If my company wants to interview me as part of an internal investigation, do I have the right to have a lawyer present?

Probably not. But try to consult with an attorney first if you can. Your company, the one you’ve dedicated your working life to, will always put its interests before you, and “throw you under the bus” before it accepts criminal responsibility that would damage its business or reputation. If a company comes under investigation, internal employee interviews are usually part of it, and these interviews are usually conducted by company lawyers. They don’t want you to have an attorney present, they will encourage you to avoid seeking counsel, and they will use the same interview techniques as law enforcement to extract a statement from you.

You can refuse to participate in a company internal investigation. But it could cost you your job. Stall for time and seek the advice of an independent lawyer that knows state and federal law before you commit to an interview by company officials. The peace of mind will be worth it.

Contact Attorney Clarence T. Guthrie III

To speak with a Mississippi white collar criminal defense lawyer about state or federal criminal charges, or an investigation, contact The Guthrie Firm, PLLC in Ridgeland, Mississippi, on County Line Road very close to Jackson. To schedule a free consultation with attorney Clarence T. Guthrie III, call 601-991-1099 or toll-free at 866-991-1055. Feel free to contact us by email as well. We are here to help.

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