When Will an Oklahoma Bail Bondsman Not Bail a Criminal Defendant Out of Jail?

When Will an Oklahoma Bail Bondsman Not Bail a Criminal Defendant Out of Jail?

            There certainly are times in the lives of some people when they find themselves alone and in jail.  This can be a frightening time for many, and getting an Oklahoma bail bondsman to set you free can prove to be really helpful indeed!  Likewise, finding the right bail bondsman who can work diligently with you to help ensure that you are treated nicely is also very useful.  Indeed, some bail bondsmen in Oklahoma City and elsewhere treat their clients more like cattle and less like human beings – not that cattle should be treated poorly, either, mind you.  Either way, both nice and rude bail bondsmen also have to manage their financial risk when assessing clients they will and will not help out.  Knowing what these factors are and how to leverage one’s position, can help ensure that criminal defendants have the best chance of getting out of the Oklahoma County Jail.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Severs www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com thus explores this issue in more depth . . .

            One of the biggest reasons people in jail cannot get a bail bond is because they have missed their court dates.  Realistically speaking, a bail bondsman can lose all of the money he or she put up for the cost of the bail bond.  If an Oklahoma City bail bondsman puts up $8,000 to bail a criminal defendant out, he or she does not want to lose that money.  If someone has been out on bail before but has not shown up for court, it is likely that the bail bondsman has lost all of that money.  Why, then, would he or she want to get that same individual out of jail and risk losing even more money?  By making sure to show up for all of your court dates, Oklahoma City bail bondsmen will be more willing to help that same person in the future, too.

            Another reason many people cannot get out of jail is because they owe another bail bondsman money.  Bail bondmen in Oklahoma City make profits off when they get the premium for writing the bond.  A premium is the additional amount they receive on top of the actual cost of the cost of the bail bond.  This premium amount usually costs about ten percent (10%) of the bond itself.  Thus, if the bail bond’s cost is $4,000, the premium would normally be $400.  The bail bondsman only makes money off of the premium, as he or she has to make a living, too.  Thus, if a defendant cannot make an agreeable arrangement to pay the bail bondsman the premium, then it is not worth the Oklahoma bail bondsman’s time to be that person’s jailer.

            Many people cannot get out on bail, because they do not have any collateral to secure the bond with.  Many Oklahomans who are in jail do not have enough money to get out.  A bail bondsman can assist with this by providing the necessary cash flow to help that person get out of jail.  However, the bail bondsman always takes a risk that the person who went to jail in the first place will not show up, and thus he or she will lose a lot of money.  This is why many Oklahoma City bail bondsmen will require some sort of money, jewelry, vehicles, or houses as collateral.  In essence, if the defendant skip out on bail and the bail bondsman loses a great deal of money, he or she can have something of the person he bonded out of jail to sell to make up for the loss.

            Sometimes when collateral is not available or when the bail bondsman wants another way to recover money, he or she may write a person an Oklahoma City bail bond if someone else (i.e., parent, spouse, etc.) agrees to co-sign for it.  In the event the defendant runs away and the Edmond bail bondsman loses his or her money, then he or she can go after whoever co-signed for your bond. 

            Sometimes bail bondsmen find that their clients do not always pay them the bond’s premium amount, thus causing them to work for free or even at a loss.  While it is true that those who have found themselves arrested and thrown into jail do not always have an excess of money, they still need to pay their Norman bail bondsman.  If a person owes another Yukon bail bondsman money and is now asking for a bail bond from someone else, it is less likely that the bail bondsman will get that person out of jail.  People who make paying their bail bondsmen a priority will also find that bail bondsmen will likewise make them a priority, too.

            Occasionally there are some bail bondsmen who simply will not bond people out of jail for certain crimes.  These can often include, but are not limited to, offenses such as child molestation, murder, etc.  This all depends upon each bail bondsmen agency, of course.  There is no statute which requires nor prohibits a bail bondsman to write or not write a bond for someone.

            Many Moore, Oklahoma bail bondsmen will not write bail bonds for criminal defendants who do not have a valid social security number.  Defendants who are thought to have a serious flight risk will have a very difficult time finding someone to assist them.  A situation where someone can easily flee to Mexico or another country where he or she may live out much of his or her life without additional prosecution, is not an appealing risk to most bail bondsmen.  Criminal defendants with stronger ties (i.e., work, family, school, etc.) to the community in which they live are more likely to find an Oklahoma City bail bondsman to assist them.

            One of the other biggest factors involved in the bail bond decision making process, is the kind of relationship a defendant has with the bail bondsman.  Repeat customers who have been very nice, honest, who have paid the money they owe, and who have not missed their court dates will likely find that their bail bondsman is willing to help them again.  Likewise, a bail bondsman will probably not want to help someone who has been evasive, who has not checked in on time, and who has been very rude and hateful to his or her bail bondsman.  Oklahoma bail bondsmen are people, too, and they have thoughts and feelings just like everyone else.  Indeed, not everything is dependent upon money.

            These are just some of the most substantial factors that those seeking an Oklahoma City bail bond will face.  Criminal defendants who are mindful of these things and who treat their bondsmen nicely and fairly will experience much more success with the bail bonds process.  Those that do not will have to sit in jail with some “guy” named Bubba, who just so happens has not seen a girl in the past 6 years.  Bail bondsmen are generally nicer that Bubba and do not require such special favours.

