How to Hire a Private Investigator

ANSWERS FROM DUE PROCESS CHICAGO

Hiring a private investigator is not an everyday decision. The agency you choose will determine whether you get the truth — or waste your money. At Due Process Investigations, we’ve built our reputation on one thing: results. Here’s exactly what you should demand from any PI firm, and how we deliver on every count.


What We Commit to From Day One

When you hire Due Process, here’s what happens:

  • We speak with you at length to understand your situation before anything else.
  • Together, we build a customized game plan to get you the results you need.
  • We discuss costs upfront and structure a plan that respects your budget.
  • We assign an experienced agent — not a trainee — to your case.
  • We communicate with you regularly throughout the investigation.
  • We deliver a detailed written report and video evidence where appropriate.
  • We follow up to make sure you’re satisfied with the outcome.

The Questions Every Smart Client Should Ask — And Our Answers

How much does a private investigator cost?
At Due Process, we offer a free consultation by phone, email, or in person. All of our services are flat-rate, agreed upon and signed before work begins. You will never receive a surprise bill at the end of your investigation asking for more money. Fees vary by case type, complexity, and resources required — call us anytime for a specific quote.

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
Yes — fully. Illinois requires investigators to be licensed, which means documented field experience, a clean record, and demonstrated knowledge of applicable law. We are also bonded and insured. If anything goes wrong in the field, you are protected. Unlicensed operators cannot say the same.

Can you provide references?
Absolutely. Any established agency should be able to connect you with past clients willing to vouch for their work. If an agency claims confidentiality prevents them from providing references, consider that a red flag. We’ve earned our reputation one solved case at a time — and we’re proud to prove it.

Will I receive a contract that spells everything out?
Every time. You receive a signed statement of services before any work begins. Every service is itemized, every cost is agreed upon in writing. No ambiguity. No surprises.

Do your investigators have law enforcement or investigative backgrounds?
Yes. Our team brings former law enforcement experience and extensive private investigative backgrounds to every case. Surveillance, interviewing, research, and courtroom testimony — we’ve done it all at a professional level, and we know the laws of our jurisdiction.

Are you a full-service agency or a one-person operation?
We are a full-service agency with the staff, office, and resources to handle cases that require multiple agents in the field simultaneously. A solo operator conducting surveillance alone is far more likely to get noticed — and when that happens, your case is compromised. We staff every investigation appropriately so that doesn’t happen to you.

Do you answer questions directly and stay in communication?
Always. If you’re asking questions and getting vague answers, that tells you everything you need to know about how an agency will handle your case. At Due Process, we are direct, responsive, and committed to keeping you informed throughout the entire investigation.


Ready to Talk Through Your Case?

Contact Due Process Investigations today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re available by phone, email, or in person — whichever is most comfortable for you. Most clients find that a quick call is the fastest way to get started. There’s no obligation. Just answers.