Internal & Independent Investigations

Organizations today face complex challenges when allegations of fraud, self-dealing, financial impropriety, or sexual and other forms of misconduct arise. How those issues are investigated—and how quickly and credibly they are addressed—can determine not only legal outcomes, but also an institution’s reputation, culture, and ability to move forward.

At Ford O’Brien, we conduct thorough, efficient, and highly sensitive investigations on behalf of public and private institutions, including for-profit and not-for-profit entities and foundations. We have been trusted by boards of directors, general counsel, and leadership teams to investigate serious allegations and deliver clear, defensible findings that allow them to make reasoned decisions and take remedial actions. We operate with the independence and objectivity required to instill confidence in the investigative process and its conclusions.

Experienced Investigators for Sensitive Matters

Our investigations team includes attorneys with deep backgrounds in investigating white-collar and regulatory matters, nonprofit governance issues, and sexual misconduct. We apply rigorous investigative techniques to uncover the facts needed to resolve allegations of officer, director, trustee, or employee misconduct. We formulate bespoke strategies aimed at minimizing the entity’s risk and exposure, particularly when third-party witnesses are involved.

We conduct investigations involving:

• Fraud and financial misconduct
• Self-dealing and breaches of fiduciary duty
• Misuse of organizational funds or assets
• Sexual misconduct and harassment
• Governance failures and conflicts of interest
• Retaliation and whistleblower complaints
• Ethical and compliance violations

Our team brings strong interpersonal skills to create an environment where witnesses feel respected and heard, while still conducting disciplined and fact-driven inquiries. Investigations sometimes involve individuals who have experienced difficult or traumatic events. Our attorneys are trained in trauma-informed interviewing techniques and approach witnesses with the care, sensitivity, and professionalism these matters require.

Our reports are crafted with an understanding that they may be reviewed by boards, regulators, courts, auditors, or other stakeholders. We do more than determine what happened. We recommend governance and policy improvements, compliance enhancements, remedial actions and disciplinary measures, and communications strategies and regulatory considerations. We also advise our clients regarding potential law enforcement referrals and voluntary disclosure and cooperation with government authorities.