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LIDW25

The perils of investigating misconduct in the workplace: dealing with people, the press and the police.

5 June 2025 | 09:00 - 10:30
London International Disputes Week

Speakers

  • Spaces: 100
  • Venue: Harbottle & Lewis LLP, 7 Savoy Court, London, WC2R 0EX

What this session will cover

The issue of workplace misconduct, and how to handle it, is something corporate organisations have had to grapple with more and more in recent years.

Dealing with and investigating complaints can present significant challenges, particularly when serious allegations are made against founders, senior employees or executives. There are often competing legal, regulatory, practical and reputational risks which if mishandled can lead to damaging consequences both externally and internally.

In this session we will bring together legal and communication experts in the employment, litigation, reputation and criminal fields to try to unpick some of the challenges, including:

  • When and how to constitute an internal investigation.
  • How to balance competing employment duties to the complainant and accused.
  • Communicating with staff and key stakeholders.
  • Protecting confidentiality and dealing with media enquiries and/or scrutiny in the context of the 24/7 media machine and the risk of an accusation of engaging in SLAPP litigation.
  • Dealing with the Police/Regulators where there is a concurrent criminal/regulatory investigation.
Member hosts

Harbottle & Lewis, BCL Solicitors