How Process Servers and Private Investigators Can Effectively Handle Deadbeat Clients

How Process Servers and Private Investigators Can Effectively Handle Deadbeat Clients

            Those who have served in the field of private investigations or process serving for any length of time know all too well the perils of working with companies and individuals who cheat them.  Most times these law firms and companies promise to pay money upon successful completion of services but simply never do.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com explores possible options and solutions for Oklahoma process servers and private detectives who find themselves facing these tough situations . . .

            Many process servers and almost all private investigators require payment in advance.  Indeed, since the amount of money that private detective agencies stand to lose can range in the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, most such firms require a specific retainer up front.  Process servers, on the other hand, usually have much less to lose and sometimes allow their customers to receive an invoice after they have completed the service.  Either way, when customers fail to pay as promised, it puts the Oklahoma process servers and licensed private investigators in a bit of a bind.

            One effective way to prevent this from happening is for process servers and private detectives to simply require all of their customers to pay up front.  This is an effective measure which will prevent clients from failing to pay.  This option also helps deter clients who might like to cheat the process server or private investigator.  However, this choice also comes with significant limitations.

            Some clients prefer to receive the bill after the process server completes his or her tasks.  These types of clients often include, but are not limited to, high end attorneys and others who stake their reputation on quality and efficiency.  This type of clientele often does not have time to issue checks or money orders right away and tends to work on very tight schedules.  Process servers who refuse to bill these firms and individuals will often lose their current and future business.  Private investigators, of course, should continue to require the money up front; they simply have too much to lose.

            Before informing clients that they have not paid what they owe, it is imperative that process servers ensure that they have not already paid it.  Sometimes it is possible to not mark down a check, money order, or other payment the client has made.  By first checking with the bank, with Paypal, etc., private detectives can almost eliminate the chance of inadvertently asking for money from clients who have already paid their bills.  

            Process servers who choose to allow clients to pay after the completion of services do not really have many of the same protective preemptive safeguards in place.  Thus, they must choose how to handle the situation after the fact.  They do, however, have a string of options and at least one thing they can do to protect themselves.

            Generally speaking, process servers should always require their clients to make their service requests up front and in writing.  This is especially true for process servers in Oklahoma who do not require their clients to pay in advance.  A special form such as this http://www.oklahomajudicialprocessservers.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/Process-Server-Client-Questionnaire.pdf can require the client to waive all liability and guarantee payment in writing.  This formal agreement not only helps to shield process servers from harm, but it also helps deter potential deadbeat clients.  Those individuals and businesses who do cheat process servers out of their fees also become more vulnerable in court, as process servers now have something in writing. 

            If the amount the client owes is very small, it is sometimes easier to “un-serve” the person.  In doing so, the client may have to reschedule his or her court date.  This will require the person to go obtain the services of yet another process server.  If the Oklahoma City process server has already turned in an affidavit of service, he or she can subsequently submit an affidavit of non-service.  This second affidavit might potentially nullify the previous affidavit on grounds such as, “I accidentally served the wrong person.”  In the event that an affidavit of service is not already on file or otherwise in the client’s possession, then the process server can simply refuse to write one.  Either of these efforts will likely frustrate the former client and may hinder his ability to receive a timely judgment.  However, if a Norman, Oklahoma process server is seeking a financial judgment, this will not suffice.

            Oklahoma process servers and private investigators can also write and submit a brief or letter that informs the judge of the client’s failure to pay.  Filing a letter of this sort so will most likely hurt the client’s credibility in court.  Who can trust a person or business that would stiff his own process server or private investigator?  In addition to doing so, the Oklahoma process server can also file a small claims suit against the former client and have that person served.  If successful in both of these attempts, this can frustrate the client both in his or her own legal case and simultaneously force him or her to become embattled on yet another front.  Of course, this endeavor also takes time and money, and some process servers one or both lack both.

            Some process servers and private detective agencies prefer to outsource all of their deadbeat clients to collection agencies.  These companies will often handle the entire process for fee.  In doing so, they take the stress and pressure off of process servers and private investigation firms, and this frees their time and resources to engage in other meaningful business pursuits.  Of course, these companies also require up to one half of the amounts they recover as payment, thus trimming the process servers’ and private detectives’ bottom lines.

            Process servers and private investigators whose former clients have breached their trust agreement can also choose to leave a bad written review for professionals and companies.  If the deadbeat client is a business entity, this can range from a blatantly honest and thorough review on www.yellowpages.com to other sites like www.angieslist.com.  Believe it or not, some customers read reviews written by former and current  companies they are considering working with.  If a professional company or individual has cheated a process server out of his or her fee, then he or she will likely happen again to others.  The public deserves a fair warning about the company’s unscrupulous business practices.  However, if the former client happens to link the written review back to the process server, then he or she can also write a bad written review – even if untrue – about the process server, private eye, and/or his or her company.  Thus, caution does indeed become the “better” part of cyber revenge.

