Choosing the right private investigator can be difficult especially if you don’t know what qualities to look for. Here are 5 things we recommend you consider when hiring a private investigator.
1. Are they a licensed and insured private investigator?
Not everyone out there claiming to be a “private investigator or PI” are actually licensed to do so. It’s important to find a well-established private investigator that is fully licensed to conduct private investigation services in your area. The private investigator agency’s website should have a license number noted either for an individual or agency. You can request to see their license and proof of insurance before you hire them as well.
2. Do they specialize in your type of situation?
Determine if the private investigator has conducted a similar investigation before and if so, what was their experience. Checking out their website or social media page should indicate their various areas of expertise. Another option is to ask them for references or case examples similar to yours. A brief conversation with the PI should help you determine if the job is a good fit for them. That way, you can rest assured that the investigator will deliver the best results for your need.
3. Does the investigator or agency belong to any professional trade organizations?
If an investigator or agency are members of industry associations or groups it adds to their legitimacy and shows that they are active in their industries community. For example, Alex Saavedra is a member of ACAMS and is a Certified Anti Money Laundering Consultant among others. Many organizations offer seminars and yearly conferences for their members. Private investigation today relies heavily on technology. As technology is always evolving it is important for an investigator and agency to stay on top of these changes. Members of a professional trade organization may have opportunities to learn about industry trends and advances in technology before everyone else.
4. Do they fit your budget?
It’s important to find the right private investigator that is able to work efficiently within your budget. Since the cost of investigations vary based on the specific requirements, make sure you agree prior to commencing the investigation on the pricing terms. An investigator should provide you with clear pricing and payment terms to help you get an accurate idea of what you can expect to pay.
5. Are you comfortable with them?
Because most investigations require confidentiality, it’s important that you can trust the investigator you are working with. They should treat your case with sensitivity and understand your situation. Is the conversation free of any discourteous remarks? Do you feel comfortable enough to ask all of your questions? Do you leave the conversation satisfied with the information provided? A good private investigator will always put your best interest first.
Private investigators have specialized skills and expertise to conduct surveillance and obtain evidence in the most effective way. Contact Saavedra & Associates to speak with a Private Investigator today.
