Private investigators play an important role in court cases. In fact, the framework on which many court cases are based is the result of the efforts of an investigator. Tens of thousands of attorneys trust people who are trained to sift through the details surrounding a case, investigating elements that others miss. Often times, your experience provides important information that can help a defense attorney or prosecutor win your case. Next, you will discover how a private investigator adds value to the legal process. In addition, we will explain how to hire an investigator if the need arises.
The value of a private investigator
Many people have an image of private detectives that is largely a product of film noir. Dark offices visited by mysterious women with the vague promise of danger and intrigue implore the private detective who carefully drinks a whiskey … these are the visions of fiction. In truth, private investigators are hardworking experts who are adept at using computer technology and surveillance techniques. They perform background checks, uncover hidden details in a person’s history, and help investigate civil and criminal cases.
Many private detectives have had fruitful careers as police officers. They have a deep understanding of how the law works and the most effective ways to work within it. Lawyers often hire investigators to question the defendant’s friends or family to help build their case. Their services are hired for divorce cases, child custody battles, insurance fraud, and virtually any type of case for which a detailed investigation is valuable.
Hiring a private investigator
Most states have an official agency that licenses private detectives. Before hiring an investigator, make sure they are actually licensed. Then ask him about his experience. If the investigator has had a long career in law enforcement, that may suggest that he or she has substantial experience interviewing people and gathering information. Many private detectives specialize in certain types of legal matters. For example, some may be exceptionally efficient at monitoring divorce cases. Others work primarily on cases involving cybercrime.
Don’t underestimate the value of trusted referrals. If you are already working with an attorney, you likely have trusted private investigators that you prefer to work with. If not, ask other attorneys for recommendations. Because attorneys work closely with private detectives on many types of cases, they can suggest an investigator who may best meet your needs, given your unique circumstances.
The role that private detectives play in the legal process can have a major impact on the outcome of a court case or settlement. Although his work remains largely in the background, away from lights and cameras, his efforts and expertise are often invaluable.
