Hiring a private investigator can be a significant but necessary decision. Whether you're trying to uncover the truth about a cheating spouse, locate a missing person, or verify an employee’s background, working with a professional private investigation agency ensures the information you receive is accurate, legally obtained, and confidential. At Lewis Investigations, Inc., located in Akron, OH, we specialize in providing reliable and discreet investigative solutions to meet a wide variety of personal and business needs.

Knowing what to expect before hiring a private investigator can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure a more productive partnership. This article outlines the hiring process, common services, legal considerations, and how to choose the best private investigation company for your unique situation.

A private investigator (PI) is a licensed professional hired to obtain information, conduct surveillance, and gather evidence that may not be easily accessible to the average person. Unlike police or government agencies, private investigators are hired by individuals or companies and focus solely on serving their clients’ specific needs.

Private investigation firms such as ours are experienced in uncovering hard-to-find information, tracking people, and validating facts for a wide range of cases, including:

• Infidelity and marital disputes
• Employee background checks
• Insurance fraud investigations
• Child custody cases
• Corporate theft or misconduct
• Civil litigation support
• Missing person investigations
• Asset searches
  

At Lewis Investigations, Inc., we blend modern surveillance technology with tried-and-true investigative techniques to uncover the facts discreetly and legally.

What to Expect in the Initial Consultation

The first step in hiring a private investigation agency is scheduling an initial consultation. During this meeting—whether in person, via phone, or video call—you’ll share the details of your situation and your goals for the investigation.

We will ask detailed questions to better understand the scope of the case. This may include:

• Who or what you want investigated
• What kind of evidence you’re hoping to obtain
• Any known details or background information
• Specific dates, times, or locations relevant to the investigation

After reviewing your case, we’ll propose an investigative strategy, provide a general timeline, and give you an estimate of the cost. Transparency and clear communication are vital—we’ll make sure you know exactly what to expect.

Common Services Provided by Private Investigation Firms

Every client’s needs are different, so private investigation companies typically offer a wide range of services. Here’s an overview of the most frequently requested investigations:

Surveillance

Surveillance is one of the most common services. We covertly monitor individuals, capturing their actions through photography and video, and then compile comprehensive reports. This service is frequently utilized in cases involving marital infidelity, workers' compensation fraud, and disagreements over child custody.

Background Checks

Employers, landlords, or individuals may request thorough background checks. These include criminal records, employment history, education verification, and other personal data that help you make informed decisions.

Infidelity Investigations

If you suspect your partner is being unfaithful, a private investigator can gather proof through surveillance, social media monitoring, and other investigative methods. Our goal is to confirm or dispel your suspicions with concrete evidence.

Corporate Investigations

Businesses often face internal threats such as theft, fraud, or misconduct. Our corporate investigation services help employers uncover dishonest practices, enforce policies, and protect company assets.

Missing Persons and Skip Tracing

Using advanced databases and investigative tools, we locate missing persons or those attempting to avoid contact, such as debtors or long-lost relatives.

Legal and Ethical Guidelines of a Private Investigation Agency

While private investigation firms operate independently from law enforcement, all activities must remain legal and ethical. Lewis Investigations, Inc. is fully licensed and compliant with all Ohio state laws.

Here are a few things private investigators can legally do:

• Conduct surveillance in public spaces
• Access public records and databases
• Perform background checks
• Interview neighbors, coworkers, and witnesses
• Use GPS tracking (with appropriate legal permissions)
  

However, there are legal limitations, including:

• No wiretapping or phone monitoring without consent
• No breaking and entering
• No impersonating law enforcement
• No hacking into emails or personal accounts
  

A trustworthy private investigation agency like ours ensures all findings are legally obtained so they can be used in court if needed.

Choosing the Right Private Investigation Services

Selecting the right private investigator is essential to achieving the results you need. Here’s what to consider when evaluating private investigation companies:

1. Check Licensing and Experience

Always verify that the investigator is licensed in your state and has relevant experience. Our team at Lewis Investigations, Inc. has a proven track record of success and brings years of investigative expertise to every case.

2. Ask About Specialties

Some investigators specialize in family law, while others are experts in corporate fraud or surveillance. Make sure the firm you hire has handled cases similar to yours.

3. Look for Transparency

A good PI should provide a written agreement outlining fees, deliverables, and the scope of work. We're committed to open communication and delivering our services with the highest level of professionalism.

4. Review Testimonials and Reputation

Check online reviews and ask for client references. A reputable agency will have positive feedback and a history of client satisfaction.

5. Evaluate Communication

Your investigator should be responsive, informative, and professional. We keep our clients updated throughout the investigation so they’re never left in the dark.

Contact Lewis Investigations, Inc. for Private Investigation Services Today

At Lewis Investigations, Inc., we understand that hiring a private investigator is a serious decision. Whether you're dealing with personal concerns, corporate matters, or legal disputes, we offer professional, discreet, and results-oriented private investigation services you can trust. We provide corporate, insurance, and personal investigations, and polygraphs.

Located in Akron, OH, we proudly serve clients throughout Northeast Ohio. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the accurate information you need, always with honesty, complete confidentiality, and unwavering integrity.

Call us today at (216) 440-4779 to schedule your confidential consultation. Let us help you find the answers and peace of mind you deserve.

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