The Basics of Surveillance Services
Surveillance is a common aspect of a private investigator’s job and likely what most people think of when they think about what private investigators do. While it is not the only part of the job, it is used in many investigations. The goal of surveillance is to observe a person, place, or object in order to document interactions or activities that involve the subject of the investigation. Through surveillance we can gather quality, court-admissible evidence in a discreet, confidential way.
Do I Need Surveillance Services?
The team at B. Lauren Investigations uses surveillance techniques and equipment in the following case types, among others:
- Infidelity Investigations – If you suspect your spouse or partner is being dishonest about where they are going or who they are with, surveillance can help us uncover the truth.
- Background Investigations – We can help you confirm that someone is who they are claiming to be, whether it be a future spouse or a potential hire.
- Cohabitation Investigations – We can help you determine if your ex-spouse, who is still collecting alimony, has moved in with a new partner.
- Child Custody Investigations – We can find out if the parent awarded custody of your child is creating an unsafe environment for them.
- Corporate Investigations – We use surveillance in a variety of investigations for businesses, including due diligence, fraud investigations, and asset recovery.
Common Surveillance Techniques
Depending on the case, there are a number of common surveillance techniques we use and a variety of specialized equipment.
- Electronic & Technical Surveillance uses equipment such as a stationary surveillance camera or a GPS tracking device.
- Physical Surveillance involves a private investigator physically following a subject to witness and record their behavior, companions, and environment.
Information Needed for Successful Surveillance
During your initial consultation with B. Lauren Investigations, we may ask for the following information:
- General Information
- Description and biographical details of subject
- Date surveillance outcome needed
- Discovery end date
- Relevant court dates
- Your Budget
- Requested Start Date
- Number of days initially requesting for surveillance
- Keep in mind any relevant holidays, birthdays, appointments
- Information regarding any previous surveillance and/or discovery that has been completed or attempted.
- Any deposition transcripts, interrogatories, or other material relevant to the case
- For investigations related to Personal Matters:
- Vehicle make, model, color
- Scheduled visitations where children involved
- Any knowledge of regular schedules; departure and arrival from work, regular sports, games, meeting times and locations, etc.
- For investigations related to Medical Matters
- Injury cause and resulting claimed limitations
- Any regular activities; physical therapy, bowling, evening meetings, etc.
What to Expect From Surveillance Services
- Do expect:
- A projected timeline
- Daily communication during surveillance days
- The opportunity to add on more days if needed
- Detailed and unbiased reports and videotapes that can be used for discovery
- Experienced Private Investigators that can speak effectively if deposed
- Adherence to all legal and ethical standards
- Don’t expect:
- Private Investigators to trespass or violate any Peeping Tom statutes
- Contact with subject unless unavoidable
- Actions engaging subject in activities that could be considered entrapment
Sometimes surveillance can be done by a single investigator, while in certain cases multiple team members may be required to obtain the necessary information. The team at B. Lauren Investigations is skilled and experienced in dealing with all manner of cases in a confidential and legal manner. Contact us today to discuss your case.