Internal investigations serve to clarify sensitive issues in companies and institutions in a systematic and transparent manner. They are often triggered by indications of compliance violations, corruption, fraud, bullying, sexual harassment, conflicts of interest, or violations of internal directives and regulatory requirements. Our goal is to clarify the facts, reduce risks in terms of reputation, liability, supervision, and labor law, and create a solid basis for decisions and follow-up measures for you. As an external law firm, Zürcher Rechtsanwälte AG brings the necessary independence, experience, and discretion to accompany internal investigations in a legally compliant and practical manner.
Our core competencies at a glance
Internal investigations into compliance and instruction violations
We conduct internal investigations in companies, government agencies, and other organizations when there is suspicion of serious violations of instructions, laws, or compliance regulations. These include corruption, bribery, embezzlement, conflicts of interest, breaches of duty of care, money laundering, and insider trading. We clarify which regulations and internal rules are affected and how the facts of the case are classified legally. The relevant information is systematically collected, checked, and documented in a structured form. This creates a clear picture of the events, on the basis of which you can take well-founded action internally, vis-à-vis authorities, or vis-à-vis other stakeholders.
Independent and fair clarification of the facts
We attach great importance to independence, objectivity, and confidentiality at every stage of the investigation. At the outset, we work with you to develop an initial risk analysis and possible courses of action, and together we define the scope of the investigation. On this basis, we draw up an investigation plan, conduct interviews, analyze documents and emails, and evaluate other relevant information. We prepare the results in such a way that they are understandable and reliable both internally and to third parties. In doing so, we ensure that the rights of accused persons and whistleblowers are protected within the framework of the applicable legal requirements.
Labor law, criminal law, and regulatory interfaces
Internal investigations often touch on several areas of law at the same time. Questions often arise under labor law regarding the status of employees, suspensions, dismissals on suspicion, or reporting obligations within the company. In addition, there are criminal law considerations regarding possible criminal offenses and how to deal with criminal charges, as well as regulatory issues, particularly in regulated industries. We assess these interfaces in an integrated manner and keep the overall strategy in mind. On this basis, we formulate clear recommendations for action, for example on labor law measures, reports to authorities, or the adaptation of directives, processes, and control mechanisms.
Whistleblowing and reporting systems
We support companies in dealing professionally with reports from whistleblowing channels and other reporting offices. Together with you, we determine how reports should be received, documented, and evaluated according to their relevance. We show you when and how an internal investigation should be initiated based on a report and which steps must be taken. In doing so, we take into account the requirements for data protection, personal rights, and confidentiality. Upon request, we also advise you on the design, implementation, or review of whistleblowing structures, guidelines, and processes to ensure that reporting systems are legally compliant and suitable for everyday use.
Cooperation with authorities and supervisory bodies
Internal investigations often form the basis for dealing with supervisory and criminal authorities. We help you to be prepared for inquiries and to develop a consistent communication and disclosure strategy. If necessary, we support you in contacting supervisory authorities such as FINMA, other specialist supervisory authorities, or law enforcement agencies, and accompany you in discussions and proceedings. We prepare the investigation results in such a way that they can be used in official proceedings without unnecessarily compromising attorney-client privilege or a subsequent defense position. This allows you to retain control over the content, timing, and scope of disclosures.
Design of investigation and compliance structures
We advise not only in crisis situations, but also on the preventive design of internal investigation and compliance structures. This includes the development or revision of internal directives, investigation guidelines, and checklists, as well as the definition of roles and responsibilities in the event of an investigation. We support you in coordinating the interfaces between compliance, HR, legal services, internal audit, and external bodies. Clear processes and responsibilities increase your ability to act in an emergency and help to reduce legal and organizational risks in the long term.
Training and awareness-raising for managers and key personnel
We train managers and those responsible for compliance, HR, and other central functions in the professional handling of internal investigations. In these training courses, we teach practical basics on how to deal with reports, interview techniques, documentation, and the dos and don'ts of labor law. Using case studies, we highlight typical sources of error and proven solutions. The aim is to strengthen the confidence of those involved and to promote a culture in which reports are taken seriously and sensitive situations are handled in a structured manner. In this way, compliance is put into practice in the company and is not just anchored on paper.
