Hey everyone.
Our blog got a bit behind schedule. One of the things we really wanted to do is create meaningful content for viewers and customers. This week will be a bit of a shorter topic but fear not, we will be back in force soon!
The topic this week is how to actually hire a professional private investigator. There are guides already on the net for this topic, but I feel my experience can offer some further insight.
If something is going wrong in your life, and you need someone to gather evidence or dig deep? You’ve come to the right place. We aren’t magicians but we can provide meaningful solutions to a lot of different problems. Here’s how to retain one of us.
The first step is to write down all of the relevant information so that when you decide to pull the trigger and hire one of us you will be prepared.
- Do you need us to locate someone? What is his/her address history? What do they look like? Know any family member names? Last known employment?
- Do you want to have someone followed? What is their schedule like? When do they get arrive and depart work? Who are they visiting lately? Names and addresses are always helpful in saving time and money.
- Do you require a background check? Name and date of birth are a good starting point. Current and previous address history. If they’ve lived in multiple states we’ll have to go deeper to find all of the information you may be looking for.
Do not be worried about giving too much information. Remember, anything small or large can be a piece of the puzzle and bring us that much closer to bringing you peace of mind.
The second step is to do your research and to call some investigators in your area. Start by searching google or a local private investigator association. Maybe a friend or family member has hired one in the past and can refer you. Make sure the agency/investigator are licensed in the state and have a good reputation. Inquire about their skill set and experience. At the end of the day the most important factor is trust and the ability to do what you’re paying them for. The best way to find out is to talk to them and make a rational decision.
After you explain your situation to them, and you’ve both established the ground rules you may be ready to retain one of us. Grab all forms of contact information (Mobile, email, fax if applicable). Make sure it’s known when the work will be completed (time frame), and when the relevant media/evidence will be sent to you. At Aries all cases are viewed online and are updated within 24 hours of the the work completion on our secure server. Not all investigators use this and it doesn’t mean they’re bad. Everyone uses a different method for what works for them.
Finally, any reputable private investigator will have you sign a retainer contract. It protects both the client and agency working on your case. Most will require a down payment in part or full if you’ve never hired them before. A refund should be given if work is completed ahead of schedule for hourly jobs so make sure you read the contract. Once you’ve taken care of the paperwork and payment it’s time for the investigator to do what you’ve hired them for. Make sure you’re getting status updates if you have any questions about your case.
I hope I’ve cleared up any questions you may have had. Have a great week everyone!
-Ryan
