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.

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.

The Dangers of Being a Process Server and Private Investigator

The Dangers of Being a Process Server and Private Investigator

            Many people unfairly dislike process servers and sometimes have only a slightly more favourable attitude toward Oklahoma private investigators.  Indeed, certain police officers from suburban departments have actually smiled when they saw a process server get hurt.  Any private detective or process server who has served in the field for any length of time knows all too well that life threatening dangers abound.  Indeed, this is why many of them choose to go armed, wear bullet proof vests, carry tasers, pepper spray, and more.  From the looks of other stories out there in the news, they have good reason to do so . . .  http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/process-server-killed-children-choked-in-divorce-dispute.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com explores some of the dangers that process servers and armed private investigators face, as well as preventive and responsive measures that can help reduce the risks associated with the profession.

            As noted above, it is often advisable for process servers and Oklahoma private investigators to help ensure that they always carry tasers, firearms, pepper spray, and wear bullet proof vests when allowed to do so by law.  Oklahoma process servers can strengthen their position for carrying protective items by obtaining a Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) license as an armed security guard and private investigator. 

In addition, by getting an open carry license, carrying a gun openly is often a possibility.  While carrying any sort of offensive or defensive tool is always discretionary and may not may not always be beneficial, doing so can sometimes help deter would-be attackers.  Of course, having the right training in how to properly utilize a firearm or other protective devices is equally important.  It can also help reduce the chances that someone could take them away and use them against a private detective or Oklahoma City process server.

It also goes without saying that it is very important to ensure that each process server and private investigator knows as much as possible about each person he or she is going to serve or investigate.  Running background checks and asking the client for as much information before starting any services can also prove to be beneficial.  Of course, since clients do not always know how someone will react and because not all potentially violent people have criminal records, it is imperative that all process servers and private investigators treat all cases and individuals they encounter as potentially dangerous.  In as much as police officers do not have any “routine” traffic stops, the same also holds true for process servers and Oklahoma City private investigators.

Another helpful tactic for Oklahoma process servers and private investigators is for them to let the police, other colleagues, and even family members know where they will be, for how long, and when they expect to return.  If something ever goes wrong, at least someone will know the private detective or process server’s approximate whereabouts.  That way the police and family members can have a starting point to know where to go to provide assistance or even locate a missing body.

Letting the police know about one’s presence in advance also has another added benefit.  Doing so can sometimes put their minds at greater ease and might prevent law enforcement officials from coming out to unnecessarily blow a private investigator’s cover, while he or she is on an important stakeout, conducting surveillance, etc.  Of course, this could potentially backfire if the police are relatives or friends of those whom the process server is serving or who are the subject of an investigation.  Thus, informing the police of one’s whereabouts should only take place with good discretion when it will not jeopardize the case.

If something ever goes wrong, it is imperative to contact the police or other local law enforcement immediately.  All too often private detectives and process servers in Oklahoma City, Yukon, Norman, Moore, Edmond, Tulsa, Stillwater and elsewhere wait too long or do not call the police when someone tries to hurt them or impede their investigation.  At other times, they will contact colleagues or family members.  While getting backup and support from colleagues and family can certainly prove to be helpful in some cases, it is not always the best method.  Waiting to call the police can not only jeopardize the successful completion of the task at hand, but it can also increase the actual risk of physical harm to Oklahoma process servers and those working for private investigation companies. 

Of course, calling the police is completely counterproductive if the jurisdiction lies within the Edmond Police Department in Edmond, Oklahoma.  This is why it is imperative for private investigators and process servers to always try to gauge the way everyone they come into contact with acts.  Where could an individual possibly be carrying a weapon?  Which people appear frightened, angry, or homicidal?  What do their body language and facial expressions say about them?  Knowing potential warning signs and threats is one of the most proactive approaches to safety that all Oklahoma City process servers and Oklahoma private investigators can take.

These are just a few of the many ways in which a process server or private investigator can work to reduce the risks often associated with their dangerous professions.  There is no perfect system to guarantee safety and prevent all threats 100 percent of the time.  However, private investigation firms and process serving companies which encourage effective preventive techniques and appropriate responsive measures can better protect their employees and thus better serve their clientele.  

How Oklahoma Private Investigators Can Write Effective Surveillance Reports

How Oklahoma Private Investigators Can Write Effective Surveillance Reports

            Oklahoma private investigators often perform surveillance in a variety of situations.  From investigating cheating spouses to custody cases and more, private investigators often need to write up reports for their clients.  This is particularly important, as Oklahoma private investigators’ reports often end up before judges and elsewhere in courtrooms.  Private detectives need to know the best practices for writing reports.  By doing so, it will help their clients, too.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com examines some tactics which can help with writing these special reports.

