Craig Ehrlich – Accounting and Law
We lack a clear answer to a basic and important question. May a CPA performing attest services use an exculpatory clause or a limitation of remedy in his or her letter of engagement? Fearing catastrophic jury verdicts for malpractice, practitioners seem to be using such language with greater frequency - particularly waivers of punitive damages and, to avoid a jury, alternative dispute resolution clauses - and the current trend of the law seems increasingly to favor freedom of contract and to allow professionals to limit their liability contractually. A recent bar journal article suggests that accountants should be able to limit malpractice liability, and that the "only concern here would be a finding that the accountant’s work involved an ‘important public interest’ because it is being performed by a certified public accountant". This is a significant concern, however, and it might strip an auditor of the shelter of an agreement to limit liability.

Marjorie Feld – History and Society
A second-generation German Jewish American, Lillian Wald (1867-1940) won international acclaim for her pivotal role in the creation of a more pluralist society and the American social welfare state.  This study challenges conventional views of Wald and of the Progressive reform movement.  Her innovative work on behalf of immigrants and industrial laborers was rooted in Jewish cultural identity, yet it expressed a universal vision at odds with the ethnic particularism with which she is now identified.  By recovering Wald’s neglected legacy, Ethnic Progressive contributes to historical – and contemporary – understanding of such major issues as feminism, Zionism, immigration, and ethnic identity.

We look forward to your participation.  Refreshments will be provided by the BFRF. Pick up your lunch in Olin Pandini’s (before noon), sign the Chat list at the checkout, and join your colleagues in the Needham Room. For additional information, contact Susan Chern, x5339.