Representing Independent School Facing Allegations
An independent school received a report from a former student that the student was a survivor of sexual misconduct from a school employee during the 1970s. The school undertook an investigation into possible past sexual misconduct. We advised the school through the investigation process, including communications with the school community, selection of an investigator and definition of the scope of the investigation, reporting allegations of abuse to the appropriate authorities and addressing potential disciplinary issues. We oversaw a team involving an outside investigator, communications firm and school administration.
Conducting Internal Investigations in Companies and at Universities
Our client received an anonymous complaint alleging that a high-level employee had been engaging in various forms of sex discrimination for many years. Miles & Stockbridge was retained to conduct an investigation into the allegations. Because the complaint came at a time in which the #MeToo movement was in full bloom, the client was extremely sensitive to the nature of the allegations and ensuring that it was properly investigated and addressed any possible misconduct.
Conducting Internal Investigations for Harassment Complaint
Another client received a complaint from one of its employees and a virtually simultaneous anonymous complaint alleging that a high-level employee had engaged in sexual harassment of his subordinates. Miles & Stockbridge was retained to investigate the allegations and advise on the next steps. During the investigation, the respondent made his own allegations of financial misconduct at the company that we also addressed.
Conducting Internal Investigation at University
A university received an anonymous complaint against two high-level staff members, alleging that they were engaging in discrimination, harassment and bullying. We conducted an investigation of the claims in conjunction with the university’s Office of Equity and Compliance. The investigation lasted for several weeks and included interviews of close to 20 individuals.
Performing OFCCP Audit for Research University
Performed an Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) audit for a research university in a case involving a government contractor that alleged race discrimination. We were able to successfully reduce and resolve the case.
Conducting Internal Investigation for Cyber Company
A company providing integrated security services terminated an executive after revelations of discrimination in the organization and retaliation by the executive, as well as suspicions of the executive’s involvement in misconduct in connection with bids for state government contracts. Miles & Stockbridge conducted and advised the client through several different internal investigations and the ultimate termination of the executive and several other members of management. With our assistance, the client terminated the employees, clawed back all equity, and avoided a lawsuit.
Defended an Employer Against Discrimination Claims brought by a Physician Employee
Steve represented an employer in the defense of discrimination and other claims by a physician who had failed to meet the employer’s requirement of becoming board certified in his area of specialty within the requisite time period. After failing the board certification examination, the physician claimed that he had a disability that the employer had failed to adequately accommodate. Despite being provided with various accommodations, the physician was again unsuccessful on the examination and his contract expired. Steve represented the employer in an intensive investigation by a government agency of the physician’s complaints of discrimination and retaliation. The agency ruled against the physician on each of his claims. When the physician then filed suit in state court, Steve led the defense of the litigation and was able to accomplish a resolution on terms favorable to the employer.
