How to find a local Costa Rica private investigator

Delivering evidence to you

Perhaps the better question is how to find the right local Costa Rica private investigator. The web is full of sites that offer a Costa Rica private investigator. The problem is that many are not here in Costa Rica. Finding a local Costa Rica private investigator can be easily done by talking directly to the person who is the investigator. By this I mean you are talking to the person who will have the “boots on the ground”.

Several of the sites on the web are nothing more than third-party lead generators. Some of the others have malware on their sites. So a word of caution is in order. Legit private investigators are very transparent and will answer all of your questions. Exercising common sense is one of the best methods to evaluate the person you are talking to. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out who’s real and who’s not.

What should I ask the PI about?

Give them a thumbnail description of your problem, and ask if has the experience to do this type of investigation. The first step is to do your research in finding a local Costa Rica private investigator. Costa Rica is a small country, so finding a local private investigator shouldn’t be too difficult. However, it’s important to find someone who is experienced and reputable to ensure you get the results you need.

Ask yourself how you would advise some seeking the same information:

One way to find a private investigator in Costa Rica is to ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues. If someone you know has used a private investigator in the past and was satisfied with their services, they can provide you with valuable information about their experience.

Another way to find a private investigator in Costa Rica is to conduct an online search. There are several websites that list private investigators in Costa Rica, and you can read reviews from past clients to get an idea of the quality of their services. It’s also a good idea to check out their website to learn more about their experience and qualifications.

When you have a list of potential private investigators, it’s important to schedule a consultation with each one. This will give you an opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of their expertise. Make sure to ask about their experience in the type of investigation you need, as well as their success rate.

During the consultation, it’s also important to discuss the cost of their services. Private investigators in Costa Rica typically charge by the hour, and the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the investigation. Be sure to ask for a written estimate, and make sure you u

Provide your chosen private investigator with all necessary information, including dates, names, and other relevant details, to ensure a successful investigation. They will use this information to conduct their investigation and keep you updated on progress.

Keep in mind that private investigators in Costa Rica are restricted from certain types of investigations, such as illegal activities, and are bound by strict confidentiality laws. Choose a professional and experienced private investigator who can guide you on the legal boundaries of your investigation.

To find a reputable private investigator in Costa Rica, conduct online research, ask for recommendations, and schedule consultations. This will help you find an investigator who can provide the answers you need, while also considering legal boundaries.

Looking for something in Costa Rica

Just what are you looking for in Costa Rica? Trying to locate someone? Trying to check up on a loved one? Perhaps, finding a piece of real estate to purchase. Whatever the case we are here and are ready to help in any way that we can. Some of the things that have changed dramatically over the past 2 years due to the covid pandemic. Such as people moving to live with family due to no work for example.Currently, there are numerous schemes and scams going on with regard to visitors coming to Costa Rica that are unaware of the changes that have occurred during this time. Remember always that you are in a third world country. Be prudent and cautious.

 

Changes came from top level in Government

Regardless of what you are looking for in Costa Rica, inquiries and the manner to obtain them has been impacted by the changes brought on as a result of Covid 19. According to the University of Costa Rica all of the information concerning the pandemic and the subsequent changes has been orchestrated by to level government.

Most who seek locating someone here are unaware that Costa Rica has no street addresses. It is all descriptive. Additionally there are no protocols in place that update the locations as they are listed in the various registries. Some of the locations could be one to twenty years old. The older the listing of an address the higher likelihood of landmarks changes increases with time. Contacting the U.S. Embassy here to locate someone is uneventful as they will refer you yo the local law enforcement agencies.

Nevertheless

We are here to help you. Our firm has accumulated years of experience and knowledge about this beautiful country. I know what can be reasonable expectations on obtaining the information you seek. We also are a law firm and can help you with many things others can’t.

