This session provides a focus on tips for advising and representing complainants and respondents through a workplace or regulatory investigation. Cherolyn Knapp and Robyn Gervais provide practical insights into what parties can expect from a procedurally fair investigation. They address whether legal counsel may attend investigation meetings, how long investigations typically take, and what information complainants and respondents can expect to receive.

Cherolyn and Robyn also explore when alternative resolution processes may be appropriate and discuss the unique features of regulatory investigations. Finally, they clarify the role of legal counsel in representing a party, what they should and shouldn’t do, and how they can support a fair and respectful process.
 

Speaker Bio

Cherolyn R. Knapp, Knapp Resolutions, Victoria, BC is a seasoned conflict resolution professional, civil mediator, workplace investigator, and lawyer based in Victoria, BC. From 2004 to 2019, she built a robust litigation career, providing strategic advice and advocacy for individuals, business, and organizations across a broad spectrum of civil, commercial, employment, and human rights disputes. Her practice included appearances before various levels of courts and tribunals, a strong record of out-of-court resolutions, and a leadership role as co-managing partner of a thriving law firm.

Since 2019, Cherolyn now works exclusively as a neutral. She leverages her deep understanding of legal disputes to help parties find constructive paths forward. Frequently engaged as a mediator and facilitator for litigants, employees, and professionals embroiled in conflict, Cherolyn also conducts comprehensive workplace investigations and assessments across public, private, and non-profit sectors, in unionized and non-union environments. A sought-after and dynamic speaker, she shares her expertise on conflict resolution processes, effective negotiation, and strategies for navigating high conflict behaviour. Cherolyn is also an active volunteer with CBABC and AVI Health & Community Services.