While I would have assumed the documents would go to the taxpayer first, I cannot think of a "real" reason that they should not go to the spouse first. In theory, it is a joint return, and it shouldn't make a difference, should it?

OTOH, I guess I can see a situation where the taxpayer is assertive and the spouse is passive (in financial and/or tax matters!), so one or both of them want the taxpayer to review the return first.

Regardless, it does seem like something the preparer should be able to control.