Amanda Bowling816.691.3478e-mail|vCard
09/13/2011
In response to a growing need of companies of all sizes, Stinson Morrison Hecker LLP launches the Whistleblower and Investigation Response Team, a specialized practice group to assist companies with government compliance, national and international investigations, employee responder training, SEC and board reporting, and litigation. “In our era of corporate transparency and enhanced prosecutions, companies need to be prepared to address whistleblowing activities by understanding their risks, preparing ahead of time and having resources to investigate issues when they arise,” said Russ Berland, Stinson attorney and team co-leader. As co-leader of the Whistleblower and Investigation Response Team, Berland brings extensive background to the team from his previous work as vice president and chief compliance officer at BearingPoint, a multinational consulting firm, where he built practical and effective global compliance programs covering numerous whistleblower claims. Aside from Berland and fellow co-leader, Brian O'Bleness, Stinson's Whistleblower and Investigation Response Team consists of attorneys who know how to work with the Securities & Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice. The team was developed to help companies respond promptly and assist through the investigation and reporting process as well as follow on litigation. It starts though by providing legal advice and practical suggestions to prevent issues in the first place. Whistleblowers have the opportunity to recover as much as 30 percent of penalties in cases where fines are in excess of $1 million. “These numbers alone speak volumes to our clients. One of Stinson’s key strengths is our knowledgeable and cost-effective services to conduct investigations with experienced and skilled resources,” Berland said. “Smart companies are going to stay in front of any issues that could arise.” Because preparation is key in responding to and managing whistleblower claims, Stinson’s Whistleblower and Investigative Response Team has synthesized five actions to incorporate immediately:
“Our Whistleblower and Investigative Response Team provides guidance to companies so they can respond promptly and within the required timeframe,” said Brian O'Bleness, team co-leader. “We walk our clients through the internal investigation, reporting and government negotiation and, if necessary, litigation process, while providing legal advice and suggestions that strengthen your company’s position against future allegations.”