Sometimes, you might need the information, evidence or help to find someone, but you may struggle to find the person, be uncomfortable doing the investigation, and could be at risk of legal and safety issues. When you need facts, not assumptions, a private investigator will give you the information you need in a discreet, structured and legal way.
A common reason people call private investigators is when they have suspicions that something is going on, but they cannot determine what it is. This can be an allegation of infidelity, a missing person, fraud, work misconduct, insurance issue or any other issue where factual evidence would be significant.
Here is when to look for the services of a private investigator;
1. Suspected Infidelity or Relationship Concerns
A private investigator can also be hired to look into the activities of a partner in a discreet manner and make notes of relevant activities if one suspects that a partner may be unfaithful. Professional surveillance can assist to remove the uncertainty and speculation and provide you with information to make decisions based on facts.
2. Finding a Missing Person
Private investigators can help to locate individuals who have relocated or altered their contact information, or those who are hard to find. Investigative services generally involve finding out where a person is located, through such methods as skip tracing, and gathering information that is legal.
This can come in handy when there’s a good reason to find somebody, but other means haven’t succeeded.
3. Workplace Misconduct, Fraud or Theft
From time to time, businesses may encounter issues such as employee theft and fraud, or even unauthorized activities and other issues in the workplace. An independent investigator can be of assistance in collecting information and evidence, and may be discreet.
Investigations can be particularly useful when management requires facts to support decisions regarding the employment and/or legal aspects of the situation.
4. Insurance and Fraud Investigations
Fraudulent claims can have serious repercussions for businesses and insurers. As surveillance and investigative work can be used to establish the facts of dubious claims and/or activities. A professional investigator can record observations in a systematic way and not just make assumptions or informally report them.
5. Law and Evidence Issues
Private investigators can also help solicitors, businesses and individuals to collect information which can be relevant to a legal issue. This may involve surveillance, finding individuals and activities, etc. depending on the situation.
Where your investigation could result in legal action, you should talk to your solicitor about the aims of the investigation and what evidence your solicitor would need to make a successful case.
6. You Need a Flawless Service
It is crucial to have the right investigator. Private Investigators in NSW are regulated by the security licensing system run by the Security Licensing & Enforcement Directorate (SLED). Private investigation and surveillance is included in the Class 2E license.
Investigators are required to work within the bounds of the law and restrictions. For instance, some forms of monitoring and information collection may have significant legal consequences if done incorrectly.
Key Takeaway
It is not necessary to hire a private investigator for each issue. If, however, you need objective information, discreet surveillance, help in finding a person or evidence of the suspected misconduct or fraud, professional investigative services may be needed.
Prior to hiring an investigator, discuss your situation, what type of services are legal, what to expect when hiring an investigator, the estimated timeline and budget, and the investigator’s licensing and experience. If the facts are important, a professional investigation can help clarify and enable you to tackle a challenging situation in a structured, confidential and responsible manner.
