The Scope of Work:
Private investigators are professionals who carry out various investigations for their clients. Their services are retained by solicitors, councils, insurance companies, private companies and individuals as well.
It is not uncommon for investigators to be involved in process serving, which is the job of presenting legal documents to individuals or companies. But
private investigators ’ work also includes surveillance,
fraud investigation , missing people’s enquiries, investigating insurance claims, commercial piracy, and personnel selection or background checks.
Most
private investigators are self-employed or work on freelance basis, and despite a glamorous image, this work can be unexciting, dangerous and financially less rewarding.
Private Investigator Training Courses
Though there are no formal qualifications required to become a
private investigator , it is advantageous to have good general education. Any additional experience in related fields such as the police or other security work would also be helpful.
It’s advisable to enrol for basic courses especially starting out. Moreover, such basic education will be required to obtain a licence in many areas. And experienced
private investigators can opt for advanced courses that provide an impetus for a successful investigative career.
Investigator Licensing
Licensing requirements differ from state to state and country to country. Check with your state/country’s licensing department for more information. It’s important that you gain a license, where required, before you start your investigative career.
Opportunities
The demand for
private investigators is expected to rise by 23% by the year 2010. The unquenchable thirst for information has led to the creation of new specialities and areas of expertise on a regular basis. Though many private investigators can benefit from a well-paying career, experienced private investigators can earn as much as $100,000 a year from working on different types of cases. And with investigative and security industries getting bigger, only sky is the limit!