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BEFORE employing a detective agency, make certain you understand
what is included in those services. Investigators are often hired
by insurance companies if a claimant's injury is in question.
For example, video surveillance is a cost-effective tool which
involves covertly observing and videotaping a claimant's activity
then comparing the resulting tape to the claimant's allegations
of disability. Often investigators are hired if a child custody
arises, to locating a missing loved one or to help track down
a witness to a crime. There are a variety of reasons why investigators
are hired. Such as, businesses hire investigators to provide background
checks for prospective employees and to provide investigated assistance
concerning employee loyalty, honesty, and ethical work habits.
In such situations, investigators interact with and or ovserve
a company's employee while the employees are on the job. Process
serving is another service that is frequently performed by detective
agencies. It includes serving a subpoena or other legal papers
to a specific party. 
Because this act is frequently met with resistance and because
legally a subpoena and many other legal documents must be personally
served to and received by the proper party, private investigators
are often hired to carry out this service.
Detective agencies use surveillance, computer database searches, interviews, and other techniques to carry out their work. Before you hire a detective agency, find out how long the agency has been in business and contact your state department to see if they are licensed to do business in your state. Also, ask for proof of insurance by receiving a certificate of their insurance and ask to be named on the certificate as an additional insured. It is very important to check out the detective agency you are considering to hire. A large agency which typically offers a staff of investigators, or an investigator who works alone. Before employing a detective agency make certain you understand what is included in those services. Fees charged by detective agencies will vary from agency to agency and from state to state so be sure that you understand the costs involved. Also, some agencies will handle all kinds of cases while others will concentrate only on a few areas. So find out beforehand what the agency is willing to do. Typically, a retainer is required before any work is begun and expenses incurred such as travel will be charged. Ask about the retainer fee and make sure you understand what you have purchased and all the charges involved before signing a contract.
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