What has Happened in Costa Rica

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.

 

What is going on in Costa Rica?

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.

 

Legal

Getting Things Done in 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.

 

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica

Identifying fraud in Costa Rica

Avoiding fraud in Costa Rica is really simple. I have written this information to assist you avoiding fraud in Costa Rica. I have put together a list of methods used here in Costa Rica to rip you off. As a result sammers will approach you through letters, a phone call, or via email. Cyber-crime is a principal priority risk for US residents and businesses. Because scammers will try to steal your property, identity or tap into your bank accounts or business to steal assets or money.

 

 

Typical scams to be aware of 

Avoiding Fraud in Costa Rica requires you to be aware of the methods scammers employ. In Costa Rica. Most attacks take place through email or social networks. I know no one is safe from hackers or scammers. Banks and even the government have been victims of such attacks. Because once you are a victim of this theft, it will be very hard to recover your information. As a result of your information being “out”, there’s no bringing it back.

Going After your life savings

The best defense I know against fraud comes with being able to recognize the various different types of financial schemes that exist. Because I have firsthand knowledge of these methods, I will share them with you.

High-return or ‘risk-free’ investments

High-risk/high-reward investments like penny stocks, options, and futures. I am suggesting, you exercise extreme caution when making any investment decisions. I have learned one way to protect yourself against fraud is to invest only in products or services that you understand and trust.  The United States Government has several scam warnings available to assist you in avoiding scams..

How do they operate here

Costa Rica scammers, passing themselves off as brokers and investment advisers, recommend unsuitable products. Products that don’t meet the investment objectives or financial situations of investors. Inappropriate recommendations might occur when a broker sells speculative, high- risk investments such as options, futures or penny stocks. Experience teaches me, individuals who are near retirement or are retired and have a low-risk tolerance.

Pyramid schemes

A pyramid scheme, for instance, the fraudsters promote multi-level entry opportunities that require an initial “investment”. In reality there is  little chance for profit except for those at the top of the pyramid.

‘Ponzi’ schemes

These are a type of illegal pyramid scheme named after Charles Ponzi. He fooled thousands of New England residents into investing in a postage stamp speculation scheme back in the 1920s. As a result, Ponzi thought he could take advantage of differences between U.S. and foreign currencies used to buy and sell international mail coupons. Costa Rica had it’s own form of a Ponzi scheme which was carried out by the Villalobos Brothers. The brothers scammed millions from unsuspecting investors. Villalobos investors he could provide a 40 percent return in just 90 days compared with 5 percent for bank savings accounts.

Results of a Ponzi scam

As a result Charles Ponzi successfully in getting funds from investors. This resulted in Charles bilking in $1 million during one three-hour period. Although a few early investors were paid off to make the scheme look legitimate. A subsequent investigation found that Charles had only purchased about $30 worth of the international mail coupons. Today, the Ponzi scheme continues to work on the “rob-Peter-to-pay-Paul” principle. As money from new investors is used to pay off earlier investors until the whole scheme collapses.

Promissory notes

A promissory note is a type of debt that is similar to a loan or I.O.U. and is used by a company to raise money. Typically, an investor agrees to loan money to the company for a set period of time. In exchange, the company promises to pay the investor a fixed return on the investment, typically principal plus interest. While promissory notes can be legitimate investments, those that are marketed broadly to individuals often turn out to be worthless. Most established companies have borrowing relationships with financial institutions.  Therefore this type of transaction among individuals is rare. Individual investors should exercise extreme caution with this type of investment.

Internet investment fraud

Internet investment fraud is similar to other fraud perpetrated over the phone or through the mail. Fraudsters use a variety of Internet tools, including online newsletters, spam or chat rooms to spread false information. They also may build a sophisticated Web page to make their scam appear legitimate. The Internet has made offshore scams very easy to implement and difficult to police because the perpetrators often reside outside of the U.S.

Affinity fraud

This fraud refers to investment scams that prey upon members of certain groups. For example religious or ethnic communities, the elderly or professional groups. Deceivers who promote affinity scams frequently are—or pretend to be—members of the group. They enlist respected community or religious leaders from within the group to spread the word about the scheme. Thus, by convincing people that a fraudulent investment is legitimate and worthwhile. Often, the leaders themselves become unwitting victims of the fraudster’s scheme.

Want to

For more information on fraud in costa Rica see “Different types of Fraud in Costa Rica, or call 321-218-9209.

