Tag Archive for: Costa Rica Tips

Selecting a PI in Costa Rica

Selecting a PI in Costa Rica can be a challenge. There are only two American PI’s that are here. The rest offer their services from remote locations. This is reason enough to thoroughly vet a PI before you retain them. One in particular is adept at manipulating search engines. Much of the information they promote appears to be generic. Additionally, with the advent of AI, a lot of what they print appears to be generated by AI.

To give you an idea of what challenges you may encounter, one of the PI’s was deported for being illegally in Costa Rica. He relocated to a neighboring country, and set up shop there.  He continued to advertise he was in Costa Rica. Since that time he has reportedly been forced to flee that country. So, you can see why you should vet the PI before you retain one

Why is vetting important?

Let’s face it, you are sharing personal and sensitive information with someone you don’t know. I have an idiom that is appropriate. “if it walks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck…..it’s a duck!” If talking with the PI, you sense or feel uncomfortable, thank them for their time and move on to another. Never be pressured into making an important decision by an aggressive sales pitch and never tolerate any type of bullying. Do not retain a firm that will not allow you to have direct contact with the PI.

How to vet a PI in Costa Rica

First, find out if they are legally here in Costa Rica and have the right to work here. If they are they will be able to provide you with a cedula number (Costa Rica Identification) without that they can’t legally work here. The law here is similar to that in the United States about working without Government permission. If they give you a cedula number, call me and I will verify it for you free of charge. The two Americans referenced earlier are both legal to work in Costa Rica.

Secondly,

Make sure the PI can come to the United States if his investigations lead to litigation.  This is another reason for you to have direct communication with the PI. Most of the time when one of the international firms accepts a case they farm it out to a local. Speaking with the PI will let you know if he/she can speak English. Another reason is to have timely updates as to the progress of the investigation. If the information has to go through a PI provider, it will neither be timely nor accurate. You won’t have the opportunity to question the PI!

Thirdly,

Ask about their experience as a PI in Costa Rica. The law and customs here is uniquely different from that of the United States. The basis for the law here is Napoleonic as opposed to the Common Law which is the basis for law in the United States. Obtaining information here is rife with bureaucratic obstacles. If you have a PI that doesn’t speak and understand both languages you will not understand what is going on.

Finally,

Make sure they have a well-established infrastructure they can access in the event the investigation requires special skills such as an attorney. Often some questions can only be explained with the help of an attorney. PI’s are not attorneys so any information they give you concerning the law here will be flawed.

Conclusion:

This is particularly true in the recovery of money or property. There is no Bar Association here thus there is no oversight of lawyers.  All recorded documents here must be done by a Notary. All notaries must be licensed Costa Rica attorneys, but not all attorneys are Notaries. To have that designation, they have to attend an additional year of law school.

Missing Person in Costa Rica

Kim ParisFirst and foremost, remember, missing person investigations can be emotionally charged, complex, and sensitive. Missing persons in Costa Rica can be especially challenging. Always prioritize the well-being of the missing person and their loved ones, and maintain a strong commitment to ethical and legal practices throughout the process.

Locating foreign nationals who have gone missing in Costa Rica can be both, a challenging and sensitive task. Here’s our step-by-step approach to conducting a missing person investigation for foreign nationals in Costa Rica, while considering confidentiality and admissibility in U.S. courts:

Initial Assessment:

Gather all available information about the missing person, such as personal details, last known whereabouts, contacts, and circumstances of their disappearance. Also, establish contact with their friends, family, and acquaintances to gain insights into their activities and potential reasons for the disappearance.

Legal and Ethical Considerations:

Understand and adhere to both Costa Rican and U.S. laws and regulations regarding missing person investigations, privacy rights, and surveillance. Work with legal experts who are familiar with both jurisdictions to ensure your actions are within the boundaries of the law.

Working with Local Authorities:

Establish contact with local law enforcement agencies in Costa Rica to report the missing person and seek their assistance. Collaborate closely with them and provide any relevant information that might aid in the investigation.

Engage Local Resources:

Utilize local contacts, investigators, and translators to navigate language barriers and cultural differences effectively. Local expertise can be invaluable in understanding local customs, and laws, and gathering accurate information.

Surveillance and Investigation:

Conduct discreet surveillance in accordance with Costa Rican laws to gather information about the missing person’s movements and potential whereabouts. This may involve visiting locations they were last seen, talking to witnesses, and utilizing technology for tracking.

