When you have a need for a private investigator, you not only want to hire someone who is competent, but you want to hire one of the best in the industry. Without knowing who’s who in the field of investigation, there are a few things you can do to find the best private investigator.

Make Sure the Private Investigator is Licensed

This should be a basic starting place in your search. Most states, including California, require licensing of all private investigators. At the very least, an investigation firm or individual should be able to produce a license, and this license should be easily verified by the state.

Anyone can claim to be a P.I., but without a license, they are not a professional investigator, and finding a professional is fundamental to hiring the best.

Look for a Background in Law Enforcement

The best private investigators have experience working in some aspect related to law enforcement. Common examples are police officers and detectives. The experience gained working with the criminal element in society has valuable job application when investigating people for a variety of suspicious behaviors.

Years of Experience

You need to know how long a private investigator has been working in the field. The best private investigators will have ample job experience and work training in the field. Much of the skills that are used in this profession are learned through practical work experience.

There are many subtle aspects to investigative work that takes time to acquire. An investigator with many years of experience will have the tools needed to assist you in solving your problem without making costly mistakes.

A Long List of Satisfied Clients

The best private investigators will always have a long list of references they can furnish at a moment’s notice. Those at the top of this profession should not only have years of experience, but have a lot of customers who are more than willing to testify to the services that were provided to them.

In addition, investigators are likely to have repeat customers. This usually comes in the form of professional clients such as business owners, insurance companies and attorneys. Top investigators are sought after because the success they have in their profession helps professionals in other fields to succeed also.

If you are able to find a private investigator that meets all of the above criteria, there is one last standard that should be met, and this is your own. Do you feel comfortable talking to the investigator and do you have a good feel for them? This is entirely subjective, but it is important that even a great investigator is someone that you have good communication with and trust.

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Bruce Robertson

Bruce Robertson is a private investigator and founder of Tristar Investigation, California’s premiere detective agency. Bruce is also a media commentator for the investigation industry, featured in the New York Times, CNN, History Channel, MSNBC, Los Angeles Times and many more. You can find him on Google+ LinkedIn and YouTube.