            The Better Business Bureau (BBB) www.bbb.org can also help to mediate complaints against the wayward company or business.  However, they tend to be most effective against those whom they accredit. The Better Business Bureau is unable to compel a company to act or require action.  Of course, the company can still lose its BBB accreditation, and this is something that many businesses wish to maintain.  Indeed, many law firms have their accreditation by the BBB to help prevent lawsuits and to let their customers know they are trustworthy.

            If the individual is a member of a professional organization or association such as the Oklahoma Bar Association (OBA) http://www.okbar.org/, the National Association of Professional Process Servers (NAPPS) www.Napps.org, or the Oklahoma Private Investigator Association (OPIA) www.Opia.com, then process servers can file complaints against the individuals or businesses with their respective professional organisations and licensing committees.  These types of associations often require higher standards of ethical conduct from their members and/or respective licensing boards.  They want their members to represent their profession well and to help others.  While it is true that these governing bodies often protect those within them, they can also serve to help field complaints for little or no money or time.

Sometimes clients really do not have the ability to pay their bills, and money really does become an issue for them.   This is when alternative forms of payment through bartering sometimes become more feasible.  This is especially true when the client does not have the ability to pay his or her bill but also practices some sort of trade or profession which may provide necessary services for the Oklahoma City process server or private detective.  Such trades and professions include, but are not limited to, those who are plumbers, lawyers, doctors, teachers, and almost anything else of relative value.  Of course, the entire bartering process tends to work best when utilised from the start rather than as a substitute for nonpayment of services. 

            The only other viable option a process server has is to simply turn the other cheek, cut his or her losses, and move on.  Pursuing the attorney, process serving firm, private detective agency, or individual may turn out to be more of a headache than it is really worth.  Indeed, the recoverable amount may not be worth the time or effort.  Plus, collecting on a judgment is not always easy and may require even more time and resources. 

On the other hand, licensed process servers and private investigation firms should not let unscrupulous companies run all over them.  By doing so, they might become emboldened by the apathy and are more inclined to keep doing the same thing to others.  Process servers and private eyes must strive to protect one another and their fields both professional and respectable.

Sometimes clients will write bad checks or will initiate a chargeback on their credit card authorizations.  If the process server or Oklahoma private investigator has already meritoriously performed the work, then this kind of misbehaviour on the part of clients is just as unprofessional as those who refuse to pay at all.  Sometimes it is even more damaging, because it can cost the Oklahoma process server even more money, time, and can hurt his or her reputation within the financial community.  Once again, process servers have many options at their disposal.

Aside from the other methods previously discussed in this article, a good Oklahoma City private investigator can also take other action against bad check and credit card users.  In these cases, process servers can also contact their district attorney’s office to press charges against bad check writers.  In addition to other civil action their might pursue, this can add criminal charges to the client’s list of new problems as well. 

When clients initiate a chargeback on a credit card payment, private investigation companies can and should actively participate in every part of the dispute.  All too often, companies like Paypal www.Paypal.com will try to side with the consumer too easily, leaving the seller or provider of goods without proper payment.  Private investigators should stick with it each step of the way, taking action against the credit card companies, if needed.

            It is vital that process servers and private detectives remember that most clients will happily pay for good service.  Indeed, sometimes attorneys and other professionals just become so busy and backlogged that they may accidentally forget about making a payment.  Their staff may become sick, or they may think that they have already paid the amount they owe.  By taking a more diplomatic approach, Oklahoma City private investigators and process servers can offer gentle reminders via e-mail, mail and telephone calls.  Sometimes clients need more time to pay or would prefer to make a payment by credit card or via another alternative method.  Process servers and private investigators who work with their clients instead of against them will go further.

            When it comes to getting paid, licensed process servers and private detectives in Oklahoma and elsewhere have a variety of options at their disposal.  From preventive measures to collection procedures, there are many ways to minimize exposure to clients who cannot or will not pay their bills.  By ascertaining which option is best according to each situation, Oklahoma City private investigators and process servers can often regain their hard earned money in the most professional way possible.

Teaching Private Investigation Courses Helps Give Licensed Private Investigators Special Advantages

Teaching Private Investigation Courses Helps Give Licensed Private Investigators Special Advantages

            Some licensed private investigators in Oklahoma often stay on top of the game by teaching private investigator certification courses at places like Metro Tech and elsewhere.  It is true that teaching these Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) classes at career technology schools seldom pays as much as an Oklahoma private detective could earn while on a stakeout.  Nevertheless, not everything is about making money. Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com explores the other benefits that a private investigator can receive by taking an active role in helping to educate future private investigators . . .

            One of the biggest benefits that a private detective can receive is the knowledge that he or she has helped train others in a wonderful field.  The intangible reward of knowing that one has made a lasting difference in the world is truly incredible.  Private detectives can truly make their mark in the specialised field of private investigations.  Indeed, teaching others is a way to stay current and can help private investigators learn and relearn what the latest and greatest methods are.  After all, is all too easy for experts to become complacent and lose touch with how the field has evolved.