Digital Footprint Analysis:

Analyze the missing person’s digital footprint, including social media accounts, emails, and online activity. This could provide insights into their state of mind, recent interactions, and potential clues about their location.

Engage Private Investigator Expertise:

Consider hiring a licensed private investigator in Costa Rica who specializes in missing person cases. They can provide valuable insights and have local connections that can facilitate the search.

Family Liaison and Support:

Maintain open communication with the missing person’s family, keeping them updated on the progress of the investigation. Provide emotional support and reassurance during what can be a difficult and stressful time.

Documentation and Evidence Preservation:

Carefully document all findings, interactions, and evidence gathered during the investigation. Ensure that evidence is collected legally, ethically, and in a way that maintains its admissibility in U.S. courts if needed.

Admissibility in U.S. Courts:

Keep thorough records of the investigation process, including the methods used, evidence collected, and any local authorities involved. This documentation can be crucial if the case eventually involves legal proceedings in U.S. courts.

Privacy and Confidentiality:

Protect the privacy of both the missing person and any individuals encountered during the investigation. Avoid disclosing sensitive information unless necessary for the investigation or required by law.

 

What are you looking for in Costa Rica?

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.

Expectations of a Costa Rica private investigation

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.

 

 

 

 

New Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic rules in Costa Rica

What you need to know:

Costa Rica is once again slowly but surely returning to some sort of normalcy. It would be helpful to outline some of the new regulations after relaxing pandemic rules in Costa Rica, First and foremost is the safety of all. You cannot enter a business without washing your hands and wearing a mask. So, it is not optional and you can face criminal charges if you don’t. But most businesses and restaurants have installed wash basins outside their businesses.

Restaurants and bars are restricted to capacity and activities. So don ‘t think it has returned to the point where the favorite watering hole will be slammed. Likewise, restaurants are limited to capacity and hours of operation. So, a word to the wise, before you go call and make a reservation. If you don’t you may wound up at McDonalds.

 

Some of the New Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic rules in Costa Rica

As you might be able to interpolate, you can see the easing of restrictions as they apply to specific dates. So a word to the wise would tell you that if you have plans to go to a restaurant, call first and make a reservation.

Vehicle Restrictions

“To restrict the movement of people”, driving restrictions have been put into place. The new Regulations after Relaxing Pandemic, vehicles can only circulate between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. all week long. These times correspond with the hours that most businesses are allowed to be open.

Previously, driving on certain days was also restricted, based on your license plate number. But as of March 1, 2021 all license plate restrictions have been lifted. All cars can now circulate everyday, except in downtown San Jose (for traffic control purposes). See this chart for San Jose restrictions.

Note: Tourism related vehicles (e.g. shuttle vans/tour vans) as well as rental cars are exempt from the driving restrictions. If you need to drive outside the allowed hours or within the San Jose downtown area (e.g you need to catch an early morning flight or are staying at a hotel in San Jose), you should be fine if you present your plane ticket/hotel reservation to the traffic police.” These restrictions are being enforce by the Transit Police and the number of cars they have seized is enormous.

Our team of professionals are at your disposal for any questions or guidance with regard to these new rules. Don’t hesitate to call us for the “skinny”.

 

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

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.

 

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.

 

Relationship Background Checks

I have often thought, why don’t my clients check the backgrounds with who they have a relationship? Relationship background checks are absolutely necessary for any relationship in Costa Rica. Furthermore, failure in doing so may cause you both emotional and financial bankruptcy in the future. You need to keep in mind that Costa Rica is a third-world country. Thus the economics here leave many wanting just for the basics every day. We recommend that before you do anything here, you have us do the due diligence to prevent a bad decision. Caveat Emptor, which means “buyer beware”.  Perhaps in this context, it should be “careful what you ask for, you might get it”. You as the foundation of a relationship here cannot be understated.

What do I need to do a background check

It is important that you get as much information that is available prior to due diligence. Things like the complete name, date of birth. and place of employment. You need to remember, everything person down here has two last names. Absent a cedula number it is impossible to get an accurate due diligence check done. With the complete name accessing the records will be more efficient and save money. The more information you provide the more information we will be able to get. Aslo, pinpointing where they live is important for several reasons.

What about business relationship?

Before you enter into any business agreement with anyone in Costa Rica you need to have them checked out. If its real estate even moreso. The biggest fraud here is real estate fraud. The main reason for this is due to no government oversight on real estate agents or companies. If you want to be a real estate agent in Costa Rica you don’t need a license to do so. Costa Rica is notorious for fostering and promoting fraud by scammers. That is the reason yo need to do your homework.