            First and foremost, it is vital that private investigation companies that are writing reports include the facts and exclude opinions.  Commentaries have no place in formal written reports, and they can often do more harm than good in the courtroom.  It is indeed as  they used to say in the television show Dragnet, “Just the facts, Ma’am.”

            The formal presentation of the written investigative report is also just as important.  The following is an outline which is often helpful to private detectives in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Moore, Yukon, Tulsa and elsewhere.  While there is no set format per se, the following can be helpful for a private investigator to use:

Summary Report - Surveillance Performed for [Insert Name Here]

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

It is often helpful to include the name of the person for whom the private investigator has prepared the investigative report.  The word “for” can be changed to “on” and the name that follows thereafter may also be different.

Location:

This is an important place for an Oklahoma private detective to note the location(s) where the surveillance took place.  The areas may include several places, and the private investigation company should also note the times that the surveillance took place.  All reports should accurately reflect the date and time stamps of any video recording devices the private investigator used.

Purpose:

This is the place where an Oklahoma City private investigator should note the purpose of the investigation.  Was the purpose to find out if a married husband was visiting a special lover?  Perhaps there is a court order that specifically prohibits a husband or wife from cohabitating with anyone else while divorce proceedings are in progress.  Whatever the reason for the private investigation, the person conducting it should carefully but succinctly note the purpose(s) of conducting the investigation itself.

Integrity:

Some Oklahoma private investigators prefer to make note of integrity footage they took while on surveillance.  This time and date stamped video footage can show which times that the private investigator was still out there.  This way if a private investigator is ever asked how he or she knew if someone was at a particular place all night long, then the integrity shots can help prove the private detective’s continued presence in the area. 

Observations:

This is the perfect area for the Oklahoma private detective to denote what he or she saw.  Who was there?  What happened?  When did these events take place?  Where did everything happen?  Once again, it is important for the private detective to be thorough, but also clear and concise.  Commentaries and opinions are not necessary.

Identification of the Subjects:

This is the perfect spot for an Oklahoma private investigator to list how he or she identified the subjects in the video.  Did he or she have photographs of the individuals in the video footage beforehand?  Perhaps the client provided photographs or at least a physical description of the person beforehand.  It is important for surveillance purposes for the licensed private investigator to be able to properly identify the person or individuals he or she is conducting surveillance on.  Of course, sometimes this is not always possible, especially if the subjects are not known. 

What if there are people in the video that the private detective could identify but others that he or she could not?  Sometimes other people who are not known to the client or the private investigator unexpectedly appear.  If there are unidentifiable people in the video footage, a private investigator definitely needs to note this in the written report. 

All Oklahoma private investigators should be sure to include their names, private investigator license numbers, and private investigation agency license number(s).  This is extremely vital, if others are to view the report with any credibility.  A report, which should include the date it is signed, is not official unless signed by all private detectives involved in the case.  Private investigators should take great care to do so in front of an Oklahoma notary public.  The signature area can look something like the following:

         _________________________                      _________________________            

         [Insert Private Investigator’s Name Here],                       Date:

         Licensed Private Investigator

         PI License #: [Insert # Here]

         Agency License #: [Insert # Here]

All private detectives should ensure that a notary public has authenticated the signature of their investigative reports.  This makes a formal written report more credible, and it helps the judge know that the client or some unknown party did not unlawfully forge the private investigator’s signature.  A sample notary statement that reports can include is as follows:

Signed and affirmed before me, _______________________, a notary public for the State of Oklahoma, by [Insert the private investigator’s name here], on this _______ day of _______, 2013.

Each investigative report should also include page numbers (i.e., Page 1 of 3) and places on each page for the private investigator or private detectives to initial.  This helps to ensure the integrity of the report, and it makes it harder for someone to change out pages for unethical purposes.

Private investigation reports can really help to present the findings in the best possible, accurate, organized light.  They can greatly complement video footage, photographs, and courtroom testimony, if applicable.  All Oklahoma private investigation agencies should ensure that their private detectives prepare and write professional reports for their clients.  Doing so not only benefits the people they serve, but it also adds to the professionalism of those working in the field.

