How to Use This Guidebook › Stages of the Investigation Process This section provides an overview of the investigations process as it pertains to different types of elections disputes, violations, and offenses. This section also touches on wider elements of election dispute resolution to situate the investigations process in a broader context. › Principle 1: Ensuring Investigations Are Undertaken and Completed Promptly This section examines the principle of prompt investigation and the different elements that support its realization. This includes classifying the type of claim at issue, conducting a preliminary assessment, categorizing complaints according to urgency and potential impact, and having clear protocols in place for decision-making and investigative processes. › Principle 2: Ensuring Investigations Are Thorough This section examines the principle of thorough investigation and the different elements that support its realization. A thorough investigation requires that types of acceptable evidence are pre-determined; that evidence is substantiated and corroborated; that exculpatory evidence (evidence favorable to the defendant) is sought; that the standard of evidence to be used is clear; that search and seizure processes are followed; that interviews are planned, conducted, and documented properly; that evidence is analyzed and presented appropriately; and that adequate document retention and data protection strategies are implemented. › Principle 3: Ensuring Investigations Are Effective This section examines the principle of effective investigation and the different elements that support its reali- 13