CORPORATE INTERNAL INVESTIGATIONS

CORPORATE INTERNAL INVESTIGATIONS: DISCREET AND STRATEGIC SUPPORT

Allegations of misconduct or financial crime within an organisation can have significant legal, financial and reputational consequences.  A common response from a company will be to initiate a lawyer led investigation, designed to minimise the company’s own exposure and risk.  This can lead to individual Directors, Officers and employees being sacked or even worse, prosecuted (in the UK or even abroad).

Being asked to participate in a corporate investigation can be a daunting prospect.  It is not nice to have your employer sifting through thousands of past emails and questioning your conduct.  You may be asked to attend an interview and provide written explanations about events which took place years before.

Proper, independent legal representation is key.

At Gherson, we provide expert advice and tailored support for individuals subject to internal investigations.

WHAT ARE CORPORATE INTERNAL INVESTIGATIONS?

Internal investigations are conducted to uncover facts surrounding suspected wrongdoing within an organisation. Common triggers include:

• Allegations of fraud, bribery, or money laundering.
• Breaches of internal policies or regulatory requirements.
• Whistleblower reports.
• Concerns related to employee conduct or ethics violations.

Organisations may also be obliged, or decide to voluntarily, report the findings of the investigation to an enforcement agency such as the Serious Fraud Office, the NCA, HMRC or the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

If you are asked to participate in an internal investigation, it is important to ensure you have independent legal representation who can help you navigate the process and minimise the likelihood of any subsequent action against you

HOW GHERSON CAN HELP

Our experienced team offers comprehensive legal support throughout the investigation process, including:

• Liaison with the corporate investigators to ensure you have proper access to documents and materials.
• Representing individuals at interview to ensure the fairness of the process.
• Liaison with insurers to cover your legal costs.
• Advice on liaison with additionally concerned regulators, such as the FCA (if appropriate)
• Accessing and reviewing any report made by the corporate to an enforcement agency.
• Handling any follow-on action (together with employment counsel if required).

WHY CHOOSE GHERSON?

• Expertise Across Sectors: We have extensive experience handling investigations across industries, including aviation, manufacturing, mining, construction, oil and gas, finance, technology and healthcare.
• Discreet and Strategic: We handle representation with sensitivity and precision to protect your interests and reputation.
• Tailored Solutions: Each client has a bespoke strategy to meet your unique needs.
• Comprehensive Support: From the initial call for assistance, through to the conclusion of the investigation and beyond, we guide you through every stage of the process.

CONTACT US

If you are asked to become involved in a corporate internal investigation, contact Gherson today. Our expert team provides discreet, strategic advice to protect your rights and reputation.