Things to know when coming to Costa Rica

When you decide to come here, there are some things to know coming to Costa Rica. Most who come here do very little research. They come based on advertisements instead of facts. Bear in mind that nothing gets done here quickly. The time frame here is “manana”. For example, accessibility to hospitals or other emergency services. Particularly, those services in the far reaches of Costa Rica like Golfito.

Few give any thought to relationships they may form. The consequences of not knowing who they are dealing with can be fatal. Whether it be a personal or business relationship you need to know who they are dealing with. Relationships, regardless of origin, seem to be better if they are vetted and entered into with both eyes opened. Especially if she is here and you’re not.

Other things to know when coming to Costa Rica

We are offering an evaluation of your planned trip. Since we are here and have been here for over fifteen years, we know the “do’s and don’ts” we can tell you of known or potential problems with your itinerary. Every year we handle dozens of cases involving personal relationships. Things to be considered when coming to Costa Rica and getting involved in long distance relationship for example. I know it is difficult when you are 2,000 miles away and begin to have doubts as the other persons loyalty and truthfulness. The only way you are going to find out is to watch them.

The only way to avoid a bad situation not related to a relationship, is to know the area before you go there. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, could not be more appropriate. Whether it’s a relationship or just a trip to get away, you need to know what you’re walking into.

These precautionary measures you can take now can help you avoid the unforeseen problem you face if you don’t have the facts. We offer a free consultation and you can reach anytime at 321-218-9209. Also, visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/picostarica

Scam Alert For Costa Rica

New Scams in costa rica

This is a new scam alert for Costa Rica. The scammers are calling ex-pats posing as workers from the Embassy. This scam alert for Costa Rica has been documented by the U.S. Embassy. The scammers start the conversation with the assertion that the Embassy is updating its records on American citizens.  The scammers then ask for personal information to verify and update the records. If you didn’t know already, the U.S. calls no one.

We are here to assist you in understanding the threat and to lend assistance to those who may have been victimized. As the leading private investigator in Costa Rica, we try and keep you abreast of recent scams.

 

Scams in Costa Rica Rising

This scam alert for Costa Rica, according to the U.S. Embassy is they do not call anyone to ask for this type of information. According to the Embassy, “ The United States Embassy reminds American citizens that Embassy staff will not initiate calls to U.S. citizens. 

ACTIONS TO TAKE:

Another case recently centered around the purchase of a car that was posted on Facebook. The buyer identified himself as an American living in Guanacaste and sent the seller a copy of his passport. Unbeknownst to the buyer, when the seller saw the name she recognized it from her friends list on her Facebook account. She sent him an instant message telling him she didn’t realize it was him who wanted to buy the car. He told her he had not inquired about a car and in fact was in southeast Asia.

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.

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?

Couple at Jaco Costa Rica

Cheating is Alive and Well in Costa Rica

Couple at Jaco Costa Rica

Cheating and Costa Rica

Cheating in Costa Rica is alive and well. Recently, I have noticed an increase in cases involving a cheating spouse in Costa Rica. During the past year, the demand for surveillance I receive of a cheating spouse has risen dramatically. The increase has been so dramatic that our private investigation agency has had to increase staff to keep pace with the demand.

Is he going to Jaco?

if you have a loved one going to Jaco, that’s a huge red flag. Jaco has become the hotbed for sex tourism in Costa Rica. I have a list of hotels and casinos that cater to men traveling to Costa Rica for a “good time”. You should know that there’s no way to prevent cheating, but you can catch a cheater “red-handed”.  Surveillance is never quick or cheap. Your husband or boyfriend will never perform on cue. You need to know that patience and perseverance will get the proof you want.

What can you do?

First and foremost, get prepared. Most people like you have had this suspicion for some time. It’s no surprise and now you have decided, enough is enough. You need to be financially ready to fund the surveillance. The most successful surveillances occur when we are in the same hotel as the target.  Naturally, since the boys are going there to live the “lie” they stay in places that are convenient to the girls. These places are not cheap! If you don’t commit to the surveillance in advance of their trip, getting a room in the same hotel may be problematic.

Second thing needed

You need to obtain as much information about their plans as possible. If you can, get a copy of their itinerary and take mental notes when they are sharing details with you. Pictures of your loved one as well as anyone who may be traveling with them.  Something you may hear is about the fishing trip. I know that Costa Rica is known as a fishing destination for avid fishermen. I am working on many cases now that began with the story that the errant spouse is going to Costa Rica to fish.

