Question 1

Are you licensed and insured as a private investigator?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  Locaters International is a fully licensed private investigative agency  in the State of Florida, holding License Number A-0000919. Professional  private investigators are required to be licensed in nearly every state  and jurisdiction. In Florida, licenses are issued by the Florida  Division of Licensing under the Florida Department of Agriculture and  Consumer Services. This licensing process ensures that investigators  have completed mandated training, adhere to state and federal laws, and  uphold strict ethical guidelines.
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In  addition to licensing, we carry comprehensive liability insurance to  protect both our clients and our agency from unforeseen legal or  financial complications that could arise during an investigation. While  Florida law does not require private investigators to maintain  insurance, we have voluntarily carried insurance continuously since our  agency was founded in the 1970s. This commitment provides an additional  layer of accountability, professionalism, and peace of mind for our  clients.
We  strongly encourage anyone hiring a private investigator to verify both  licensing and insurance coverage before engaging services, as these  credentials are essential indicators of legitimacy and professional  responsibility.

Question 2

What types of investigations do we conduct?

Accepted Answer

Locaters International offers a comprehensive range of investigative services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Our specialties include infidelity and marital investigations, missing persons and heir location services, corporate fraud and insurance fraud investigations, comprehensive background checks and due diligence, surveillance operations, asset searches and financial investigations, child custody and parental fitness investigations, and workplace investigations, including employee misconduct and internal theft. Additionally, we maintain our own polygraph equipment and employ a licensed and certified polygraph examiner to support investigations requiring truth verification. While we do not handle criminal defense cases, we refer this work to trusted investigators who meet our stringent requirements. Each investigator at Locaters International brings specialized expertise, allowing us to match the right professional to your specific case. We encourage prospective clients to discuss their needs with us so we can outline our relevant experience and ensure we are the best fit for the investigation.

Question 3

Can you locate a missing person or biological relative?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  locating missing persons, biological relatives, and adopted family  members is one of our core specialties, and we have achieved  considerable success in this area over the many decades we have been in  business. Our approach combines comprehensive database research,  targeted interviews, surveillance operations, and thorough public record  analysis to develop leads and locate individuals who may have been out  of contact for years or even decades.
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Our  experienced investigators are skilled at overcoming challenges and  navigating complex cases, though success often depends on the quality  and amount of information initially provided by the client. Over the  years, we have successfully located siblings, parents, grandparents,  children, and other relatives across a wide range of circumstances,  including adoptions, family estrangements, and inheritance matters.

We  understand that reconnecting with family members who have been out of  touch, or discovering relatives you never knew existed, can bring up  complex emotions. That is why we take the time to discuss with each  client how best to approach these sensitive matters and how we can work  on their behalf to ensure the process is handled as smoothly,  professionally, and compassionately as possible.

Question 4

Can you find out if my spouse or partner is cheating?

Accepted Answer

Infidelity  investigations are among the most frequently requested services in the  private investigation field, and we have extensive experience conducting  these sensitive inquiries. Our investigators utilize discreet  surveillance techniques, social media analysis, background research,  interviews, and other legal investigative strategies to document  suspicious behavior and provide clarity to our clients.

Results  are typically presented in the form of photographic evidence, video  documentation, and a comprehensive professional report that can be used  for personal decision-making or legal proceedings. We have assisted both  women seeking to confirm whether their husbands are unfaithful and men  who need to know if their wives are involved in extramarital  relationships. Each case is approached with professionalism, discretion,  and respect for the emotional difficulty our clients are experiencing.
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We  take the time to meet with each client to understand their unique  situation, discuss the available investigative avenues, and develop a  strategy that fits their budget and personal preferences. It is  important to note that while confrontational or dramatic scenarios may  be depicted on television, we do not condone or intentionally  participate in public encounters or any actions designed to provoke  violent reactions. Our investigations are conducted discreetly and  confidentially, prioritizing the safety and privacy of all parties  involved

Question 5

Is everything a private investigator does legal?

Accepted Answer

All  professional private investigators are required to operate within  strict legal boundaries and ethical standards. Licensed investigators  are extensively trained to gather evidence through legal means that is  admissible in court. At Locaters International, we are firmly committed  to upholding the highest legal and ethical standards in every  investigation we conduct.
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There  are many activities that private investigators are explicitly  prohibited from engaging in. These include trespassing on private  property without permission, hacking into phones, email accounts, or  computers, misrepresenting or impersonating law enforcement or  government officials, intercepting communications without proper  consent, and accessing confidential information such as medical records  or bank accounts without legally acceptable authorization.
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In  Florida specifically, there are additional restrictions that licensed  private investigators must follow. For example, Florida law prohibits  the use of GPS tracking devices by private investigators under most  circumstances. If a private investigator suggests using a GPS tracker on  a vehicle or person without explicit legal authority or offers to "bug"  a phone or location, this should raise significant concerns about their  adherence to state law and professional ethics.
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When  hiring a private investigator, it is essential to verify that the  individual or agency is committed to strict legal and ethical standards.  A reputable investigator will be transparent about what can and cannot  be done legally and will never suggest or engage in illegal activities  to obtain information. This commitment protects both the client and the  integrity of any evidence gathered during the investigation.

Question 6

What methods do you use during surveillance or investigations?

