Internal Investigations

From time to time, corporations and other institutions find it necessary to conduct independent, internal investigations of suspected wrongdoing or misconduct by individuals within the organization. These matters may involve allegations of embezzlement, graft, or schemes to defraud customers or regulators. The allegations may concern sexual harassment, whistleblower claims, diversion of corporate opportunities, and shareholder disputes.

Kramon & Graham has substantial experience in both conducting independent internal investigations and representing individuals who are the subject of those investigations. When retained to conduct the investigations, our attorneys work with the organization to establish the protocols and objectives for the investigation. Frequently, the scope of our work includes interviewing witnesses, analyzing records, and generating a formal written report of our findings and proposed changes to corporate governance policies and internal controls to minimize the risk of future incidents. Our work in this area is undertaken with the recognition of the organization's need to continue business operations while at the same time addressing what are often serious and sensitive personnel issues.

The targets of corporate investigation can face extraordinary difficulties and also often need to retain counsel. The outcome of the investigation can adversely affect an individual's ability to make a living and can cause lasting damage to his or her reputation and standing in the community. Many times the individual faces the possibility of indictment or is under active criminal investigation. Kramon & Graham regularly represents these clients in those investigations and also assists in developing a strategy for navigating what can be a stressful and difficult process.

Representative Matters

Engaged by the Key School Board of Trustees to conduct an independent investigation into reports of sexual misconduct by former faculty members in the seventies, eighties and nineties.

Following the merger announcement between two of the world's largest hotel chains, shareholders of one of the hotels filed class actions claiming that its Board of Directors breached its fiduciary duty by recommending the merger. Kramon & Graham was retained by an independent committee of the hotel Board to conduct an investigation into those assertions.