Witness interviews are often the cornerstone to successful workplace investigations. In order for an interview to be effective, it is important that the witness feel comfortable being forthright with the investigator. So, how do you respond as an investigator when a witness asks if “Can you keep my information confidential”?

As anticipated, on June 23, 2022, the 50th anniversary of Title IX’s enactment into law, the Biden Administration’s Department of Education released a Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) in an effort to modify existing Title IX regulations.

Balance is key. We often hear that concept applied to many things in life, so it should come as no surprise it also applies to workplace investigations. Most pertinently, investigators need to manage FOMO – “Fear Of Missing Out.” While it might not seem obvious that FOMO exists in investigations, I am here to tell you it does.

Title IX is a federal law, enacted 50 years ago, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally funded educational programs and activities for schools and universities throughout the Country. This article outlines some of the new, as well as the existing, terms, which apply to Title IX investigations and hearings in California

Although the issues of sex discrimination and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity may seem separate, their histories and impact on the law are linked. This article will examine—in two parts—the history of Title IX with respect to LGBTQ+ rights as well as the impact both have on our workplaces and campuses today.

We all want to feel included, respected, and safe at work. It translates to a positive and productive work environment for everyone. In recognition of Pride Month, we highlight 8 important opportunities for an inclusive workplace for those who identify in the LGBTQ+ community

Although the issues of sex discrimination and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity may seem separate, their histories and impact on the law are linked. This article will examine—in two parts—the history of Title IX with respect to LGBTQ+ rights as well as the impact both have on our workplaces and campuses today.

Prior to the enactment of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, there was a significant disparity between men and women in education throughout the United States. Laws in the early 1900s mandating children attend school from kindergarten through 12th grade ensured girls’ presence in K-12 schools. However, classes and extracurricular offerings were not equal for boys and girls.

Investigators and witnesses are often at odds when it comes to lengthy or multiple interviews. Interviews can be stressful and interviewees generally desire them to be over sooner rather than later - without offense to the investigator. Investigators, on the other hand, must be diligent in completing their interviews and ensure they gather the necessary material information to complete a thorough investigation regardless of the time it takes.

This month, we are delighted to put the VM Spotlight on one of our Partners, Erich Knorr. Erich has been with the Firm for 6 years and during that time he has grown his skillset and knowledge of investigations while being a valued mentor of Team VM.

In the investigative world, we often run into situations where two people interpret the same events in wildly different ways. As human beings, our memories can be subjective, and we are constantly interpreting events through the lens of our own backgrounds and experiences.

VM Recommends is a monthly feature where members of our Team give suggestions on podcasts, television, movies and books for you to spend time with.

For April, see what Supervising Editor Mary Ann Demos is recommending.

This month, we are delighted to put the VM Spotlight on our Supervising Editor and Paralegal, Mary Ann Demos, who leads our valiant team of Editors. Since joining VM in 2014, Mary Ann has worked assiduously to make sure the attorneys’ work is polished to perfection, and she also lends her editing touch to correspondence, surveys, and handbooks for the Firm

This new series from VM gives you insight into the terms and concepts of neutral investigations. In this edition, we focus on the term PROMPT, the second of three critical requirements of a workplace investigation.

Most businesses, understandably, want their workplace investigations completed as fast as possible. But balancing speed with thoroughness—all while maintaining impartiality and respecting procedural fairness and due process—is of critical importance in conducting a process that has integrity.

This month, we are delighted to put the VM Spotlight on our Chief Operating Officer, Jennifer “Jen” Maguire. Jen has been with the Firm for 6 years. During that time, she has helped the Firm grow and develop in many different ways.

VM Recommends is a monthly feature where members of our Team give suggestions on podcasts, television, movies and books for you to spend time with. 

For March, see what Chief Operating Officer Jennifer Maguire is recommending.

While sports teams may not be traditional “workplaces,” it is still important for teams, and the leagues they operate under as a whole, to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable coming to work each day. A recent racial discrimination lawsuit filed by a former head coach in the NFL highlights the significance of equity and fairness in hiring practices in the sports industry.

When you choose VM, it may appear as though you have one investigator assigned to your case. But in reality, you are benefitting from a team of investigators and professional staff drawing from a wealth of knowledge.

VM Recommends is a monthly feature where members of our Team give suggestions on podcasts, television, movies and books for you to spend time with. 

For February, see what Partner Jen Doughty is recommending.