Internal employment investigations play a central role in how private employers respond to complaints of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, wage violations, and other workplace misconduct. Solomon Law Firm represents private sector employees who are involved in workplace investigations that can shape careers, reputations, and legal exposure. We advise clients at every stage of the investigation process, from the first complaint through findings and follow-up action. If your job or professional standing is at risk, early legal guidance helps protect your rights and your position.
Why Choose Solomon Law Firm
Workplace investigations can feel one-sided, especially when the employer controls the process. We focus on protecting employee rights and holding employers accountable to their legal obligations.
- Focused representation for private sector employee investigations
- Extensive experience with federal employment laws and workplace investigations
- Strategic guidance before interviews and written statements
- Clear explanations of risks, rights, and next steps
- Practical advocacy aimed at protecting your job and legal claims
What Is a Private Sector Employment Investigation?
A private sector employment investigation is an internal inquiry conducted by an employer after an employee raises concerns about workplace misconduct. These investigations often involve allegations of discrimination, harassment, retaliation, hostile work environments, or wage and hour violations.
Although employers typically control the process, investigations can have serious consequences for employees, including discipline, termination, or damage to professional reputation. How an employee responds during an investigation often shapes what happens next.
When Are Employers Required to Conduct an Investigation?
Private employers are generally required to investigate complaints that raise issues under anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws. When employers fail to investigate or conduct a flawed inquiry, they increase their exposure to legal claims.
Common triggers include complaints involving:
- Race, sex, age, disability, or religious discrimination
- Sexual harassment or other forms of workplace harassment
- Retaliation after protected activity
- Wage and hour violations
- Allegations of policy or code-of-conduct breaches
Employers must respond promptly and take complaints seriously, even if they dispute the allegations.
What Rights Do Employees Have During an Internal Investigation?
Employees involved in internal investigations have important legal protections. While private sector employees do not have the same rights as unionized or public employees, employers still must follow the law.
Employee rights during an internal investigation may include:
- Protection against retaliation for making or participating in a complaint
- Reasonable confidentiality within the limits of the investigation
- A process that is not biased or pre-determined
- Freedom from discipline based on discriminatory or unlawful motives
We advise employees on how to prepare for interviews, respond to allegations, and protect their position during the process.
What Are Employers Required to Do During Investigations?
Employers have legal obligations when investigating employee complaints. Investigations that are rushed, inconsistent, or outcome-driven often become evidence in later legal action.
Employer obligations may include:
- Conducting a prompt and fair investigation
- Applying workplace policies consistently
- Documenting findings accurately
- Taking appropriate corrective action when misconduct is confirmed
When employers fall short, employees may have additional legal claims.
How Legal Counsel Helps During Employment Investigations
Legal counsel helps level the playing field during internal investigations. Statements made during interviews, emails, or written responses may later be used to justify discipline or limit future legal claims.
We assist employees by:
- Preparing for investigation interviews
- Reviewing written statements and communications
- Identifying retaliation or discrimination risks
- Preserving claims for future legal action
Early guidance often prevents mistakes that are difficult to correct later.
Talk With a Private Sector Employment Investigations Attorney
Internal investigations can lead to discipline, termination, litigation, or regulatory scrutiny. If you are involved in a workplace investigation, we will help you protect your rights and respond strategically before decisions are made. Contact Solomon Law Firm to discuss how we can protect your interests during an employment investigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an employer discipline an employee based on an investigation?
Yes, but discipline must be based on lawful findings and applied consistently. Discriminatory or retaliatory discipline may violate the law.
Do I have to participate in an internal investigation?
Many employers expect cooperation, but employees should understand the risks and their rights before responding.
Can I be retaliated against for filing a complaint?
No. Retaliation for reporting workplace misconduct or participating in an investigation is unlawful.
Should I speak to a lawyer before an investigation interview?
Speaking with counsel beforehand helps clarify risks, obligations, and how best to respond.