Should you hire a cheap Private Investigator? A look at both sides

Pros of Hiring a Cheap Private Investigator:
1. Budget Constraints: For clients with limited budgets, especially during tough economic times (e.g., during a pandemic), a cheap private investigator might be the only option available.
2. Simple Tasks: For very basic tasks, such as asking someone to contact their attorney or monitoring an area for suspicious activity, a cheaper investigator might be sufficient.
3. New Entrants: Some new investigators, trying to establish themselves in the industry, might charge lower fees initially. They might under-promise and over-deliver, so giving them a chance could be a win-win situation if the client does thorough research to confirm their legitimacy.

Cons of Hiring a Cheap Private Investigator:
1. Quality and Experience Concerns: Low-cost investigators may lack the experience and skills necessary for complex cases. They might be new to the industry or treating the job as a side hustle, which might lead to lower quality work.
2. Licensing and Insurance Issues: Some cheap investigators might be operating without proper licenses or insurance, which could put the client at legal and financial risk.
3. Incomplete Investigations: Lower-cost investigators might not provide comprehensive services. They may not write detailed reports or produce high-quality video evidence, which could be critical if the case goes to court.
4. Potential for Unethical Behavior: Some might not care about their online reputation, and when they receive negative feedback or encounter problems, they might just change their business name and start anew.
5. Risks to Client: Hiring an unlicensed and uninsured investigator could have legal ramifications for the client, especially if the investigator engages in illegal activities during the investigation.

Main Takeaway:
Hiring a private investigator is an expense, but depending on the client’s needs, it can be a worthy investment. The article urges readers to weigh the risks associated with hiring a cheap private investigator, particularly when significant matters, like child custody or large investments, are at stake. It doesn't advocate for hiring the most expensive investigator but encourages readers to consider the potential risks and to do thorough research before hiring a cheap private investigator.