Independent Workplace Investigations & Assessments in Nova Scotia
Neutral third-party workplace investigation, assessment and conflict resolution services based in Dartmouth, NS, serving organizations across the Atlantic provinces.
When Does An Organization Need an External Investigator?
When workplace conflict escalates into formal complaints — including allegations of harassment, discrimination, misconduct, or governance concerns — organizations require more than internal review. They require an independent, neutral third-party process that is - and is seen to be - fair.
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Root & Branch provides external workplace investigation and assessment services across Atlantic Canada. Based in Dartmouth, NS, we serve public and private sector employers, including municipalities, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, non-profits, boards, and corporate leadership teams throughout Atlantic Canada.
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Our work supports organizations seeking impartial processes, defensible findings, and clear pathways forward during complex and sensitive situations.
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Leaders often begin searching for an independent workplace investigator when:
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A formal Respectful Workplace complaint of harassment or discrimination has been filed
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A union grievance has, or is likely to be, filed
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Allegations involve senior leadership, HR, or board members
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Internal handling may present perceived or actual bias
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The matter may escalate to a human rights claim
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Workplace morale or trust has deteriorated
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Legal, governance, or reputational risk is present
An external workplace investigation ensures neutrality and procedural fairness. Independence protects both the integrity of the process and the credibility of its outcome.
What a Neutral Third-Party Investigation Provides
An independent investigation provides more than fact-finding. It provides structure, clarity, and protection for the organization.
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Our work results in:
✔ Impartial, evidence-based findings of fact
✔ Clear documentation suitable for internal decision-making
✔ Reports that can withstand external scrutiny or legal review
✔ Reduced risk of procedural fairness challenges
✔ Professional handling that minimizes workplace disruption
✔ A structured pathway toward resolution
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For employers, this means informed decision-making grounded in documented evidence. For legal counsel, it means a defensible investigative record obtained through established principles of fairness. For employees, this means a confidential, neutral, and trauma-informed approach.
Human Rights and High-Risk Complaints
When complaints intersect with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act, systemic issues, intersectionality, lateral violence or significant power imbalances, the investigative or assessment process must be designed with extra care.
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Root & Branch conducts processes grounded in:
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Procedural fairness
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Trauma-informed interviewing practices
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Careful credibility assessment
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Clear findings based on evidence
Our reports provide structured, defensible conclusions that support organizational decision-making and, where necessary, legal defence.
Our Approach: Expert, Neutral, Defensible
As a boutique workplace investigation and conflict resolution practice based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, we provide focused, expert services rather than volume-based consulting.
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We design investigation and conflict resolution plans tailored to your organization’s structure and risk profile. When investigating, we conduct confidential interviews, review documentation thoroughly, assess evidence carefully, and deliver clear written findings of fact.
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Our goal is not only compliance. It is a resolution that restores confidence in workplace processes and reinforces accountability.
Meet Our Team
At the heart of Root & Branch’s investigative work are Krista and Audrey — experienced workplace investigators who put people at the centre of every process. They design investigations that safeguard employee dignity while delivering clear, evidence-based findings employers can rely on. Their work balances procedural fairness with a trauma-informed, respectful approach that honours the complexity of workplace relationships.
Why Engage a Nova Scotia-Based Independent Investigator
Choosing a Dartmouth-based investigator provides:
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Local understanding of Nova Scotia legislation and governance frameworks
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Familiarity with public and private sector workplace environments
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In-person investigative capability across the Atlantic provinces
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Contextual awareness of regional workplace cultures
We are not a national consulting firm. Root & Branch serves Halifax Regional Municipality and organizations throughout Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland.
Our practice is intentionally focused. We accept a limited number of engagements to ensure attention, discretion, and quality.
Book a Confidential Consultation
If your organization is considering an independent workplace investigation or assessment, the first step is a confidential consultation.
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During this call, we will:
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Clarify the nature and scope of the complaint
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Assess potential legal and governance considerations
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Determine whether an external investigation is appropriate
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Outline a proposed investigative framework
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Discuss timelines and next steps
Book a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and determine the appropriate path forward.