Hiring a Private Investigator

What you should know before making the decision to hire a private investigator.

AXSS Investigative Services

3/28/20263 min read

a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp
a man riding a skateboard down the side of a ramp

If you have ever wondered whether to hire a private investigator — and what exactly they do — you are not alone. Private investigators are experienced professionals trained to conduct investigations on behalf of individuals, businesses, and attorneys. They can uncover information that would be difficult or impossible for you to obtain on your own.

AXSS Investigative Services employs former retired law enforcement personnel who bring deep expertise and industry-leading technology to every case, helping clients make informed, confident decisions.

What Does a Private Investigator Do? 

Private investigators handle a broad spectrum of cases — from infidelity and missing persons to internal corporate complaints and harassment matters. They use a variety of methods including physical surveillance, in-depth interviews, comprehensive background checks, and access to current public and private databases to gather accurate, actionable information.

The need for a PI rarely falls at the extremes — either 'never' or 'always.' Most people can handle everyday matters independently, but there are situations where engaging a licensed private investigator provides a meaningful advantage. The key word is licensed: always verify credentials before hiring any investigative professional.

“Most of the time, you can handle matters on your own. However, there are times when you can truly benefit from a private investigator or investigative agency.”

How Do Private Investigators Ensure Accuracy?

Accuracy is the cornerstone of any legitimate investigation. While many records provided by cities, counties, and states are considered court-ready, reputable investigators go further — independently verifying every piece of information two or three times before signing off on a report.

For example, confirming property ownership is not as simple as checking a county record. A thorough investigator will cross-reference grantee/grantor records and may request a formal title search to ensure the finding is ironclad. If independent verification is not possible, the client is informed clearly and transparently — professional due diligence demands nothing less.

How Do Private Investigators Conduct Background Checks?

Background checks performed by private investigators go well beyond a simple internet search.  Investigators draw on a combination of public records and specialized private databases to verify a subject's personal, financial, and criminal history. For businesses, this means thorough pre-employment screening that meets legal and ethical standards — providing peace of mind before bringing on a new hire or business partner.

Are You Searching for Hidden Assets?

An asset search involves a detailed examination of both public and private records to confirm asset ownership, review financial history, and support business due diligence. Private investigators have access to specialized databases and resources unavailable to the general public, enabling them to identify concealed assets or verify claims made by a potential partner, employee, or opposing party in litigation.

To initiate an asset search, your investigator will typically need the subject's full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. From there, searches cover real estate holdings, corporate registrations, and more — with surveillance as an additional option when warranted.

Why Would a Private Investigator Come to My House?

If a private investigator contacts or visits you, there is no need for alarm. Investigators handle a wide range of cases and may visit a home to conduct an interview, collect evidence, or serve legal documents. They are trained to operate discreetly and professionally, always working within the law. If you have concerns, do not hesitate to ask for their license and credentials.

When Is the Right Time to Hire a Private Investigator?

A private investigator is most valuable when a situation demands extensive research, discreet surveillance, or access to records beyond what is publicly available. Common circumstances include locating a missing loved one, verifying a spouse's fidelity, researching a potential business partner, or gathering evidence for a legal matter.

Thirteen Common Reasons People Hire a Private Investigator

• Obtain information on the whereabouts, identity, conduct, or credibility of a person or company

• Conduct background checks on potential romantic partners, business partners, or companies

• Determine whether a person is being deceitful through discreet surveillance

• Pre-screen an applicant or business partner using financial records

• Verify the legitimacy of a potential investment or financial opportunity

• Research a crime, act of wrongdoing, or a person's prior arrest history

• Determine the cause of fires, property damage, or accidents — and identify those responsible

• Safeguard a business's premises, assets, personnel, or sensitive information

• Locate and help recover lost or stolen property

• Verify employees' claims, such as workers' compensation or disability claims

• Investigate a scene or conduct witness interviews

• Access up-to-date public record databases for comprehensive research

• Perform a technical sweep ("debug") of your home or office for covert listening devices

TYPICAL HOURLY RATE

$85 – $120  Free Consultation 505-304-6635

Each investigation varies by complexity, No obligation required,  Confidential & discreet

About AXSS Investigative Services

AXSS Investigative Services is staffed by former retired law enforcement professionals with the experience, tools, and integrity to handle your most sensitive investigations. We serve individuals, businesses, and legal professionals throughout New Mexico and beyond, offering a full range of services including surveillance, locate / skip trace, infidelity investigations, bug sweeps, background checks, Civil process service, and more.

All consultations are confidential. Call us today at 505-304-6635 to speak with a licensed investigator at no charge.

AXSS Investigative Services • 505-304-6635 • Licensed Private Investigators • New Mexico