbitration of accounts decide on applications regarding disciplinary issues, claims for damages and other disputes?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, only applications involving a dispute regarding a CPA\u2019s statement of fees may be referred to the Council for arbitration.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"agreementparties\">Agreement between the parties<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"if-the-parties-come-to-an-agreement-between-them-what-are-the-next-steps\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>If the parties come to an agreement between them, what are the next steps?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If the file has not yet been referred to the Council for arbitration, the agreement is recorded in writing and entered in the file with a view to closing it.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the file has been referred to the Council for arbitration, the agreement will be recorded in an arbitration award and sent to the parties in view of closing the file.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"docsforwarded\">Documents forwarded in connection with an arbitration hearing<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"are-the-documents-sent-to-the-office-of-the-syndic-in-connection-with-the-conciliation-automatically-forwarded-to-the-council-for-arbitration\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Are the documents sent to the Office of the syndic in connection with the conciliation automatically forwarded to the Council for arbitration?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No. Given that these two processes are separate and that the conciliation process is confidential, the client and the CPA must provide written authorization if they wish for the conciliation file to be forwarded to the arbitrator and the opposing party.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"if-i-do-not-authorize-the-forwarding-of-the-conciliation-file-what-will-happen\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>If I do not authorize the forwarding of the conciliation file, what will happen?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>The Council for arbitration and the opposing party will receive only those documents that have been forwarded with the party\u2019s authorization. Furthermore, if the parties deem it necessary, they may forward any documents not included in the conciliation file prior to the hearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"are-the-hearing-documents-that-are-sent-to-the-records-department-automatically-forwarded-to-the-opposing-party\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Are the hearing documents that are sent to the Records Department automatically forwarded to the opposing party?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, all documents sent to the Records Department are included in the arbitration file and shared with the other party and the arbitrator so that everyone has the same documents on hand during the hearing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"what-is-the-deadline-for-submitting-documents-that-i-intend-to-use-during-the-hearing\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What is the deadline for submitting documents that I intend to use during the hearing?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Two weeks before the hearing, a secure link to the Records Department\u2019s electronic file is sent to the parties so that they can upload all desired documents to it. Although it is possible to file documents the same day of the hearing, if a party does so, the arbitrator may find it justified to grant a request to postpone the hearing if he or she deems it necessary.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-the-council-for-arbitration-require-that-documents-be-submitted-to-it\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can the Council for arbitration require that documents be submitted to it?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, the Council for arbitration may demand that parties submit to it a statement of their claims along with all files, documents or information it considers necessary to decide the dispute.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arbitrationhearing\">The arbitration hearing<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"is-it-possible-for-the-council-for-arbitration-to-hold-a-meeting-in-the-presence-of-the-parties-before-holding-a-hearing\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Is it possible for the Council for arbitration to hold a meeting in the presence of the parties before holding a hearing?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, a management conference may be requested by the Council for arbitration or by a party. A number of issues may be considered during this meeting, such as the number of witnesses that each party will present, the estimated length of their testimonial, the period of time scheduled for the hearing, the submissions that the parties intend to file in support of their claims, the hearing date, etc.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"how-does-an-arbitration-hearing-usually-proceed\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>How does an arbitration hearing usually proceed?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Pre-hearing applications (e.g. application for postponement of the hearing) will be heard first before considering the merits of the application for arbitration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Council for arbitration will then hear the claimant\u2019s (the client\u2019s) evidence before hearing the respondent\u2019s (the CPA\u2019s) evidence. At the evidence stage, the parties may make their representations, submit documents, present witnesses and cross-examine the opposing party\u2019s witnesses. The parties will conclude their respective applications by presenting their oral submissions.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"are-the-arbitration-hearings-recorded\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Are the arbitration hearings recorded?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The arbitration hearings are recorded by the Records Department solely for the purpose of keeping a record of the proceedings. Nevertheless, the parties may obtain an audio recording. It should be noted that the recorded hearing is kept for up to 30 days from the date on which the file is closed.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The parties may also hire, at their expense, a stenographer to record the hearing.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"i-am-one-of-the-parties-in-the-case-am-i-required-to-attend-the-hearing\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>I am one of the parties in the case; am I required to attend the hearing?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes, your presence is required to make your representations and file any document in support of your claims.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If one of the parties is absent, without valid a reason, the Council for arbitration may proceed in its absence and render an arbitration award afterward.