Investigations and Abuse/Misconduct Prevention

Workplace and Ministry Investigations: Misconduct Response for Protecting People and Upholding Core Values

Misconduct in ministries and workplaces can leave victims with deep emotional scars: "Why did this happen? Why didn’t my leaders protect me?" When survivors feel unheard, it can erode trust in leadership and compromise an organization’s foundational values.

Telios Law offers ministries and businesses a comprehensive approach to preventing and addressing misconduct. From proactive policies to independent investigations, we empower leaders to safeguard their members and employees and to maintain an ethical environment grounded in values of integrity and care.

We Lead Investigations

At Telios Law, we conduct impartial investigations into the following areas:

• Sexual harassment or gender issues;
• Discrimination of various types;
• Workplace threats or violence;
• Inappropriate conduct or ethical breaches;
• Abuse of power in leadership;
• Child abuse;
• Historic or international investigations; and
• Leadership failure or accountability.

We assist organizations in evaluating when an investigation is necessary and how to structure it in a neutral and impartial way to ensure all parties are heard and due process is respected.

Our approach includes considerations such as administrative leave, safety plans, and supporting affected individuals and stakeholders. A trauma-informed investigation process ensures that actions taken are compassionate and address both disciplinary measures and the well-being of those impacted.

Best Practices for a Safe, Ethical Workplace

Following best practices in investigations is essential for:

• Ensuring that complaints are thoroughly investigated and taken seriously;
• Keeping stakeholders safe;
• Providing the accused with a fair and transparent process;
• Avoiding common investigative errors that could lead to increased legal risk;
• Addressing misconduct swiftly and fairly, without retaliation against whistleblowers;
• Acting with fairness to minimize liability exposure; and
• Cultivating an organizational culture of trust, accountability, and safety, where misconduct is addressed swiftly and fairly, without retaliation, and necessary cultural changes are implemented.

Visit Telios Investigations to learn more

Relevant Resources:

Investigation FAQs—Tough Questions and Transparent Answers

Investigations are complicated and messy, because they involve human behavior—both in the allegations and the investigative process. Here are some common questions about how the messiness plays out. Read the FAQ here.

Navigating Allegations with Care: FAQ for Investigative Best Practices and Healing

This FAQ provides insights into investigation best practices, from addressing sensitive allegations to implementing trauma-informed approaches. Learn how to avoid legal pitfalls, maintain fairness, and create a safe environment for all. Whether you’re navigating workplace misconduct or safeguarding vulnerable individuals, this guide equips you with the tools to act with confidence and integrity. Read the FAQ here.

Theresa Sidebotham on Ministry Investigations: A TableTalk Podcast

In a TableTalk podcast hosted by the Hendricks Center, Kymberli Cook and Theresa Lynn Sidebotham discuss best practices for conducting investigations within churches and ministries, common mistakes to avoid, and how to ensure integrity and fairness throughout the process. Listen or watch here!

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