Private investigators (PIs) are frequently glamorized in books, movies, and television shows. However, popular stereotypes don’t cover the more complex tasks PIs handle, so most people might misunderstand what a private investigator is and what they can do for their clients.
If you’re considering hiring a PI or would like to learn more about what we do, here are some facts about private investigators you might not know.
What Is a Private Investigator?
A private investigator is a professional hired to gather information, conduct surveillance, and uncover facts, often for individuals, businesses, or attorneys. We are not law enforcement officers and don’t have the same powers as police officers. We cannot make arrests or obtain search warrants, and we must operate within the bounds of the law.
Different states have different laws about licensing to become a PI legally. Licensing requirements vary but often include a combination of education, training, and experience in law enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field. This ensures we are well-equipped to handle sensitive and potentially complex situations.
What Does a Private Investigator Do?
Private investigators can specialize in one field or take on a wide range of cases for various clients. Our work varies greatly depending on the nature of the investigation, but some common tasks include:
- Surveillance: Private Investigators often track individuals to observe their activities and gather evidence. This could involve monitoring a spouse or partner suspected of infidelity or documenting the movements of a person in a workers’ compensation claim.
- Background Checks: Many business owners, companies, and property owners hire PIs to verify information about someone. This is common in pre-employment screening, tenant vetting, or verifying a new romantic partner’s history.
- Fraud Investigations: Businesses frequently employ private investigators to uncover insurance fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. This may involve digging into records or conducting interviews to reveal fraudulent activity.
- Legal Support: Attorneys often work with PIs to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and conduct research for cases. PIs are particularly valuable in criminal defense and civil litigation cases.
Facts About Private Investigators
Here are some private investigator facts you might not already know:
1. We Have Comprehensive Knowledge of the Law
PIs are well-versed in federal, state, and local laws relevant to their work. We work with law firms and attorneys who need legally obtained information, so we understand our limitations and ensure that anything we do to gather information is ethical and legal. This ranges from knowing what constitutes legal surveillance to how we handle sensitive personal data.
2. We Do More Than Covert Surveillance
Most PIs on TV are limited to hardened main characters who go around spying on a target all day. While some cases may require surveillance, it’s not as exciting as you might think.
Additionally, our job can also include tasks such as:
- Interviewing witnesses
- Analyzing documents
- In-depth research
- Digital forensics
- Background checks
These tasks require analytical thinking and diverse skills to uncover critical details and write comprehensive reports.
3. We Must Have a State License To Work in South Carolina
As mentioned earlier, different states have different requirements for PIs. In South Carolina, private investigators must be licensed and regulated by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
This ensures that only qualified individuals practice in the field and that PIs use legal practices to obtain information. Additionally, this gives us certain privileges that the average citizen doesn’t.
4. We Work for Different Industries
Private investigators serve clients across various industries, tailoring our services to meet unique needs. Businesses and private individuals might hire PIs for:
- Computer forensics
- Supplier or vendor screening
- Pre-employment background checks
- Tenant screening
- Retail loss and prevention
- Personal investigations
While some PIs specialize in one field, others offer versatile investigation services and adapt their strategies as needed.
5. We Can Help With Your Divorce Proceedings
Many undergoing high-conflict divorces that end up in court require PI services in various ways:
- Infidelity: South Carolina is an at-fault state that practices equitable distribution. An affair can impact your proceedings, but you will need undeniable evidence of your partner’s affair.
- Child Custody: Judges must decide for your child’s best interest. If you believe your spouse is unfit for shared custody, you must provide tangible proof of your claims.
- Alimony: If your former spouse has been living with a new romantic partner for at least 90 consecutive days, has been hiding their true income, or has changed their financial situation, you need evidence before petitioning.
6. We Have Access To Resources Unavailable To Everyday People
Here’s one of the private investigator facts that will have you thinking twice before attempting to DIY your efforts: PIs have legal access to more resources to help with your needs.
Private investigators have specialized tools and databases inaccessible to the general public. These resources include subscription-only background check platforms, proprietary data analytics software, and extensive professional networks.
7. We Can Find Missing Persons in as Little as 24 Hours
The timeline for finding a missing person can vary depending on various factors. Finding someone actively evading the law may be more complicated. However, finding someone like a childhood friend or biological parent who isn’t actively hiding their information can be done within 24 hours or less.
A PI can start a search with nothing more than a name, but more information can certainly expedite things. With the technology and resources available to PIs, our services are the more efficient and effective solution over DIY attempts.
8. If It’s Available Online, We’ll Probably Find It
Private investigators use all possible resources to obtain information about a person – including their social media presence and anything they post online. Some may underestimate the information they share online, with social media becoming a common part of an average person’s life.
Our digital expertise lets us piece together details that might be overlooked. For example, if you post a photo, details in the background may provide information like where you work, study, or frequently hang out. Our experience and keen attention to detail help us spot details that most would overlook.
Choose Bulldog PI for Reliable Private Investigation Services
Private investigators play an essential role in uncovering the truth. Their skills, knowledge, and access to specialized resources make them indispensable for businesses and personal needs. Through these private investigator facts, you can understand how Bulldog PI can help you obtain information.
Contact Bulldog PI today for inquiries or to schedule your free consultation.