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-a-lawyer-assist-me-in-the-arbitration-process\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can a lawyer assist me in the arbitration process?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Each party may be assisted by a lawyer.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-someone-accompany-me-during-the-hearing\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can someone accompany me during the hearing?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Given that the hearing is confidential, the parties may not be accompanied by a person other than a lawyer, unless the Council for arbitration authorizes it.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-i-have-my-witnesses-testify-at-a-hearing-before-the-council-for-arbitration\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can I have my witnesses testify at a hearing before the Council for arbitration?\u00a0<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes. However, each party, and not the Records Department, is responsible for convening its witnesses to appear before the Council for arbitration on the scheduled date of the hearing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-i-apply-to-have-the-hearing-postponed\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can I apply to have the hearing postponed?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>Yes. However, the Council for arbitration has the power to accept or reject the application for postponement based on the submitted reasons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The application for postponement must be sent by email to the Records Department as soon as possible.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arbitrationawardcost\">Arbitration award and potential costs<\/h3>\n\n\n<section class=\"block-accordions-group accordion-container aligndefault wp-block-vortex-blocks-accordions-group\">\n  \n\n<div id=\"how-long-does-it-take-to-receive-the-arbitration-award-from-the-council-for-arbitration\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>How long does it take to receive the arbitration award from the Council for arbitration?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>The&nbsp;<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca\/en\/document\/cr\/C-48.1,%20r.%2027%20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Regulation respecting the conciliation and arbitration procedure for the accounts of members of the Ordre des comptables professionnels agr\u00e9\u00e9s du Qu\u00e9bec<\/a><\/em>&nbsp;stipulates that the Council for arbitration must issue its award within 45 days of the end of the hearing.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Please note that the 45-day period is not a compulsory time limit and that it may take longer in some cases for the award to be issued. Where applicable, the Records Department will notify you of the situation.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"what-are-the-potential-conclusions-of-an-arbitration-award\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>What are the potential conclusions of an arbitration award?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>The Council for arbitration can maintain or decrease the amount of the account in dispute and\/or determine whether a party is entitled to be reimbursed or receive a payment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"will-the-council-for-arbitration-charge-me-fees\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Will the Council for arbitration charge me fees?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>There is no charge to submit an application for arbitration. However, a party may be required to pay up to 15% of the amount in dispute in the arbitration for expenses incurred by the Order to hold it (e.g. renting a room for the hearing). Furthermore, the Council for arbitration may, based on certain criteria, add interest and an indemnity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-the-arbitration-award-be-appealed\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can the arbitration award be appealed?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No. The arbitration award is final and binding.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"can-the-council-for-arbitration-or-the-records-department-advise-the-parties-or-intervene-after-an-arbitration-award-has-been-issued\" class=\"accordion ac\" data-open-by-default=\"false\">\n  <div class=\"accordion__accordion\">\n    <button class=\"accordion__header-row accordion-toggle ac-header ac-trigger\">\n      \n      <p class=\"accordion__header__title\">          <strong>Can the Council for arbitration or the Records Department advise the parties or intervene after an arbitration award has been issued?<\/strong>      <\/p>\n      <span class=\"accordion__header__icon\" role=\"presentation\">\n          <span class=\"plus\"><\/span>\n      <\/span>\n    <\/button>\n    <div class=\"accordion__sub-rows wysiwyg ac-panel\">\n      \n\n<p>No, the Council for arbitration and the Records Department may not advise the parties in any way whatsoever or intervene with a party that does not comply with the award. The parties are responsible for consulting a lawyer as needed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"notification-message aligndefault notification-message--info notification-message--outline\"\n>\n   \n\n<p>For more information about the arbitration of accounts, please consult the&nbsp;<em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca\/en\/document\/cr\/C-48.1,%20r.%2027%20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Regulation respecting the conciliation and arbitration procedure for the accounts of members of the Ordre des comptables professionnels agr\u00e9\u00e9s du Qu\u00e9bec<\/a><\/em>&nbsp;and contact the Records Department of the Order by email at&nbsp;<a href=\"mailto:greffes@cpaquebec.ca\">greffes@cpaquebec.ca<\/a>&nbsp;or by telephone at 514&nbsp;288-3256, extension&nbsp;2617, or toll free at&nbsp;1&nbsp;800&nbsp;363-4688.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Find the answers to your questions in our frequently asked questions (FAQs) below.&nbsp; Conciliation of accounts The conciliation of accounts&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":2711,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-14705","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"pp_statuses_selecting_workflow":false,"pp_workflow_action":"current","pp_status_selection":"publish","pp_force_visibility":null,"pp_subpost_visibility":null,"pp_inherited_force_visibility":null,"pp_inherited_subpost_visibility":null,"acf":[],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-06-06 08:14:36","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"translation_priority","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14705","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14705"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14705\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":15413,"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/14705\/revisions\/15413"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2711"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cpaquebec.wp.vortexdev.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14705"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}