How to become a Private Investigator

February 13th, 2009

Being a private investigator is not like what you see on TV, but it can be a rewarding career. It is a profession that is somewhat recession-resistant during economic downturns.  There may be a decline in some areas of investigations, but others such as asset searches or fraud investigations may see an increase. Infidelity investigations remain one of the leading sources of work for private investigators. Evidence of infidelity by a private  investigator carries more weight in divorce proceedings.

 

What Training Is Needed? 

Some private investigators have college degrees, but the majority of private investigators earned their experience working at the local police and sheriff departments.  As a new private investigator you will work under the guidance of an experienced investigator.   As the new investigator gains more experience they are given greater responsibility. In

Texas, private investigators must be licensed through the Texas Department of Public Safety.   The vast majority of private investigators in

Texas
are members of the Texas Association of Licensed Investigators.  The Texas Association of Licensed Investigators is a great professional networking organization.

 

What is the Career Outlook for the Private Investigative Industry? 

The US Department of Labor predicts substantial growth in the profession over the next ten years due to a number of factors.  There will also be a substantial growth in the number of people going into this field.  As a result, competition for jobs will be high and new applicants will need to stand out by demonstrating exceptional skill or previous experience. 

Valentines Day Tips from an Infidelity Investigative Specialist

February 10th, 2009

Being a former Police Officer and FBI Agent, I know there are always two sides to every story. During my years as a private investigator, I have seen our investigators catch several men and women cheating on Valentine’s Day.  We all know Valentine’s Day as a special day to exchange flowers, and candy with those we love.  As a result, we always see a dramatic increase in infidelity cases near Valentine’s Day.   

Unlike the TV show, our investigations do not dramatize infidelity in a relationship. Our investigations are focused on the truth however good or bad it maybe.  When clients call our office they always say they would never forgive their spouse for infidelity.  Oftentimes our infidelity investigations provide clients with the peace of mind they need to rebuild there relationship.  One of the worst fears for anyone in a relationship is the possibility of infidelity from a mate.  

How can you tell when your mate maybe unfaithful? 

TIPS: Listed below are common warning signs that could indicate a problem in any relationship.    Excessive Phone Calls and Computer Time

Having a Need for Privacy

Having a Renewed Attention to Appearance

Working a Lot of Late Hours  

Changes in the Relationship

No longer wearing a wedding ring

Excessive Text messages Saying “It is all your imagination” 

Again, it is important to emphasize that suspicion is not proof.  Any of these examples could be completely normal behavior. This is why the added information provided from an infidelity investigation specialist could confirm your suspicions. 

Infidelity Does not Mean Divorce.

 I have seen first hand that our infidelity investigations can bring a situation into the open potentially allowing couples to deal with the issues in the relationship. Sometimes our investigations reveal fundamental problems in the relationship that can not be overcome. Other times, counseling can help repair the relationship. I don’t view our infidelity investigations as the end of a relationship. I believe that if you keep ignoring the problems in a relationship the problems will only get worse.  If infidelity is confirmed and confronted, you may be able to save your relationship and have many happy years together. 

Things to Consider When Hiring a Private Investigator

February 5th, 2009

People hire private investigators for reasons such as background investigations, domestic investigations, missing person investigations, and asset searches.  However, most people don’t know how to find a private investigator.  So what should you look for when hiring private investigators? 

Start with an internet search.  Be sure to use the city in your search (i.e. “

Houston private investigators”) so you get only a local private investigator.  The company’s website is a good place to start when evaluating a private investigator.  It should list their experience and specialties, giving you a feel for the investigator’s qualifications.  If you are looking for help with an asset search, an investigator who specializes in arson investigation will not be very helpful. I recommend using agencies such the Texas Department of Public Safety (www.txdps.state.tx.us) and the Texas Association of Licensed Investigators (www.tali.org) to verify that the private investigator holds a state license and insurance. 

When you have a short list of private investigators, make some phone calls about your case and interview the investigator. Ask the investigator about their experience as it relates directly to your situation.  This will give you a feel for the investigator and how well you will be able to work together.  Due to the confidential nature of private investigative work you will not have access to a list of professional references.  That is why it is very important to listen to the investigator’s plan for your case.  You should have confidence this person has a clearly defined strategy for your investigation. An investigator without experience will waste your time and money. An experienced private investigator will arrive at a solution quicker which will save you time and money.

 

Experienced private investigators are not cheap, but hiring a private investigator should be considered an investment not an expense.

Welcome to The Investigative Firm Blog

February 3rd, 2009

Welcome to our new blog.  Be sure to check back regularly for the latest information about The Investigative Firm and the services we offer.  If this is your first visit to our site, we look forward to providing any and all of your investigative needs, including employment background checks, skip tracing, asset searches, and infidelity investigations.  With offices in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin, you can be sure that our team of experienced private investigators will help you find the answers!  Be sure to check out all of our private investigation services.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.