Overview
In light of the elimination of, or extensions to, state statutes of limitations for both minor and adult survivors of sexual abuse, misconduct claims can put your organization—and its board and senior executives—in a difficult and uniquely vulnerable position. Beyond the typical workplace allegations of sexual harassment against an employer, these claims expose respected academic and cultural institutions, healthcare and social services providers, and religious organizations to significant financial and reputational harm. The public and your stakeholders (including donors, investors, current and prospective employees), as well as law enforcement and government regulators, are likely to scrutinize how your organization reacts and responds to such allegations. The implications can be far-reaching. An inadequate or improper response may negatively impact your organization’s operations, future government investigations or civil suits.
With decades of experience in advising institutional clients, our team is uniquely prepared to advise your organization throughout the lifecycle of these sensitive and often high-profile matters. We are equipped to review alleged claims, while uncovering information your organization needs to accurately determine possible wrongdoing, to proactively design an approach to evaluate risks before challenges or allegations come to light, and to respond swiftly to minimize damage if related investigations or litigation follow.
Our multi-disciplinary team—comprised of former state and federal prosecutors, best-in-class white-collar investigators and litigators—has handled such high-stakes claims both as defense counsel and prosecutors. Members of the team have extensive experience in every aspect of these complex matters. Additionally, our team frequently partners with specialized groups across the Firm, including corporate securities, employment and labor, healthcare, insurance coverage and nonprofit governance. We leverage this expertise to deliver forward-thinking advice, whether helping you properly structure compliance programs, draft appropriate policies, conduct board education and staff trainings, hold tough conversations at executive and leadership levels, investigate the merits of allegations, handle media inquiries or develop crisis management plans.
If the organization faces litigation, our deep bench of trial lawyers has a wealth of experience in addressing civil lawsuits resulting from these types of claims. Through it all, we can help you navigate quickly to appropriately address and remediate issues, create authentic cultural change where needed, and protect your organization’s brand and reputation.
To bring a calm, experienced perspective to these matters, from proactive compliance and trainings to the challenges of investigations and litigation, you can turn to our savvy, responsive and fast-moving team.
