Internal investigation
A fundamental tool in the prevention, detection, and management of risk within a company, the internal investigation is increasingly implemented.
Internal investigations cover all kinds of facts that are likely to be illicit and to characterize, for example, offences of harassment, corruption, money laundering or fraud. They are useful in the prevention, evaluation, and management of risk.
It now also is criminal defense argument in a context of negotiated justice, and more precisely in France, in the implementation of a Public Interest Judicial Agreement (“Convention judiciaire d’intérêt public” - “CJIP”). We regularly assist companies in conducting internal investigations, and we do so in compliance with the ethical obligations imposed on lawyers (professional secrecy and independence) and the best practices developed in this area.
Your challenges
Addressing and responding to an allegation
Effective risk management
Internal investigations are tools for assessing the legal, operational, or reputational risks to which a company is exposed, which facilitates their control.
The implementation of reporting tools
The development of internal investigations and the associated risk management are dependent on the existence, within the company, of effective reporting procedures and mechanisms, in addition to compliance with the provisions relating to whistleblower protection.
An internal investigation procedure in compliance with the best practices
Internal investigations are a sensitive exercise and must be carried out in compliance with the applicable rules, in particular those relating to the processing of personal data and those relating to the respect for the privacy of employees.
An effective and strategic response
Following an internal investigation, the company must be able to draw consequences and take corrective measures (improvement or creation of new internal procedures, disciplinary sanctions, remediation, exchange with the authorities).
A renewed use of the internal investigation
In addition to being a strategic tool for the development and securing of a company's business, the internal investigation is, since the Sapin II law, a condition for benefiting from a “CJIP” and helps to demonstrate a willingness to cooperate with the authorities.
Our way
Carrying out internal investigations and providing subsequent assistance in order to find solutions to the challenges they face.
A strong experience in the realization of internal investigations
We have been conducting internal investigations for many years for very large companies and SMEs in various sectors, which has enabled us to develop a great expertise in this area.
A precise knowledge of the internal investigation procedure led by outside counsel
We carry out internal investigations in compliance with the highest applicable standards and with our ethical obligations, in complete independence, with integrity and in compliance with professional secrecy.
A support at all stages of the investigation
According to an investigation plan discussed with the client, we collect, process and study data useful to the demonstration of the truth, we interview relevant persons, and we draft an investigation report which enables us to analyze the situation and propose the adequate remedial measures.
A team that is reactive and adaptable to clients' needs
Because internal investigations are generally synonymous with crisis situations, we are able to respond quickly and precisely to your needs.
A strong network of trusted partners
We work closely with trusted partners (such as foreign law firms, forensics, consulting and auditing firms, or suppliers of alert processing systems) in order to provide our clients with the most complete and qualitative service possible.
