Private Detective

A private detective, also known as “private investigator,” “PI,” or “private eye,” is an individual who undertakes investigations, assists in legal proceedings and handles other “private” matters. A private detective usually works under contract or as a freelance professional. Attorneys and creditors often hire private detectives as well as insurance companies and private citizens.

PI Basics

While a large percentage of private detectives are retired military or retired civilian police officers, by law, they are not allowed to arrest citizens or use firearms in practice. In addition, they are not allowed to trespass on private property. Private detectives can, however, set up a “stake-out” outside and away from an individual's home. Unlike police officers or military personnel, private detectives are required to abide by the same laws as private citizens and they face the same criminal charges if any laws are broken. Because most private detectives have a military or police background, they are experienced criminal investigators and well versed in civil investigative techniques.

Private Detective Myths and Facts

Contrary to popular belief, most private detectives aren't cigarette smoking, a.m. boozing “hotheads.” PI's have Hollywood to thank for giving them such a seedy reputation. The reality is that private detective work takes patience, specialized skills, focus, and a large amount of research. A private detective may gather research through a variety of processes such as surveillance, background checks, and skip-tracing techniques or through records that aren't readily available to the public. Depending on the case, a private detective may also be involved in the delivery of a variety of legal documents, summons, and subpoenas.

The Modern Private Detective

Today's private detective is slightly different from yesterday's. Today's private detective prefers to be called “professional investigator.” While private detectives were hired mostly by attorneys, companies, and even as a supplement to police investigators decades ago, today their most profitable demographic consists of spouses and partners. In fact, there are several current television show's that are dedicated to investigating questionable behavior by spouses or partners and catching them in the act of cheating. Spouses often hire private detectives when divorce (and money) is a factor.

Private Detective Costs

Private detective services, like any other professional service, can be costly. But it's important to keep in mind that private detectives usually produce faster results than most other investigative outlets, such as the police department. Because police investigators are typically inundated with cases, private detectives have more time and resources to devote to each individual case. Most private detectives charge a flat fee per day, plus expenses. Expenses may include meals, transportation, housing, extra help, etc.

Hiring a Private Detective

Depending on the type of case, there are many different private detectives and agencies to choose from. Some may deal with insurance fraud only, while others may offer multiple or custom services. A good way to locate a reputable, high-quality private detective is through referral or through an attorney. Experience, privacy, and background are important qualities to keep in mind when searching for a private detective as well as areas of expertise. Most high-quality private detectives are more than happy to provide references.

By Michelle Burton