Our cross-practice investigations team consists of specialist lawyers from our business crime and regulatory, employment, commercial litigation, civil fraud, data protection and privacy, reputation and crisis management practices. We quickly mobilise bespoke teams to provide seamless support and can tailor an investigation to your specific needs.
The need for an internal investigation could be triggered by any number of events, such as the discovery of a potential regulatory breach, foreshadowed ligation, a report from a whistle-blower, external intervention or even by issues raised in the media. If not handled carefully from the outset, these internal issues may result in criminal, regulatory, or civil proceedings.
The aim of a good internal investigation is to determine the facts, and unearth any wrongdoing, to ensure that the organisation can take prompt and effective remedial action. It will also aim to protect the organisation's reputation and its position in any external proceedings. We support businesses and individuals through the process and manage every stage – from preparing an investigation plan and developing a communications strategy, to dealing with regulators and managing appropriate remediation.
We act for financial institutions, professional service firms, sporting organisations, and hospitality businesses – to name a few – as well as individuals, on internal investigations. Our reputation for thoroughness and discretion means that we are often instructed to investigate allegations of serious misconduct, including #metoo and #ustoo accusations, handling both complainants and accused with sensitivity and objectivity.
Whatever the circumstances, our objectives remain the same: to manage and minimise risk, devise a robust strategy to navigate the investigations process, and to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Conducting an internal investigation in relation to the alleged misuse of an EU grant.
Conducting an internal investigation in Japan into alleged criminal cartel activity for a multinational corporation.
Conducting several internal investigations for a global conglomerate headquartered in Singapore to assess exposure to an investigation into a commercial counterparty.
Conducting an investigation for a US arms manufacturer into the behaviour of European agents in securing contracts with an EU government.
Conducting an internal investigation on behalf of a high-profile sports organisation to investigate allegations of unlawful discrimination.
Conducting an internal investigation on behalf of a financial payments company in relation to one of the largest modern-day fraud investigations.
Conducting an internal investigation for a medical charity in relation to allegations of sexual misconduct by an employee.
Leading an independent disciplinary investigation into a Head National Coach of a major sports organisation regarding allegations of abuse and mistreatment of its athletes.
Conducting an investigation for one of the UK's largest retail companies in relation to allegations of false accounting.
Advising a regulated business on investigating allegations of serious sexual misconduct, their regulatory obligations and exiting the individual from the business.
Conducting an investigation for an international logistics company into the behaviour of in-country managers in Africa when bidding for oil and gas sector contracts.
Our Team
Working closely with you, we'll find the best way to get you quickly and easily from where you are to where you want to be.
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From launching an effective investigations process and selecting the right team, to implementing a robust communications strategy and protecting your legal privilege, our cross-practice investigations team provides practical guidance on the internal investigations process to help you get it right.
