In a world that is becoming increasingly uncertain and unsafe, the demand for private investigator services is growing. The reasons for hiring a private investigator (PI) are many – checking on the antecedents of a potential business associate, protecting a business or intellectual property, domestic issues and much more. The problem with using a PI is that it can be a double-edged sword – an unscrupulous PI could use the information gathered for you for his own purposes or use what he learns about you during the investigation against you. The perfect PI is one with great investigative skills and also a work ethic that will keep the client safe at all times. Here’s how to find the perfect PI.

• Start by making a list of PIs in your region. The best way to do this is by using a small business directory. Once you have some names, you can ask your local state or federal law enforcement officefor any comments they may have. The DistrictAttorney’s office may be able to help you. So too could criminal defense lawyers.
• Once you have a short list of potential PIs, you need to verify if they meet the criteria of being a PI you can depend on to do a good job and maintain your confidentiality.This is the checklist of what makes the perfect PI:
  • He must be licensed. Licensing requirements vary from state to state so while this is essential, isnot enough to keep you safe.
  • Check out the experience. What is his educational and professional background? What are the areas he specializes in? Does he have the technical (such as computer or financial) skills to get the results you want? What is his experience with cases like yours?
  • Does the PI have a proper office? Stay away from those who want to meet with you only in public places –he is hiding something. You need to be sure that you can find him when you need to.
  • He should be clear about his fees. Once you have spelled out the details of the job, he should be able to give you an accurate estimate of what the total cost will be and to answer your questions about the expense break up. He should not exceed the estimate without your prior approval.
  • Payments should be by check and you should get a proper receipt for all the payments you make.
  • Trust your feelings. A PI needs to have good social skills to work with people and obtain information.  If you and the PI are not able to establish a good rapport during the first meeting, he may not have these skills.

You Need To Deal With A Professional

Forget about all PIs you have seen in movies or on TV. You don’t want entertainment, you need results. The perfect PI is a trained and qualified professional who has an office and the support he needs to get the job done. He is not a tough-talking guy who carries a gun and always has a drink in his hand and an eye for the ladies. The fact that he is listed in abusinessdirectoryshows that he is not a fly-by-night operator and has some standing in the community.

If you want to start your search for the perfect private investigator the right way,check out this directory listing of professional investigators.