Private Investigation Techniques
Popular private investigator TV shows, such as Magnum P.I. and Rockford Files, have created quite a buzz around the private investigation field. More people want to become private investigators themselves and live the interesting, glamorous lives they see on TV. However, real private investigation techniques are typically a far stretch from what you see on television, so make sure you know what you’re getting into before you pursue a career as a private investigator.
Real Life as a Private Investigator
Real life as a private investigator is a very different thing from what you see on TV. You spend a lot of time waiting or looking for work, and much private investigation work is work on civil cases or investigating mundane, day-to-day life.
You might be hired by an insurance company to investigate whether or not someone is really injured, or you might be hired by a spouse to investigate whether a partner is having an affair or hiding something. A corporation might hire you to investigate an employee. Real life as a private investigator is much less exciting than being in a movie, and requires you to sit around for large portions of the day conducting surveillance or research.
Private Investigation Techniques
Private investigation techniques involve a range of specialties.
Surveillance
One of the most common techniques that private investigators utilize is surveillance. Surveillance might entail observing a subject and preparing a written report, or even taking pictures and video of a subject. You might need special equipment to conduct surveillance, including cameras with a telephoto lens or video cameras with good zoom functionality.
Research
A large part of what private investigators do is simply to conduct research. You might be called upon to do research on the web, or even search local libraries, probate courts, or other public records. You’ll need good research skills, and you’ll need to learn how to access these various sources of information.
Computer forensics
With so much technology used everywhere, computer forensics plays an increasing role in private investigations. With a computer forensics degree, you can analyze data and gather electronic information to use as evidence and research. A computer forensics degree can supplement your other training and education and make you a much more effective private investigator.
Interrogation
Nothing beats the effectiveness of asking questions, if you know how to ask them. With experience or a background in interrogation, you’ll know the right questions to ask a subject to gather data and determine leads or draw conclusions for an investigation. You’ll also need to know what’s legal and what’s not when you’re conducting an interrogation, so you can be sure to stay on the right side of the law.
Private Investigation Education and Licensing
Education for private investigators includes a broad range of options. Depending on your state’s requirements, you may be able to obtain licensing to become a private investigator with only your existing background. However, to become an effective private investigator, you might want to earn a degree in computer forensics or other helpful investigative techniques. You can also attend a private school that specializes in becoming a private investigator.
Private investigation licensing varies from state to state. Only five states don’t require a license at all; most states have specific licensing procedures, and very specific requirements. Also, states have different policies on carrying weapons, so don’t count on becoming a gun-toting private investigator who has shoot-outs with the bad guys. Most states won’t let you carry a firearm without a very specific, difficult-to-obtain license, so check out these requirements in your state if you’re thinking of carrying a weapon.
