When your client faces a workplace complaint — harassment, discrimination, retaliation, or misconduct — the quality of the investigation can make or break the defense. I provide independent, attorney-directed workplace investigations built specifically for California employment defense attorneys who need a trusted, neutral investigator they can rely on.
My background is unique: I am both a licensed California attorney and an AWI-CH certified workplace investigator. That dual expertise means I understand the legal standard your defense requires, I know how to conduct an investigation that will hold up under scrutiny, and I deliver reports that are clear, thorough, and legally defensible.
I work exclusively as an independent investigator — I do not represent employees or employers in litigation. That neutrality protects your client and protects the integrity of the investigation.
Andrew Blan — Workplace Investigator & AWI-CH Certified
Andrew Blan is one of California’s few workplace investigators who brings both legal training and professional investigator certification to every case. A graduate of McGeorge School of Law, Andrew has spent his career at the intersection of employment law and workplace investigations — advising on, conducting, and reviewing complex investigations across public and private sector organizations throughout California.
Before founding A.W. Blan Workplace Legal Services, Andrew practiced at a premier public entity law firm, advising clients on all aspects of employment law including workplace and campus investigations. He also gained firsthand experience inside a state agency and the California State Legislature — a perspective that gives him unique insight into how both government and corporate employers structure their HR processes, their legal exposure, and their investigation protocols.
Andrew holds the AWI-CH (Association of Workplace Investigators Certificate Holder) designation — the gold standard credential for professional workplace investigators. He is also an active member of the Sacramento legal community, serving on the board of the Wiley Manuel Bar Association.
Completing approximately 50 investigations per year, Andrew brings the consistency, thoroughness, and legal precision that employment defense attorneys need when their clients’ cases depend on a sound, unbiased investigation.
| AWI-CH Certified | McGeorge School of Law | ~50 Cases / Year | CA Licensed Attorney |
| Gold Standard Credential | J.D. Graduate | Proven Track Record | Active Bar Member |
Investigation Services
Workplace Harassment Investigations
When an employee files a harassment complaint — sexual harassment, hostile work environment, or supervisor misconduct — your client needs an investigation that is thorough, neutral, and legally sound. I conduct structured interviews, review documentary evidence, assess credibility, and deliver a written findings report that meets California DFEH standards and withstands legal scrutiny.
Workplace Discrimination Investigations
Discrimination complaints involving race, gender, age, disability, national origin, religion, or sexual orientation require an investigator who understands both the legal standard and the evidentiary requirements. I apply California FEHA frameworks to every investigation, ensuring the process is defensible if challenged before the CRD or in litigation.
Retaliation Investigations
Retaliation claims are among the most complex and fact-intensive employment matters. I investigate whether adverse actions were causally connected to protected activity — reviewing timelines, communications, HR records, and witness accounts to produce a clear, credible findings report.
Title IX & Campus Investigations
Andrew has extensive experience conducting Title IX investigations for California educational institutions. These require specialized knowledge of OCR guidelines, due process obligations, and the procedural requirements that apply to campus sexual misconduct and discrimination complaints.
General Workplace Misconduct
From policy violations and conflicts of interest to employee fraud and workplace violence threats, I investigate a wide range of misconduct matters for public entities, private employers, and academic institutions across California.
From First Call to
Final Resolution
Every employment case starts with a conversation. Here is exactly what happens when you work with us.
Referral Intake & Scope Definition
You refer the case and we align on scope: who needs to be interviewed, what documents are relevant, the legal standard that applies, and the timeline your client needs. I confirm independence and the absence of conflicts before proceeding.
01Investigation Planning
I develop a written investigation plan covering interview order, document requests, and the legal framework applicable (FEHA, Title IX, company policy, or relevant statute). Planning prevents gaps that opposing counsel can exploit later.
02Interviews & Evidence Review
I conduct structured interviews with the complainant, respondent, and witnesses. All documentary evidence — emails, HR records, prior complaints, policies — is reviewed and catalogued. Every step is documented for the record.
03Analysis & Findings Report
I apply the preponderance of the evidence standard, assess credibility using objective criteria, and produce a detailed written findings report. The report includes factual findings, credibility determinations, and conclusions on each allegation — ready to support your client's defense.
04Why Employment Defense Attorneys Refer Cases to Andrew Blan
AWI-CH Certified: The AWI-CH designation is the recognized professional standard for workplace investigators. It signals to your client — and to any future tribunal — that the investigation was conducted by a qualified, trained professional.
Attorney Background: Unlike non-attorney investigators, Andrew understands the legal implications of every factual finding. His reports are written with litigation in mind — structured to support your defense, not create new exposure.
True Independence & Neutrality: Andrew does not represent employees or employers in litigation. His sole role is independent investigator. That neutrality is critical for the credibility of the report and the strength of your client’s position.
California-Specific Expertise: With experience inside a state agency, the California State Legislature, and a public entity law firm, Andrew understands the distinct legal frameworks that apply to public employers, private companies, and academic institutions.
Thorough, Defensible Reports: Every report is structured to withstand challenge — in CRD proceedings, administrative hearings, or civil litigation. Reports are clear, well-reasoned, and legally sound.
Consistent & Reliable: Completing ~50 cases per year, Andrew provides regular communication, realistic timelines, and final reports that arrive when promised.
FAQ
What types of cases do you investigate?
I investigate workplace harassment, discrimination, retaliation, Title IX/sexual misconduct, and general workplace misconduct for public and private sector employers across California. If you’re unsure whether a matter qualifies, call me — most cases are easy to scope in an initial conversation.
How do you maintain neutrality when the referring attorney represents the employer?
My role as investigator is entirely separate from any legal representation. I apply the same process and evidentiary standard regardless of who refers the case. I do not take direction on findings — only on scope. That independence is what makes the report credible and defensible.
What does the final investigation report include?
The report includes: scope and methodology, factual findings for each allegation, credibility assessments with objective reasoning, and conclusions stating whether each allegation is substantiated, unsubstantiated, or inconclusive under the preponderance of evidence standard.
How long does an investigation typically take?
A standard single-complainant investigation typically takes 3–6 weeks from intake to final report. Complex multi-party or Title IX matters may take longer. I provide realistic timelines at intake and communicate proactively if anything changes.
Are you available to testify as a witness or provide expert opinion?
Yes. I am available to serve as a fact witness on the investigation process and findings, and in appropriate matters, as an expert on workplace investigation methodology and industry standards.
What geographic areas do you cover?
I conduct investigations throughout California with a primary focus on the Sacramento region, Bay Area, and Central Valley. Remote interview options are available where appropriate.