The Essential Guide to Private Investigation Services

## What Does a Private Investigator Actually Do? Private investigators gather information, document facts, and provide clients with evidence they cannot easily obtain on their own. The work spans a wide range — from surveillance and background checks to locating missing persons and supporting legal proceedings. Unlike what you see in movies, most investigative work is methodical and documentation-focused. The goal is always admissible, accurate evidence — not drama. ## When Should You Hire a Private Investigator? There are several situations where a licensed PI adds real value: - **Suspected infidelity** — When you need documented evidence rather than suspicion. See our [infidelity investigations service](/services/infidelity-investigations). - **Child custody disputes** — Courts require facts, not allegations. Our [child custody investigations](/services/child-custody-investigations) are built for exactly this. - **Background checks** — For new hires, business partners, or people you've met online. Learn more about our [background check service](/services/background-checks). - **Fraud investigations** — Insurance fraud, workers' compensation abuse, or corporate theft. See our [fraud investigations service](/services/fraud-investigations). - **Locating a person** — Skip tracing for lost contacts, witnesses, or debtors. Our [skip tracing service](/services/skip-tracing) covers all of these. - **Legal support** — Serving papers, locating witnesses, or gathering evidence for litigation. See our [legal and litigation support service](/services/legal-litigation-support). ## What to Expect When You Hire a PI ### 1. Initial Consultation A reputable investigator will start with a confidential conversation to understand your situation. They'll assess whether an investigation is feasible and legal, and give you a realistic picture of what can be accomplished. ### 2. Scope and Cost Agreement Before any work begins, you should receive a clear written scope of work with an estimated cost. Most investigators charge hourly plus expenses. Be wary of anyone who won't give you an estimate upfront. ### 3. The Investigation Depending on the case, this may involve surveillance, database research, interviews, or public records searches. A good investigator keeps you informed throughout without compromising the case. ### 4. The Report At the conclusion, you receive a written report with all findings — supported by photographs, video, and records where applicable. This documentation is built to hold up in court if needed. ## Choosing the Right Investigator Look for a licensed, insured investigator with experience in your specific type of case. Ask about their methods, how they handle confidentiality, and whether they've testified in court before. At Kreymer Investigative, we serve clients throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts — including [Manchester](/private-investigator-manchester-nh), [Nashua](/private-investigator-nashua-nh), [Portsmouth](/private-investigator-portsmouth-nh), [Concord](/private-investigator-concord-nh), [Dover](/private-investigator-dover-nh), and surrounding communities. Every case starts with a free, confidential consultation. [View all our services](/services) to find the right fit for your situation.