The Essential Guide to Hiring a Private Detective for Effective Private Investigations

Did you know that there are over 4,700 private investigators licensed in the United States?

With so many options choosing a local private investigator can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve never done it before. With the rise of new technologies and advances in the industry, private investigation has become more accessible than ever.

But that doesn’t mean you should hire any P.I. off the street--you want to make sure you get someone qualified and experienced for the job. To make sure you pick the right person for your situation, we have compiled 15 tips for choosing a local private investigator. Read on to learn how to do your own investigation into finding the right private investigator!



1. The Importance of Referrals

One of the best ways to choose a local private investigator is to get referrals from people you trust. Ask your friends, family, and colleagues if they have any recommendations for private investigators in your area. If you don't know anyone who has used a private investigator before, ask your lawyer or another professional who may have need of their services.

Don't hesitate to interview several different investigators before making your final decision. The investigator you choose should be someone you feel comfortable working with and who you believe will be able to get the job done quickly and effectively.

2. Individual vs. a Firm

When you are looking for a private investigator, you may be wondering if it is better to hire an individual or a firm. There are pros and cons to both, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs.

If you need a private investigator for a simple task, such as checking someone's background or doing basic surveillance, an individual may be a good option. Individual private investigators are sometimes less expensive than firms, and they can be more flexible with their time and services.

However, if you need a complex investigation or one that requires special expertise, you may be better off hiring a firm. Private investigation firms usually have a team of investigators with different skill sets, so they can handle more complicated cases. They also tend to have more resources at their disposal, such as access to databases and specialized equipment.

3. Meeting in Person

There are several factors to consider when choosing a private investigator, but one of the most important is whether or not you feel comfortable meeting with them in person. A face-to-face meeting allows you to get a feel for the investigator’s personality and professionalism and also gives you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about their services.

If you’re considering hiring a local private investigator, be sure to schedule a meeting with them beforehand. This will give you the chance to get to know them better and make sure they’re the right fit for your needs.

4. Asking the Right Questions

When you're ready to hire a private investigator, you need to ask the right questions. Here are some questions to help you choose a local private investigator:

What Are Your Qualifications?

You'll want to make sure that the private investigator you're considering is properly qualified. Ask about their training and experience, and whether they're licensed in your state.

What Is Your Specialty?

Private investigators have different areas of expertise. Some focus on surveillance, while others specialize in background checks or computer forensics. Be sure to choose an investigator who has the skills and experience needed to handle your particular case.

What Is Your Fee Structure?

Private investigators typically charge by the hour, but some may also charge a flat rate or retainer fee. Be sure to ask about all fees upfront so there are no surprises later on.

What Are Your Confidentiality Policies?

You'll need to be able to trust your private investigator with sensitive information. Make sure you understand their confidentiality policies before sharing any information with them.

5. Knowing Your Budget

If you are looking to hire a private investigator, one of the first things you need to do is figure out your budget. How much can you afford to spend on an investigator?

The cost of hiring a private investigator can vary depending on their experience and the type of case you need them for. If you have a complex case or if you need an investigator with a lot of experience, you can expect to pay more.

You also need to factor in the costs associated with the investigation, such as travel and expenses. Be sure to ask your potential investigator about these costs upfront, so there are no surprises later on.

Once you have an idea of your budget, start shopping around for investigators. Get quotes from several different companies and compare their rates. Be sure to ask about any hidden fees or charges so you can make an informed decision.

6. Get a Written Agreement

It is important to get a written agreement with your private investigator before they begin working on your case. This agreement should include the following information:

• The scope of the investigation and what services will be provided
• The estimated cost of the investigation
• A timeline for the completion of the investigation
• The confidentiality agreement between you and the private investigator

This written agreement will protect both you and the private investigator in case there are any misunderstandings about the project. It is also important to have this agreement in writing so that you can refer back to it if needed.

7. Ask About Surveillance Techniques

If you're considering hiring a private investigator, it's important to ask about the surveillance techniques they use. Depending on your needs, you may want an investigator who specializes in a certain type of surveillance. For example, electronic surveillance or GPS tracking.

Some common surveillance techniques used by private investigators include:

Electronic Surveillance

This type of surveillance involves the use of electronic devices to record conversations or track someone's movements. Private investigators often use audio and video recording devices, as well as GPS tracking devices.

