speaker-photo

Lai-King Hum

Founder, Hum Law Firm
Founder of Hum Law, Lai-King Hum is known for expertise in all areas of workplace law. Her practice encompasses employment law, human rights, professional regulation, mediation and litigation. Lai opened her Toronto-based employment law and human rights firm in 2014, having established herself as a leading employment law practitioner at top-tier national firms in Ontario and Quebec. Lai advises and represents Canadian and U.S.- and International -based businesses, non-profit organizations, entrepreneurs and individuals in a range of matters in jurisdictions across Canada. She offers legal services in English and French to clients in manufacturing, education, healthcare and financial / banking services. Licensed by both the Ontario Bar and the Quebec Bar, Lai has appeared before various levels of court and tribunals. She is a member of ADR Institute of Ontario, and conducts workplace investigations as well as mediations. Before embarking on a full-scale investigation, Lai first ensures that the client has explored and exhausted all avenues for resolution. She is experienced in resolving internal workplace matters relating to harassment or discrimination, either through investigations or as a workplace mediator. As a mediator in workplace matters, Lai tailors her approach to the circumstances at-hand, but leans towards an evaluative mediation practice model, rooted in her knowledge of the law. In addition to her practice, Lai is a Deputy Judge in the Small Claims Court of the Superior Court of Justice in Toronto. She is also one of three Discrimination and Harassment Counsel in the Discrimination and Harassment Counsel Program, a service funded by the Law Society of Ontario.
1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Thursday October 23

Navigating Ethical Pitfalls and Best Practices of Workplace Investigations

Workplace investigations are essential for addressing allegations of misconduct, harassment, discrimination, and other policy violations. However, these investigations must be conducted with the highest ethical standards to ensure fairness, maintain trust, and protect the rights of all involved. A poorly handled investigation can lead to reputational damage, legal liability, and a toxic work environment.

This presentation will explore the key ethical considerations that arise during workplace investigations, including maintaining impartiality, ensuring confidentiality, upholding due process, and how to manage employees during an investigation. Attendees will learn best practices for conducting investigations that are not only legally sound but also ethically responsible. We will discuss common ethical dilemmas, such as conflicts of interest, balancing transparency with privacy, and handling unconscious bias.