Investigations
LK leads sensitive investigations for boards, regulators and insolvency practitioners, focused on uncovering misconduct, tracing assets and addressing employee complaints to protect clients from fraudulent, negligent or criminal behaviour. Our work includes responding to regulatory inquiries, securing misappropriated assets and addressing governance issues before they escalate. We use technology to analyse large volumes of data to identify offending behaviours that need to be addressed.
With experience across sensitive public inquiries and large corporate failures, and strong financial and technological expertise, we uncover the facts, contain risk and help clients to avoid similar issues in the future. Our approach is discreet, coordinated and informed by a deep understanding of the regulatory process and client expectations.
Our experience
Adelaide Brighton Cement Limited
Represented an ASX-listed construction materials company in investigating an employee fraud that caused a customer to receive AU$32 million of cement while paying only AU$20 million. The firm led recovery actions against the insolvent customer and the employee, securing more than AU$11 million in recoveries.
Royal Commissions
Served as special counsel to the Royal Commission into the collapse of HIH Insurance and later advised ASIC on matters arising from the Royal Commission into misconduct in banking, superannuation, and financial services.
South Australian Parliamentary Inquiry
Acted as instructing solicitor to counsel assisting a South Australian House of Assembly Select Committee established to examine the conduct of the State’s former Deputy Premier and Attorney-General. The inquiry focused on a major infrastructure development and potential conflicts of interest.
Internal Investigation
Commissioned by a company to conduct an internal investigation into a director’s actions in relation to a commercial transaction involving the company’s shares in a prominent manufacturer, valued in the hundreds of millions prior to restructuring. The firm prepared a detailed report examining the transaction’s circumstances and governance implications.
Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) investigation
Represented a public authority involved in a confidential and sensitive ICAC investigation in South Australia, providing guidance throughout the inquiry process and ensuring compliance with statutory obligations.
South Australian Desalination Plant Inquiry
Retained by the South Australian Government to investigate and report on delays, defects, claims, and exposure arising from the construction of the State’s AU$2 billion desalination plant. The firm also advised on the State’s legal and strategic position in relation to these issues.
Confidential Workplace Investigation
Assisted an ASX-listed oil and gas company in conducting an internal workplace investigation into allegations of bullying, discrimination and unprofessional conduct. The work included assessing evidence, preparing findings and advising on cultural and organisational responses.
Greyhound Racing South Australia
Conducted an independent review of the governance and operations of Greyhound Racing South Australia, assessing compliance with legislation, internal rules, equitable principles and broader social licence considerations. The review coincided with a parallel government inquiry into the industry.
Adnyamathanha Traditional Lands Association (ATLA)
Acted for ATLA, an Aboriginal Corporation, in investigating the management of native title compensation funds by a related trust that led to successful proceedings in the Supreme Court of South Australia seeking the appointment of an independent inspector under the Trustee Act 1936 (SA) to examine the trust’s affairs.