Reasonable expectations of a Costa Rica private  investigation

In any relationship, there are two sides to every story. What should be your expectations of a Costa Rica investigation?  An investigator may consider an absurd request of a client, could stem from from simple lack of communication.  During the process.on giving facts which not only satisfy the case but to satisfy the client may confusing. A private investigators work is in a results-driven market.  It is here  these heightened beliefs which drive some investigators to always bring their respective “A-game” to each assignment. However, this may also lead some investigators to worry in those rare occasions where your results may fall short of your goals, (as well as the client’s interest  future engagements).

Private investigations are not an exact science

As with most who provide services, we do not always have the luxury of hand-selecting our clients.  In some instances we are faced with certain clients who can be more of a burden than a blessing.  Nothing is more frustrating to an investigator than a client who tries and manage an investigation by intruding or withholding information. This alone could result in less than an optimal result 

Communication assist with clear expectations of a Costa Rica Private Investigation

Accepting any assignment, it is critical to communicate to the client the importance of sharing as much information as possible. I always verbally and write communications the are integral to the inquiry. From the beginning  (no matter how minute the details may be) it may prove to be vital during the course of the investigation. It is equally as important to “tone-down” any preconceived notions of what they may expect,as a result of your efforts. The most effective way is to communicate to your client not only what information is potentially attainable, but more importantly, what may not be within the confines of the law.  It is important during the course of your investigation, to keep the client apprised with a brief email or phone call so that they know you are on top of their situation.

No Guarantees

It is important that the client understand that there are no guarantees for this type of work. The nature  and scope of the investigation industry does not allow for guarantees. Many clients are under the impression that if the information they seek is not available or doesn’t exist they should not have to pay. Thus, it is essential that the need to communicate and at times educate the clients as to the limitations that are present in any type of investigation.

 

 

 

 

Local Costa Rica Private Investigator

Cody L Gear and Associates is a Costa Rica private investigation company. We have a network that reaches every Latin and South American country. Our group of network licensed investigators includes professionals who are familiar with Costa Rica, its culture, and its geography. They also  have many contacts who prove valuable for conducting investigations Costa Rica. Our private investigators are highly trained professionals with years of experience and training. All of our investigations are discreet and confidential.

Costa Rica Private Investigator

Cody L Gear and Associates in Costa Rica is a private investigation agency run from our corporate headquarters in San Jose, Costa Rica. Costa Rica private investigators are not regulated by any government body. There is no requirement for licensure. Therefore, you have to exercise caution in selecting a private investigator. Many con artists and scammers will pose as investigators to steal your money or vital information.

With our firm you can rest assured that your investigator is experienced and reputable. Our investigators are often licensed in many jurisdictions within the continental United States. Some that are from countries abroad have licenses. Whether you are a resident of Costa Rica in need of an investigation or somewhere else, we are here to help. If you are a citizen of another country and you believe your investigation will lead you to Costa Rica, we can help.

Private Investigators in Costa Rica

Costa Rica reports a population of approximately 5 million people, and its official language is Spanish. The country is bordered by Nicaragua on the north and Panama on the south. Costa Rica is surrounded by the Pacific and the Caribbean Sea. The primary export is coffee, its government and economy have proven to be consistently stable. More stable  than nearly every other Latin American country over the past several years.

In large part this is because Costa Rica has no military. There has not been any noteworthy political turmoil. Since the early 1940’s, following an open rebellion that The Government abolished the standing army and made Costa Rica a democracy. Despite political stability, however, Costa Rica js a developing country, and poverty levels remains fairly high. This is evidenced by a high crime rate particularly in property theft. Such crimes , particularly homicide and “smash and grab” type crimes appear the to be the most prevalent. The most prolific criminal enterprise in the country is its narcotics trade, specifically cocaine.ica is

Costa Rica Private Investigator Restrictions

Conducting private investigations in Costa Rica, all private investigators must comply with local and Costa Rica federal laws.

