Which factor is crucial for maintaining auditor independence?

Maintaining auditor independence is fundamental to ensuring the integrity and objectivity of the audit process. This is a cornerstone principle in auditing that fosters trust in the audit findings and reports. The essence of independence lies in the auditor's ability to remain impartial and unbiased, which can be compromised by conflicts of interest.

By avoiding conflicts of interest, auditors can uphold their professional judgment and provide an objective evaluation of the client's financial statements or operations. Conflicts of interest can arise when auditors have personal, financial, or professional relationships that might hinder their impartiality. For instance, if an auditor has a financial stake in the outcome of the audit, or is closely connected with the client's management, their judgment may be influenced, leading to a lack of independence.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that can undermine auditor independence. Close relationships with client management can create pressures or perceived biases that affect the auditor's objectivity. Providing consulting services to clients can lead to an overlap of roles that may create a conflict, as the auditor might prioritize the consulting relationship over the audit integrity. Using standardized audit procedures, while beneficial for efficiency and consistency, does not inherently support independence without the context of the auditor’s relationship with the client.

Thus, avoiding conflicts of interest is crucial for maintaining