Hire a Florida Private Investigator: Your Essential Guide
When you’re faced with questions that need answers, whether it’s uncovering the truth in a personal matter, verifying a background in business, or gathering evidence for a legal case, hiring a professional investigator often makes the difference. If you’re in Florida, you’ll want to know how to choose the right private investigator and what to expect. Using insights from Alibi Investigations (a Florida-licensed firm) we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
Why hire a Florida private investigator?
A licensed investigator brings expertise, tools, resources and legal awareness that simply aren’t available to most individuals. For example:
- Many firms (like Alibi Investigations) offer real-time surveillance you can view from your phone or computer, giving immediate access to what’s going on.
- They know how to handle legal boundaries, evidence retention, documentation and admissibility, important if your investigation connects to litigation, custody matters or alimony.
- They specialize in many types of investigations: background checks, marital/infidelity, child custody, locating persons, license plate lookups, etc.
What to look for when choosing an investigator in Florida
Here are the key criteria you should check carefully:
- Proper licensing and credentials
In Florida, private investigators must hold the appropriate license. For example, Alibi Investigations lists its Florida license (A-3200187) on their site. - Relevant experience for your specific need
Investigations vary widely: infidelity, custody, employee screening, bug sweeps, surveillance. A firm that advertises “cheating spouses” might not have deep experience in corporate investigations, for instance.
Alibi’s site clearly lists varied services: background checks, custody, alimony, etc. - Reputation & transparency
Reviews, references, how long the firm has been operating, and how they present their work all matter. A trustworthy firm will clearly outline the process, costs, deliverables. - Methodology and tools
How will they gather information? Will you have access to live updates? What evidence/documentation will you receive?
Alibi mentions: “Real-Time Surveillance on Your Mobile Phone or Computer.” - Legal compliance and ethics
Investigations must respect privacy laws, avoid entrapment, and use lawful methods. You want a firm that follows standards.
On Alibi’s site: they mention “legally-obtained surveillance videos” when they discuss license plate lookups. - Scope, deliverables & termination conditions
Before hiring, define: what will they investigate, what you’ll receive, how long it will take, cost structure, what happens if new facts arise, how confidential the work is.
Step-by-Step Guide: Hiring a Florida Private Investigator
Step 1: Define your goal clearly
What do you need uncovered? Is it infidelity, business misconduct, missing person, child custody oversight? Be as specific as possible. Having clarity helps you and the investigator.
Step 2: Research and shortlist firms
Focus on Florida-licensed firms with relevant experience. On Alibi’s site you’ll find their service areas across Florida (Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, etc.)
Check: their website, testimonials, case types, cost range, consultation offer.
Step 3: Schedule consultations
Use the free consultation offer (as Alibi provides) to talk through your case. Prepare questions:
- What’s your process?
- What evidence will I receive?
- What are your costs and payment terms?
- How do you communicate with clients?
- What potential complications might arise?
Step 4: Check credentials and contract
Verify their license number (Alibi lists theirs). Ask for the contract: what’s included, confidentiality terms, termination provisions, payment schedule, expected timeline.
Step 5: Start the investigation and monitor
Once you hire them, stay in communication. Some firms (like Alibi) allow you to view surveillance in real-time.
You should ensure the investigation remains focused and that you’re updated regularly.
Step 6: Review findings and decide next steps
When investigation completes, review the deliverables: reports, photos, videos, logs, possible expert testimony. Use findings to decide your next action: legal, personal, business. Ensure you keep copies and maintain confidentiality.
Common Use-Cases in Florida & Why They Matter
- Infidelity or marital investigations: When there are signs of cheating, mis-behavior, or you need proof for divorce or alimony. Alibi explicitly lists “Cheating Spouses” and “Alimony Investigations”.
- Child custody support: If you suspect risk to a child or need evidence of misconduct by a parent. Alibi lists “Custody Battle Support”.
- Background checks and employment screening: Businesses or individuals need trustworthy data. Alibi lists “Background Check employee & online dating” in their services.
- Locating individuals / asset checks / license plate lookups: For legal cases, recovery or verification. Example: Alibi’s “License Plate Look Up” service with legal permissible purpose.
Conclusion
Hiring a private investigator in Florida can give you the clarity, evidence and support you need whether you’re dealing with personal matters or business issues. The key is choosing wisely: check credentials, ensure compatible experience, ask the right questions, and get a clear scope and contract.
Using firms like Alibi Investigations gives you one example of how a professional operation presents itself: licensed, varied services, real-time surveillance, free consultation. By following the guide above, you’ll be much better positioned to hire an investigator that suits your specific situation and by doing so, move forward with confidence.
