ADVISING EMPLOYERS CONDUCTING INVESTIGATIONS
Workplace investigations play a vital role in resolving disputes and setting the organisation’s culture. If an employer is serious about the type of culture it wants to nurture, knowing how to conduct a timely and thorough investigation is key. An investigation may be triggered either once allegations have been raised or alternatively of the firm’s own initiative if it identifies problematic culture and considers that a cultural audit may be required.
CM Murray LLP has an established track record in advising employers in their workplace investigations. We also regularly undertake independent workplace investigations on behalf of firms.
As well as ensuring compliance with legal obligations arising from the need for an investigation, we assist with prioritising objectives and advise on the range of options available to a firm for addressing issues. We have extensive experience in making effective recommendations which can drive cultural change.
Recent and ongoing employer investigations include:
- Advising a global investment management firm on an investigation into allegations of sex discrimination of a senior executive asserted in response to proposed redundancy of their role. The investigation was complicated by the individuals attempts to reject the investigator, submission of a discrimination questionnaire, the historical nature of the assertions relating to decisions taken in the UK and the US and the seniority of the managers concerned some of whom worked in both jurisdictions.
- Advising plc on its investigation of complaints from a member of the public into sex harassment and misconduct allegations against a group of directors and senior managers which had attracted local media attention and required a report to, and advice on how to report, the appropriate regulator.
- Advising a global law firm on its investigation of an international partner’s conduct following allegations of sexual harassment and their cross allegations of bullying and harassment by fellow partners.
For more information or to discuss employer investigations, please contact Partner Emma Bartlett, Senior Partner Sarah Chilton or Partner and General Counsel Beth Hale.