            Teaching future Oklahoma private detectives also helps private investigators who are already in the field continue to network.  Those who are students now may provide referrals later down the road.  Teachers can often gauge how a student might perform in the field by how well he or she does while in class.  Unless the school has policies in place that prohibit doing so, teaching these classes can help the instructor recruit new private investigators to work at his or her private detective agency.  Thus, access to the up and coming stars in the field are right at the teacher’s fingertips!

            What experienced armed private investigator does not also concurrently work in the field of private security?  Well, perhaps some do not, but many do!  Numerous students who take Phase III, or the private investigation course, and Phase I, the first part of the CLEET security guard certification class, often take Phase II and Phase IV, too.  Phase II involves the remaining part of the security certification portion, while Phase IV entails the use of a firearm.  Students who take all four phases can receive their license to become certified as an armed security guard and armed private investigator.  Once again, many teachers have the chance to make a difference in mentoring students in all phases, while also gaining access to high quality future security officers!  What a bargain!  Hiring can become so much easier.

            Since the field of private investigations is often, though not always, more of a competitive field rather than a collaborative one, teachers at these schools sometimes like to size up their potential competition in advance – their students.  Sometimes unscrupulous instructors will try to crush their new competition down before or after they become licensed, but this is a horrible reason to teach those CLEET classes.  Private investigation educators who go into the teaching aspect of the field for this reason have no business being in the classroom.

            Licensed private detectives also have the opportunity to help future Oklahoma private investigators and sometimes even others in the community stay safe from harm.  By providing and carefully supervising opportunities for meaningful, practical, hands-on activities that most private investigators perform, new private eyes will not find themselves left wondering what to do.  It is amazing to see just how many people do not know how to sweep for bugs, operate a video camera while conducting surveillance, and much more!  These students have to learn how to do this, and it is often hard to do while in the field with no one to lend a hand.  Sadly, many private investigators have no mentors and often have to struggle to learn the trade on their own.

            These are just a few of the many reasons that those who run their own private detective agencies should also teach school.  Blending investigations and educating those who conduct them can yield many rewards for Oklahoma private investigator instructors, their students, clients, and society as a whole.  Private detectives with a proclivity for teaching should definitely consider teaching and mentoring others in the profession as well.

Moral and Ethical Dilemmas Process Servers and Private Investigators Face When Asked to Serve and Investigate Friends, Relatives and Colleagues

Moral and Ethical Dilemmas Process Servers and Private Investigators Face When Asked to Serve and Investigate Friends, Relatives and Colleagues

            Anyone who has ever worked as a process server or private investigator for any length of time knows all too well that eventually the profession hits a bit too close to home.  Perhaps an attorney sends out a serve to the owner of a process serving company without ever mentioning the name of the person the papers are for.  The process server opens up the envelope only to find that – wow – the serve is for a friend, family member, or even a colleague.  Likewise, at times businesses, governmental agencies, or even friends, relatives or colleagues will ask an Oklahoma private detective to investigate someone close to him or her.  These kinds of situations can present moral and ethical dilemmas for both Oklahoma process servers and private investigators.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines ways to handle these situations.

            Obviously, most process servers and Oklahoma private investigators do not want to serve their friends, family and colleagues.  Well, perhaps those who feel wronged or otherwise badly mistreated these individuals might, but generally speaking most people would not.  So, what is a process server or private detective to do?  Several possibilities exist.

            The process server or private investigator could ethically decline the serve or private investigation, citing a conflict of interest.  Indeed, the Oklahoma City process server or private eye could also not simply not provide a reason for choosing not to perform the serve or conduct the private investigation.  Under Oklahoma law, no private investigator or process server is ethically or legally obligated to take on any particular case.  However, this begs the question: does declining to perform the serve or conduct the private investigation allow the process server or private investigator free to tell his or her friend, family member, colleague, etc. about the situation?  After all, is justice, at least in theory, not supposed to be blind?

            Professionally speaking, it is not advisable to inform someone else that he or she is about to get served with court papers or that he or she is the subject of an investigation.  Process servers and licensed private investigators must remember their duty to their profession and the level of integrity involved.  It goes without saying that in this particular circumstance, this is seldom an easy thing to do. 

Of course, professionals on the other side of the fence would contend that because the process server or Oklahoma private detective declined the case, he or she should be able to inform the other parties involved.  Those with this contention would emphasize the ethics of family and friendship over professional obligations.  Surely this is justifiable, right? 

Then again, should society permit police officers, judges, district attorneys, etc., to simply toss out any legal charges against their family members and friends, without going through a presumably unbiased legal process?  Should teachers whose own children are in their classes be allowed to give them the highest grades without requiring that their kids put forth any effort?  Should librarians get to waive any late return fees for their friends and family that they would not otherwise waive for other patrons?  These are all legal and ethical issues that many public servants must face. 

Of course, what if the client is a governmental agency that wants to investigate a family member for fraud?  If a private investigator or Oklahoma process server tips that person off, could the agency hold the private investigator civilly and criminally responsible?  Could the process server or licensed private investigator’s actions affect his or her professional licenses and certifications?  Does society hold private investigators and process servers to the same legal and ethical standards that it holds police officers, judges, district attorneys, teachers and librarians?  Should it?  After all, society does not consider Oklahoma process servers and private detectives to be public servants, right?  These are indeed complex legal questions for all licensed process servers and private eyes to carefully consider.

