What do you need to know about hiring a private investigator?
A private investigator is a professional who investigates legal matters independently for clients. The matter may be criminal, civil, or matrimonial in nature and the investigation will typically involve surveillance of suspects, tracing of assets, and interviewing witnesses.
What is a private investigator and what do they do?
Private investigators (PIs) are individuals who conduct investigations for private clients. They may be hired to investigate a wide range of issues, including criminal activity, child custody and support matters, and infidelity. Private investigators may also be hired to conduct background checks on potential employees or business partners and to validate legal and insurance claims. Private investigation is a regulated profession: licensing and registration requirements vary by state, but all privately employed investigators must abide by strict state or local laws and regulations.
Private investigators are not law enforcement officers. They cannot make arrests and do not carry weapons (in some states, private investigation is a legal occupation for current or retired law enforcement personnel). However, in some cases, Private investigators may be legally authorized to conduct surveillance and gather evidence on possible criminal activity.
When should you hire an investigator?
There are many reasons to hire a private investigator. For example, a person who is going through a divorce may wish to hire an investigator to gather evidence of a spouse’s adultery or domestic abuse. A business owner may hire a private investigator to conduct background checks on potential employees, ensure that the company’s insurance claims are legitimate, or determine whether a competitor is engaging in unfair trade practices. A person who is the victim of identity theft may want to hire an investigator to look into the matter and help clear the person’s name. In estrangement cases, a parent may hire a private investigator to track down a child who has been taken out of the country by an estranged spouse.
How to choose a private investigator
When hiring a private investigator, it is important to choose someone who is qualified and trustworthy. The best way to find a qualified investigator is to ask friends, family, or colleagues for referrals. It is also important to check the investigator’s licensing and insurance status. Be sure to ask about the investigator’s experience in the type of case you need help with and get an estimate of the cost before hiring anyone. When speaking with a potential investigator, be candid about your reasons for hiring him or her and share as much information about the case as possible.
Many private investigators offer a free initial consultation to prospective clients, so you may want to ask for this before signing a contract. A reputable private investigator will not pressure you to hire him or her after the initial consultation or sign a long-term contract. Be sure to get all of the relevant contact information in writing, including the investigator’s business name and address, phone number, e-mail address, and fax number.
Different types of investigations a private investigator may be hired for.
Criminal investigations
A person who has been accused or suspected of committing a crime may wish to hire a private investigator. For example, you may have been arrested for a crime but claim your innocence and want an investigation done to gather evidence that will prove your case. It is important to note that the results of a criminal investigation cannot be used in court proceedings, as only law enforcement officials can present evidence in a criminal trial.
Family law investigations
A person who is involved in a family law dispute may want to hire a private investigator. This includes matters such as divorce, child custody and support, and alimony. Investigators may be hired to track down a spouse who is hiding assets, investigate allegations of domestic abuse, or find out whether a child is being properly cared for by the other parent.
Background checks
A business owner may want to hire a private investigator to conduct a background check on a potential employee. This involves checking the person’s criminal record, driving record, credit history, and educational background. Private investigators may also be hired to conduct a more extensive investigation into a person’s past, if necessary.
Insurance fraud
If you suspect that your insurance claim has been compromised by false information or faked injuries, you may wish to hire a private investigator to investigate the matter for you. However, it is important to note that most insurance companies have their own investigators on staff, and it is usually best to work with them rather than hiring a private investigator.
Investigative research
A person who needs information that is not easily accessible may want to hire a private investigator. This includes researching the background of a potential business partner, finding out more about a competitor, or investigating the activities of a suspected criminal. Private investigators have access to a variety of resources and databases that can help them find the information they need.
Questions to ask when interviewing potential investigators.
When hiring a private investigator, it is important to ask them the right questions. It is also a good idea to meet with several different investigators before deciding which one you want to hire. Some important questions to ask include:
It is also important to be aware of the different types of investigations that a private investigator may be hired for. This will help you ask the right questions and determine whether or not a specific investigator is best suited for your needs.
Do you need a private investigator in Austin, TX?
Austin Security Guard Service provides experienced, licensed private investigators to businesses and individuals in the Austin area. We have a wide range of investigative services available, and our team is comprised of skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing you with the information you need. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you!
