Tag Archive for: Jaco

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.

 

Deception happens

Surveillance Restrictions in Costa Rica

Deception happensIf you suspect your husband, wife, or boyfriend is cheating and they are going to Costa Rica. You need to know that there are surveillance restrictions in Costa Rica.  You also should approach the situation with discretion and a purpose of mind before you do anything. So many times, I encounter clients that are lost as to what to do. Thus, it is important to collect your thoughts before you take any action. Here are some steps you can consider:

Reflect on your feelings:

Before taking any action, take time to reflect on your feelings and gather evidence or reasons that lead you to suspect infidelity. It’s important to have a clear understanding of your concerns before addressing the issue.

Open and honest communication:

Initiate a calm and honest conversation with your partner about your feelings and suspicions. Express your concerns without being accusatory and listen to their perspective as well. Communication is key in any relationship, and addressing the issue directly can help you gain clarity and resolve any misunderstandings.

Seek professional help:

If the situation becomes complicated or you find it difficult to communicate effectively, consider seeking the assistance of a professional private investigator. I can provide guidance and facilitate productive discussions between you and your partner.

Trust your instincts but gather evidence methodically:

While it’s important to trust your instincts, it’s equally important to gather evidence methodically. Jumping to conclusions without solid evidence can damage the trust in your relationship. If you feel the need to collect evidence, ensure you do so legally and ethically.

Focus on self-care:

Regardless of the outcome, prioritize your well-being and self-care during this challenging time. Seek support from friends, family, or a support network to help you navigate your emotions and make decisions that are in your best interest.

Remember, every relationship is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to handling suspicions of infidelity. It’s important to approach the situation with empathy, open communication, and a focus on finding a resolution that is best for both you and your partner.

New Import Law for Residents

The newly approved Law 9996, aimed at attracting investors, rentiers, and pensioners, has now taken effect. The new import law for residents grants added benefits to new residency applicants in three categories: retirees, renters, and investors. These benefits are applicable to individuals who apply for residency within the first five years of the law’s validity (2023) and will remain in effect for ten years after approval. I receive many inquiries regarding the importation of personal belongings from the United States.

Here is a summary of the new import law

Our legal department at Cody L Gear and Associates in Escazu has reviewed and prepared this summary.

Household Goods:

Importing household goods, including new and used appliances, furniture, decorative items, and more, is now exempt from one-time taxes. Thus, it is important to understand that the law allows for reasonable quantities, and you cannot bring half of Walmart with you. (Ref: “Decree N° 43926 -MGP-H-TUR, the regulation of Law 9996, March 2023”)

Vehicle Imports:

Individuals can import up to two vehicles for personal or family use without paying import tax, customs fees, or value-added taxes. This exemption applies to land, maritime, and air transport. If someone steals or destroys your vehicle, you can import a replacement vehicle with the same exemptions. (Ref: “Decree N° 43926 -MGP-H-TUR, the regulation of Law 9996, March 2023”)

Income Tax:

The law waives the income tax related to obtaining migratory status, but it subjects income derived from investments within the national territory to income tax. (Note: Further details about the tax reduction of property acquired during the law’s validity are available. Also, equipment or materials for professional or scientific use are exempt from taxes.

Additionally, the law specifies that beneficiaries of immigration status as investors, residents, and retirees will not automatically become tax residents.

In the investor category, the law has reduced the required investment amount from $200,000 USD to $150,000 USD. Individuals can make investments by acquiring assets, shares, securities, or projects of national interest. Moreover, this category also includes consideration for venture capital and sustainable tourism infrastructure investments.

Residents applying for residency in Costa Rica can import a maximum of two vehicles for personal or family purposes, free from import tax, customs fees, and value-added taxes. If a vehicle is stolen or destroyed, a replacement vehicle can be imported with the same exemptions.

These exemptions remain valid for ten years, expiring in July 2031.

To apply for import duty exemptions on vehicles or household goods, the following steps must be taken:

Present your Costa Rica DIMEX card as proof of resident status (retiree, renter, or investor).

Deposit your vehicle at a customs warehouse.

Apply for exemption from the Treasury Department (Ministerio de Hacienda) through their website, EXONET.

You will also need to provide:

A digital signature.

You need certification of being up to date with Caja payments.

Also, a certificate of no outstanding taxes, corporation fees, or property taxes.

Finally, you will need certification of shares owned in the corporation responsible for importing the vehicle and/or goods.

A sworn and notarized statement from each qualified family member (spouse and/or adult single children under 25) confirming they will not request exoneration separately.

The bill of lading and a copy of the vehicle’s title.

The customs value of the vehicle.

Obtaining these certifications takes time and may incur several hundred dollars in lawyer fees.

Once all documents are uploaded to the EXONET website, the Treasury Department has sixty days to approve or deny the application. Approval is based on the economic income declared during the residency application process, considering whether the requested exonerations are within the means of the applicant’s monthly income.

For more assistance contact us at info@codylgearandassociates.com

 

Few things in Costa Rica you should avoid

While Costa Rica is a beautiful country with a welcoming culture, there are certain actions or behaviors that could be considered inappropriate or disrespectful. Here are a few things in Costa Rica you should avoid doing in Costa Rica.

Disregarding environmental conservation:

Costa Rica is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability. Avoid littering, damaging natural habitats, or engaging in activities that harm the local flora and fauna. Respect the country’s efforts to preserve its rich biodiversity.

Ignoring cultural customs:

Costa Ricans value their traditions and customs. It’s important to be respectful and mindful of their culture. Avoid disrespectful behavior, such as making offensive jokes or disregarding local customs and etiquette. Remember, you are a “gringo” and as such you are already a target of misdeeds. Before you visit Costa Rica, do your homework, as this could save you heartache and money.

Overlooking safety precautions:

Costa Rica is generally a safe country, but like any other destination, it’s important to take precautions. Don’t leave your belongings unattended, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or isolated areas, particularly at night.

Neglecting the local economy:

When traveling, support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs, dining at local restaurants, and booking tours or accommodations run by Costa Rican businesses. Avoid large international chain hotels or restaurants that don’t contribute to the local community.

Underestimating travel distances:

Costa Rica may seem small on a map, but the terrain can make travel times longer than expected. Don’t underestimate distances and plan your itinerary accordingly. Rushing through destinations or trying to cover too much ground in a short time can lead to frustration and exhaustion.

Remember, respectful behavior, consideration for the environment, and embracing the local culture will contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience in Costa Rica. Although this list of a few things in Costa Rica you should avoid is short, it will help you have a better experience.

 

Hiring a Costa Rica Private Detective

What you need to know when hiring a costa rica private detective

Often I have clients that call and are doing so for the first time. Many are confused and anxious about hiring a Costa Rica private detective to watch a loved one. So, what do you need to know when hiring a Costa Rica Private investigator? When searching the web, you see a number of people advertising private investigative services here in Costa Rica. First thing you can do is dismiss the advertisements as the majority of those as they overwhelmingly are not physically located here.

 

They rely on third party contractors who may or may not be qualified to do the work you need done. Additionally, you as the client, is being further removed from the service agent, and have no clue what they are doing. It’s hard enough to speak with a person you don’t know about a very personal and sensitive situation. Some of these third party contractors have been known to play both ends against the other.

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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.

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”.

 

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.

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.