This “cover story”, in a sense is true. I know the type of fishing being done is not in the ocean. It is in the numerous locations that have young, beautiful, and exotic women who work in the sex trade. The bait being used is approximately six inches long, green, and is called United States currency. Yes, cheating is alive and well in Costa Rica.

Where do most cases come from

The highest rate of cheating spouses coming to Costa Rica comes from the larger metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, New York Chicago, or Miami. Over the past six months, the majority of infidelity cases have come from the Atlanta area. The cases range from a weekend spree to secreting money to prostitutes and starting new families complete with children.

I have had cases where the cheating spouse has bought real estate in Costa Rica, without the knowledge or consent of the stateside wife. The wife can attach all assets here in Costa Rica without first obtaining a divorce in the United States. Costa Rica has very unique laws concerning such real estate purchases.

How I have responded to the increase

Our office here in San Jose is fully staffed and I have a partner who is a licensed Costa Rican Attorney. Here, to recover assets that have been squandered surreptitiously it is necessary to have an attorney. As a result, the victim’s spouse can get equitable relief in negotiating the property and settlement agreement. Although I have a law degree, I do not practice law in Costa Rica and advise that anyone needing a detailed explanation of the laws here contact someone like my partner, Roberto Romero Mora and have the law explained in detail.

Often I am asked, when should a suspicious spouse seek my services. I think the mere fact he is coming to Costa Rica with buddies is sufficient to warrant surveillance. If nothing happens then the spouse in the United States can have peace of mind and an increased level of confidence in her spouse.

Mistakes Expats Make in Costa Rica

Here’s a list of Mistakes Expats Make in Costa Rica

The law can be preventive medicine, but if not used correctly, it is a devastating curative medicine.  Please let me try and help you avoid the mistakes ex-pats make in Costa Rica. Always bear in mind that the legal system in Costa Rica is Napoleonic, not Common Law. You wake up and realize things are very different here than in the US or Canada. Because of that, the best place to begin your investment plan is in an attorney’s office. Fundamentally, it’s always best to be proactive.

Eleven things not to do

Do not do anything you would not do in your hometown:

Many ex-pats seem to believe they can outsmart the system when they come to a less developed country. Or, it just may be the way most Costa Ricans behave with ‘gringos which turns them into wishful thinkers.

It is best not to try the Do it yourself method!

I know some try to save some dollars in legal fees and avoid the work of finding a good attorney to guide them. Do not do that! Do your homework. Find an attorney, you feel comfortable with and stay with him for as long as he does good work.

Do not rush into the decision of hiring an attorney.

Most importantly if you are thinking of investing in Costa Rica, hiring a local attorney is a must for you. It does not matter if you are just buying a car, a home, or planning to set up a million-dollar business. You will need an attorney. You may not like the idea of paying legal fees, but who does? But accept it and live with it. The idea is to have your lawyer working for you as ‘preventive medicine’, as insurance against what ‘might happen. Consider the legal fees as your insurance premium, because that’s really what it is. Today, you will pay a fraction of what it will probably cost to try and fix that problem later on if you do not have an honest attorney to guide you.

4. Do not think of buying Costa Rica real estate and only follow the real estate broker’s advice! In Costa Rica, real estate brokers are not licensed in the same way they are in the United States. Some of them are real professionals, but a lot of them are just ‘enthusiastic’ salespeople.

Either buying or selling real estate, you will probably need a broker’s services, but even if your Costa Rica real estate agent is first class, have your attorney on board and have him supervise the process. These are other mistakes ex-pats make in Costa Rica.

5. Do not blindly trust your own countrymen! Just because they have been here more time than you have. I have seen US citizens being conned by US people and, Canadians by Canadians and so forth. Be careful! There are a whole lot of strange people in this country, some of them fleeing from the FBI, Interpol, ex-wives, and even from mental institutions.

6. Gentlemen! Please remember that you do not, I repeat, do NOT need to marry the first beautiful ‘Tica’ (Costa Rican woman) that you meet!

7. “Old Mac Donald had a farm“: And he lost it because he never took care of it. This is a common story in Costa Rica. Again, please remember that our legal system is different.

8. South of the Border…

I am well aware not everybody here wears a big Mexican ‘sombrero’ and has a big bushy mustache. Not all the ladies are named “Juanita Bonita’. South of the Río Grande. They all come from México, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panamá, Colombia, and Perú, All of them are different countries, with different histories, different people, and different laws.

