10 Things You Should Know Before Hiring A Professional Investigator
You may be wondering if you need a professional investigator. A professional investigator can help you find the answers you need and get peace of mind. They have the skills and resources to find information that is hidden or difficult to obtain.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, scared, or frustrated. That's why hiring a professional investigator may be the best decision you ever make. They can take away the stress of finding answers and give you back your life. In this blog post, we will go over 10 things you should know before hiring a professional investigator.
1. Make Sure They Are Licensed and Insured
Before you hire a professional investigator, there are a few things you should know.
First and foremost, make sure they are licensed and insured. This will protect you in case anything goes wrong during the investigation. Second, ask for references. A reputable investigator will be able to provide you with a list of satisfied clients. Finally, be sure to ask about fees. Many investigators charge by the hour, so it is important to know how much you will be expected to pay.
By taking these precautions, you can be sure that you will be hiring a qualified and reputable investigator.
2. Ask for Referrals
If you're considering hiring a professional investigator, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First and foremost, it's important to ask for referrals. Talk to friends, family, and colleagues to see if they have any recommendations. Once you have a few names, take the time to research each one. Look for reviews online and check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against them.
Also, be sure to ask each investigator for a list of references that you can contact. The more information you have, the better equipped you'll be to make a decision.
3. Get an Estimate in Writing
When you are looking to hire a professional investigator, it is important that you get an estimate in writing. This will ensure that both parties understand the cost and terms of service upfront.
Be sure to ask how their fee structure works, as some investigators may charge per hour while others may offer flat-rate prices for discrete tasks. Make sure to ask about any additional fees that may be incurred for services such as background checks, surveillance equipment, or other investigative tools.
Finally, it is important to confirm the timeline of the investigation and make sure you understand what type of results are expected.
4. Beware of Scam Artists
Unfortunately, there are scam artists posing as professional investigators. While it’s important to trust your instincts when hiring a professional investigator, you should also take the time to do some research.
Check for reviews on websites such as the Better Business Bureau, and ask around for referrals. Additionally, make sure that any potential investigator is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation. If they cannot provide proof of any of these things, it’s best to look elsewhere.
5. Check Their Specializations & Experience Level
It is important that you check the experience level of any professional investigator you may hire. A reputable investigator will be able to provide evidence of their previous work, including successful cases and satisfied clients.
If they cannot provide this information, it may be a sign that they are inexperienced or not as qualified as they claim to be. Additionally, if you feel uncomfortable with the investigator’s methods or qualifications, it is best to move on and find someone else.
6. Check Out Their Credentials
It is important that you check the credentials of any professional investigator before hiring them. This can include things like background checks, licensure, and insurance. A qualified investigator should be able to provide proof of all these documents upon request.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to ask for references from past clients who were satisfied with the investigator’s services. A reputable professional should be able to provide a list of satisfied customers. Taking the time to check credentials and references is essential for ensuring that you are hiring a competent and qualified investigator.
7. Be Clear About the Investigation Objectives
When you're considering hiring a professional investigator, it's important to be clear about your objectives for the investigation. This will help you determine what type of investigator you need, what services they should provide, and how much you're willing to budget for the case.
For example, if you're trying to gather evidence for a civil suit, you'll need an investigator who specializes in civil cases and has experience gathering evidence and testimony. On the other hand, if you're trying to track down a missing person, you'll need an investigator with experience in skip tracing and surveillance.
Once you've determined your objectives, you can start interviewing potential investigators to find the right fit for your case.
8. Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities
Before you hire a professional investigator, it is important to understand your rights and responsibilities.
First and foremost, you have the right to privacy. This means that the investigator cannot track your movements or listen in on your conversations without your consent.
However, you also have the responsibility to ensure that you are not breaking the law. For example, if you are being investigated for a crime, the investigator cannot use illegal methods to gather evidence against you. In addition, you must be honest with the investigator and give them all relevant information.
If you withhold information or mislead the investigator, they may be unable to help you. By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you can ensure that the investigation is conducted legally and effectively.
9. Ask About Report Formats and Turnaround Times
Hiring a professional investigator can be a great way to get answers to your questions. However, there are a few things you should know before making the decision to hire an investigator.
First, be sure to ask about report formats and turnaround times. Many investigators provide standard report formats, but some may be able to customize a report to meet your specific needs. Turnaround times can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but most investigators can provide a timeline for when you can expect results.
Additionally, be sure to ask about confidentiality and what type of information will be shared with you. Some investigators may be able to provide information on a case-by-case basis, while others may require that all information be shared upfront.
Asking these questions upfront will help ensure that you hire an investigator that is right for you and your case.
10. Get a Second Opinion if You’re Not Comfortable With the Investigator and Their Services
Finally, it’s important to remember that you are not obligated to hire the first investigator you interview. If you’re not comfortable with the individual or their services, don’t hesitate to look for a second opinion.
For example, if an investigator seems too eager to take on your case or doesn’t answer your questions clearly, then it’s probably best to look for another option. Additionally, if you don’t feel comfortable with their investigative methods or fee structure, then it may be time to move on.
Ultimately, the decision is yours and it’s important to make sure that you hire an investigator that you trust and feel comfortable with. Taking the time to do your research can help ensure that you make the right decision for your case.
The bottom line is that finding a professional investigator can be a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your objectives, researching potential investigators, and asking the right questions, you can find the best investigator for your case. Be sure to get a second opinion if you’re not comfortable with the investigator and their services, as this can help ensure that you make the right decision.
If you’re in the Bristol, Johnson City, Greeneville & Elizabethton, TN areas and need a trusted professional investigator to help you solve your case, contact
Precise Intel today. Our experienced team of investigators will work with you to ensure that your needs are met and that you get the information you need. Let us help you get the peace of mind you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We look forward to working with you!









