Cooperation

There are a number of ways an individual or company can cooperate with an investigation conducted by the NHVR.

Responses to learning of possible offending can range from proactive, genuine, timely and practical cooperation in an investigation in contrast to other responses that can unnecessarily impede or slow the process. It is important to recognise that even proactive co-operation does not guarantee any particular outcome, but it does assist in ensuring a timely closure of the investigation.

Some of the ways in which an individual or company can cooperate with an investigation include:

• Promptly acknowledging and responding to requests for information.
• Being available for meetings with investigators.
• Providing full, accurate, and truthful information.
• Encouraging employees, officers, agents, and associates to cooperate in the investigation.
• Taking a cooperative and practical approach to any legal professional privilege (LPP) claims.
• Complying with records keeping obligations imposed by the HVNL and making relevant records available.
• Providing reasonable help to investigators when requested.
• Seeking independent legal advice.

Genuine cooperation is inconsistent with:

• Creating unnecessary delays in responding to requests or providing extensive information not requested.
• Advising other individuals connected to the investigation to tamper with evidence or give false or misleading information or testimony.
• Protecting specific individuals or unreasonably blaming others.
• Claiming legal professional privilege (LPP) unjustifiably.