How To Negotiate With A Private Investigator

In a perfect world, you could hire the best possible private investigator without having to worry about the price tag. But unfortunately, you've got to worry - worry about getting taken by someone who's dishonest, greedy, or prone to miscommunication. What's the easiest way to have a successful negotiation with a private investigator?

Getting both parties to agree to terms well in advance is the quickest and cleanest way to save your time and money. So search for information about invoices and billing. Most private investigators work on retainer. This means you'll pay a certain amount of money up front, and they'll go to work, charging their hourly rate along with disbursements like travel that they might come across while working. Once these expenses reach the amount of the retainer, they'll make a written report with their expenses and their findings, giving you the option to increase the retainer or close the case.

Is there a cap on your expenses? All of this stuff should be on a written contract so that there aren't any misunderstandings, and the contract should be written in simple, easy to understand language - if they're hesitant to walk you through the contract, it's a good sign you shouldn't work with them. Also, they should be able to work on a retainer that's refundable if you aren't fully satisfied with the results.

If they work differently, find out what their variation is, and whether it's good for your bottom line.

Find out whether they take credit cards, and if so, whether they bill discreetly or not. If you're in the middle of a divorce, investigator charges showing up on your bills can create some obvious conflicts. And dealing in cash is quick and effective, but it doesn't leave you with anywhere to go if the service isn't satisfactory.

Remember to ask whether they're bonded and insured. Even the best private investigators might have to make a claim on their insurance, but they should be able to provide an explanation if you ask for one.

Don't just pick the cheapest gumshoe in town, either. If you want an investigator that's credible, you'll need to think logically. And who costs more? A guy who charges $30 an hour and doesn't deliver anything in return, or someone who charges three times and much and completes the investigation within a week? When you're looking for an investigator, especially in this economy, you should call around and compare the rates of a handful of investigators so you can find out an average rate.