Private Detective Job Description

Answer 1

Private detectives work with businesses, corporations, or individuals to help find wanted information. They use a number of methods to recover this information, such as analyzing computer or legal documents, searching large databases, or surveillance or working undercover. Private detectives are usually hired by companies or individuals to find information that they want to be kept secret. For individuals, this may mean proving the infidelity of a spouse or finding out if someone is planning to harm them. For companies, this may mean investigating fraud cases, background checks, or assisting with the investigation of a criminal, civil liability, or insurance claim case.

Since the nature of their work is so widespread, private detectives often work irregular hours. They may not work consistent, forty-hour work weeks like many professionals, but their work may also result in higher compensation payments. Often, people who hire private detectives are willing to pay more because of the sensitive nature of the information being investigated. Also, the work of a private detective may be dangerous. If it is discovered that they are working undercover, their investigation may be compromised and the detective may be at risk. Some private detectives work as bodyguards for celebrities or other individuals, which would also put the detective at risk.

The majority of people working as private detectives work alone and work on a single investigation at a time. Others work with partners, although this is less common. The work done in a private investigation is usually sensitive in nature, making group efforts difficult.

In order to become a private detective, some education and training is required. Many of those who choose to enter this field attend college and earn a degree in criminal justice or police sciences. It is highly recommended that you obtain police or forensic training before working as a private detective. Most states also require passing a licensing test before one can practice as a private detective. The requirements that must be met vary from state to state, so it is important to always check with your local authorities to be sure that you pass the licensing exam.