Investigations-Focused Law Firm Opens in Rochester, New York
Nearpass & Koegel PLLC, a women-owned law firm focused on workplace and campus investigations, has launched in Rochester, New York. The firm was founded by Kate Nearpass and Rachel Koegel, two attorneys who most recently led the University of Rochester’s civil rights compliance team, which is responsible for investigating allegations of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation at the University, including allegations of student sexual assault and other sexual misconduct. Nearpass and Koegel have each supervised and conducted hundreds of investigations during their careers.
Nearpass & Koegel provides impartial investigations and other neutral services to help employers and educational institutions address allegations of misconduct, including sexual assault, sexual and other forms of harassment, discrimination, bullying, retaliation, and other policy violations.
Nearpass & Koegel is the first firm of its kind in the Rochester area, with an exclusive focus on neutral work. “The model of our firm allows us to bring a unique lens to investigations that is not impacted by advocacy or litigation interests. We are thrilled to fill this gap in the legal market,” said founding partner Kate Nearpass.
In addition to workplace investigations, Nearpass & Koegel will draw on both partners’ experience with Title IX compliance in higher education and will offer Title IX investigation services as well as hearing officer services for Title IX hearings. Title IX is the federal legislation that prohibits sex discrimination in educational institutions and requires a formal grievance procedure for individuals raising concerns of sexual misconduct.
Nearpass & Koegel also provides training services to employers and educational institutions on a wide variety of topics, including Title IX compliance as well as best practices in internal investigations.
“In today’s ever-evolving legal landscape, high quality internal investigations have become increasingly vital. We are proud to be at the forefront of this timely area of law. Our team is well-versed in the latest investigative techniques and best practices, enabling us to provide our clients with impartial, thorough, and prompt investigations. We are committed to helping our clients address workplace and campus misconduct and create a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals," said founding partner Rachel Koegel.
Nearpass & Koegel is able to assist clients both locally and outside of the Rochester, New York area. The firm’s attorneys are licensed in multiple jurisdictions and have the capability to conduct investigations virtually or in person.
