Hiring a private investigator for the first time can feel uncertain. You may not know what information is relevant, what we can legally do, or how much things cost. This post eliminates that uncertainty. Here is exactly what we need from you, what the intake conversation looks like, and what happens in the first 48 hours after you make contact.
Why Intake Matters
An investigation built on incomplete or inaccurate information wastes your money and our time. The intake process is not a formality -- it is how we assess whether your case is actionable, what methodology is most appropriate, and what a realistic outcome looks like. It also protects you legally. Before we begin any case, both parties need a clear written scope of work. That scope comes from intake.
According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), licensed PI agencies in Florida are required to operate within clearly defined legal parameters. A thorough intake process ensures every engagement stays within those parameters from the start.
What to Prepare Before You Contact Us
You do not need to have everything organized perfectly. However, the more specific you can be, the faster we can assess your case. Before reaching out, try to gather the following:
- Full legal name of the subject (if the case involves a specific individual)
- Last known address or location
- Phone numbers, email addresses, or social media handles associated with the subject
- Vehicle description -- make, model, color, and plate if available
- Photos of the subject -- recent, clear photos are useful for surveillance cases
- A brief written summary of the situation -- what happened, what you need to know, and why
- Any existing documentation -- police reports, court filings, prior correspondence
The Intake Conversation
Our first conversation is a free consultation. It is confidential. What you share with us does not leave this office. During this call or meeting, we will:
- Ask clarifying questions about the situation and the subject
- Assess whether the case is legally actionable in Florida
- Give you an honest evaluation of what investigation can realistically accomplish
- Explain the most appropriate methodology for your specific case
- Provide a fee structure and timeline estimate
We will not take a case we cannot do well. If your situation falls outside our scope or is better handled by law enforcement, we will tell you directly and refer you accordingly. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) handles criminal matters that PIs cannot legally address, and we will guide you to the right resource when appropriate.
The Case Agreement
Before any fieldwork begins, we provide a written case agreement. This document defines the scope of investigation, deliverables, timeline, fees, and retainer amount. You will know exactly what you are paying for before you pay anything. No verbal agreements. No ambiguity. This is standard professional practice and protects both parties.
For reference on what to expect from professional PI agreements in Florida, the Florida Association of Licensed Investigators (FALI) provides industry standards guidance for client-agency engagements.
What Happens in the First 48 Hours
Once the agreement is signed and the retainer is secured, the case opens. Within 48 hours:
- A case file is created and assigned a case number
- Initial database and OSINT research begins on the subject
- Surveillance logistics are planned if applicable (routes, timing, equipment)
- You receive a confirmation with your case number and primary contact
Submit Your Intake Information
Use the form below to provide your basic case information before our consultation call. This is not a case submission -- it is a preliminary intake that helps us prepare for a productive first conversation. All information is held in strict confidence.