How to Verify if Your Private Investigator is Lying: Essential Steps and Key Considerations

If you suspect that your private investigator may be lying to you about finding someone, it is essential to take proactive steps to verify their claims and ensure that you receive accurate information. This guide will outline key steps and considerations to help you maintain trust and make informed decisions in your search.

For Evidence

When dealing with a private investigator, requesting detailed evidence is crucial. A reputable investigator should be able to show you how they arrived at a conclusion and the evidence that supports it. This includes:

Photographic documentation of the individual's residence or area of surveillance. Surveillance footage if applicable. Interview transcripts or witness statements. Official documents such as property deeds or court records that confirm the person's address.

Requesting this evidence allows you to cross-check the investigator's claims and ensure that they are not exaggerating or fabricating information.

References

Checking references is another vital step in verifying a private investigator's credibility. Ask the investigator for a list of past clients and references. Contact these references to inquire about their experiencesworking with the investigator. Look for consistent positive feedback and a history of reliable investigations.

Credentials

Ensure that the private investigator has the necessary credentials and professional qualifications. Many investigative agencies require their investigators to have law enforcement training, security clearances, or membership in professional organizations such as the Association of Certified Investigative Interviewers (ACII) or the International Association of Private Investigators (IAPI).

The Contract

A written contract is your first line of defense against unreliable private investigators. Make sure the contract outlines the terms of engagement, including:

Scope of work and the specific details of the investigation. Timeframe for completion. Payment terms and procedures. Clarity on the delivery of evidence and reports.

Having a detailed contract helps protect your interests and sets clear expectations for both parties.

A Second Opinion

Considering a second opinion can help you make a more informed decision. Obtain a separate report from another private investigator to compare findings and gain additional insights. This approach can help you verify the accuracy of the information provided and ensure that you are not being misled.

Conclusion

It is important to remain vigilant and take steps to verify your private investigator's findings if you have concerns about their honesty or the progress of their investigation. A reputable investigator will be transparent, provide detailed evidence, have verifiable credentials, and uphold ethical conduct. If you encounter an investigator who is unwilling to explain the details of their findings or refuses to provide evidence, it may be wise to seek alternative services.

As a private investigator based in London, England, I would never have a problem with explaining to a client exactly how I know a person resides at a particular address. A good investigator relies on logical evidence rather than magical intuition. Remember, a well-conducted investigation is a transparent process, and a reputable investigator will be happy to share the documentation and evidence that supports their findings.

If you are engaging with a private investigator in any jurisdiction and need further assistance, I hope this post proves helpful.