9. “Easy comes easy goes.” I will not even waste your time on this matter. If it sounds too good to be true, then yes! It probably is too good to be true. Nobody on this earth can give you 45% per annum in a legitimate investment.

10. There is ‘risk’ even with legitimate well-known and established private banks. Right now I am trying to help a client who deposited a large amount of money in CDs, in one local bank.

11. If you really want to live in Costa Rica then, please live IN Costa Rica! It was the year 335 B.C. Alexander the Great faced one of his greatest battles. When his army reached the Phoenician coasts, he realized their enemies outnumbered them by 3 to 1.

Do you know how he managed to win the battle? Quite simple! He ordered his ships to be burnt… While the ships were on fire and sinking on the ocean, he spoke to his army and told them the only way to go back home was on their enemy’s ships. It was that or else.

If you really want to become a resident of Costa Rica, you may have to burn your ships.

Tips Avoiding Scams

Traveling to Costa Rica? Beware! Costa Rica Scam Alert:

Scam 3Tips Avoiding Scams In Costa Rica we here at Cody L Gear and Associates know you work hard for your money. Moreover, that is why I want to provide you with a Costa Rica Scam Alert. Thus, I am offering some tips to help you avoid being scammed in Costa Rica or at home.
Most importantly, we have learned that various solicitations have appeared on Craigslist and other social networking sites. These sites encourage consumers to deposit escrow funds to secure an interest in property located in Costa Rica. The scammers want you to send payment through Western Union. They want it payable to what appears to be a legitimate, reputable real estate company with name recognition. (Such as Remax, Century21, etc.…).

Check them out

I have contacted the real estate companies and none of them are associated with this type of solicitation. This is another scam being perpetrated on the unwary and is currently being investigated by law enforcement.

Additionally, we have been made aware of an Advance Fee Scam. This involves the unauthorized use of a brand name such as the one mentioned above.  By using a website and email address utilizing the name of the nationally known real estate company to hold the property.

In an effort to instill confidence in this transaction, the scammer fraudulently claims to have listed the property with the multi-listing service. Using a local Real Estate office in Costa Rica, and arranging for a fraudulent email notification. Thereby, posing as a real estate agent in Costa Rica (and using the real estate company’s logos) to be sent. The scammer disappears once the deposit is received, leaving the prospective buyer defrauded. For your information, there is no regulatory oversight of the Real Estate industry in Costa Rica and there are no licensing requirements. Because of these facts, there is no such thing as a multiple-listing service in Costa Rica

Here are some tips to help you avoid such scams:

KNOW THE PERSON YOU ARE SENDING MONEY TO. If you receive an email from a real estate agent with payment instructions, call the requesting office using the phone number located on the solicitation. Then call us (321-218-9209 or visit http://codygear.com )  to verify if this is a legitimate real estate company operating here in Costa Rica

CRAIGSLIST IS NOT INVOLVED IN ANY TRANSACTION, and does not handle payments, guarantee transactions, or provide escrow services.

USE CAUTION WHEN GIVING OUT FINANCIAL AND OTHER PERSONAL INFORMATION VIA EMAIL. i.e.(bank account number, credit card number, social security number, etc.).

AVOID DEALS INVOLVING SHIPPING SERVICES. Keep in mind that ONLY A SCAMMER WILL “GUARANTEE” YOUR TRANSACTION.

These types of scams often claim that an MTCN or confirmation code is needed before withdrawing your money – this is FALSE, once you’ve wired money, it is GONE.

PROPERTY LISTING MAY BE LOCAL, but the landlord/owner is “traveling” or “relocating” and needs you to wire money to them abroad.

Most scams involve one or more of the following:

Inquiry from someone far away, often in another country;
Western Union, Money Gram, cashier’s check, money order, shipping, escrow service, or a “guarantee.”
Inability or refusal to meet face-to-face before consummating the transaction.

Who should you notify about fraud or scam attempts?
Cody L Gear and Associates (321-218-9209 or visit http://codygear.com).

  • • FTC toll-free hotline: 877-FTC-HELP (877-382-4357).
    • FTC online complaint form (http://www.ftc.gov).
    • Canadian Phone Busters hotline: 888-495-8501.
    • Internet Fraud Complaint Center (http://www.ic3.gov).
    • Non-emergency number for your local police department.
    • The government agency in your country responsible for dealing with fraud.