The escalation process

A matter advances one stage at a time. Each stage has a condition that must be met before the next begins. Nothing here happens on a timetable, and nothing here is a threat.

1. Intake A report or referral arrives with something specific to examine. We record what we have and confirm it falls within our work. Advances when there is a concrete question that can be checked.
2. Assessment and verification We test the account against what can be independently confirmed, and we look for evidence that would contradict it as well as support it. Advances when the evidence, taken together, supports the matter rather than merely allowing it.
3. Documentation We assemble the verified material into an ordered, sourced record that someone who was not present can follow and check. Advances when the record is complete enough to stand on its own.
4. Referral to the competent authority We take the documented matter to the authority equipped to act on it, through the correct channel for the jurisdiction. Advances when the right authority has received it. The decision to act is theirs.
5. Support for affected people Throughout and after, we help the victims and others affected understand their options and the routes open to them. This runs alongside the other stages, not only at the end.

A matter can stop at any stage. If the evidence does not carry it, it does not advance, and that is a proper outcome, not a failure. We do not manufacture a case that the facts do not support.

If you have been contacted during an examination

Being examined is not being accused, and it is not being convicted. If one of our investigators has written to you about a matter, you can respond, and you can tell us anything that bears on the facts, including anything that shows we have it wrong. We weigh what you tell us.

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For the standard of evidence behind these stages, see How we work. For how matters are handled in each country, see jurisdictions.