Deception happens

Infidelity in Costa Rica

The things to know about Infidelity in Costa Rica

Deception happensAny infidelity investigation of a cheating spouse or partner is difficult under ideal circumstances. The challenges and obstacles we face while doing such an investigation in Costa Rica are difficult at best. Infidelity in Costa Rica is the norm rather than the exception. Then there are the feelings of betrayal, guilt, and doubt that are very overwhelming, resulting in confusion and lack of good judgment. If  you believe you could be the victim of adultery or infidelity in Costa Rica you need a  professional and reliable private investigator to uncover the factual truth, is worth the investment to do so.  A professional and reliable Costa Rica private investigator is experienced to conduct a discreet surveillance and gather evidence that can be used in court to prove infidelity.

I can’t think of anyone that enters a relationship with the expectation that infidelity will rear its ugly head. Regrettably, infidelity and adultery is all too common. According to many sources, more than 40% of marriages have one if not both spouses admitting to either physical or emotional infidelity.

What is an Infidelity Investigation?

Infidelity in Costa Rica surveillance investigations involve discreetly following an individual suspected to be cheating and obtaining photographic or video evidence for divorce, child custody, or other legal proceedings, or simply for the client’s “peace of mind”.

With the advent and increased use of social media, It can also involve researching Facebook, Instagram or  other social media platforms, dating profiles, and taking witness statements to establish the cheating.

In other words, during the course of an infidelity investigation, your investigator will do whatever is necessary within legal and ethical boundaries to obtain you the evidence you need.

Warning Signs of Infidelity in Costa Rica

There are a variety of behaviors that may indicate a cheating partner. It’s important to remember that there may be other reasonable explanations for any of these behaviors, however, if you observe any combination of the following behaviors, then it may be time to investigate:

  • Unusual or frequent trips to Costa Rica alone or with “buddies”
  • Spending more time “out with friends” or acting like he/she is single.
  • Dressing better than usual, especially when going out without you.
  • Seems bored or disinterested with children, family activities, etc.
  • Diminished sex drive and excuses to avoid sexual intercourse.
  • Diminished interest in communicating or spending time with you.
  • New password protection of phone, computer or other devices.
  • Acting excessively protecting of their cell phone.
  • Getting new credit cards
  • Small lies and omissions.
  • Removing pictures of you or family from cell phone or wallet.
  • Becoming defensive when asked about time spent away from the homeRica

 Staring an Infidelity Investigation in Costa Rica, Here’s how the process works:

Obtain a Free Consultation:

  1. Utilize our chat feature or call via our toll free phone to talk to a Mr. Gear. He will help you understand if and how a surveillance investigation can achieve your goals, and the estimated cost of your case.
  1. Mr. Gear will then want the following questions answered. You should be prepared to answer questions like:
  • What is your relationship to the person being investigated?
  • How long have you been in a relationship?
  • What makes you believe they are being unfaithful?
  • Do you have recent photographs of the person?
  • Do you know what airline will be used and the flight number?
  • Is he travelling with someone, if so do you have pictures of them?
  • Do you know who they may be having an affair with?
  • When do you want the investigation to begin?
  • Do you know where the person will be during the investigation?
  • Are you working with an attorney?
  • Will this evidence be used in a current legal case?
Investigation in Progress:
  1. Once approved by you, Mr. Gear and his agents will begin the investigation. At the heart of any infidelity investigation is direct surveillance of the suspected spouse.

Investigators may follow the person as far as is necessary and within limits of the surveillance and gather photographic and/or video evidence. Because of the nature of these surveillance, cases usually start at a minimum of 10 hours of investigative time.

  1. Case Updates & Final Report: Mr. Gear will keep you informed of any and all important developments throughout the course of your adultery surveillance investigation, and provide you with a final report summarizing all findings at the conclusion of the investigation.

Additionally, Mr. Gear will be available to testify in court if necessary and agreed upon at the beginning of the investigation.

Privacy and discretion is a top priority and therefore all communications between clients and investigators will be kept in strict confidence.

What Investigators Will Not Do

Mr. Gear and his agents will adhere to the law and all  ethical standards during all stages of the investigation. We will not attempt to access any legally restricted records or data, or trespass onto private property without permission.

What is your Husband doing in Costa Rica

Why and what is your husband doing in Costa Rica

What is your husband doing in Costa Rica?. You’re not sure what to do. I can help you. Before worrying about that decision, let’s focus first on what you should not do. I know most women “knee jerk” when they know something is amiss with their loved one. Even more so when accompanied by “gut feeling”.  They let anger, fear, hurt, or revenge drive them to do things they later regret, things, which make it difficult or impossible to implement any worthwhile infidelity solutions they may later receive. I will listen to your circumstance and work with you to come up with a strategy to give you the proof you seek.

