Define the questions
Review scope, independence, reporting arrangements and the policies relevant to the concern.
Hartlen Workplace Investigations & Solutions
Independent Workplace Investigations Across Nova Scotia & Atlantic Canada
Harassment, bullying, misconduct, respectful workplace complaints, governance concerns and workplace conflict deserve a fair, objective response.
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Workplace investigations
A clear mandate. A fair process. Findings grounded in evidence.
Sensitive complaints can involve competing accounts, close working relationships or concerns about a leader’s conduct. An independent investigation creates a structured way to examine the relevant information without presuming an outcome.
Hear and test the evidence
Give participants a fair opportunity to respond, interview relevant witnesses and examine records and competing accounts.
Explain the findings
Provide a reasoned report, identify limitations and discuss practical next steps within the mandate.
Experience behind the process
Investigative judgment built on evidence and credibility.
A former Senior Crown Attorney in the Special Prosecutions Section of the Nova Scotia Public Prosecution Service, Rick brings more than eighteen years of experience working with investigative agencies and assessing complex evidence.
About Rick HartlenRick holds a Certificate in Advanced Workplace Investigations issued by Osgoode Hall Law School and is a member of the Association of Workplace Investigators.
He also serves as a per diem Presiding Justice of the Peace in Nova Scotia. That judicial role is separate from this independent practice and does not endorse its services.
Services
Investigations first. Other responses where they fit.
An investigation is not always the appropriate starting point. Advisory work, assessments, resolution and training offer distinct responses to different concerns.
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Workplace Investigations
Independent fact-finding into harassment, bullying, misconduct, respectful workplace complaints and governance concerns.
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Early Resolution & Workplace Advisory
A focused first look at a concern, the immediate priorities and the response options available to leaders.
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Workplace Assessments
A broader examination of workplace culture, communication and recurring concerns, rather than findings on a single allegation.
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Conflict Resolution
Structured, impartial facilitation for people seeking a workable way through strained workplace relationships.
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Safety & Respectful Workplace Programs
Review reporting pathways, policies and workplace culture so prevention and response work in everyday practice.
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Training & Education
Practical learning for managers, boards and teams on complaints, respectful workplaces and safety responsibilities.
Explore serviceWho we serve
Independent capacity for organizations and their leaders.
Small and medium-sized businesses
Municipal governments
Non-profit organizations
Associations and professional bodies
Healthcare organizations
Educational institutions
A broader response
From understanding the concern to planning what comes next.
A report is one part of the organizational response. Leaders may also need to clarify expectations, strengthen reporting pathways, support working relationships or plan training.
- Prevent
- Assess
- Investigate
- Resolve
- Restore
Start with the concern, not a predetermined outcome.
A preliminary discussion can clarify scope, independence and whether this practice is the right fit.