The Cost of Private Investigators: Understanding the Factors Affecting Prices
Are private investigators expensive? The answer to this question often relies on a multitude of factors, including your location, the type of investigation, the investigator's expertise, and specific costs involved.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Private Investigation Services
The cost of hiring a private investigator can vary widely, depending on several critical factors. These include the region where the services are being provided, the nature of the investigation (general versus specialized), the investigator's expertise, and the specific expenses that may arise during the course of the investigation.
In Western Colorado, before the pandemic, the rate was around $80 per hour, plus mileage and additional costs. Currently, the charging rate has increased to approximately $100 per hour. In Denver, a friend of mine reported rates starting at $100 per hour. These examples illustrate how location can greatly influence the cost of hiring a private investigator.
Why References Matter More Than Cost
While pricing is certainly a factor to consider, references and the investigator's reputation are often more important, especially if this is your first time engaging a private investigator.
Bob, a seasoned private investigator, advises that you should not just focus on the cost but also on the references and expertise of the investigator. This is particularly crucial if you are unfamiliar with the complexities of private investigation services.
Comparing Costs: Private Investigators vs. Lawyers
The costs associated with hiring a private investigator can be compared to those of hiring a lawyer. Just as lawyers can command very different fees depending on their experience and location, private investigators can have widely varying rates. Some national firms may charge hundreds per hour, while others might be less than $100 per hour.
Similar to lawyers, the worth of a private investigator's services depends on the specific job they are performing. Just as you might hire a lawyer for a specific type of case, you may choose a private investigator for different types of investigations. For instance, they can perform surveillance, conduct background checks, or gather evidence for legal purposes such as proving adultery in non-no-fault divorce cases.
Common Investigation Types and Their Costs
There are several common types of investigations, each with its own associated costs. Jenna explains that the cost depends on the type of investigation, the investigator's experience, the number of people required for the assignment, and the location.
For a complex environmental tort case, rates can be as high as $250 per hour. However, for the most common types of investigations — civil, criminal, and matrimonial — the typical rates range between $90 and $150 per hour, excluding expenses. Solo investigators generally charge less than those who work in teams.
In matrimonial investigations, it's common to need two or three people. For other types of investigations, the number of people needed can vary, which influences the total cost.
Common Experiences and Tips
It's essential to ensure that the private investigator adheres to a specific schedule, especially when dealing with a narrow window of time. As one individual shared, they paid $3,700 for three days of work, which turned out to be a waste of money. Proper scheduling is crucial to ensure that the investigation isn't wasted.
Additionally, some people find that using technology, such as an Apple AirTag, can be an alternative method to tracking someone's movements. This can save both time and money compared to hiring a private investigator.
In conclusion, the cost of a private investigator is influenced by a range of factors. It is important to consider the type of investigation, the investigator's expertise, and the location when making your decision. Don't solely focus on the price; instead, prioritize the investigator's experience and references to ensure a successful outcome.