  • Performing Investigations in Costa Rica – In order to work in Costa Rica, the investigator must possess proof of permanent residency. Possess written authorization from the government or be a citizen of Costa Rica. Websites that hold themselves out to have their network of investigators in Costa Rica is misleading. 
  • Impersonate Law Enforcement – Private Investigators in Costa Rica cannot carry a badge, carry a firearm, wear a uniform. They can’t say anything that might imply that the private investigator is a police officer or an agent of the Costa Rica Government.
  • Make an Arrest – Private Investigators in Costa Rica cannot legally make an arrest. If there is evidence that requires an arrest should be made, the investigator should contact law enforcement.
  • Wiretapping – Wiretapping is illegal, the law in Costa Rica parallels that of most jurisdictions in the United states. Private Investigators cannot tap a phone. They cannot place GPS monitors on cars or use devices which reveals the location of a person.
  • Trespassing – Private Investigators cannot break and enter onto private property.

Locating a Missing Person in Costa Rica

Are you attempting to locate a missing person you believe to be somewhere in Costa Rica? Are you located in Costa Rica but are trying to locate someone outside of Costa Rica? Locating a missing person is not easy, especially when the police are often limited on available time/resources they can dedicate towards a missing person investigation. If you need help locating a missing person in Costa Rica and feel there is no one that can help you then contact our agency. We have been providing locate missing person investigations throughout the Latin and South America since 1990.

Learn more about Locating a missing person in Costa Rica and see how our trained private investigators can help you solve your missing person investigation.

Costa Rica Criminal Background Check

Do you need a Costa Rica criminal background investigation on someone? Outside of Costa Rica and need someone to provide you a local criminal background check? First and foremost, obtaining criminal records here can only be done through the courts. Anyone advertising criminal checks without an attorney is just plain being dishonest.

Background investigations are extremely useful and can provide someone with a lot of detailed information about their personal history. Don’t get involved with someone who may not be a good person to get into a relationship with. Learn more about Costa Rica Background Checks by contacting us today. One of our experienced private investigators will help you determine the best avenue to obtain the information you seek.

Cheating Spouse Investigation in Costa Rica

Has a loved one aroused your suspicion about infidelity when they are in Costa Rica? Are you located outside Costa Rica but believe your spouse is cheating on you when traveling here? There are many reasons as to why someone may think their spouse is cheating, but don’t let mixed emotions cause you to make uninformed decisions.

Before figuring out what to do next, take some steps to learn the facts. We have been providing cheating spouse investigation services in Costa Rica and around throughout the Americas since 1990. Learn more about how we can help you with your investigation by contacting us and speaking with a case agent. Our investigators will help create a unique action plan to help give you the piece of mind you deserve. Don’t accept the idea you cannot or the investigation company you are communicating will not identify the investigator and allow you to converse with them.

Costa Rica Recent Changes

Many of the phone calls I am getting now have one overriding theme. In my absence what has happened in Costa Rica? Certainly if you have an interest in Costa Rica you have probably have read things that have occurred and the Government response. Many have a loved ones here and due to the distance and travel restrictions have endured months of no physical contact. The changes have had minimal impact currently. Everything seems to be headed back to normalcy. But knowing the government past actions nothing is certain.

Other things affected by the

Others have real property here and have had to rely on other people to oversee and protect their property during their absence. What has happened in Costa Rica as a result of this long term shutdown, will take years to analyze. Others need to check on their tax status as there have been changes in the law that affect them. Whatever the case may be, it will be in your interest to consider the things we know.

The most common inquiry we get is about personal relationships that have been separated for a long time. Since the pandemic, travel has been severely hindered, making it impossible to visit Costa Rica. But, before we get into that, there are some things you need to know prior to coming. Currently the country is in turmoil due to the government passing new taxes. This has resulted in major civil unrest and protest. Tico’s protest by blocking traffic, so when you arrive and are stuck in traffic for hours this is the reason. For the most part it has been relatively docile.

