Expert: Michael Troy - 3/11/2009

Question
An investigator wants me to sign a declaration regarding my statements as to sexual harrassment I witnessed upon a fellow employee. I've never signed such a document, is there anything I should know before I sign it? Will signing it make it less likely that I will be asked to testify in court?

Answer
Hi Nancy,

Please keep in mind that I cannot provide specific legal advice in this forum.  For that you would need to speak with an attorney licensed to practice in your State.

However, generally speaking there is nothing wrong with signing a statement about what you witness, as long as you are honest in what you are saying you saw.  Of course, if you are taking a position against your employer, even though it is illegal for employers to retaliate, it can happen.  You could still be called as a witness at trial.  However, almost all such cases settle before going to trial.

I hope this helps!
- Mike