Sometimes also called a private detective, a private investigator (or P.I.) is a trained and licensed individual and/or agency that performs specialized work discovering information that is not easily attainable without proper training, equipment and experience. In Florida the profession is regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Private investigators may offer a variety of services to their clients. Law firms may gather information about parties or witnesses in civil or criminal cases by hiring a private investigator. Insurance companies often retain their services to investigate suspicious claims. Private parties may hire private investigators to find missing people, complete surveillance on spouses or unearth hidden assets to enforce a judgment. Field work consists of conducting interviews and completing surveillance work. Once complete, they may create detailed reports that describe their findings, and they may testify in court.
For many of our services we offer the option of a fixed fee or hourly rate. Our current hourly rates range from $95/hour to $145/hour depending on the service, case complexity and whether travel or other larger expenses are involved. We ask that you contact us for a no obligation discussion of your case particulars, and we can certainly provide a firmer estimate to you over the phone and in writing.
Yes, it’s a requirement under Chapter 493, Florida Statutes (F.S.) that anyone performing investigation services carry a CC license, and any agency hiring investigators carry an AA license. We maintain both licenses.
Search by individual or agency at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Yes, we carry general and professional liability insurance.
Ultimately trust is not given, it is earned. We understand the importance of being discreet and confidential. We password protect our devices and online accounts often employing multi-factor authentication as a secondary security measure. Also, we offer you the option of receiving encrypted files should you make that request.
Yes, where we do not have an established business relationship. Often, we work on a retainer basis requesting a portion of the final fee in advance to cover initial and ongoing costs.
Check, cash, ACH, PayPal and Cash App to name a few methods.
We perform nearly 100% of our services with in-house staff. In cases where we need to rely upon a specialized skill set or where we have a spike in demand, we assure you that outside assistance is minimal, and our partners are fully vetted professionals.
Yes, we are seasoned participants in court proceedings as a witness on your behalf.
Yes, we would agree on parameters in advance.
Any business, professional or private citizen who has a need for our services can hire us. Investigators are frequently linked with family law matters such as child custody, divorce, adultery, and child support cases. In accident-related scenarios, they are retained for tasks like accident reconstruction and investigating insurance claims. Moreover, they can be engaged to assist in asset location, offer forensic accounting services, or conduct comprehensive background checks.
First, let’s have a conversation to understand the scope of your request, the outcome you would like, a timeline and the budget for it. Then we memorialize the understanding back to you in writing and provide an estimate. If you agree we finalize any up-front payments, then get to work!
Our primary area for on-the-ground services is centered in Jacksonville and surrounding 175-mile radius. We can and do travel to cities outside of this radius by mutual agreement. Services that do not require travel can include anywhere in the USA.
Private detectives employ a range of technological devices as part of their surveillance and other services. However, the regulations governing the use of these devices differ across jurisdictions, leading to restrictions in certain locales. Private investigators may utilize binoculars, extension lenses, digital cameras, hidden cameras, and night vision cameras. Additionally, they might employ debugging equipment, recording devices, and tracking equipment. In some cases, a van or other vehicle may be equipped with surveillance gear to facilitate their investigative work.
Making the decision to hire a private investigator should not be impulsive. It is advisable to conduct thorough research on the prospective private investigator before making any commitments. Initiate a brief phone interview with the investigator and request an initial consultation, which many investigators offer without charge. During this consultation, ask pertinent questions to gain a comprehensive understanding of the investigator’s services. Specifically inquire about their charging structure and the associated costs involved. Taking these steps ensures that you make an informed decision aligned with your priorities.
While private investigators may enjoy greater access to governmental records and resources compared to the average citizen, there are specific limitations on their actions. For instance, they are forbidden from impersonating law enforcement officers, wiretapping phones, making recordings that violate state laws, or engaging in illegal activities on behalf of their clients.
Private investigators offer valuable advantages such as skillful information gathering, discreet and professional case investigations, and adept surveillance capabilities. Their services encompass a variety of areas, including conducting background checks, investigating insurance fraud, and engaging in corporate investigations. Furthermore, private investigators can collaborate effectively with law.
Analytical skills, attention to detail, discretion, communication skills, resourcefulness, observation skills, integrity/ethics, technology skills and legal knowledge.