Why launch an internal investigation?
When a report of psychological or sexual harassment is made, the employer must react immediately and open an internal investigation. Failing to do so breaches the employer’s obligation to ensure workers’ safety—even if the allegations are ultimately proved unfounded.
The investigation aims at protecting the victim and, where wrongdoing is confirmed, punishing the perpetrator.
Ignoring the need for an internal investigation exposes the employer to serious legal consequences, both civil and criminal.
Every internal investigation is unique
Methodology must be tailored to guarantee the legal validity of the final report, taking into account:
Whistle-blower’s status – anonymous, employee, executive, or third-party.
Nature of the allegations – delicate matters requiring rigorous, highly confidential handling to protect reputations.
Reporting channel used – each triggers specific obligations for the employer.
Why entrust the investigation to a lawyer?
Inadequately handled complaints can inflict major reputational damage and triggers civil or criminal liability. If internal investigation rules are not complied with, directors may be held personally liable.
A precise knowledge of the law is vital. Legally characterizing the facts and conducting a fair, impartial inquiry enable the employer to respond appropriately to the alert—and to defend the company if litigation follows.
Lawyers are bound by an oath of dignity, conscience, independence, integrity, and humanity, and they work under strict rules of confidentiality and impartiality. This ethical framework creates optimal conditions for uncovering the truth while respecting everyone involved.
Work with Marie-Charlotte Diriart
In this complex field, expert support is essential. Recognised by Décideurs Juridiques for her work in workplace-investigation , Marie-Charlotte Diriart offers companies and their leaders invaluable experience and expertise.
Known for her humane, ethical approach, she ensures investigations are thorough and evidence-based, providing clients with solid conclusions for decisive action or courtroom defense. Where needed, she coordinates multidisciplinary teams—such as Business Criminal Law or Intellectual Property departments at Bignon Lebray—to address specialized issues.
Our Services
Conducting investigations
We carry out internal investigations in full compliance with our ethical obligations, guaranteeing independence and impartiality. We gather both incriminating and exculpatory evidence so our clients can defend their interests effectively in the event of a dispute
Entrusting your internal investigation to a lawyer helps restore trust within your organisation.
Support during in-house investigations
For clients who conduct their internal investigations by themselves, we provide strategic guidance at every step, assist them anticipate pitfalls, assist them in drafting the conclusions of their investigation report.. Legal support makes the process more robust and efficient.
By properly handling harassment and discrimination reports, a company maintains a healthy work environment, builds a more respectful and inclusive culture, and protects itself legally—benefiting employees, management, and the company’s public image alike.
Training Programmes
We propose two popular courses:
Preventing Psychological and Sexual Harassment at Work
Proactive prevention reduces litigation risk, protects your reputation, and cuts potential costs.
Conducting an Internal Investigation Effectively
Training HR teams to identify and run suitable in-house investigations—properly and professionally.
Our firm has been a Qualiopi-certified continuing-education provider since June 2022 (registration no. 11752806175).
Contact
Marie-Charlotte DIRIART
- Partner, Head of Employment Law Department
- Member, Avosial Internal Investigations Commission
- Member, National Association of Investigating Lawyers, Avosial