However, there have been more instances of violence, especially in more impoverished areas of San Jose. Prudence would be learning the situation in the area you are attempting to visit. If your girlfriend lives in Desamparadas for example, you may want to meet her elsewhere until the civil unrest diminishes or subsides.

How about my Costa Rica Girlfriend

Now for your girlfriend. Many of the women who have been impacted by this pandemic are trying to survive. Unlike the United States, the government here has done nothing as far as pandemic relief for its people. Most are without jobs and are barely making it, Currently Costa Rica has the highest level of poverty in their history. This make people who are desperate for money do things that they may not have done in the past. For the most part they have done without since the pandemic began.

Don’t be surprised that your special friend is, for all practical purposes, destitute. They need basics and have suffered for a long time. Using good judgment and evaluating the situation will help you help them the most. As far as their activities during this time being openly and freely discussed. I doubt seriously that you will learn much. During the “shutdown” almost all of the watering holes and beaches have been closed. Travel was restricted to specific hours and strictly enforced. Most night time travel was banned.

Viewing the economic circumstances as objectively as I can, I don’t expect the country will recover any time soon. It may take years to get back to a “normal” level. Given the government’s lack of preparation and willingness to help it’s people it may never recover.

 

So, do you really know what is going on in costa rica?

You owe it to yourself and your peace of mind to learn why your loved one is in Costa Rica and what is going on in Costa Rica. You also need to know what they are up to. Especially places like Jaco. Jaco has several “watering holes” which are packed nightly with young, beautiful and available women. These women do not match the stereotyped images of hookers in the U.S. They are well dressed, clean, polite and very entertaining.

 

Most of these women range in age from 18 to 35. They are aggressively friendly and will engage a man as soon as he sits at the bar. By their appearance and personality they present a temptation most men cannot say no to. Every week we investigate one to three cases where the wife or girlfriend of a man visiting Costa Rica wants to know what is going on in Costa Rica

Most of the cases we investigate result in the proof that the guy is having a weekend with one of these women. Some get so attracted they wound up committing to a financial assistance to these women even if they themselves are not even here. Usually, the wife or girlfriend in the states stumbles across these activities by accident. Some have an intuitive feeling that something is amiss in the relationship. Seeking information based on these types of intuitive feelings is prudent.

If you are experiencing marital problems, and suspect your spouse/partner is having an affair, you may feel confused and concerned about yourself and your family’s future. Our firm can work with you to gather the evidence you need to protect you and your children’s best interests. There are a number of dating sites that will gladly take your money for setting up a date. But these are far from certain things as most of the women on these sites have no intention to leave Costa Rica.

 

Getting things Done in Costa Rica

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I’ve encountered this and I have a better understanding of the reason. Although Costa Rica is third-world, as you can see with businesses such as Starbucks and PF Chang’s, it is amazing how much they have progressed in terms of service and creativity. You should keep in mind that the government employs most people here. This may be one reason why you’ve found getting things done an uphill battle.

Why is it so hard to accomplish things in Costa Rica? I know there are many reasons why getting things done sometimes takes longer than usual, but sometimes can be accomplished faster than expected.  Only with paying a “propina” (tip) to the bureaucrat will make it happen faster.

What makes getting things done in Costa Rica so difficult?

Driving around the streets of San Jose is a chaotic experience. Roads are in disarray with high traffic and gridlock, creating a frustration for drivers. The government has failed to privatise road management and infrastructure development effectively, leading to this problem plaguing Costa Rica’s transportation system.

For the country, it means reduced productivity and higher costs through importing goods or products produced elsewhere. There are several business opportunities within the ICT sector that will enable private investors to take advantage of the opportunity in building new products that will help alleviate this problem and do so for cost-effectively.

