A request for a statement letter would not be unusual if the case under investigation could potentially end up in court.

Yes, there are pitfalls associated with the wording of your statement letter. It's hard to answer your questions, though, without more information about what these "behaviors" are, that you are being asked to document.

For example, if you are the subject of harassment, yes, the wording is VERY significant. It can make or break the legitimacy of your argument. But that was just an example - there are other problems in which the wording will be significant...anything potentially litigious, anything that could lead to accusations of defamation of character/slander, etc.

Don't underestimate your chances of ending up in court over this - you want to be sure you have all the wording exactly correct. People are extremely litigious these days, and courts often rule in favor of employees, or against the large "bully" corporation. Since your statement letter may eventually find its way into an evidence file in a courtroom, your wording needs to be precisely correct. If your employer thinks there is a definite risk of litigation, it might be good to get all statement letters reviewed by an attorney.

If you would let me know what exactly the "behaviors" are, I can tell you whatever I know.

A statement letter? Is that like ratting on your fellow employee to help them get fired?

Think about what has been asked of you. Are you in a position to judge this employee's performance and qualifications? If you are, then your letter should mention

Duties required of the position,

Duties actually performed by the employee,

Judgment of performance with explanations.

If you are simply a peer and don't have managerial requirements, then you should only

discuss what you have seen the employee do and don't presume that you know all the requirements asked of the employee and don't draw conclusions or judgements regarding their performance.

If the company is attempting to fire this employee, don't join the jury and help them convict someone based upon your own judgements which may or may not be shared by the company's management.

Myself I am of the opinion that letters are good, providing they are presented utilizing good grammar and spelling (always use a spoil chequer!). You can secure some good tips and tricks for creating letters by learning from the website in the box below, it's got loads of other things about job seeking too.