Are you considering hiring a private investigator? Do you need professional help to research and uncover certain truths and details that may affect your life? Here are a few tips on what to look for when you're deciding which private investigator to use.
You may be surprised to find that not all private investigators are created equal.
1. What do they specialize in?
Believe it or not, there are a great number of skills and techniques that fall under the private investigator umbrella. When shopping around, be sure to ask the investigation firms what they specialize in, and be sure that those techniques match your particular case.
2. Not all police officers make great private investigators.
Be sure to properly question and interview the investigator you are considering. While previous law enforcement experience is a great asset, private investigation is a very different job. Interview the investigator, and be sure to find out what type of police work they did and for how long. Be sure that their previous skill-set matches the work you are hiring them for.
3. What are the credentials of the Investigation firm you plan on hiring?
Make sure the investigation firm is licensed with the solicitor general’s office, is bonded, insured, as well as registered with the Workers Compensation Board.
4. Are you hiring a great investigation firm, or just a great marketing company?
Not all investigation firms do the work themselves. They may just be really good a promoting the services you are looking for. Be sure to find out exactly who will be handling your case, and what that individual’s specific qualifications are.
5. A Company’s rate can say a lot about the quality of their service.
Just like with a mechanic or any other professional service, you get what you pay for. If a private investigation firm is charging a suspiciously low rate, then this may be an indication that they provide a low quality service or have a bad reputation. Typical rates are in the $65 - $70 range.
6. Is the company you are hiring ethical?
Due to the nature of the work, which involves the privacy of others, there are a great deal of rules and regulations as to how private investigations can be conducted. Many of these regulations are derived from ethics, and are meant to protect both you and the assignment. Not all private investigators follow these rules, respect the rules or even understand the rules. Since not all investigation firms are created equal, be sure to get full documentation in writing, of the work completed on your behalf.
7. What is PIPEDA?
PIPEDA stands for Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. Being a PIPEDA designated firm - a designation the province of British Columbia grants - means we have access to private information held by 3rd party organizations, and have the right to share it with our clients, should it be necessary to the case. PIPEDA is both protection and a privilege, and identifies an investigation firm as working within the boundaries of the law.
We hope this information helps you make a more informed decision as you continue to seek out help from a private investigator. If you have any more questions or would like to learn more about 24/7 Investigations, please contact us. We look forward to helping you find the answers you need.