Don’t ignore the situation and pretend it’s not happening.

If your husband is doing something that has the potential to damage you or your family, denying the conduct will only make matters worse. As troublesome as it is to find out that your husband has been doing things he shouldn’t, you need to face the reality of the situation. Ignoring this gives him the go-ahead to continue his indiscretions. Pretending it’s not happening will make him think he’s getting away with his activities, or give him the impression that he has your implied approval. Remember, that affairs thrive in secrecy.

Don’t confront him without a Plan, Proof, and a Purpose.

This where I can help you. Most experts agree that you should confront your husband about his cheating. But you need to have a plan.

DO NOT ask your husband if he’s cheating. Liars will always lie. Present the evidence you’ve gathered that proves he’s having an affair, names, dates, places, times, absences, phone calls, physical evidence, and the video evidence that we collect for you. I will work with you and help you with a strategy that will assist you in your decision on whether or not to terminate the marriage or ways to salvage it. Then ask him some pointed questions about his affair: why he did it, how it started, how long it’s been going on, how he feels about the other woman, what he intends to do now that you know. Listen carefully to his answers so you can accurately assess the situation. Then you’ll be able to make a wise decision about what course of action to take.

DO NOT CONFRONT YOUR HUSBAND WITHOUT PROOF OF HIS LIES. To do so will be a colossal waste of time. Unless you can prove he’s been lying, the information-gathering phase will never get off the ground. Several times I have captured the video of a cheating spouse, only to have the client call him and confront him. As a result it is nearly inpossible to get more proof because his “radar” is up.

Costa Rica Private Detectives

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.

Reasons for Hiring a Costa Rica P.I.

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!

 

Costa Rica Investigator

Hiring a Costa Rica Private Investigator

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?

My Husband is in Costa Rica, Alone

My Husband is in Costa Rica, Alone?

Many women have called me with a suspicion. They ask me; “My Husband is in Costa Rica, Alone ” should I be concerned? Here is a compilation of some of the signs of a husband that may be cheating.  These observations only indicate conduct of a cheating husband. They are not absolutes!  If your husband exhibits one or two of these traits, and there is a legitimate reason and a mutual agreement (such as the two of you agree to try to lose weight, he gets a little obsessive about it), this by and of itself does NOT indicate infidelity.  As an experienced Private Investigator, I have seen many forms of deception.

Listen to your Intuition;

Why My Husband is in Costa Rica, Alone?

However, when you observe several, or many, of these traits, your marriage may be in jeopardy.  Most of this is based on many years of surveilling cheaters. I have established a pretty good idea of traits that indicate an affair. Especially in Costa Rica. For example, the pretext to the wife that there is a group going on a fishing trip in Jaco. Jaco is now the hotbed for sex tourism in Costa Rica. The chances of infidelity increase exponentially if your spouse goes to or near Jaco.

Obvious Clue: Why is he in Costa Rica without you?

Many of my clients call and ask about surveillance of their husband. I have heard all kinds of stories. The most pressing question, every woman should have is, why is he there without me. Or, alternatively, why does he go there regularly?


Clue # 1–Gut Instinct:


  • A sure sign of a cheating spouse; is having to ask that question in the first place.
  • Your husband or wife stops confiding in you and seeking advice from you.
  • Your intuition (gut feeling) tells you that something is not right.
  • You find intimate apparel or other small gift-type items that are gifts for someone else.

Clue # 2–Traits That Are Not Their Usual Personality:


  • When your partner shows up without their wedding ring. He suddenly stops wearing it and makes lame excuses as to why. This also goes for jewelry you might have purchased for him and you see them not wearing it when they go out when normally they wear it at all time.
  • When they change their normal routine at work and home for no apparent reason; unusual behavior.
  • When he becomes suddenly forgetful. You have to tell him/her everything several times; their thoughts are obviously elsewhere.
  • When they appear distant, show a lack of interest, or demonstrate unexplained aloofness.
  • When his behavior just doesn’t “add up”.
  • When your wife sleeps with her cell phone. Alternatively, when your husband sneaks out of the house.
  • When your husband suddenly becomes combative or argumentative. He completely ignores you and not listening to what you are saying.
  • When they tell you to get out more and promote out of town excursions.
  • When your husband intentionally looks at or flirts with the opposite sex.