Frequently Asked Questions
What is a private investigator?
Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services defines a private investigator as: “any individual who engages in the business of, or accepts employment to make, investigations to obtain information on crimes or civil wrongs; the location, disposition, or recovery of stolen property; the cause of accidents, fires, damages, or injuries to persons or to property; or evidence to be used before any court, board, officer, or investigative committee.”¹ You can think of a private investigator as being in the information business. We provide you with legally-obtained information found during the conduct of our investigation so you may make an informed decision regarding your situation.
¹ https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/licensure-and-regulatory-affairs/private-investigator
What separates your investigators from other companies?
Lynx clears all employees and independent contractors through internal and external means. As a part of this process, all professionals have been subjected to a comprehensive background investigation including but not limited to a criminal history review, financial responsibility checks, psychological testing, drug screening, medical readiness, and an overall suitability assessment. We take great pride in providing tailored investigations to our clients to meet their specific needs. As a smaller agency, we can provide personalized service and greater attention to detail as opposed to larger agencies who use cookie-cutter approaches.
What are your rates?
Every case is custom designed to meet the client’s needs. Therefore, without the full facts, one cannot fairly or accurately quote a price before a consultation. For attorneys, we can either work directly under you and your privilege or directly for your client.
What is your typical process for working with a new investigations customer?
There is a free client consultation first to see if the client is interested in using the services of an investigator. Additionally, at this step, we determine if the client even needs the services of an investigator. Detailed information is collected during the consultation about the case and we mutually agree to move forward with either a services agreement or contract.
What is your typical process for working with a new training or security consulting customer?
Just like with our investigations clients, there is a free client consultation first to see what problems need to be solved. Detailed information is collected during the consultation about the problem and we mutually agree to move forward with either a services agreement or contract
What types of customers have you worked with?
Individuals, insurance companies, law firms, U.S. Government, intelligence, law enforcement, military, and academia to name a few.
I have never done this kind of thing before. What advice can you give me about private investigators?
Warren Buffett once said: “Price is what you pay, value is what you get.” There are some people who took a seminar in a hotel and call themselves investigators. There are others who dedicate their entire professional lives to perfecting their craft. We are the latter. Make sure the individual you are speaking with is licensed if licensing is required in the state in which you are seeking the services.
What is the difference between a a certificate of training and a certificate of attendance?
A certificate of attendance (COA) indicates that you showed up for the training course. A certificate of training (COT) is given if you pass all required practical exercises and/or exams in order to demonstrate your new ability on a subject matter.
Do you have a payment plan for training?
Yes. Lynx has partnered with Afterpay to allow you to break payments down into four interest-free payments.
Questions & Answers from Attorneys
Why should attorneys consider hiring private investigators for their cases?
Private investigators can be an invaluable resource for attorneys in building strong cases for their clients. They can provide a wide range of services, from fact-finding and surveillance to expert testimony and fraud investigations.
How can attorneys choose the right private investigator for their case?
Attorneys should hire a licensed and experienced private investigator who has experience in the type of investigation required for the case. The investigator should be able to provide references and a track record of success in similar cases.
What kind of information can private investigators help attorneys gather?
Private investigators are skilled at gathering information, conducting interviews, and analyzing data. Attorneys can use investigators to gather facts that will be useful in building a case. They can also help locate and interview witnesses who can provide valuable information about a case.
How can private investigators conduct surveillance to gather evidence?
Private investigators can conduct surveillance on individuals or locations to gather information that can be used in court. They can also conduct forensic investigations to gather evidence that may be used in court. They can examine documents, electronic devices, and other types of evidence to uncover valuable information.
Can private investigators help identify assets or conduct background investigations?
Yes, private investigators can conduct thorough background investigations on individuals or companies involved in a case. They can also help identify and locate assets that may be relevant to the case.
Can private investigators provide expert testimony in court?
Yes, private investigators can provide expert testimony in court. They can explain their investigative techniques and the evidence they gathered in a way that is easily understood by a judge or jury.
Can private investigators help protect a company's intellectual property?
Yes, private investigators can conduct investigations to protect a company’s intellectual property by investigating trademark or copyright infringement. They can also conduct investigations to identify individuals or companies who may be stealing trade secrets.
Are there other ways that private investigators can help attorneys?
Yes, in some cases, attorneys may simply need peace of mind. Private investigators can conduct investigations to help attorneys verify the identity of individuals, locate missing persons, or provide other types of reassurance.
What should attorneys keep in mind when working with private investigators?
Attorneys should establish clear communication with the investigator to ensure that they are on the same page regarding the goals and objectives of the investigation. They should also establish a system for sharing information and updates throughout the investigation.