Physical Surveillance

Physical surveillance is when an investigator follows someone in person. This type of surveillance can be conducted on foot or in a vehicle. Investigators may also take photographs or videos of the person they are surveilling.

Covert Surveillance

Covert surveillance is when an investigator observes someone without them knowing. This type of surveillance requires special training and equipment and is often used in cases involving infidelity or child custody.

8. Check on Licensing and Insurance

When you are looking for a local private investigator, it is important to check on their licensing and insurance. This will ensure that they are legitimate and that you are protected if something goes wrong.

Most states require private investigators to have a license in order to operate. You can typically find this information on the investigator’s website or by contacting your state’s licensing board. If an investigator does not have a license, you should move on to someone else.

It is also important to make sure that the private investigator has liability insurance. This will protect you in case something goes wrong during the course of the investigation. The investigator should be able to provide proof of insurance upon request.

9. Be Upfront With Your Expectations

If you're considering hiring a private investigator, it's important to be upfront about your expectations. This will help you find the right investigator for the job, and ensure that you're both on the same page from the start.

Be clear about what you need the investigator to do.

Do you need them to conduct surveillance? Run a background check? Serve legal papers?

The more specific you can be, the better.

Be honest about your budget. Private investigators typically charge by the hour, so it's important to have an idea of how much you're willing or able to spend. Be upfront about this with potential investigators, so they can let you know if they can do the job within your price range.

Finally, be open to their advice. Private investigators are experienced professionals with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. They may have suggestions or insights that you haven't considered, so it's important to be open to what they have to say.

10. Get a Second Opinion

If you're considering hiring a private investigator, it's important to do your homework and choose someone who is reputable and experienced. One way to ensure that you're making the best decision possible is to get a second opinion from another PI.

A second opinion can help you confirm that the investigator you're considering is the right fit for your case. It can also give you peace of mind knowing that you've made an informed decision.

When getting a second opinion, be sure to ask about the PI's experience, success rate, and fees. You should also ask for references from past clients. With this information in hand, you'll be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to hire a particular private investigator.

11. Do Your Homework

When you need to hire a private investigator, it is important to do your homework. This means researching the different options in your area and making sure you find an investigator that is reputable and has a good track record.

There are a few different ways to research private investigators. You can start by asking for recommendations from people you trust. If you know anyone who has used a private investigator before, they may be able to give you some good leads.

You can also search online for private investigators in your area. This will give you a good idea of who is available, and what their rates are. Be sure to read reviews of any investigators you are considering to get an idea of their quality of work.

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential investigators, be sure to interview them before making your final decision. Ask about their experience, their rates, and what methods they use to gather information. Make sure you feel comfortable with the investigator you choose, as you will be working closely with them on your case.

12. Know What the Company Specializes in

When choosing a local private investigator, it is important to know what the company specializes in. This will ensure that you are hiring a professional who is well-versed in the specific type of investigation you need.

For example, if you need to investigate a cheating spouse, you will want to hire a PI who specializes in infidelity cases. Likewise, if you are looking into possible fraud at your place of business, you will want to hire a corporate fraud investigator.

Knowing what the PI company specializes in will help you narrow down your choices and find the best professional for your needs.

13. Be Realistic

Be realistic about what you expect to achieve. Private investigators are not miracle workers, and there are limitations to what they can do. If you expect them to find something that doesn't exist or obtain information that's not readily available, you're likely to be disappointed.

14. Don't Ask Them to Do Anything Illegal

If you're looking to hire a local private investigator, it's important that you don't ask them to do anything illegal. This includes asking them to illegally obtain information, tap phones, or break into homes or businesses.

Not only is this against the law, but it could also get the investigator in trouble and cause them to lose their license. If you have any illegal requests, it's best to find another investigator who is willing to comply with your wishes.

15. Ask About Their Background

When you're considering hiring a private investigator, one of the most important things to do is ask about their background. You should find out how long they've been in business, what kind of experience they have, and what kind of success they've had in the past. This will help you determine whether or not they're the right fit for your needs.

Hire the Right Local Private Investigator 

By following these 15 tips for choosing a local private investigator, you can be sure to make the best decision for your needs. Whether you need someone to gather evidence in a criminal case or help solve a personal issue, having the right PI on your side is absolutely essential.

It's important that you take all of these factors into consideration when deciding which local private investigator is right for you, and remember to ask questions so that they understand your goals and expectations. 

Are you ready to find out if Barefoot PI is the right place for you? Schedule a free consultation today.