Example of getting things done in Costa Rica

Let me give you an example. You want to find the owner of a piece of property. In the US, it is relatively easy to do. Simply visit your county tax office or property appraiser and within ten minutes you have all the information you need. But in Costa Rica, the process is much more complex. You mail in a request for ownership and once it’s approved (or denied) you can then file for an official transfer of ownership.

The registry holds public records – police reports, court records, and more. It serves as a one-stop shop to you the information you need — but that doesn’t mean that it’s easy to use. Online searches are often difficult, and in person visits are time consuming and inefficient.

The time you spend waiting for a record is an opportunity wasted. You should be able to get the information you need with ease and on your own schedule.

After all that there is more to getting things done

Once the property has been identified, determining the owner is the next obstacle that has to be overcome. If the property is owned by anyone other than a Costa Rica National, it will be in the form of a S.A. (Sociedad Anonomia). This S.A. similar  to a Nevada Corporation in the States, where the individual owner is not listed. For years, the Costa Rica Government has required this as a vehicle to purchase real property. Thereby promoting and fostering all manner of corrupt activities.

If you want something done and done as quickly as possible, you need to retain professionals who are here and know the system and how it works. Even with such help it can take time as nothing seems to move here with speed, everything is, “manana”. If you choose to do it your self, remember that getting things done in Costa Rica is time consuming and slow. It will try your patience and your wallet.

 

What I need yo know about Costa Rica private detectives

For many who are searching Costa Rica private detectives the first time, you don’t know where to turn. I am here to help you find who is best for your particular situation. As a result, the following questions should be asked of any prospective PI. Bear in mind that you need to retain someone who you feel comfortable with.

There are many who are listed on a google search representing they are in Costa Rica, when in fact they are not. I know factually they may not be legally able to work in Costa Rica as the law here requires that you have permission from the government.

Where is your office located?

This is the first question you should ask, if you don’t already know, is where the detective’s office is located. I know doe a fact many that are on the web are not located in Costa Rica. Professional private investigators have an office and do not work from their homes. It also verifies that they are actually in Costa Rica. Ask them if they can legally work in Costa Rica? If they can’t provide you with a “cedula juridica” (Costa Rica business/corporate I.D.) or a “cedula persona” (Costa Rica identification), then they are providing services here in violation of the law.

Who will handle my case?

This question needs to be asked if you hire a private investigation firm with one investigator. If they represent they have other investigators you need to know who they are and if they can legally work in Costa Rica. You will want to know and be guaranteed you will have a good investigator assigned to your case. If the private detective responds by saying that he has agents in Costa Rica, request their names and their Costa Rica identification (either personal or business as mentioned above). If they won’t or can’t, find one that can.

What are your background, experience, and areas of specialization?

Once you know that they are actually in Costa Rica ask them about their background and experience, particularly with your case type and situation. What service can they offer you? Have they dealt with similar investigations before? Do they specialize in cases such as yours? What do they plan to do?

What professional organizations do you belong to?

Most professional private investigators belong to professional investigator associations of one kind or another. These associations – to become a member – require some proof of license, training and experience of the investigator. You can usually check online with the association the investigator says they belong to; they usually have a directory of members.

Can you provide references?

Ask the private investigator for references of at least two people or companies they have provided services for. It can be a lawyer, business owner, or another private investigator who has used them in the past.

Will my case be treated confidentially and how do you ensure that?

Most are nervous about hiring a private investigator and this question goes without saying. Most private investigators guarantee case confidentiality but maybe a good question to ask is how they can guarantee it. Remember though there could be special situations where the investigator is bound by law to reveal details of your case, such as a judge or court instruction. So nothing is 100% guaranteed.

Will the person I am investigating find out or be notified?

This also comes down to confidentiality. When you hire a private investigator they are acting under your instruction and if you don’t want the person to know they are under investigation the private investigator you’ve hired will try and keep it as low-key as possible.
Depending on what you hire the investigator for will determine if the person being investigated needs be notified or not. If you are getting a private investigator background check on an employee, then the employee will need to be notified

Do you have male and female investigators?

