#MeToo-Investigations
Allegations of sexual misconduct in the workplace (or violations of the AGG) represent one of the most difficult and sensitive challenges for employers. Not only do they involve considerable risks under criminal and labour law, they also jeopardise the company’s reputation and can lead to a profound loss of trust among the workforce.
Sensitivity to the issue of sexual misconduct in the workplace has increased significantly in recent years on several levels: society, the media and regulatory authorities are increasingly critical of companies’ behaviour and expect them to act in a clear, legally correct and transparent manner. These heightened expectations are closely linked to a significant increase in legal and regulatory density, which manifests itself in, among other things, stricter legislation, expanded case law and more stringent compliance requirements. Particularly in the wake of the #MeToo debate, there has been a growth in both factual and normative expectations of companies to act not only in accordance with the law, but also promptly and openly in cases of suspected misconduct.
As a law firm specialising in corporate criminal law and criminal law, we support companies in investigating such allegations through tailored advice and internal investigations. Our goal: professional, independent and confidential handling of the matter, creating legal certainty and protecting the interests of all parties involved.
The perspective of company management
When allegations of sexual misconduct arise, several pressing questions immediately arise for management, compliance departments and human resources managers:
- How can we respond quickly and in a legally compliant manner?
- What are the risks for the company, the management and individual executives?
- How can we protect those affected while avoiding prejudgement?
- What legal steps are necessary?
In this situation, swift action, legal expertise and discretion are crucial.
Our services – Internal investigations of sexual misconduct
We support companies in all phases of the internal investigation:
1. Analysis and strategy
- Assessment of the allegations and legal risks
- Development of an investigation plan
- Coordination with company management, compliance and HR
2. Conducting the investigation
- Conducting confidential interviews and surveys
- Reviewing documents, emails and internal processes
- Sensitive handling of those affected, whistleblowers and accused parties
3. Documentation and preparation
- Preparation of legally compliant documentation
- Clear recommendations for action for management and supervisory bodies
- Preparation for possible investigative authorities or labour law proceedings
4. Communication and coordination
- Liaison with internal departments, supervisory authorities and the public prosecutor’s office
- Support with internal and external crisis management
- Advice on corporate communications in the event of a crisis
Why we are the right partner
- Specialisation in commercial criminal law: Our law firm has proven expertise at the interface of criminal law, labour law and corporate law.
- Experience with sensitive issues: We know how important it is to deal with allegations of sexual misconduct discreetly and thoroughly.
- Independence and professionalism: As an external law firm, we offer neutral and credible clarification.
- Practical solutions: Our recommendations are legally sound and tailored to the realities of business.
Prevention and compliance – minimising risks in the long term
In addition to dealing with specific incidents, we advise companies on setting up preventive structures, for example through:
- Developing and implementing codes of conduct to prevent sexual misconduct
- Training and awareness programmes for employees and managers to prevent sexual misconduct
- Setting up whistleblower systems
- Support with crisis and reputation management
In this way, we help to reduce risks and promote a corporate culture characterised by respect and integrity.