Workplace Investigation Policy

A workplace investigation policy in Ireland sets out how allegations of misconduct, bullying or harassment are investigated fairly and consistently. Without one, an investigation and any resulting disciplinary action are more vulnerable to challenge. This policy covers scope, who investigates, the process, rights of both parties, confidentiality, the report, the link to disciplinary procedures and appeals, drafted in line with the WRC Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures.

Where your matter needs legal work, you instruct a solicitor directly; we provide information and self-complete templates only. The price is set, with no billable hours and no surprise invoices, and the service is fully online, so there is no need to travel to an office.

What’s included

• Purpose and scope of the policy
• Who can conduct an investigation (internal or external)
• The investigation process step by step
• Rights of the subject and the complainant
• Confidentiality obligations
• Investigation report, findings, link to disciplinary procedures and appeals
• Self-complete template with guidance notes — you fill it in yourself
• Documents tailored to Irish law and your circumstances, delivered by email
• A written summary of the key points and anything you need to do afterwards

Who this is for

• Employers without a written investigation process
• HR teams handling bullying or harassment complaints
• Employers who have faced WRC challenges
• Growing businesses formalising procedures

How it works

1. Find a solicitor through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory and send them the basic details and any existing documents or correspondence.
2. Complete a short questionnaire about your circumstances.
3. A solicitor would then draft the investigation policy for your business.
4. The completed work is delivered to you by email, with plain-English notes on what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a workplace investigation policy cost in Ireland?

This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Solicitors set their own fees for this work and must give you a written costs estimate (a section 150 letter) before starting. Get quotes through the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.

Is a written investigation policy required?

No single law requires a stand-alone policy, but the Code of Practice expects fair procedures, and a written policy helps demonstrate them.

Who should carry out an investigation?

Someone impartial and suitably experienced, different from the person who makes any disciplinary decision.

For more on employment law for Irish employers and employees, see our Employment Law in Ireland hub.

If you would like to be told when solicitor services are available again on this site, you can join our no-fee waiting list. To instruct a solicitor now, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.