Are these types of abuses of power by public servants even in the same category as that of a process server or private investigator who simply tells a family member or friend that he or she is about to get served or investigated?  While the legalities clearly favour process servers and private investigators who have not accepted a case and wish to tell their family, colleagues and friends, the ethical line for process servers and private investigators is indeed a much more complicated, unclear issue.  The ultimate decision is up to each private detective and process server to decide for himself or herself.

There is one action that a process server or private investigator could take that would definitely cross both legal and ethical boundaries.  Let us assume that a process server in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Yukon, Norman, Moore, El Reno, Stillwater, Bethany, Midwest City, Mustang, Tulsa, Stillwater, Del City, Piedmont, Guthrie, Lawton, or elsewhere accepted the assignment from the client, knowing that the person who he or she needed to serve or investigate was his or her relative, friend, colleague, etc.  How ethical or legal would it then be for that private process server to then turn around and tell the client that he or she “could not find” the individual?  What if the process server eventually “found” the person, but not before he or she had first had the opportunity to file suit or take other preemptive legal action against the client?  Once again, what if the private investigator investigated the matter, but not without first tipping off the individual who was the subject of the investigation, thus ensuring that any devious or criminal behaviour that person might have been engaging in changed accordingly for the duration of the “investigation”?  This kind of activity on the part of the private process server or Oklahoma private eye would definitely constitute both legal and ethical violations.

Another option that private investigators and Oklahoma process servers have is to refer the case to another professional in the field.  Of course, while doing so may help garner additional return referrals from that process server or private investigator in the future, it might also cause problems right away, too.  That person might know of the relationship that exists between the process server or private eye and his or her friend, relative or colleague.  The Oklahoma process server or private detective who received the referral might let that person know who provided it.  In addition, the same legal and ethical dilemmas as noted earlier would still apply.  Thus, in an attempt to garner additional referrals and dodge the ethical and legal complications, the Oklahoma City private investigator or process server could potentially lose client and still damage his or her standing with the family member, friend, etc.

The only other viable option would be for the process server or private investigator to take the case.  He or she could choose to have an employee work the case, making it possible to still make some money.  While process servers usually do not have to go to court to testify, many private investigators do.  Thus, a company’s name is likely to surface in the judicial process of testifying.  Ergo, even though the owner of the private detective agency might have delegated the serve to another private eye, the friend or relative is still likely to end up knowing the owner’s company name and/or his or her personal identity.

On the other hand, the process server or private detective could also opt to perform the work, whereby the family member or friend would almost definitely know who served or investigated him or her.  This might work well for a process server or private investigator with a vindictive streak and nothing to lose.  This tactic could also give the person an “inside track” to the friend or relative, as that person is probably less likely to suspect that a friend or family member would serve him or her papers or conduct a private investigation.  Of course, this approach will likely burn any existing or future bridges toward positive friendship or family ties.  One never knows when he or she will need to cross that bridge or build a new one in the future.  Thus, all process servers and private detectives should give serious consideration as to whether or not this pathway constitutes the best approach.

All of the options involved in deciding whether or not to serve or investigate a friend, colleague or relative are indeed very complicated.  There is no clear road or path to take that does not mean losing a potential client, money, friendship, or running into ethical or legal issues.  Those who run process serving companies and private detective agencies should give serious thought as to whether or not to serve a friend, family member or colleague, as well as the possible ramifications of their decisions.   

Avoiding Burnout: How Private Detectives, Process Servers and Notary Public Officials Can Thrive Longer

Avoiding Burnout: How Private Detectives, Process Servers and Notary Public Officials Can Thrive Longer

            All too often in life, many people work extremely hard and then later find themselves tired of their jobs.  They no longer want to do the work and may not even try their very best.  While it is true that most people seldom find each and every single minute of their chosen professions enjoyable, it is important that individuals find themselves happy with their jobs at least 80 percent of the time.  This same principle holds true for process servers, private investigators, and those who serve as notary public officials.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines some of the ways in which individuals in these fields can avoid burnout and enjoy their work longer . . .

Ø  Keep Stress Levels Low:

Oklahoma private investigators, process servers and mobile notaries should always try to keep their stress levels as low as possible.  A strong correlation between high stress levels and faster burnout rates for those in these professions certainly exists.  Thus, minimizing the stress and maximizing output can help lead to a longer lasting career.

Ø  Do Not Overwork/Get Overzealous:

All too often, process servers can get extremely excited and will often want to do extra work when they first start.  This is sometimes even true of Oklahoma City private investigators who have served in the profession for an extended period of time.  Thus, viewing one’s work as a marathon rather than a 100 yard dash is vital to a lasting career in these legal fields.  It is vital that all Oklahoma process servers place limits on the number of hours they work and get plenty of sleep, so that they can arrive fresh and ready to go each day.

Ø  Ensure That You Get Paid What You Are Worth:

Many newer process servers, notaries and private detectives often work for too little money.  This often occurs because they do not fully understand their true value.  Thus, they tend to work for less than they are worth.  Many employers know about this tendency and will often exploit it.  Thus, process servers and private investigators who work for companies need to politely assert what their time is truly worth. 

