Sara Sidwell is a partner in Maslon's Labor & Employment Group with extensive experience representing and advising both large and small employers in all aspects of employment law. Her expertise includes discrimination and harassment claims, disability and leave management, workplace investigations, workforce reductions, employment contracts, wage and hours compliance, background checks and FCRA compliance, performance management, non-compete agreements and restrictive covenants, commission agreements and claims, OSHA and safety issues, workers' compensation, and whistleblower claims. As both a skilled counselor and litigator, Sara specializes in working with clients to manage workplace issues proactively and efficiently.
Investigation Best Practices
A review of best practices and practical tips as a human resources representative manages the complaint process from intake through resolution and beyond, including:
- The Complaint – documentation, communication and setting expectations, how to address confidentiality concerns, interim steps necessary to address complaint while the investigation is pending.
- The Investigation – Identifying the investigator, defining the scope of the investigation and investigation protocols, identifying witnesses, how to ask effective questions, effective documentation and note taking.
- Delivering the results - Determining appropriate outcome, communication with complainant, witnesses and the accused.
- Post Investigation – Steps HR can take to prevent additional issues, including retaliation or legal claims.
Presenter Profile (Biography/Experience/Education):
Sara Sidwell is a partner in Maslon's Labor & Employment Group with extensive experience representing and advising both large and small employers in all aspects of employment law. Her expertise includes discrimination and harassment claims, disability and leave management, workplace investigations, workforce reductions, employment contracts, wage and hours compliance, background checks and FCRA compliance, performance management, non-compete agreements and restrictive covenants, commission agreements and claims, OSHA and safety issues, workers' compensation, and whistleblower claims. As both a skilled counselor and litigator, Sara specializes in working with clients to manage workplace issues proactively and efficiently.
With over 10 years' experience in private practice, as well as six years spent in-house at two large, multi-state employers, Sara emphasizes a collaborative approach with clients. She ensures that she understands clients’ business needs and how the client defines success, and crafts strategies that are consistent with clients’ goals. Sara is a seasoned counselor, partnering with and providing practical and strategic advice to human resources, in-house legal teams, and business leaders across a broad range of industries, including financial services, manufacturing, transportation, retail, and health care.
