The VM Blog
In our blog, you’ll read about everything from workplace misconduct, report writing, and investigating stale complaints to interviewing non-employee witnesses. We hope these articles help you better understand the investigative law process, where common misunderstandings and hold-ups happen, and best practices we can all employ.
Delivering The Lybarger Admonition The Correct Way
When public employers conduct workplace investigations—especially those involving law enforcement or public safety personnel—the process becomes complex when potential criminal conduct overlaps with administrative misconduct. In these instances, investigators must protect both the agency’s right to accountability and the employee’s constitutional rights. The tool used to maintain this balance is the Lybarger admonition.
The Impact Of Public Safety Workplace Culture On Investigations
Public safety employee relationships are multi-dimensional and unique. This blog explores two of the most impactful aspects of these workplaces: (1) the strict, paramilitary chain of command; and, (2) the strong cultural bonds that make first responders more akin to family than ordinary colleagues.
Respondent Notices and Admonitions Under POBR and FBOR: You Should Sweat The Small Stuff
When conducting workplace investigations involving first responders, investigators must navigate unique legal requirements under California’s Public Safety Officers Procedural Bill of Rights (POBR) and Firefighter Bill of Rights (FBOR). These statutes guide investigations into police and firefighter misconduct. They impose stricter procedural requirements than standard employment investigations, with critical notice and admonition requirements for Respondents accused of misconduct.