What does a private investigator do?
A licensed private investigator conducts professional investigations on behalf of individuals, attorneys, businesses, and organizations. This includes surveillance and monitoring, background checks and record searches, fraud detection and documentation, asset searches and financial investigations, witness location and interviewing, evidence collection for legal proceedings, digital and social media investigation, and specialized services like child custody investigation and corporate misconduct inquiry.
Private investigators have no police powers — they cannot make arrests, execute search warrants, or compel testimony. Their value lies in thorough, professional investigation using legally permissible methods that produce court-admissible evidence.
How much does a private investigator cost in Florida?
Private investigator rates in Florida typically range from $75 to $150 per hour for standard services like surveillance and background checks. Specialized services such as digital forensics, corporate investigation, or international cases may cost more based on complexity.
At Emerging Investigations, we provide transparent pricing during your free initial consultation. You will receive a detailed cost estimate based on the specific scope and objectives of your case before any work begins. We never charge hidden fees, and we communicate proactively if circumstances change the scope of work.
Is hiring a private investigator legal?
Yes. Hiring a licensed private investigator is legal in Florida and throughout the United States. Licensed PIs operate within the legal framework established by Florida Statute Chapter 493 and are authorized to conduct surveillance in public places, research public records, interview willing witnesses, and perform other investigative activities using lawful methods.
What private investigators cannot legally do includes trespassing on private property, wiretapping or intercepting communications, hacking into accounts or electronic devices, impersonating law enforcement, and accessing sealed or restricted records without legal authority.
How long does an investigation take?
Timelines vary significantly by case type and complexity. Basic background checks may be completed within 2 to 5 business days. Surveillance cases typically run 3 to 10 days. Complex fraud, corporate, or asset investigations can take several weeks or longer.
During your consultation, we provide realistic timeline estimates based on your specific case. We also keep you updated on progress throughout the investigation so you always know where things stand.
Will my investigation be confidential?
Absolutely. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of our practice. Your identity, case details, and all findings are protected by strict internal protocols. We never disclose that an investigation is underway to any third party, and all evidence and communications are shared only with you or your designated legal representative.
Our investigators understand that many clients come to us during difficult or sensitive times, and we treat every interaction with the respect and discretion you deserve.