Upton and Hatfield’s Investigations Group understands the increasing need for public and private employers to initiate and promptly complete investigations when faced with a variety of workplace complaints. Our attorneys are uniquely qualified to assist clients in completing complex internal investigations, while respecting the rights of both public and private employees and complainants. Our Attorneys bring a unique blend of experience in employment, labor, school, municipal, and criminal law, while also having experience in conducting and overseeing many types of investigations (including investigations related to Title VII, Title IX, EPA, ADA, ADEA and state employment, school, municipal, and criminal law). When facing an allegation of workplace misconduct, it is critical to work with experienced attorneys who understand the need for a complete and thorough investigation and appreciate the legal intricacies involved.
Having an effective investigation conducted allows an employer to consider allegations of improper and/or unlawful conduct and take appropriate action to address the situation if wrongdoing is found. It also allows an employer to manage potential liabilities by taking prompt remedial action if appropriate. Finally, a prompt and effective investigation helps establish a culture of transparency, compliance, responsiveness, and responsibility. This is true even when the conclusions of an investigation support a finding that no misconduct occurred. While some investigations may be conducted by management, having an outside independent investigator is advisable when one or more of the following factors are present:
Senior management and/or Board Members are accused of misconduct;
The allegations involve ongoing violations or a pattern of misconduct;
The alleged misconduct may have legal ramifications (in addition to alleged policy violations);
The alleged misconduct may lead to a parallel governmental investigation;
The alleged misconduct, if true, would have serious repercussions for the employer in terms of financial, legal, and/or reputational harm.
The attorneys in our investigations group are well-qualified to conduct prompt and appropriate investigations.
Contact us online or call (603) 634-9560to learn more about how our Investigations group can help you.