General Services
Private investigators, “PI,” are regulated and licensed by the state of Florida. Becoming a PI requires a lengthy process, including a written test, background check, and possibly an internship of one to two years. Every PI must have an active “C” license, and a few will have a “G” license for being armed. The state of Florida issues these licenses, and these licenses are renewed and monitored by the State Department of Agriculture. Anyone can check the license of a PI by going on the Department of Agriculture website.
What can a PI do for you? Florida law, statute 493.6101, defines numerous tasks a PI can undertake. The following sentence and bullet points come directly from the state statute. “Private investigation means the investigation by a person or persons for the purpose of obtaining information with reference to any of the following matters:
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Crime or wrongs done or threatened against the United States or any state or territory of the United States when operating under express written authority of the governmental official responsible for authorizing such investigation.
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The identity, habits, conduct, movements, whereabouts, affiliations, associations, transactions, reputation, or character of any society, person, or group of persons.
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The credibility of witnesses or other persons.
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The whereabouts of missing persons, owners of unclaimed property or escheated property, or heirs to estates.
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The location or recovery of lost or stolen property.
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The causes and origin of, or responsibility for, fires, libels, slanders, losses, accidents, damage, or injuries to real or personal property.
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The business of securing evidence to be used before investigating committees or boards of award or arbitration or in the trial of civil or criminal cases and the preparation therefor.”
We also provide surveillance operations, which typically involve discreetly monitoring and observing a subject or target to gather information or evidence for a client. Not all PIs provide surveillance duties.
Some PIs specialize, while others may be full-service. Like anything else, you want to ensure they can assist you, so ask questions. Depending on the investigator, the fees can range from $50 to $200 per hour. Shop and hire the best fit for you like any other commercial endeavor. When you decide on a PI, get a contract to spell out everyone's expectations. Last, your relationship with your hired private investigator is confidential and covered under state statutes. Please call or email, free consultation.