What are the qualities an investigator must possess for him to do his job successfully?

Most crimes are investigated by law enforcement; however, private detectives may be hired to investigate criminal cases as well. Detectives also may investigate civil cases, reports of missing persons and even perform background checks. Regardless of whether you pursue a career with a law enforcement agency or as a private detective, certain skills are critical to your success as a detective.

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Detectives must be able to analyze complex problems of the case and be able to find solutions. Critical thinking is important to reach logical conclusions based on the evidence. Detectives must use these skills to remove personal prejudice and opinions and objectively investigate cases. In addition, detectives must make sound decisions when interviewing a witness or pursuing a lead.

Attention to Detail

Investigations often result in legal action, whether it be in civil or criminal courts. Detectives must pay strict attention to detail to ensure that nothing is missed in the investigation that may compromise a court case. This skill comes into play when identifying and examining evidence, following legal procedures and during interviews.

Computer and Technology Skills

Computer skills and knowledge of technology are increasingly important for detectives. Computers are frequently used when conducting background checks and using financial records to look for missing people. Detectives must be able to learn to utilize search programs and databases relevant to the case. For example, private detectives may use Lexis-Nexis to conduct legal research and police detectives may use the National Crime Information Center database to check for criminal background information.

Written and Oral Communication

Written communication is essential to file clear reports and properly document investigations. Reports are not only for the client, but also may be submitted in court cases. Excellent oral communication also is critical to be a successful detective. When interviewing clients, witnesses, suspects and victims, it is important to ask clear questions and actively listen to the answers so that no details are missed. Detectives must also listen for inconsistencies or holes in the person's story. Reading body language is another important part of communication and helps detectives determine if the person being interviewed is being deceptive or hiding information. In addition, if the case goes to trial, the detective may be called to testify and must clearly communicate his findings to the judge and jury.

Other Important Skills

Patience is critical for detectives working difficult, slow-moving cases and when conducting surveillance. Detective must stay current on laws and regulations so that they do not break any rules that may invalidate the investigation. This includes memorizing federal, state and local laws, regulations and the criminal code. While a detectives role is to investigate and report, sometimes conflicts may arise. All police detectives are authorized to carry a firearm and trained in defensive tactics. While not necessarily required, many private detectives will seek a concealed carry permit and take self-defense training.

When you are in need of an undercover investigator, you only want the best working for you. There are certain characteristics an effective private investigator possesses. They need to have the experience, skills and knowledge to track down the information you have been unable to find for yourself. At Stidham Reconstruction and Investigation, we have +60 years of combines law enforcement and investigative experience to help you find what you are looking for. The traits below are what you should seek out when hiring a private investigator no matter what your needs are.

Good People Skills

An undercover investigator must have good social skills and be able to relate to and work with a wide variety of people. This is important because so much of the work that needs to be done is in the field. Observation is important, but the ability to talk to people in a way that extracts important information without an individual feeling they are being interrogated is essential to success.

These skills become very important when locating an individual or attempting to observe a particular behavior they are suspected of engaging in. Many of these skills come with experience that accumulates over time, so it is usually in your best interest to hire a more experienced investigator whenever possible.

A Background in Law or Law Enforcement

Understanding the legal process is vital to success in this field of work. Therefore, the most successful private investigators have knowledge or a background in law and law enforcement. Most of our investigators at SRI are ex-law enforcement professionals and have firsthand knowledge of the law.

Knowing what is legal and what is illegal during the course of an investigation avoids complicated legal issues after the process is completed, and in many situations, it can mean the difference between success and failure. The most effective investigators work closely with attorneys and law firms to find people and uncover evidence to help build the legal defense of an attorney’s client or their civil suits.

Using the Latest Technology

Many traits found in an effective undercover investigator are as important today as they were 50 years ago, but the ability to effectively leverage today’s electronic technology is equally important. In fact, they complement each other. In some cases, the only way to prove something is to have it on video.

There is no better example of this than with insurance fraud. When an insurance company hires a private investigator to go undercover and determine if they are paying out money to someone committing fraud, it is often through the use of video footage that they are able to provide evidence of fraud. An individual may claim to be bedridden with back problems only to be caught on video engaged in strenuous activity.

The Ability to be Discreet

Above all, an undercover investigator should never make his or her presence obvious. The ability to move among people to get information or observe them discreetly is fundamental to all aspects of an undercover investigation.

When you decide to hire a private investigator, it is important to take your time and make sure they have all of the traits needed for your investigation to be as successful as possible. That is what you’ll find when you hire an investigator with us. Our track record can provide you with the assurance that we possess both the experience and skills necessary to obtain the results you are looking for.

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