Oklahoma Private Investigators: Collaboration Versus Competition

Oklahoma Private Investigators: Collaboration Versus Competition

Teachers, like many other professionals, often collaborate with others in their field.  They usually work toward a common goal, and they want to achieve their desired results.  These individuals are often willing to share ideas, materials, methods, and will usually lend one another a helping hand.  Though schools are businesses by their very nature, they differ greatly from other professional fields like private investigation.  Based upon a more competitive, profit-driven philosophy, many people in these companies are only concerned with profits for themselves and those who work for them.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com must ask, “Is collaboration between professionals in such a competitive market feasible?”

Collaboration, even among sworn enemies, is certainly possible.  Unfortunately, many private investigators will seek self-preservation and profits over lending a helping hand to those working for other private detective agencies.  People working for the same company will often collaborate and assist one another, but competing companies tend to be less likely to want to do so.  While maximizing profits and trying to get an edge over one’s competition is certainly understandable in a for-profit field, pure competition among Oklahoma City private investigators is often detrimental to the profession as a whole.

Many private investigators do help their colleagues within the profession, and it is important not to overgeneralize.  However, it is still extremely important for private investigators to remember that helping one another is an vital task.  By sharing ideas, techniques, methods, and advice, everyone can help one another grow and achieve their maximum potential.  Instead of always fearing competition, networking and helping each other can actually stimulate more business growth between private investigation agencies.

The next time a new Oklahoma private investigator asks for advice, consider why we are here on this earth.  Are we here merely to help ourselves or each other as well?  What happens if we need advice?  To whom should we turn?  Have we treated our fellow private investigator like we ourselves would like to be treated?  At what point can fear, greed, competition, and the need for power over others cause harm – from the beginning?  It matters not if the field is a for-profit or a non-profit area; all Oklahoma City private investigators and teachers should try to put their egos aside and assist one another. 

Oklahoma Private Investigators Need to Know Their Clients’ True Intentions Before Investigating

Oklahoma Private Investigators Need to Know Their Clients’ True Intentions Before Investigating

            Many times private investigators in Oklahoma and elsewhere have clients approach them asking for help with one matter or another.  Whether they need a private detective’s assistance with a criminal case, determining whether or not a spouse is cheating, help with locating a missing child, or any number of other matters, clients often tell the truth and are willing to pay for some answers.  Sometimes, however, clients conceal the truth and have ulterior motives that they take great care to conceal from an Oklahoma private investigation firm.  It is important that Oklahoma private investigators take careful steps to help ensure that they perform due diligence in establishing a client’s true intentions, prior to agreeing to accept a case.

            If a client comes in and claims that he has a court order that prohibits his wife from having men over there after certain hours at night (i.e., 10:00 pm), this could very well be true.  Obviously, if the client suspects that men are coming over and are staying the night, then he might indeed have reasonable suspicion to take action to have something to show to the judge.  In this case, an Oklahoma private investigator could certainly conduct surveillance and try to get video footage, photographs, etc.  Of course, how can private investigators know if this is the real reason for the surveillance?

            It is also totally possible that the client is an ex-boyfriend or ex-husband who is jealous and just wants to keep tabs on the people his ex-spouse is dating.  Indeed, the client could have any number of motives.  This is why private detectives in Oklahoma and elsewhere, even if they are deception experts, should ask questions and try to gather as much information as possible before accepting cases.

            One such way to find out if the client is telling the truth or not in this matter, is for private investigators to simply ask to see the court order.  If the client is telling the truth and has access to the court order, then there should be no reason he or she would not willingly provide it.  If the person refuses to show it or otherwise cannot, this should raise a red flag.  At the very least, the case number and the accompanying documents should be on file with the appropriate court clerk and should generally be available for the private investigator to view.

            By gaining access to the court order, this can help provide the Oklahoma private detective with invaluable information.  Armed with this, a private investigation agency like Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com  can determine what all is prohibited and allowed.  The information contained in that document should make it easier for private investigators to see with their own eyes what all they specifically should and should not try to do.  But private investigators are not the only ones who have ways of at getting at the truth.

Deception experts have their own methods and techniques for finding out who is lying and when.  While most private investigators are not deception experts, those who are have an extra advantage.  By gauging emotions, asking certain questions, and so much more, a dual deception expert/private investigator in Oklahoma can often get to the truth with a fair amount of ease.  Indeed, there are many ways that private investigators in general can get to the truth of various matters. 

It is important that Oklahoma private investigators do not unnecessarily or unfairly badger their clients or otherwise run them off.  The majority of clients usually tell the truth to those working at Oklahoma private investigation firms.  By adequately performing due diligence, an exceptional Oklahoma private investigator can help the client spend only the money he or she needs to, while simultaneously fulfilling his or her duty to protect the public from unnecessary harm.   

