This word has several significations: 1. One who is versed in accounts; 2. A person or officer appointed to keep the accounts of a public company; 3. He who renders to another or to a court a just and detailed statement of the administration of property which he holds as trustee, executor, administrator or guardian. Accountant’s Liability. The legal liability of an accountant for negligence while rendering professional services, such as not following Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Accountant’s Lien. A lien or right that an accountant has to hold a client’s work papers until the bill is paid by the client.
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
One who keeps accounts , a person skilled in keeping books or accounts; an expert in accounts or bookkeeping. A person who renders an account. When an executor, guardian, etc., renders an account of the property in his hands and his administration of the trust, either to the beneficiary or to a court, he is styled, for the purpose of that proceeding, the “accountant.”