Our Complex Workplace Investigations service provides employers with an external, impartial and professionally managed investigation process. Delivered by experienced employment lawyers, we handle sensitive and high‑risk matters where internal teams may face concerns about impartiality. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, assess credibility, and prepare clear, defensible investigation reports to support fair outcomes. Whether the allegations involve misconduct, bullying, discrimination, whistleblowing or senior leadership concerns, we offer an objective and confidential service that protects organisational integrity and reduces risk.
Complex Workplace Investigations
Herrington Carmichael is a full service law firm offering legal advice to UK and international businesses as well as individuals and families.
Witness Interviews and Evidence Gathering
We manage the complete investigative process, including the review of relevant documents, digital records, communications and any other supporting evidence. Our team conducts private, structured and sensitive interviews with complainants, respondents and witnesses to obtain full and accurate accounts. We are skilled at navigating conflicting versions of events, reluctant witnesses and complex team dynamics. Throughout the process, we maintain a consistent, objective methodology to ensure all evidence is properly considered. This level of thoroughness enables employers to make informed decisions based on a clear and reliable factual picture.
Investigation Reports
At the conclusion of the investigation, we prepare a detailed and defensible report setting out the allegations, summarising all evidence, analysing credibility and reaching clear findings. Our reports are detailed and well‑reasoned. Where requested, we also provide practical recommendations, for example, potential disciplinary action, process improvements, workplace adjustments or cultural considerations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your most pressing questions about our services and processes.
What is a workplace investigation?
A workplace investigation is a structured fact‑finding process used to explore allegations such as misconduct, bullying, discrimination, whistleblowing or policy breaches. An impartial investigator gathers evidence, interviews witnesses and prepares findings to support fair and informed organisational decisions.
When is an external investigator appropriate?
An external investigator is particularly valuable when allegations involve senior employees, HR or managers, or where internal staff have conflicts of interest. It is also appropriate where the issues are legally or factually complex, where there are multiple complainants or witnesses, or where impartiality could reasonably be questioned. Bringing in an independent investigator strengthens the credibility of the process and reduces both legal and reputational risk.
What are the benefits for employers?
Engaging an external investigator offers employers truly independent and impartial fact‑finding, reducing the risk of procedural flaws and supporting stronger decision‑making. It ensures sensitive or contentious issues are handled by an experienced employment lawyer, improves the credibility of the process, and results in clear, defensible reports that align with legal and policy standards. It also relieves pressure on HR teams who may lack the time, capacity or neutrality required for complex matters.
Who conducts the investigation?
Your investigation will be carried out by a member of our specialist employment team, all of whom have extensive employment law expertise and significant experience in managing complex and sensitive workplace investigations.
Why choose Herrington Carmichael for workplace investigations?
Our investigations are carried out by legally trained employment specialists who bring technical knowledge and a genuinely independent perspective. We deliver clear, well‑reasoned and defensible reports that align with your policies and legal obligations, while managing sensitive staff dynamics with professionalism and care. Our team provides seamless, end‑to‑end support, from early scoping through to findings.