Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about hiring a private investigator? Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from clients in Jacksonville and throughout Northeast Florida. If you do not see your question listed, contact us for a confidential consultation. 

1. Search for Local Investigators. It’s always a good idea to choose a private investigator based in Northeast Florida. Local experts are familiar with the area, state laws, and available resources.
2. Verify Licensing and Credentials. In Florida, private investigators must be licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Licensing. Always verify their credentials before hiring.
3. Check for Professional Memberships. Memberships in organizations like the Florida Association of Licensed Investigators (FALI) demonstrate credibility and professionalism in the field.
4. Evaluate Their Website and Online Presence.  A professional, well-maintained website, along with an up-to-date social media presence and reviews, can give you confidence in the investigator's expertise. 
5. Contact and Interview the Investigator. Reach out to potential investigators and ask about their experience, methods, fees, and similar cases. A trustworthy investigator will be open about their services and pricing.
6. Request a Contract and Proof of Insurance. Make sure all details regarding services, costs, and confidentiality agreements are documented in writing before moving forward.

Private investigators are hired for a wide range of reasons. Some common situations include:

• Infidelity Investigations: If you suspect your spouse is cheating, a private investigator can gather evidence through discreet surveillance.
• Legal Cases: Attorneys often hire private investigators to gather evidence for civil and criminal cases.
• Locating Missing Persons: Whether it’s a runaway teen, a lost relative, or a debtor, private investigators are experts at tracking people down.
• Background Checks: Whether for personal safety or professional reasons, background checks help ensure legitimacy.
• Corporate Investigations: Businesses might hire investigators to look into employee misconduct, fraud, or intellectual property theft.
• Surveillance Services: Surveillance can help gather evidence for child custody disputes, fraud, and more.

Private investigators must follow state and federal laws. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Can Do:
  • Conduct surveillance in public areas.
  • Take photos and videos in public places (no private property).
  • Run background checks and access public records.
  • Conduct interviews
• Can’t Do:
  • Trespass on private property.
  • Record inside private homes without consent.
  • Wiretap phones or hack into emails.
  • Impersonate law enforcement.

The cost of hiring a private investigator in the Jacksonville, Florida area varies depending on the type of service you need. Investigators typically require a retainer upfront, and prices can range based on the complexity of the case. Be cautious of suspiciously low-cost services, as they may indicate inexperience or lower-quality work.

A cohabitation investigation determines whether an individual is living with another person in a marriage-like relationship. Courts may reduce or terminate alimony or modify custody agreements if cohabitation is proven. We use surveillance, documentation, and background research to confirm living arrangements and financial interdependence.  

No. A single overnight stay is not enough. Cohabitation typically requires evidence of repeated overnight stays over an extend period.

An infidelity investigation gathers evidence to confirm or refute suspicions of a partner’s unfaithfulness. We discreetly document a subject’s activities, interactions, and routines to reveal the truth. Using professional surveillance, photography, and background research, we provide clear, factual insight so you can make informed personal or legal decisions. 

A child custody investigation provides evidence regarding a child’s safety, care, and environment when custody or visitation is in dispute. We observe daily routines, living conditions, and parental behavior to help determine the child’s best interests. Our findings are presented through detailed reports, photos, and video suitable for court use. 

No. A private investigator can do everything in their power to get results, but cannot make any guarantees on the outcome of an investigation.

No. Professional surveillance is conducted covertly and discreetly. Our goal is to remain unnoticed while documenting activities accurately and legally.
 

Yes. Licensed private investigators have access to certain non-public databases, but these aren’t government records. They’re regulated investigative tools that compile data from public records, commercial sources, and credit-header information. 

In most states, yes. Many states require a license for individuals or agencies operating as private investigators. It is required in the State of Florida.

No, private investigators do not have arrest powers. They are not law enforcement officers and cannot make arrests.   

No. In most cases, using a drone to film over a fenced backyard would violate privacy laws. Licensed investigators follow strict federal, state, and local regulations and do not use drones to capture images where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy. 

No. Private investigators are not allowed to wiretap phones or hack into devices. Only law enforcement can do this with a court order.

The legality of GPS tracking depends on vehicle ownership, consent, and current state and federal law. We only use GPS tracking when it is legally authorized. 

No one, including private investigators, can place listening devices in your home without a court order.