Essential Questions for Witnesses


  • Who, what, when, where, and how, e.g., who committed the misconduct under investigation?

  • What exactly occurred or was said?

  • What did the alleged perpetrator say to you about the incident(s) in question?

  • When did he or she tell you this?

  • What exactly did you personally see or hear?

  • When did it occur and is it still ongoing?

  • Where did it occur?  How often did it occur?

  • How did it affect you?

  • How did you react?

  • What response did you make when the incident(s) occurred or afterwards?

  • How did the harassment affect you?

  • Has your job been affected in any way?

  • Are there any persons who have relevant information?

  • Was anyone present when the alleged incident occurred?

  • Did you tell anyone about it?

  • When did you tell anyone about it?

  • Did anyone see you immediately after the alleged incident?

  • Did the perpetrator do the same thing to anyone else that you know about?

  • Do you know whether anyone complained about the perpetrator?

  • Are there any notes, physical evidence, or other documentation regarding the incident(s)?

  • How would you like to see the situation resolved?

  • Do you know of any other relevant information?