Hiring a private investigator may not be as simple as picking up the telephone or punching a few keys on a keyboard. Not all private investigators are created equal. Oftentimes, when someone is looking to hire a professional investigator, they are involved in a life-altering experience or event. Coupled with emotions and a lack of knowledge of what is out there, this can be a daunting task. Do you know the right questions to ask?
Before you begin your search for a professional investigator, be ready to answer some personal questions about your situation. It is best to predetermine exactly what you expect and exactly what type of information or evidence you are looking for. Professional private investigators do not work for free, so it is also a good idea to determine what your budget is for this particular project.
6 of the top questions you should ask!
After a recent survey of some industry leaders, here are 6 of the top questions you should ask when looking to hire a Private Investigator.
1. Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
- Ask to see credentials and copies of relevant documents.
- Do they have any other licenses or special certifications?
- Ask the investigator to provide reputable references. Do they have a website?
2. How long have you been working as a private investigator?
- Ask about their educational and work experience background.
- Have they had any complaints filed against them? Check with the local licensing authority to be sure.
3. What is your specialty?
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- Ask how much experience the investigator has with your specific case type.
- Also, what is their current caseload? Do they have time for your case?
4. Will there be a contract/is a retainer required?
- If a retainer is required, ask under what conditions would you receive a refund and how the refund amount is calculated.
- Review any contracts carefully and feel free to ask questions about them.
5. Are you the investigator that will be handling my case?
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- If not, ask for the experience and credentials of anyone else that may be involved.
- Ask to meet with or speak with the other investigator(s) that may be involved.
6. How much will the investigative service cost and what is included?
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- Ask what type of equipment will be utilized in the investigation.
- Ask how you will be updated on the progress of the investigation and how often.
- Ask what this price includes, ie: equipment, reports, videos, etc
Comparing “Apples to Apples”
Shop around, but make sure you are comparing “apples to apples”. Now, ask yourself, “Do I trust this investigator”? A true professional investigator should be able to answer all of your questions honestly and informatively. If they hesitate in their answers, are quick to get off of the call, or are simply rude and unprofessional, then they may not be the group you are looking for.
If you have questions about a problem or situation you are involved in, please Call Us today and speak with one of our private investigators. We would be happy to answer questions and hopefully work with you to find a solution.
