Bias can influence a regulatory matter at every stage, from the initial assessment of a complaint through investigation, hearing and final decision. 

Cognitive biases such as confirmation bias, allegiance bias and availability bias can affect how evidence is gathered, interpreted and weighed. Structural bias can arise from how a process is designed and how information is framed, shared and carried forward. This includes Sequential Bias Contamination, where early assumptions or file framing influence later stages of a matter.

 

This session will examine how these risks can shape both investigative and hearing outcomes. Participants will gain practical strategies to recognize bias, reduce its impact and improve transparency, fairness and defensibility throughout the regulatory process.