If you want a male or female private investigator, then ask. Only large private investigation companies will employ both male and female investigators where you can choose, otherwise you will need to specifically search for a sole investigator of the sex type you require.

Can you or the investigator assigned to my case work with my lawyer?

If you have a lawyer asking you hire a private investigator, ask if they can recommend one. Otherwise, when you begin looking to retain a private investigator, ask them if they will work with your attorney. They should agree, but if not, keep looking. You can also ask your attorney to assist you when retaining a private investigator. One thing I know is absolutely essential is the PI’s ability to travel to the United States to testify. I know from my time at law school that all photographs and videos must be authenticated. If they can’t the evidence you have will not be admitted.

How will we contact each other during the investigation?

This is important particularly if you live in another country. Although communications can be a challenge in third world countries, there should be a way to keep you informed as the case progresses.

How will I be updated on my case?

Request that the private investigator to keep you updated on progress. It may be a daily email report, telephone call, or a weekly report if the case is large and complex. Decide how and in what form you want to be kept up-to-date.

Do you use illegal or unethical means of investigating or obtaining information?

This question needs to be asked, if anything, to protect yourself. Most investigators are decent but there are a few bad apples as in any profession. Evaluate what their response is.

Can you be a witness in court in the USA if needed?

The rules of procedure used by every court in the U.S., requires testimony from direct witnesses in order to overcome a hearsay objection.  Professional private investigators should expect to and are experienced in court hearings as professional witnesses. However, if the private investigator is not a U.S. citizen or does not have a visa to come to the U.S., then move on. Additionally, if they can’t read, write or speak English move on. Find another Costa Rica private investigator that can.

Do they have a contract or agreement form?

Request a copy and if you can amend it if you are not happy with certain conditions. A professional Costa Rica private Investigator r contracts will have certain conditions that remain fixed that you will have to agree to. But there should also be a section in the contract that is personalized for you and your case, as no two cases are exactly the same. Only sign an agreement form once the costs and terms have been settled and are entered into the contact.

What are their fees?

This is another big question to ask a private investigator you want to hire. Get a clear idea of the prices, costs and expenses involved and make sure to ask the investigator that this is clearly set out in your agreement or contract before you retain them. Also ask if they require a retainer (money up front), most investigators do. Ask them how they are to get paid. Professional private investigators will have financial banks/institutions in both the U.S. and Costa Rica. NEVER, EVER SEND MONEY TO A PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR VIA WESTERN UNION OR MONEYGRAM!

Can they guarantee the result you want?

This is problematic for both the private investigator and the client. The expectations of the client at times supersede the reality of what can be accomplished. A professional private investigator cannot guarantee you the result you require or want. They can’t fabricate that which does not exist or observed. What is meant by that?
A Costa Rica private investigator is retained to find the facts of something regardless of what you think, feel or expect. For example, if you suspect your partner is cheating but in fact they are not, then that is the truth.
What you want or expect as a result in your investigation is not always what you are going to get or read in your reports. A private investigator cannot guarantee the results you want. The investigator can only guarantee they do a thorough job; the outcome, that’s another story.

Here are some reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

International asset search

Here are some reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I.. Indeed divorces and legal cases are so common today, they are almost hard to avoid. But, there are other reasons when an asset might be important as well, such as part of a merger or international due diligence to verify a buyer or potential partner. Lawyers, individuals and companies use private investigators to find assets overseas. I know as I have found both bank accounts and physical property. Divorce and family law investigations if you suspect your spouse is cheating or hiding important information or assets from you. There are ways to tell if your spouse is hiding assets and a reputable private investigator can access records such as bank accounts you don’t know about or follow a spouse who has become distant to see if he or she is cheating. Before you hire someone, remember that a private investigator can help your attorney uncover evidence, if and when needed.

