Investigations

Many potentially contentious labor and employment issues can be resolved quickly and cost effectively through careful investigation of allegations and complaints followed by swift, appropriate responses.
 
Best Best & Krieger LLP’s Labor & Employment attorneys are experienced in conducting prompt and thorough investigations for both public agencies and private entities. Recognizing that labor and employment problems often involve high stakes and intense time pressure, we not only act quickly to investigate, we also work closely with human resources and management staff on proactive measures, setting policies and protocols regarding documentation, conducting employee/manager training, establishing investigation procedures and helping ensure that employment decisions made, and actions taken, are in full compliance with all applicable laws. When handling investigations, we place a premium on assuring privacy and confidentiality, maintaining workplace productivity, limiting damage to our client’s reputation and promptly resolving issues.
 
Comprehensive Service
In each instance, we conduct a thorough investigation by interviewing witnesses and reviewing documents and communications. Then we prepare a comprehensive report with our factual findings. For instance, when an employer is considering employee discipline, we provide counsel and representation at every step of the process. We advise on the initial investigation, evaluate the evidence supporting discipline, review the consistency and appropriateness of the discipline, prepare all required notices, and represent the client in due process hearing, arbitrations, administrative hearings, judicial litigation and any appeals.
 
Our Labor & Employment attorneys regularly investigate employee complaints and vigorously defend our employer clients in litigation and administrative matters at the federal, state and local levels. We conduct employee investigations in a wide variety of claims including those involving:

• Harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and misconduct (including criminal conduct and threats of violence)
• Code violations
• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Unsafe work environment claims
• Disability accommodations
• Exercise of protected rights
• Misconduct claims against officers, directors, managers, high-level elected officials and appointed officials and managers, police officers, firefighters and others