Where do I start?

The process for hiring us is rather simple and can be completed in less than an hour, either on the phone or in person.  Prior to the initial consultation, you will need to consider what you are hoping to achieve and have a realistic budget in mind for the investigation.

Do you offer a free initial consultation?

Yes.  We offer a free 30 minute consultation to discuss your matter and ascertain if / how we may be able to assist you.  We pride ourselves on our ability to build and maintain strong client relationships; we will take the time to get to know you and to obtain a clear understanding of your needs and expectations so that we can tailor a solution suited to your budget.

Do I have to meet with you in person?

No.  Although it is our preference to meet in person, this formality is usually unnecessary - we can just as easily talk on the phone - it’s entirely up to you.

Am I obliged to proceed after the initial consultation?

No.

What will the investigation involve?

An investigation plan, specific to your needs, will be discussed during the initial consultation.

How are your fees calculated?

We calculate our fees in one of two ways.  The first method involves billing our time in six minute increments.  The second method, which is only offered in circumstances where we are able to readily determine the precise extent of the work to be completed, involves quoting a fixed price for our fees.

How much will the investigation cost?

Investigations are often complex, challenging and sensitive and as such, no two are the same.  It is therefore impossible to estimate, let alone calculate, our fees without first having a complete understanding of the matter which will be the subject of the investigation.  An estimate of our fees or a fixed price fee, specific to your matter, will be provided during the initial consultation.

Can you guarantee I will get the result I want?

No.  Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the outcome of any investigation.  We can however guarantee that the investigation will be conducted to the highest possible standard and will withstand the scrutiny of any examination.

If I do not get the result I want, do I still have to pay for the investigation?

Yes.  You are paying for a professional investigation to be conducted, irrespective of the outcome which cannot be predicted, guaranteed or controlled by us.  You pay for our time and expertise.

Will I need to pay a retainer before you commence the investigation?

Yes.  The retainer is 50% of the estimated (or fixed price) fees disclosed during the initial consultation.  The balance is required on completion of the investigation.

Can I establish a seven day account instead of paying a retainer?

Credit is only offered in certain circumstances and usually to corporations, law firms, insurers, financial institutions and government agencies.

What happens if the actual fees end up being less than the retainer?

Any unspent money remaining upon completion of the investigation will be refunded to you.

What happens if the actual fees end up being more than the estimated fees?

There are occasions where the actual fees may exceed the estimated fees and there are a number of reasons for this.  Before this occurs, and as soon as it becomes apparent, we will contact you to discuss the issue and if necessary, implement a revised investigation plan.  This issue will be discussed at length during the initial consultation.

Do you accept cash?

No.

How do I pay your retainer?

We will provide you with our bank account details so that a direct deposit / EFT payment can be made. Alternatively, an online payment can be made by clicking here.

Do I need to sign a client service agreement before you commence the investigation?

Yes.  In addition to providing an estimate of our fees, the client service agreement clearly sets out a number of important formalities, including, but not limited to, the scope of work to be completed, calculation of our fees and expenses and billing arrangements.  The client service agreement also authorises us to conduct the investigation on your behalf.

Will you provide me with a copy of the client service agreement?

Yes.

What happens after I have signed the client service agreement and paid the retainer?

We will strategically identify issues and avenues of enquiry, independently verify information, obtain objective and admissible evidence and produce a comprehensive written report to comply with your instructions.

How fast can you start the investigation?

This will vary depending on the nature of the investigation.  A timeframe will be provided during the initial consultation.

Will you outsource the investigation?

No.  Unlike the majority of the self-appointed “specialist”, “industry leader” and “national” investigation agencies who use contracted investigators, we do not outsource our investigations.  You can rest assured that we will handle your investigation from commencement through to completion.

Will I be kept updated during the investigation?

Yes.  We will ensure that you are provided with weekly status updates during the course of the investigation.  In the event that information or evidence is obtained which alters the initial investigation strategy, we will contact you to discuss the investigation and, if necessary, implement a revised strategy.

Will I receive a copy of your report following completion of the investigation?

Yes.  You can expect to receive a comprehensive written report which includes a critical analysis of the issues, facts and evidence obtained during the course of the investigation. 

Is your investigation report admissible in court as evidence?

Yes.  Our reports are often annexed to sworn affidavits and then submitted as evidence.  If we are required to attend court to give evidence in support of our affidavit then our standard hourly rate (stipulated in the client service agreement) will apply.

Will I receive a tax invoice?

Yes.  You will receive an itemised tax invoice which accounts for all time and expenses (if any).

How do I pay your tax invoice?

We will provide you with our bank account details so that a direct deposit / EFT payment can be made.  Alternatively, an online payment can be made by clicking here.

Are you licenced?

Yes.  Our licences have been issued by the NSW Police Force, pursuant to the Commercial Agents and Private Inquiry Agents Act 2004 (NSW).  A copy of our master licence can be found here.

Are you insured?

Yes.  We hold professional indemnity, public liability and workers compensation insurance.  Copies of our certificates of currency can be found here.

Will anyone else know that I have hired you to conduct an investigation?

No, not unless you tell them.  Our enquiries are conducted with sensitivity to the various parties and in strict compliance with the relevant legislation.  Further information is contained in our privacy policy.

Do you have unanswered questions?

If you can't find answers to your questions in the above FAQs, please call us on + 61 2 9212 5000 or write to us here.