Infidelity investigations

Not knowing if your spouse is having an affair is a painful and devastating thing. Private investigators help with these unfortunate situations every day. A Costa Rica private Investigator can discreetly find out facts and information and uncover the truth so you know whether or not your spouse is guilty of infidelity. There is no evidence like photograph and video evidence from surveillance footage on your partner.

Dating background checks

Whether you met your Mr. or Ms. Perfect online or offline, these days it pays to be cautious. Accordingly, these are other reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I. How do you know the individual you met over the internet, or at a bar, is truly who he or she claims to be? You don’t. Clients rely on private investigation companies to conduct a comprehensive dating background check that verifies education, employment, address, criminal and court records, ID or passport, date of birth and more. Investigators also screen the case for fraud and identify risks.

Fraud/embezzlement investigations

You may wonder, should your company use background check investigations? The answer is yes — it can help prevent future problems. All too often, businesses find themselves in a situation where assets are missing, books weren’t kept accurately or bribes have been taken. P.I.s can determine if assets were fictitious, improper payments were made or whether there were other misrepresentations. Private investigators can also track down the guilty party through background checks, and asset searches uncover the money trail.

Romance scam risk

Now Online dating is a booming industry, consequently it has come a source of fraud and scams. Posting profiles and photos is simply and fast, and anyone can do it – even criminals hoping to scam you. Victims of romance scams lose more than money. Victims are often devastated financially and emotionally. Comprehensive background checks by real investigators are the best prevention to avoid dating scams. The truth is, anyone can be a victim and no dating site is 100% immune from romance scams. A Costa Rica P.I. can verify the truth behind the profile.

Employment or personal background check

If you hiring or dating internationally or even locally, false CV and backgrounds do occur and put your company at risk. Companies who are serious about protecting themselves and hiring only the best take these verifications seriously. Checking criminal records alone is not a prudent verification method, and certainly not an investigation. Professional investigators verify employment candidates in detail, and determine if the individual is competent and qualified, before

Business background check

A business, like a person, has a past and a culture and interacts with many people every day. However what you see may not truly mirror what the business is all about. Private investigators can research and investigate and deliver evidence that you’re doing business with a reputable entity.

Child custody case

You’re probably looking for tips on how to win custody of your child. To win a child custody case, you must uncover facts that are compelling – and admissible — in court. Private investigators can serve as a witness in a case and prove facts that are tough to prove on your own. Even a potentially difficult case can turn into a simple one at trial with the right facts and evidence.

Identity theft risk

Identity theft happens when a person’s personal information is stolen and the criminal then commits fraud or theft under that person’s identity. Unfortunately, investigators say identify theft is only getting worse — millions of dollars are lost every year as a result of identity theft – and hundreds of dollars and countless hours are spent trying to repair victims’ credit. Private investigators can help determine who stole your identity and can create a report for you to take to law enforcement. More importantly, expert investigators can advise how not to be a victim.

Document verification

Let’s say your case is fairly simple, and you have a copy of a passport, ID or documents that you need to verify the authenticity of. Despite your efforts, there is no way for your to verify if the document is real, and it may not even be in a language you can read. Luckily, international investigators verify passports, identifications and documents from around the world on a daily basis.

Pre Marital Checks

Marriage is a big deal, especially if it involves a foreign bride or groom. Don’t start the visa process without knowing the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth! An expert investigator can verify everything you know or think you know about an individual, before the wedding.

Investment scam risk

Investment scams these days, unfortunately, are a dime a dozen. Fraudulent websites, false companies and endless possibilities now target individuals and companies. High risk fraud zones are in countries like China and the United Arab Emirates, etc, but the threat is now global thanks to the internet. Costa Rica is rife with scammers and it behooves you to conduct a thorough due diligence before you sign anything. It’s more important than ever to properly verify with international due diligence.

