FAQs Regarding Rates
OUR GOAL IS TO PROVIDE YOU WITH A COMPLETE, THOROUGH AND PROFESSIONAL INVESTIGATION AT A REASONABLE RATE. WE WILL STAND BY YOU AND OUR WORK.
Investigative Rate: No two cases are alike. We offer a reasonable and competitive hourly rate based upon the work required. There are factors which require a higher rate such and hazardous investigations or time critical investigations that require the adjustment previously scheduled work. This is why it is important that we discuss the case. Some are done at a flat rate. We do offer a reduced rate to regular customers and some pre-paid cases. We may offer a set rate price based upon our consultation in some cases. A written agreement will be provided for your approval detailing the services to be provided and the costs.
All domestic or divorce case work and surveillance requires a deposit or payment in advance. This also requires a signed agreement before any work is done. We regret the inconvenience of this, however the high rate of cancellations has forced this action. (Effective 11-5-08)
WORK FOR OTHER INVESTIGATIVE AGENCIES/SUBCONTRACTING:
Effective 9-1-11
DUE TO A CONSTANT ISSUE REGARDING TIMELY PAYMENT FROM OTHER AGENCIES REQUESTING A REDUCED RATE, WE WILL DO SO HOWEVER:
We will do subcontract work under these conditions:
Any reduction in our rate is dependent upon an agreed upon RECEIPT of payment after the work. In dynamic situations when your agency expects our reports or video within 24 hours, we can do this work with the proper payment timeline established.
I am happy to work with anyone on these issues and have no problem with a quick turnaround on reports when there is an agreed upon deadline. 90% of the companies I work with are excellent in this regard. Of that 90%, all have been repeat customers are all are very professional and responsible.
Retainers: Some cases will require a retainer in addition to hourly costs and expenses.
Additional Fees: Our goal is to provide a thorough and professional investigation at a reasonable cost. There are times that some fees will be unavoidable, for example the cost of copies, internet data searchs, transcription, photos and video. Fees will be discussed during your consultation. If we don't talk about then, I won't charge you for it later.
Mileage: We use the standard 2011 IRS business mileage rate, 51 cents per mile. This rate will also be discussed during your consultation along with the estimate miles to be driven. Generally, I do not charge mileage on some Yuma County area investigations.
Reports, Photos, Audio and Video: We provide a report with each investigation. If all you request is a verbal report, that is what we will do. If you need details documented for legal purposes we will work with your attorney to provide you necessary information in a written report. Photo, audio and video are provide in accordance with the written agreement. Additional costs for special instructions regarding audio and video are the responsiblity of the client and will be discussed and agreed upon.
Testimony: We will testify in court when necessary, that rate will be set at the consultation. This cost will include mileage, travel and waiting time.
Background Information: When you select us to provide you with investigative service, we will ask for background information. We understand that often you will not have very much to work with, but the more you can provide us with the better, it may reduce time and costs. Some investigations are potentially hazardous and the background information assists us in assessing the potential threat. Your safety is our primary concern.
Additional Costs: No one likes suprises but often investigations lead in unknown direction and unforseen expenses. We will make reasonable attempt to contact you regarding additional expenses. In the majority of cases we have handled we are usually able to advise our clients and get authorization before working additional hours or incurring additional expenses.
Payments: Under some circumstances we will gladly set up a payment plan for you.