How Oklahoma Private Investigators Can Effectively Evaluate Clients’ Claims of Distress and Harm

How Oklahoma Private Investigators Can Effectively Evaluate Clients’ Claims of Distress and Harm

            Any Oklahoma private investigator who has served in the field for very long can attest to the fact that he or she has likely received what seem like very odd phone calls.  Perhaps the calls themselves from certain people in Oklahoma are not so strange, as are some of the stories they tell the private investigators with whom they speak.  However, as eccentric as some of these stories might sound, they could very well be true.  Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers www.OklahomaJudicialProcessServers.com suggests that all private investigators carefully listen to each client in a nonjudgmental way, so as to discern the truth of each matter. 

Of course, Oklahoma private investigators sometimes do not know whether the case is real or simply imagined in the client’s head.  This can make for a difficult job for an Oklahoma City private investigator who is trying to find out if his Oklahoma client might be delusional, paranoid, just bored and playing a prank, under the influence of drugs, or actually telling the truth.  Let us examine a recent example that an experienced private investigator encountered while on the phone with an individual who had called several times.

A woman from Edmond, Oklahoma had called the private investigators at Oklahoma Judicial Process Servers several times asking for assistance.  On this most recent occasion, she wanted to set up an appointment and meet with a private investigator.  She stated that her problem had to do with the fact that someone had stolen money from her bank accounts and had unlawfully used her credit cards.  On the surface, this sounds reasonable and worth investigating.

At this point the Oklahoma private investigator asked the woman who she thought was trying to steal her money and why.  Many clients might have said, “I don’t know” or might have replied with, “Well, I think it was my ex-husband, etc.”  However, the lady responded with, “Well, I think it is an inside job by those working at the bank.”  Really?  This was a conspiracy by those at the bank to steal her money and use her credit cards?  Well, that did not sound quite right, but the Oklahoma private investigator decided to dig a bit further.

The Oklahoma City private investigator then asked the woman, “Have you reported this to the bank?”  The lady initially said, “No.”  Then when the private investigator asked why she had not done so, the lady changed her mind and gave a delayed, uncertain response of, “Yes, I did contact the bank.”  This conflicting answer, combined with the hesitation and her mixed responses, indicated deception.  Unfortunately, the woman did not stop her story there. 

This situation, the woman claimed, was one she had reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as well as to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).  The Oklahoma private investigator reported that the story just got even wilder and had even more responses that just did not add up.  At this point, the private investigator decided that this case had probably not really happened and was not worth spending the time and effort pursuing.  However, she had to do so with a great deal of tact.

While a client may very well be making up a story or may lean a bit toward the paranoid end of the spectrum, it is vital that all private investigators in Oklahoma and elsewhere remember to remain polite and professional.  Thus, in this situation the Oklahoma private investigator simply said, “Madam, this is a matter in which you might find the best results by contacting the Federal Trade Commission again.  I am sure they will work with you on this.”  Before the woman could begin to protest or attempt any additional convincing, the private investigator made her other phone ring and politely informed the other woman on the line that she needed to take the other call.

While it might have been tempting for the private investigator to have referred the matter out to another Oklahoma City private investigator that she did not like very much, that would not have been very nice to do.  There are quite a few private detectives in the field of private investigation throughout Oklahoma who might do this very thing.  Some lawyers and other professionals do it on a regular basis.  Nevertheless, it is an inappropriate practice for any professional to engage in, and it only wastes everyone else’s time.

Another unprofessional response to this situation would be to take the woman’s money, assuming she had any, and to proceed with the case.  Some clients may throw a lot of money at a case, and it may make them feel better.  However, if they could suffer from paranoia or could have some other unknown difficulty, doing so would only prove exploitive.  According to the Oklahoma Private Investigator Association’s (OPIA’s) Code of Ethics, this would not be a best practice for Oklahoma private investigators.

In addition, it was imperative that the Oklahoma private investigator did not accuse the woman of lying, being paranoid, or anything else.  While the private investigator was about 99% sure that the woman’s story was not reality, there was always that 1% chance that it could have been true.  Besides, what could the Oklahoma City private investigator have hoped to have accomplished by saying the woman might be paranoid or was simply making the story up for fun?  The clear was answer: nothing.

Anyone who stays in the field of private investigation for any length of time will undoubtedly find himself or herself listening to what could very well be a wild tale.  On the other hand, it could also be the truth, at least insofar as the individual on the other end of the phone is concerned.  It is always imperative that all Oklahoma private investigator remain diplomatic, tactful, polite, and professional when encountering these situations.  Private investigators who treat others as they would want to be treated often fare well throughout their professional careers.