Sometimes it is not until a process server or Oklahoma private detective has been out in the field for a little while that he or she knows just how valuable he or she is!  For those who do not know what their time is worth, they can ask another process server, notary public, or private investigator and see what they charge.  This can help one have a better understanding of one’s monetary value in the professional world.

Ø  Take Vacations/Rest When Needed

The old saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” is quite valid.  Indeed, the same holds true for females.  Sometimes everyone needs a little vacation.  It is permissible to rest and relax, and private investigators and notary public officials in Edmond, Norman, Oklahoma City, Moore, Yukon, El Reno, Piedmont, Stillwater, Lawton, Tulsa and elsewhere need to take time off to rest up.  Going in to work sick, skipping family funerals, and seldom or never taking a break will almost certainly lead to early burnout.  This is not to say that process servers, private detectives and mobile notaries should always be on vacation, but every hard working individual deserves a rest.    

Ø  Delegate Work And Authority When Possible And Needed:

Private investigators and process servers who work in administrative roles can and sometimes need to delegate authority and ease the workload.  Trying to do all of the work to make the most money or otherwise taking on too much job responsibility is simply not healthy.  Not only does it deprive team members from learning, gaining valuable work experience, and sharing in the profits, but it is another contributing factor to early burnout.

Ø  Avoid Taking Every Assignment:

Not every assignment is worth taking, as some of them are too dangerous and/or unprofitable.  Indeed, even if a process server, private investigator, or notary public could take every assignment, would that make doing so healthy?  Likewise, private investigators also do not need to investigate every single case they hear about and/or do not have an adequate amount of experience for.  For these same reasons, this is why many attorneys will often take only the best cases and will usually decline the others. 

Ø  Get Help When Needed:

Sometimes all Oklahoma process servers and private investigators need help.  Notary Public officials often need additional training, advice, and mentoring, too.  One should not hesitate to speak up and ask for advice when needed.  Process servers should not shy away from asking for counsel or seeking guidance.  Those who are not as wise will tend to want to take everything upon themselves and convince themselves that they can do it all.  While “doing it all” might possibly work in the short run, it is not a realistic long term strategy.

Ø  Work With Colleagues, Not Against Them:

Unlike teaching, which is often but not always a field which requires more collaboration, the legal areas of private investigations, process serving, and mobile notary services tend to lean more toward the competitive, profit-driven side.  While schools can become very competitive, too, teachers tend to collaborate more with one another and help each other out.  Indeed, all private detectives, Oklahoma process servers, notary public officials, and teachers should all strive to be results-oriented. 

Many skilled public school educators often have an upper hand on the corporate world, as corporations have to compete for their customers.  However, even those working for highly competitive private investigation companies and process serving firms should be able to collaborate with those within and outside of their own companies.  This can prove to reap many rewards for everyone involved. 

If, for example, someone from another private detective agency calls and sincerely asks for advice, it is more beneficial to both them and to you to kindly provide it to them.  If a private detective really does not know what to do in that particular situation, then he or she should kindly say so and try refer the other private detective to another resource.  Indeed, there may be a time when the tables are turned and advice is requested from the other party.  Those who work at reputable private detective agencies know all too well that work referrals come not only from clients, but occasionally from other private investigators.          

Ø  Work Easier Cases:

While working the easiest cases is not always advisable, it can certainly help to reduce the stress load.  Indeed, harder cases can sometimes help a process server in Oklahoma City or a private detective in Lawton gain more experience.  These same cases might also pay more money and sometimes carry more prestige.  However, trying to be the one who performs all of these types of cases will often make one feel overworked, tired, and can lead to burnout faster.  It is important for process servers, notary public officials and Oklahoma private detectives to share the best cases.  There is plenty of excellent work to go around.

Ø  Widen Your Sphere of Influence:

Every notary public, Norman process server, and Oklahoma City private detective should take it upon himself or herself to try to widen his or her social standing with others.  The more people in other influential places know and like you, the easier life becomes.   When clients, staff, law enforcement officials, and the general public respect a reputable Oklahoma private investigator, they are more likely to hire him or her, pay more money for services, go out of their way to provide assistance, and call upon that professional for advice.  Mastering social graces and taking the time to effectively and appropriately network with others is key to long term job success.

Ø  Avoid Unnecessary Stress, Strife And Conflict:

Lawton process servers and private investigators should take great care to avoid unnecessary conflict and strife with colleagues, clients and others in general.  Doing so not only makes the workplace safer and more fun, but it also increases productivity and maximizes profitability.  This can prove to be a wonderful boon to companies that wish to excel and get ahead of their competition.  It definitely helps cut down on burnout rates and also tends to attract and keep higher quality staff members.

Ø  Work Smarter, Not Harder:

It is true that many wise experts have often proclaimed the principle of working smarter, not harder.  Oklahoma private detectives, process servers, and mobile notaries should always strive to become more efficient, task-oriented, and solution-focused, making the most out of every possible resource and nurturing relationships along the way.  This is how people make their tasks easier, maximize profits, and enjoy more free time.  Knowing how to work smarter instead of harder is often a learning process, but it can and should be done.   

