Workplace Investigations · California

Independent, defensible workplace investigations for California employers

When a harassment, discrimination, or misconduct complaint lands on your desk, a neutral third-party investigator protects your organization and your people. The HR Meeting conducts thorough, legally sound investigations across California and nationwide.

A structured, defensible
investigation process

From intake to final report, every investigation follows a consistent, well-documented process designed to hold up to legal scrutiny.

Intake & Scoping

We clarify allegations, identify witnesses, and define the scope before any interviews begin.

  • Confidential complaint intake
  • Allegation clarification
  • Witness identification
  • Scope & timeline agreement

Interviews & Evidence Review

Structured, neutral interviews paired with careful document and evidence review.

  • Structured witness interviews
  • Respondent interview
  • Document & policy review
  • Credibility assessment

Findings & Written Report

A clear, defensible written report with findings, credibility determinations, and recommendations.

  • Written findings report
  • Credibility determinations
  • Policy violation determination
  • Remediation recommendations

Why an independent
investigator matters

California employers face some of the strictest workplace investigation standards in the country. Under FEHA and related case law, a poorly handled internal investigation can increase, not reduce, your legal exposure.

Using an independent, outside investigator demonstrates good faith, removes internal bias and conflicts of interest, and produces a work product that holds up if a complaint escalates to litigation or a CRD claim.

The HR Meeting has conducted investigations across finance, healthcare, technology, and nonprofit organizations, bringing the same rigor and discretion to every case, regardless of company size.

Workplace investigation
questions, answered

When should we bring in an outside investigator?

Anytime a complaint involves a senior leader, HR itself, or carries meaningful legal risk, an independent investigator removes any appearance of bias and strengthens your position if the matter is challenged later.

How long does a typical investigation take?

Most investigations are completed within 2-4 weeks depending on the number of witnesses and complexity of the allegations. We move quickly without cutting corners on thoroughness.

Will the findings be confidential?

Yes. Investigation findings are shared only with the parties who need them to make employment decisions, consistent with California privacy and personnel-file requirements.

Do you handle investigations outside California?

Yes. While we have deep California expertise, we conduct workplace investigations for employers nationwide.

Let's start the
conversation

Have an active complaint or a sensitive situation you need help navigating? Reach out and we'll respond within one business day, sooner if it's time-sensitive.

Nationwide · Based in California

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