When considering whether or not you might need a private investigator there are a few essentials to consider. These essential characteristics are important in getting your money’s worth, and feeling confident you are not getting ripped off and being treated unfairly.

In North Carolina there are many Private Investigators specializing in many areas of investigations. In North Carolina, a P.I. MUST be licensed by the Private Protective Services Board (PPSB) and abide by N.C.G.S 74C. Also, a Private Investigator can be a member of their professional association, which in NC is the North Carolina Association of Private Investigators.

Other state requirements may vary, however a potential P.I. MUST be licensed and bonded before you even consider contracting with them. To entrust your case with an incompetent investigator with no license can not only hurt your investigative effort but actually may damage your case.

KEYS TO HIRING A P.I. –

MAKE SURE THE PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR OR COMPANY HAS THE FOLLOWING:

– Licensed by PPSB

– Has a License number

– Check to make sure they have no disciplinary action through PPSB, The Better Business Bureau and the North Carolina Association for Private Investigators

– Are they a member of the Better Business Bureau and their professional association?

– Are their rates too high or does it seem like they are price gouging?

– Do they have certificates or credentials for the services they claim to provide. (Some private investigators claim to do Executive Protection, but do they have a certificate of completion or military training)?

– Ask to see credentials as well as certificates

– Do they have the capacity to work your case and others in a timely manner?

– How much investigative experience does an investigator have?

– Can the Investigator supply you with a curriculum vitae or reference list of years of experience?

– Do they seem pushy or overly persistent?

– If a private investigator specializes in a particular field do they have the documentation to back it up?

Finding a private investigator is easy but will you feel comfortable and confident that a good job will be done on your case no matter the results?

Unfortunately, many investigators are not ethical, professional or competent and it hurts the profession. If you compare, ask questions, see credentials pertinent to your case and follow up with licensing bodies, you should feel confident your case will be worked in a professional and competent manner.

Never settle with the first investigative service you contact, no matter how qualified they may seem. Some investigators will not haggle prices, but it is likely you can establish some type of quote for the services you require. Shop around and determine which company or investigator best fits both your needs and price point. If you request an in-depth project requiring substantial resources and time, expect that the price may be fairly high.

In summary, be absolutely sure of the qualifications and experience of your P.I., and verify their training, background, work history, military experience (if applicable), and overall approach. Your safety, and the safety of loved ones, is far too important to settle for anything less than the best.

Author Bio: Mr. Kerry Graves, MSW, is a licensed and bonded private investigator and owner of Graves Investigations Inc., a security and executive protection firm located in Greensboro, NC.

Category: Advice
Keywords: private investigator,security,executive protection,insurance fraud,forensics,sexual abuse,assault