Skip to main content
Interview of Complainant
  • Describe the purpose of the investigation and interview.
  • Review University policy(s).
  • Explain the process for the investigation. Have the complainant indicate in writing that he/she understands the process.
  • Do not promise confidentiality.
  • Ask the complainant for their account of the incident. Ask questions for clarification and further detail as necessary. Can ask for a written statement, signed and dated as well.
  • Ask for any witnesses from the complainant.
  • Ask the complainant of the desired outcome, but do not promise any specific outcome.
  • Request that the complainant do not discuss the complaint widely with others.
  • Inform the complainant that they will be kept up to date on the progress of the investigation.
  • Thank the complainant for coming forward.
  • The written summary of the interview should be shared with the complainant for editing, verification and sign-off.
Interview of Respondent
  • Describe the purpose of the investigation and interview.
  • Review University policy(s).
  • Describe the alleged behaviors and by whom.
  • Ask if the described behaviors happened as a direct question. Provide a copy of the complaint to the respondent for review, redacting any names/identifying information that are not necessary, or from whom written permission to share information has not been obtained.
  • Ask the respondent to provide a written statement, signed and dated.
  • Ask the respondent for any additional witnesses.
  • Review the Retaliation and Privacy Policies.
Interview of Witnesses
  • Ask the witnesses whether they had been contacted by the complainant or respondent, and what, if anything, was discussed.
  • Only share with witnesses the details of the complaint needed in order to provide information.
  • Ask the witnesses to share information related to the report.
  • Ask the witnesses for any additional witnesses.
  • Allow witnesses to provide a written statement, signed and dated
  • Review the Retaliation and Privacy Policies.