Workplace Investigations
When a complaint of harassment or misconduct arises in the workplace, employers have a legal obligation to conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation. While some organizations may be able to manage this internally, retaining an experienced third party—such as one of the employment lawyers at Singh Lamarche LLP—can help ensure the process is objective, compliant, and credible.
External investigators are
particularly advisable when:
- The allegations are serious or complex;
- Senior staff are involved in the complaint;
- There is a real or perceived risk of bias in an internal investigation; or
- The organization lacks the internal expertise to conduct a legally sound process.
At Singh Lamarche LLP, we offer both guidance to employers managing investigations internally, and full-service investigation support. Our investigation process typically includes the following steps:
- Initial Interview with the Complainant – We gather the key facts and allegations in a confidential setting.
- Summary of Allegations – We prepare a written summary of the complaint for your review and confirmation.
- Notice to the Respondent – The Respondent is provided with a formal letter outlining the allegations.
- Respondent Interview – We meet with the Respondent to hear their version of events and obtain relevant context.
- Witness Interviews – We interview other relevant individuals, and where necessary, re-interview parties to clarify inconsistencies or address new issues.
- Final Report – We prepare a detailed investigation report, setting out findings and, where requested, recommendations.
We conduct interviews virtually by default, but can accommodate in-person interviews upon request. Our team also uses a trauma-informed approach to ensure participants are treated with sensitivity and respect throughout the process.
We keep our clients informed at each stage of the investigation and remain accessible to address any questions or concerns as they arise. Our lawyers are well-versed in navigating evolving issues, including:
- New or expanding allegations during the investigation;
- Counter-complaints;
- Retaliation or reprisal claims;
- Confidentiality concerns and process breakdowns.
Whether you require strategic advice or a full investigation service, Singh Lamarche LLP can support you in meeting your legal obligations while protecting the integrity of your workplace.
Request a Consultation
There are two ways to request a consultation:
You may call us at 647-799-0499 or you can click here to request a consultation online.