Neiman Marcus 2009 Annual Report Download - page 502

To the extent that the circumstances of the violation reflect inadequate supervision or lack of diligence by the supervisor(s),
discriminatory action can also be taken by the supervisor. Disciplinary action under these circumstances may result in termination of
employment.
INVESTIGATING AND RESPONDING TO ALLEGATIONS OF VIOLATIONS
All reported violations of the law and/or the Code will be investigated promptly and will be treated with as much confidentiality as
reasonably possible. The Compliance Committee has a duty to coordinate all investigations and confer with Company management
regarding any recommended course of action.
Associates are required to cooperate in all investigations. It is imperative, however, that associates refrain from conducting
investigations on their own without first obtaining approval from the Compliance Committee or at the direction of the Legal
Department. Investigations may raise complicated legal issues, and could result in adverse consequences.
RETENTION OF OUTSIDE LEGAL COUNSEL
Periodically, the Company will retain outside counsel to provide advice regarding legal compliance, assist in conducting internal
investigations, or represent the Company in litigation or governmental investigations. The Legal Department retains the sole and
exclusive authority to select, hire and supervise outside counsel when seeking representation or advice for the Company on any
subject.
22