Alice Donahue Investigations Logo
Workplace investigation services

Expert Workplace Investigations

We specialize in conducting external workplace investigations with a unique blend of legal precision and human understanding. Our AWI-certified approach protects both employees and organizations while navigating complex workplace issues with integrity and discretion. Whether addressing claims of potentially unlawful conduct, concerns involving ethics or professionalism, or other compliance matters, we deliver clear findings that help restore workplace harmony and mitigate legal risk. Contact us for a confidential consultation about your organization's needs.

Contact Alice

AWI-Certified Workplace Investigation Process

At Alice Donahue Investigations, we conduct all workplace investigations according to the rigorous standards established by the Association of Workplace Investigators (AWI). As an AWI-certified investigator, Alice brings a structured, methodical approach to every case.

Our investigation process follows these essential principles:
Alice Donahue Investigations mug and cards
  • Impartiality and objectivity throughout the entire investigation
  • Careful planning and clear scope definition from the outset
  • Thorough gathering and documentation of relevant evidence
  • Effective interview techniques that maximize reliable information
  • Comprehensive documentation of all investigation steps and findings

  1. An employer should consider initiating a workplace investigation when indicated by law, policy, or practice.
  2. The investigator should be impartial, objective, and possess the necessary skills and time to conduct the investigation.
  3. The employer and the investigator should develop a mutual understanding of the scope of the investigation, meaning the issues to be investigated.
  4. The investigator should engage in planning for an effective investigation.
  5. A determination should be made as to those persons with whom the investigator will communicate about the investigation, taking into consideration issues of privilege and potential conflicts of interest.
  6. The investigator should take steps to safeguard the confidentiality of the investigation without guaranteeing anonymity or complete confidentiality.
  7. The investigator should gather relevant evidence.
  8. There are many effective ways to conduct witness interviews. The investigator should create an environment that maximizes the likelihood of obtaining reliable information and should document (either through notetaking and/or recording, or some other method) the witness’ statements in a reliable and consistent fashion.
  9. The investigator should document the steps taken during the investigation, the evidence collected, and the investigator’s decision-making process, so that there is a reliable record to support the investigator’s findings.
  10. The investigator’s findings should be consistent with the scope of the investigation, as defined by the employer.
  11. If requested by the employer, the investigator should provide a report to the employer at the conclusion of the investigation
This methodical approach ensures that your workplace investigation is conducted with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. A properly conducted investigation not only addresses the immediate workplace concern but also creates a clear record that can protect your organization if litigation arises in the future.

Reach out to Alice Donahue Investigations to discuss how our structured approach can help resolve workplace issues effectively.
Contact Alice
"Alice is an excellent investigator who is attentive and attuned to the needs of her clients. Her reports are thorough, well-written, and easy to read, and provide immense value to her clients."
In house legal counsel at large Bay Area tech company
Alice typing a workplace investigation report

Balanced Expertise: Legal Precision & Human Understanding

At Alice Donahue Investigations, we bring a distinctive approach to workplace investigations that combines rigorous legal analysis with genuine emotional intelligence. This balance allows us to conduct investigations that are thorough and defensible while remaining sensitive to the complex human dynamics at play in every workplace situation. We understand that behind every investigation are real people with concerns that matter deeply to them.
Our approach ensures that all participants feel heard and respected throughout the process, while maintaining the impartiality and objectivity essential to reaching fair conclusions. By communicating in clear, accessible language rather than intimidating legal jargon, we make the investigation process more approachable for everyone involved, which leads to more effective resolutions and healthier workplace outcomes. This unique combination of legal precision and human understanding is what sets our investigative work apart.

Reach out to Alice Donahue Investigations to start your workplace investigation.
Contact Alice
Get in Touch

Start your workplace investigation today.

Bring professional, balanced, and thorough investigations to your organization from a seasoned attorney who combines legal precision with human understanding.

Contact Alice
Alice Donahue, workplace and school investigator

Alice Donahue: Independent and Neutral Workplace Investigations

I am an experienced attorney and workplace investigator, licensed in California, and Association of Workplace Investigators (“AWI”) certified. I regularly conduct complex workplace and educational investigations for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to major corporations and educational institutions. I specialize in matters involving harassment, discrimination, retaliation, and misconduct under federal and state employment laws, as well as employers individual, internal policies.

Working as an independent, neutral investigator, I have conducted or assisted on over 100 investigations. Drawing from my background in employment law and workplace investigations, I have developed particular expertise in managing sensitive cases that require both legal precision and emotional intelligence, while engaging in a transparent and communicative process with my clients.

I can conduct investigations in French and Spanish.

Learn More
Values

Core values that guide my investigations.

My commitment to fair, comprehensive, and empathetic investigations ensures I uncover the truth while treating every participant with dignity and respect.

Impartial

I conduct every investigation with unwavering objectivity and independence.

Thorough

I explore every relevant detail with methodical precision and care.

Human

I conduct investigations with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing the complex nature of school & workplace dynamics

Alice Donahue
FAQ

Frequently asked questions and answers

As an independent investigator, I bring complete objectivity and specialized expertise to your situation. My legal background and focused experience in workplace investigations allow me to conduct thorough, unbiased investigations that can better withstand scrutiny and provide clearer paths forward.

Most investigations are completed within 4-6 weeks, though timing can vary based on complexity and witness availability. During our consultation, I'll provide a more specific timeline based on your situation and help you understand what factors might affect the duration.

I prioritize discretion and confidentiality in every investigation. While we'll need to speak with relevant witnesses, I carefully manage communications to maintain privacy and minimize workplace disruption. I'll work with you to determine the appropriate communication strategy for your situation.

No. While any initial documentation is helpful, don't wait to reach out. I'll guide you through what information might be relevant and help you gather what's needed. The most important thing is starting the conversation.

You'll receive a comprehensive investigation report with clear findings.

Get in Touch

Start your school or workplace investigation today.

Bring swift, thorough investigations to your workplace or school from a seasoned attorney who delivers clarity with care.

Contact Alice
Newsletter

Subscribe for Literature & the Law Insights

Receive Alice's monthly book review, analyzing works of literature and non-fiction and providing insights on how the work's themes relate to the practice of conducting workplace and school investigations.