Conducting a proper in-house investigation is no simple feat—or at least it appears so. Today, corporations, colleges and universities as well as government agencies are being scrutinized in the national spotlight at an unprecedented rate. Federal, state, and local agencies are probing public and private employers alike for alleged wrongdoing. Frequently, public scrutiny focuses on the institution’s failure to conduct a prompt, thorough and equitable investigation into claims of misconduct. Today, in all contexts and in all industries, the number of entities being accused of improperly conducting internal investigations is skyrocketing. Compliance costs are soaring, as are the penalties for inadequate, biased or even non-existent (when otherwise required) investigations.
When to Investigate
Various laws or internal policies require an employer to conduct a prompt, thorough and independent investigation into allegations of misconduct such as assault, harassment, discrimination and fraud.