Safe international hiring

For companies hiring here the reasons for hiring a Costa Rica P.I. who specialize in international cases can help a company or client develop a customized strategy to properly verify candidates. This goes beyond your standard international background checks, and can be a great solution for companies and individuals who need to know what they should verify, based on their unique situation and risk.A professional private investigator offers many reliable services to help in many situations – from criminal cases to infidelity to background checks. Just make sure you do your homework and deal with a company you can trust, with highly trained investigators on the ground where you need them. Services offered and quality of services vary dramatically from one company to the next.

Employment background check

If you hiring internationally or even locally, false CV and backgrounds do occur and put your company at risk. Companies who are serious about protecting themselves and hiring only the best take these verifications seriously. Checking criminal records alone is not a prudent verification method, and certainly not an investigation. Professional investigators verify employment candidates in detail, and determine if the individual is competent and qualified, before you commit.

Personal injury investigation

A private investigator knows the ways to win your personal injury lawsuit. He or she can find key witnesses and other information essential to win the case. A skilled professional can find photographs of the crash when the crash report is incomplete. Make sure to obtain the police transcription of the 911 calls too – sometimes he or she is the only witness.

Insurance fraud claims

Insurance fraud happens when an act is committed with the intent to obtain a benefit in which a person is not otherwise entitled. False insurance claims are filed with the intent to defraud an insurance provider and they cost billions of dollars each year. Insurance fraud claims range from stretching the truth to committing intentional damages or injury. Private investigators can help identify the truth. We photograph those suffering from leg injuries playing basketball, and so on. In some cases, investigators may even photograph a living person, who is supposed to be deceased!

 

Before hiring a Costa Rica private investigator

 

Hiring a Costa Rica private investigator does not have to be a stressful or difficult process.  Before hiring a Costa Rica private investigator, I will share with you these simple steps as a guideline for locating the right Costa Rica private investigator. Today, it is easy to be misled, so it behooves you to thoroughly vett the PI before you retain them. I have assembled a few tips and guidelines to help you make an informed decision. These guidelines apply to me as well and I endeavor to make sure my clients have as much information as possible.

Licensing

There is no licensing system for private investigators in Costa Rica. Thus it is important to feel comfortable with the PI you select. No one in Costa Rica has a license to do investigations.  Unlike the United States where PI licensing is regulated on the state level. If the actual investigator does not possess a license issued by a state, then that tells you that this person is possibly unqualified to do investigative work.

Currently, the only states that do not require private investigators to be licensed are: Colorado, Idaho, Mississippi, South Dakota, & Wyoming

Always contact the appropriate state licensing agency to confirm an investigator’s license is current and in good standing prior to hiring them.

PI Firms vs. Individuals

One key choice in hiring a Costa Rica Private Investigator is whether to hire an individual or an investigative firm. Firms typically employ greater resources and are ideal for cases requiring large amounts of surveillance and manpower. Individual PI’s can often provide a wealth of knowledge with issues including the location of persons, background investigations, asset investigations etc.

Be sure to choose an investigator or firm that employs the necessary resources and prior experience to properly address your needs.

Hiring a Private Investigator

It is important to feel comfortable with the PI you choose as matters that require private investigation cases are often of a sensitive nature. Look for individuals who are able to think “outside of the box” and adapt to changing situations easily. Inquire as to signing a contract or agreement listing the private investigator’s services, fees, and terms. Make sure this agreement comes from the person or firm who is physically present in Costa Rica and is actually doing the investigation. This protects both parties.

Be sure to ask a potential investigator as many questions as possible. Use your judgment in selecting a PI. If your not comfortable with their answers, demeanor, or experience you should find another private investigator with who you are.

Questions to Ask Your Investigator

How long have you been in business?

How many cases of this nature have you handled?

What is your success rate with cases of this nature?

What are your rates and fees?

Will you provide me with a written contract?

Do you have experience testifying in court?

Do you take video of surveillance operations?

Can you perform covert surveillance as needed?

Can you provide a reference of an attorney you’ve worked for in the past?