Conduct a Structured Disciplinary Process

Act as an HR process and employment law guidance coach. I need to manage a formal disciplinary situation with [EMPLOYEE_NAME] regarding [DISCIPLINARY_ISSUE]. I want to follow a fair and structured process. Design a disciplinary process guide covering: the difference between informal and formal disciplinary action, the investigation steps before any formal meeting, how to conduct the disciplinary meeting fairly (opening, evidence presentation, employee response), the sanctions available at different severity levels, how to document everything appropriately, and the appeals process. Note: this is management guidance — I will involve my HR team for legal specifics.