Just the facts

Private investigators often have a law enforcement background and some states require a license. "Private investigators have to be inquisitive, honest and they have to have the right skill set to do the job right," says Michael Hawkins, owner of The Hawkins Group in Edmonds, Wash. "People are relying on us solely for the information they're after. And a lot of times it is going to be used in court. People have to understand that we're finders of facts - no matter which way it goes."

A bug's life

Technology continues to enhance investigators' effectiveness. "Digital cameras have gotten smaller and better," says Bill Schroeder, owner of Tampa PI Investigations in Safety Harbor, Fla. "GPS, Google Earth and the Internet in general have improved the ways we conduct surveillance operations. In this business, you have to stay on the technological edge if you want to compete."

Permission granted

Most of the information private investigators access isn't privileged. "We have databases that restrict their use to private investigators, but not much more," says Perry Myers, president of highly rated MSI Detective Services in Chicago. "It's like being a mechanic - you have everything available through the car supply store, but you'd never dream of doing a tune-up yourself. If you want the job done right, you need to hire a pro."

Typical situation

Private investigators perform a variety of jobs - from surveillance work for suspicious spouses to executive protection for businesses. "Make sure the private investigator you hire lays out all fees from the beginning," Schroeder says. "Most start at about $75 per hour, and you should also expect to pay for mileage, tolls and any travel fees."