Independent Investigations

Not every situation calls for a formal investigation, but when it does, it must be handled carefully. From bullying or sexual assault to fraud or serious misconduct to safeguarding breaches or historic abuse claims, there are times when the best response is an independent investigation led by an expert.

How I work

An independent investigation minimises several critical risks: conflict of interest, bias, and mistakes in process that could cost you. But when outsourcing the process to an independent investigator, it’s critically important that you choose the right investigator for your context.

Investigations involve real people – reporting parties, victims/survivors, complainants, witnesses, and those responding to allegations. If an investigation isn’t handled well, it can easily damage your community and public trust and confidence.

My approach is grounded in a commitment to procedural fairness. My processes are transparent and consistent. Everyone is given an opportunity to be heard and is treated with respect throughout the investigation. Decisions are made based on an impartial assessment of evidence.

I have experience working across sectors. My specialty is schools, kura, and not-for-profits.

Remote investigations

Not every investigation needs an in-person presence. In many cases, investigating remotely can save time and cost, reduce your environmental footprint, and still deliver the same fairness, thoroughness, and confidentiality you’d expect from an onsite process. Utilising the latest technology, you can access my extensive investigative experience from anywhere in the world.

Start now. Address issues quickly before they escalate or evidence is lost.
Lower your costs with minimised travel expenses.
Support sustainability. Reduce your environmental impact.
Access specialist expertise from anywhere. Benefit from sector-specific knowledge and expertise that may not be available locally.
Secure interviews and evidence transfer with digital case management ensures efficiency and confidentiality.

If a case is particularly sensitive, requires physical evidence review or involves complex credibility assessments, I will recommend and arrange onsite attendance. We go remote when it makes sense, with the ability to be onsite if required.

What I help you with

I specialise in dealing with the full range of allegations of misconduct or breaches of behavioural standards anywhere in your community, including:

Bullying
Harassment
Sexual violence and exploitation
Child protection and safeguarding
Historic abuse claims
Health and safety
Fraud and corruption
Whistleblower reports
Substance abuse
Racism and discrimination

Staff Misconduct Investigations

Allegations of misconduct - workplace bullying, harassment, breach of policy - require a fair and impartial investigation to establish the facts. My independent trauma-informed investigation service is trusted to deliver an impartial and legally defensible outcome without causing undue stress to those involved.

Student Misconduct Investigations

Student misconduct investigations are increasing in frequency and complexity - bullying, sexual assault, violence. Investigating these issues is time-consuming and stressful. I have experience working with children and young people as a teacher and as an investigator. I'm able to deliver fair investigations in a trauma-informed manner.

What my clients say

Our school board engaged Tim to conduct an independent investigation into a very complex matter involving some of our staff. It was an advantage to have someone investigate who understands schools. His expertise as an investigator, combined with his experience as a teacher, enabled him to ask the necessary questions and to make fair evaluations of the responses given by our staff. I recommend Tim's services to any school looking for a thorough and fair investigation from someone who understands the education environment.

What a comfort it was knowing that the investigation was in the safest of hands.

Thank you for your professional manner. It really does help in what is a very tough time.

FAQ

When should we engage an independent investigator?

Most investigations can be handled in-house but sometimes you do need to go external. This is usually when you want to avoid perceptions of bias, the allegations are particularly serious, or you simply don't have the time or skills. If in doubt, get in touch before committing to an investigation.

Do you travel to conduct investigations?

Do you investigate both staff and students in the education sector?

Do we need to engage a lawyer if we're working with you?

How do we know your investigation will be legally compliant?

How does a remote investigation work?