These are a few of many examples of ways in which Oklahoma private investigators, process servers, and mobile notaries can help reduce stress, make their work environment more positive, and curb or even eliminate burnout.  Our society needs exceptional experts to remain in these invaluable fields and gain the experience needed to do the job right.  By making a few simple changes to workplace habits and the general environment, private detective agencies, process serving companies, and notary public officials in Oklahoma and elsewhere can find even greater long term job success and satisfaction.

Why Oklahoma Bodyguards and Private Security Officers Should Look for Threats Via Facial Expressions, Emotions and Body Language

Why Oklahoma Bodyguards and Private Security Officers Should Look for Threats Via Facial Expressions, Emotions and Body Language

            Bodyguards and private security officers can face a wide variety of threats from a number of sources.  From wayward ducks to homicidal maniacs, many threats abound.  It is the responsibility of the Oklahoma bodyguard or private security officer to remain on constant vigilance for these potential threats, and to proactively assess each situation he or she encounters.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines how bodyguards and private security officers who take care to watch body language and emotions can often fare better than those that do not and keep both themselves and their clients safer from harm.

            Watching an individual’s facial expressions is vital.  If an Oklahoma bodyguard sees that a person’s smile turns to a look of rage with his or her eyes widening, this could indeed prove to be a dangerous situation.  This is especially true if the individual leans forward or otherwise makes any move toward either the bodyguard or the client.  Bodyguards in Oklahoma and elsewhere should closely monitor any changes in facial expressions or body language/movements. 

It is also always imperative for Oklahoma bodyguards to keep at least five feet of space between potential attackers, the bodyguards and his or her clients.  No one should come within five feet of the bodyguard or client, unless those individuals  are on a preapproved list of “safe” people that the client has provided beforehand.  In some cases, this allowable amount of space should certainly increase, depending upon the danger levels.  Never giving a potential attacker the opportunity to make an unmonitored move that cannot be countered is vital to a client’s safety.   

Sometimes would-be threats have dangerous expressions on their faces to begin with.  At other times, they may make a move toward a gun or even have their hands in their pockets.  Bodyguards need to consider who is doing what and when.  Is a potential attacker communicating with anyone by cell phone, two-way radio, etc.?  Who could be about to make a sudden move?  What possible motivations might people have which could affect their actions?   These are all vital questions for those providing private security to consider.

Bodyguards and those providing private security guards should undergo training in the field of lie detection, which includes learning about body language and emotions.  Doing so is one of numerous ways in which Oklahoma City bodyguards can help keep their clients safe from harm.  Granted, there are numerous other aspects to properly protecting people.  Oklahoma private security and bodyguards who are consistently and accurately analysing possible threat assessments will find that it constitutes an ongoing and sometimes difficult task, but it sure beats getting hurt or even killed! 

How Oklahoma Private Investigators and Process Servers Can Elicit Greater Police Cooperation and Assistance

How Oklahoma Private Investigators and Process Servers Can Elicit Greater Police Cooperation and Assistance

            Police officers can sometimes prove to be very helpful to private investigators and process servers.  Indeed, in some cases private investigators, process servers and police officers perform very similar tasks.  All three professions often encompass various aspects of the law, and thus everyone’s job becomes much easier when all sides work collaboratively rather than against one another.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines some of the ways in which process servers and private investigators can increase the likelihood that police officers will want to assist them, or at the very least not hinder, their investigations and service of process.

            The first and most important things all Oklahoma private detectives and process servers should do is to make sure that they always carry the proper identification.  Private investigators should always have their private investigation licenses, a driver’s license, etc., on them at all times.  Likewise, process servers should also have their process server license and their driver’s license on hand whenever they go out to serve papers.  Doing so ensures that each Oklahoma City private investigator and process server has everything he or she needs to both identify themselves and proves that they have a legal right to conduct his or her activities. 

By law, police officers have the right to perform certain functions within the scope of their duties.  No other individual may interfere with those job tasks, unless the police officer is doing something wrong (i.e., police brutality).  Likewise, once a law abiding Oklahoma process server or private detective has properly identified himself or herself to a police officer who has asked to see identification, there is nothing that that any law enforcement personnel can legally do to interfere with the performance of those lawful duties.  This is why it is so imperative for Oklahoma City process servers and private investigators to carry their process server and private investigator licenses, as well as their drivers’ licenses, at all times.

An owner of a reputable private detective agency or process serving company in Oklahoma will often take great care to let law enforcement officials know of their presence in advance.  This is especially true if the process server or private investigator plans to stay in one area for an extended period of time.  Calling or physically going to the police station in advance and presenting proper identification can prove to be very beneficial.  By doing so, police officers can verify that a person who claims to be a process server or private detective really is who he or she claims to be.  However, it is imperative that process servers and private investigators remember that they do not have to, and in many cases are forbidden from, releasing specific names and/or the general nature of their service/investigation to the police. 

When contacting the police in advance, it is important for process servers and private detectives to help give them other non-sensitive important information.  Providing them a physical description of the process servers or private investigators, the make, model and tag numbers of the cars that will be in the area, and a contact number of the individuals working the case will often put their minds at great ease.  That way if people start calling in to report a “suspicious” vehicle or other unusual activity, the police officers can choose call the Oklahoma private investigator or process server first to see what is going on.

