There are several questions which the average consumer or a new business may be interested in acquiring the services of a private investigator.
What is a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)?
The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) establishes and administers the CFE designation. According to the ACFE, the individual holding this designation denotes proven expertise in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation. CFEs must meet stringent academic, professional and character requirements, comply with the ACFE Code of Professional Ethics and continually build their skills through on going professional education.
Are private investigators required to be licensed?
In Oregon and Washington, YES! Before you hire a private investigator, it is best to make sure they are appropriately licensed to perform investigations.
The Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards & Training is the licensing agency for private investigators in Oregon, and they utilize Information Records Inquiry System (PI IRIS), where anyone can check to verify a private investigator’s license.
The Washington Department of Licensing maintains their own database of licensed private investigators.
Do you use subcontractors?
Typically no, however we have select firms we partner with that might be incorporated into the case, should the need arise.
What are your costs for services?
A no-cost consultation is encouraged for all clients where we can discuss rates and fees associated with the type of work you may need to have performed.
Fees for services vary depending on the nature of the investigation. Typically, investigative fees are billed hourly with additional fees for mileage and other expenses that may be incurred as part of the investigation. We will also establish a budget that incorporates the cost of the work to be performed.
Communication between Pettus Investigations and the client is constant, so there are never any surprises.
Do you offer a flat fee for any services?
Pettus Investigations can work with those clients that prefer a flat fee.
If I hire you, where do we start?
All cases are treated individually, and a plan will be developed to meet the needs of our client. As the case progresses, we continually evaluate the information as it develops and reassess as is necessary. We keep you apprised of the developments as they occur by telephone, email, or text.
We cannot make guarantees regarding the ultimate outcome of any investigation, nor do we makes any warranties, assurances, or guarantees with regards to the work performed. Furthermore, fees paid to our office are not in any way contingent upon or related to the results of the services performed during the course of an investigation.
The length of time it takes to conduct any given investigation varies by case. Typically when we begin an investigation, it takes several days to begin receiving preliminary information. In cases such as locating individuals, turnaround time is usually a few days. However, more complex investigations can take longer. We will advise you of the anticipated time required to complete any investigation.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.