Situations

Handling an investigation

Investigations support for businesses and individuals

Overview

If you or your organisation is facing an investigation into allegations of wrong-doing, the consequences can be devastating

Damage to your business, to individual careers, and to reputations can be irreparable if not dealt with swiftly. Seeking specialist advice early and acting promptly can make all the difference.

We are highly experienced in advising on investigations, whether internal or external, when allegations of wrongdoing arise. Our work is led by specialist criminal, employment and regulatory partners and we provide expert advice and assistance on all potential criminal and regulatory risks, ranging from allegations of fraud, money laundering and financial crime, to concerns about sanctions or regulatory breaches, issues surrounding modern slavery or business ethics, and allegations of sexual and other non-financial misconduct.

Whatever the cause, it can be difficult to know where to start and what you will need to think about. We can help guide you through the entire process, no matter how big or small.

Our Expertise

Criminal Investigations

Kingsley Napley made its reputation on its outstanding criminal defence work and our modern white-collar practice is built on those foundations.

From suspected fraud, corruption, tax evasion, or regulatory breaches to allegations of sexual misconduct or human rights abuse or even corporate manslaughter, how a potential criminal act is handled at the very earliest stage can have significant legal, financial and reputational consequences for the company.

Criminal investigations can be overwhelming and worrying for everyone involved. You may be faced with a dawn raid, search warrants, or compelled interviews and there is no single blueprint for dealing with them. But you can be assured that you will receive calm advice at every step, ensuring that your rights are protected and obligations met at all times.

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Internal Investigations

A company might need to commission an internal investigation for any number of reasons – a whistle-blower report, a due diligence exercise or information received from a regulator. Whatever triggers the investigation, it must be tailored to the scope of the problem and the needs of the company, including not least its need to maintain its day-to day business.

Where allegations of wrong-doing arise, an organisation’s response and management of the situation is, more than ever, under the spotlight. With prosecutors increasingly targeting organisations both in the UK and overseas and the risks surrounding corporate criminal liability, the stakes are high.

We regularly conduct investigations on behalf of our corporate clients and will support you through this process to ensure a robust and thorough review, with integrity at its core.

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Workplace Investigations

When an employee is accused of misconduct, the company may face a range of legal, financial and reputational risks. We have substantial experience of acting for clients from a broad range of sectors, including the regulated sectors (in particular, law, accountancy and finance), who need to investigate alleged discrimination, sexual misconduct, bullying, whistleblowing and fraud.

Our role never ends when the investigation does. We will provide guidance from the start to the conclusion of any internal disciplinary proceedings as well as related civil, criminal or regulatory proceedings.

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“They are a known leader in corporate investigation related work and it shows. Superb knowledge of the law and excellent with pragmatic and practicable advice. Given the sensitivity of the engagement, they provided reassurance throughout and managed well difficult and complex areas without wavering.”

The Legal 500 UK