Contacting the police in advance will often, but not always, keep police cars from showing up at a private detective’s or process server’s location with multi-coloured lights on, sirens blaring, etc.  This, of course, could prove to be disastrous for an investigation or serve.  What private detective agency or process serving company wants the entire neighbourhood to know of their employees’ presence?  Having the police show up during surveillance or while on a difficult serve could potentially blow everything and would not help out the client.

Making friends with the police and other law enforcement officials can also help a private detective or process server reap numerous positive rewards.  Whether this takes place in a professional capacity or with people on the force that are already known by or introduced to private investigators and Oklahoma process servers, knowing people in the right places helps!  Of course, it is not only beneficial to be well-known, but also well- liked and well-respected.  Spending a little time to invest in these relationships, which can even be as simple as smiling and saying, “Hello” to police officers as they walk by, not only makes deposits into their emotional bank accounts but is also the nice thing to do.  In addition, massaging a police officer’s ego, if not overdone, can also help.  A little investment in advance can come back to help in the future when it especially counts!

After having had a gun pointed at him by a crazy lady, a process server made it a point one time to get to know the local sheriff’s deputies as he filed the report.  They all talked, laughed, shared stories, and more.  While later having to wait in his car while trying to serve papers in the same town on behalf of a new client, a suspicious neighbour eventually contacted the local police.    

The local police showed up first, and they began questioning the process server.  However, when the county sheriff’s deputies soon arrived and the process server got out of his car to greet them, the police officers asked them, “You know this guy?”  When the sheriff’s deputies acknowledged that they did and that everything was good to go, the local police immediately backed off and went to inform the normally paranoid lady that everything was okay and that they could not make the Oklahoma process server leave the area.

This is once again a very good example of how Oklahoma private investigators and process servers who know people within very similar professions can have an easier time.  The greater one’s sphere of influence is, the easier life often becomes.  Those who run the most successful private detective agencies and process serving companies have mastered this invaluable concept.

It is also extremely important for private detectives and process servers in Oklahoma and elsewhere to make sure that they follow all laws.  If a process server or private investigator is doing everything in accordance with all local, state and federal laws, then police officers have no way to complain about or otherwise impede the duties of those working for process serving companies and private investigation firms in Oklahoma City, Norman, Moore, Edmond, Yukon, Mustang, Piedmont, El Reno, and elsewhere.  Unfortunately, following the laws is not always sufficient.

Sometimes police officers do not know what the laws are.  Indeed, police officers are trained in criminal law, not civil law.  Not wanting to appear ignorant, some police officers may just go with whatever they think the laws should be.  Others may call their supervisors or even call for the assistance of the county sheriff or constable, as they are often charged with the responsibility of serving papers, etc.  At other times, since law enforcement officials really may not know what private investigators and process servers can and cannot legally do, they may just let them proceed with their duties unhindered. 

It never hurts for process servers to have a copy of the Oklahoma Rules of Civil Procedure and the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure on hand.  Private investigators should have any pertinent laws, which are often on www.oscn.net, readily available by phone or on paper.  This way if police officers are ignorant of civil laws pertaining to Oklahoma process servers and private investigators or are intentionally trying to interfere, they can get a quick and easy reminder. 

In addition, having copies of local ordinances pertaining to parking on public property, what does and does not constitute trespassing, and the amendments to the United States Constitution on hand can also prove to be quite useful.   Sometimes an Oklahoma process server or private investigator will need to remind police officers about such rights as the freedom of speech and association, what the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the United States Constitution really means, etc.  Always knowing the laws in advance is smart and makes excellent business sense.

Process servers and private investigators should definitely take great care to always act professionally.  Circumstances may arise when police officers do everything wrong or even break multiple laws.  Indeed, the field of law enforcement often attracts people with a strong desire to protect and serve, but it can also draw in people seeking power, authority, and those who do not appreciate having their authority questioned.  Private investigation agencies and process serving companies that encourage diplomacy, tact, patience, kindness, collaborative leadership, respect for the law, and polite assertiveness will often prosper the best.

            Another crucial element of garnering the cooperation of police officers is for Oklahoma private investigators and process servers to never try to intentionally antagonize law enforcement officials.  These people are also fellow human beings with thoughts, feelings, dreams, aspirations, goals, insecurities, and fallibilities.  Many of them have families, and they are as fragile as the next human being or other life form.  Trying to make a police officer irate or otherwise irritated will seldom, if ever, accomplish any noteworthy desired goals.  Since private investigators, process servers, and law enforcement officials often perform at least some of the same duties, it is essential that Oklahoma process servers and private detectives do everything they can to get them on the same team.  Hopefully no one is out to break the law or cause any harm; everyone just wants to do their duties and go home to their families.    

            Private detective agencies and process server companies in Oklahoma and elsewhere can often find great success when interacting with law enforcement officials.  Knowing how, when, with whom, where, and why interacting with law enforcement officials in a variety of situations is crucial.  Eventually there are times when private investigators and process servers need help from local law enforcement agencies.  By working together instead of against one another, Oklahoma City process servers and private investigation agencies can find much greater success!