Independent Investigations
Independent investigations and reviews for schools, higher education institutions, and not-for-profits
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, these situations sometimes demand independent investigation led by an expert who understands your sector.
An independent investigation minimises several critical risks: conflict of interest, bias, and mistakes in process that could cost you. But an investigation is more than risk management. It’s an opportunity to stand for truth and justice in your community. It shows your commitment to the values your organisation stands on.
Investigations are deeply relational. They involve real people – reporting parties, victims, complainants, witnesses, and those responding to allegations. At every step, I honour the dignity, worth, and rights of everyone involved, ensuring those rights are upheld throughout the process.
Basalt Solutions is not a law firm. I specialise in independent investigations for schools, kura, tertiary institutions, faith-based organisations, and not-for-profits. I also take on select commercial and corporate investigations by request. My broad experience in education and investigations means I brings insight into your sector with the investigative rigour needed for complex, high-stakes investigations. Unlike lawyers or advocates, I don’t take sides. I focuses solely on uncovering the facts – impartially, thoroughly, and with as little disruption as possible.
The result? Investigations that are effective, efficient, ethical – and rock-solid. Investigations everyone can trust.
When a formal investigation is the right step, I’m here to make sure it’s done right. Because how you respond says everything about who you are.
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 sooner - Address issues quickly before they escalate or evidence is lost.
- Lower costs – No travel expenses means more budget for your core priorities.
- Support sustainability - Reduce environmental impact while maintaining integrity.
- Access specialist expertise from anywhere – Benefit from sector-specific knowledge and expertise that may not be available locally.
- Modern methods – Secure interviews and evidence transfer with digital case management ensures efficiency with 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.
