Considerations in Independent School Student Sexual Misconduct Investigations

Conducting a prompt, thorough, impartial investigation in response to a student’s allegation of sexual misconduct is an important component of a proper response by your school. This report provides some key considerations to follow to help ensure your school chooses an appropriate investigator, conducts interviews impartially, and takes steps to properly document evidence.

• Schools must understand and adhere to the legal standards for an investigation in their jurisdiction.
• Initially choosing an appropriate, experienced investigator is important to help ensure the investigation meets required legal standards.
• How the investigator conducts interviews and documents evidence and factual findings helps show the school is responding appropriately to allegations.