Private Investigations – What You Need To Know

What is a private investigator?

A private investigator is someone that is hired to undertake an investigation. PIs have access to information the general public cannot obtain. Most of the activities conducted by a private investigator are civil in nature and fall outside of the realm of the police.

Do private investigators have to be licensed?

In Californina, yes. From the state of California website. A private investigator must:

“Undergo a criminal history background check through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Have three years (2,000 hours each year, totaling 6,000 hours) of compensated experience in investigative work; or a law or police science degree plus two years (4,000 hours) of experience; or an AA degree in police science, criminal law, or justice and 2 ½ years (5,000 hours) of experience. Experience must be certified by your employer and have been received while you were employed as a sworn law enforcement officer, military police officer, insurance adjuster, employee of a licensed PI or repossessor, or arson investigator for a public fire suppression agency. (Work as a process server, public records researcher, custodial attendant for a law enforcement agency, bailiff, agent who collects debts in writing or by telephone after the debtor has been located, or person who repossesses property after it has been located is not considered qualifying experience.)

Pass a two-hour multiple-choice examination covering laws and regulations, terminology, civil and criminal liability, evidence handling, undercover investigations and surveillance.”

Who hires private investigators?

Everyone! Private investigators offer many types of investigations. They work for attorneys to gather information on civil or defense cases. Insurance companies hire PIs to look into suspicious claims. Private individuals hire investigators for many reasons including locating missing people, asset searches and surveillance on spouses.

If you're looking, a private investigator can help. Below is a list of some services that PI's perform:

What should I do before hiring an investigator?

Before hiring an investigator you should:

·         Get their license number and check with the state licensing board to make sure they are current and have no complaints CA license check.

·         Check with the Better Business Bureau Better Business Bureau

·         Ask for and check: their insurance policy and references

·         Obtain a contract for their services with the retainer and fees clearly defined.

How do private investigators charge?

Most investigators have an hourly rate based on the type of service needed. They will usually ask for a retainer fee (a fixed amount of money that a client agrees to pay, in advance, to secure services) and can generally give you an estimate of the services required for your particular need. Contact our offices to find out the fees for your specific needs. 

Email: PI@aceofspadesinvestigations.com
Telephone: 707-527-9282 or 415-457-4141