Accepted Answer

The  methods we employ vary depending on the specific nature and objectives  of each case. Our investigative toolkit includes physical surveillance,  comprehensive background checks, access to both public records and  proprietary investigative databases, social media analysis, witness  interviews, and, when appropriate and legally permissible, undercover  work. Every approach we use must comply strictly with privacy laws and  all applicable legal restrictions.
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We  also incorporate advanced technology into our investigations when  appropriate. This may include high-zoom cameras for discreet  surveillance, secure data handling protocols to protect sensitive  information, and other specialized equipment or vehicles tailored to the  case requirements. It is important to note that any use of technology,  such as GPS tracking devices, is only employed where explicitly  permitted by law.
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Our  process begins with an initial free consultation where we sit down with  each client to thoroughly understand their ultimate objectives,  concerns, and desired outcomes. Based on this discussion, should we  accept the case, we develop a customized investigative plan that may  involve stationary or mobile surveillance, database research, forensic  analysis, witness interviews, or a combination of methods. This tailored  approach ensures that we select the most effective and legally  compliant strategies to achieve the client's goals while maintaining the  highest standards of professionalism and discretion.

Question 7

How much does it cost to hire a private investigator, and how do you bill?

Accepted Answer

The cost of hiring a private investigator can vary significantly depending on several factors,  including the complexity of the case, geographic location, required  technology and resources, and the anticipated time investment. Because  of these variables, it is difficult to provide an accurate fee estimate  without first understanding the client's specific goals and objectives.  When considering hiring an investigator, it is essential to think  clearly about what information or outcome is being sought at the  conclusion of the investigation.  Legitimate private investigators do  not make any assertions or guarantees that they can accomplish the  client's objectives other than utilizing their experience and best  efforts.  
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Our  standard practice is to schedule an initial consultation where we  review the details of the matter, discuss your goals and objectives, and  outline a realistic timeframe for achieving those goals. Based on this  assessment, we provide a transparent fee structure tailored to your  case. Most of our investigations are billed using one of two approaches:  a flat fee that is inclusive of all expenses, or an hourly rate plus  expenses for travel, database access, specialized equipment, and other  case-related costs such as the need to engage multiple licensed  investigators depending on the nature of the matter.
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While  the hourly rate is an important consideration, we believe that the  overall value and results of the investigation are paramount. Our  billing practices are completely transparent. Before any work begins,  clients receive a detailed written estimate, sign a formal contract  outlining the scope of work and fee structure, and provide a retainer to  secure services. This approach ensures clarity, accountability, and  mutual understanding from the outset of the engagement.

Question 8

Can private investigators access phone records, or text messages?

Accepted Answer

No,  private investigators cannot legally access phone records or text  messages without the subject's explicit consent or a valid court order.  Any service or individual that claims they can obtain this information  through other means is likely engaging in illegal or unlawful activity  and should be avoided.  Further, unlawfully gained information may not  be used in any legal proceedings and may subject the client and the  private investigator to sanctions and unpleasant consequences.
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This  prohibition stems from federal law, specifically the Telephone Records  and Privacy Protection Act of 2006, which was signed into law by  President George W. Bush in January 2007. This legislation was enacted  largely in response to the Hewlett-Packard pretexting scandal, where HP  board members' phone records were fraudulently obtained by investigators  using deceptive tactics known as "pretexting"—the practice of  impersonating customers or using false pretenses to convince phone  companies to release confidential customer information. The law makes it  a federal crime to fraudulently obtain, purchase, sell, or possess  someone else's phone records, with penalties of up to 10 years in prison  for violators.
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While  private investigators cannot access protected phone records or text  messages, we can use publicly available information, open-source  intelligence, sophisticated research techniques, and legal investigative  methods to gather extensive and valuable information that supports our  clients' objectives. Our commitment is to operate within all legal  boundaries while delivering effective results through ethical and  professional investigative practices.
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Question 9

How do we protect client confidentiality and privacy?

Accepted Answer

Client confidentiality is fundamental to our practice. Our founder, Harvey Morse, helped draft portions of the Florida State Statute governing private investigation licensing, including confidentiality provisions. We adhere strictly to Florida Statute 493.6119, which prohibits licensed private investigators from divulging investigative file contents except under specific circumstances. Our office employs secure storage systems for all case files, both physical and digital, and limits access to those directly involved in the case. We obtain written consent from clients before sharing sensitive information with third parties. All client communications and case data are safeguarded with the highest level of professionalism and care.

Question 10

Can private investigators testify in court, and are your reports admissible?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  our experienced investigators are regularly called upon to testify in  legal proceedings, both in civil and criminal cases including  depositions. Licensed private investigators can serve as expert  witnesses when their specialized knowledge, training, and experience are  directly relevant to the facts at issue in a case. Our investigators  have testified personally in courtrooms, via remote platforms such as  Zoom for virtual hearings, during depositions, and through sworn  affidavits that are submitted to the court as written testimony.
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The  admissibility of investigative reports depends on several factors,  including whether the investigation was conducted legally, whether  proper chain of custody procedures were followed for physical evidence,  and whether the documentation meets legal standards for relevance,  reliability, and authenticity. Well-documented, fact-based reports that  are supported by case evidence, such as surveillance photographs, video  recordings, witness statements, notarized documents and forensic data,  can be admitted in court and often play a crucial role in supporting  legal arguments.
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In  Florida, expert testimony is evaluated under the Daubert standard,  which requires that expert opinions be based on reliable principles and  methods that have been properly applied to the facts of the case. Our  investigators adhere to these standards and are prepared to explain  their investigative methods, the reliability of their findings, and how  the evidence supports the case. Whether through expert testimony,  documentary evidence, or both, we are committed to providing legally  sound and professionally presented information that can withstand  courtroom scrutiny.

Question 11

What is the typical duration of an investigation?

Accepted Answer

The duration of an investigation varies based on factors such as case complexity, subject activities, and required depth of investigation. Routine background checks or database searches can often be completed within a few days, while more complex investigations may take several weeks or months. The scope and goals of each investigation, along with the allocated budget, dictate the methods we use and the timeline we follow. Our investigators provide a realistic initial estimate based on available information, but we remain flexible to adapt to unforeseen developments. We maintain open communication throughout the process to keep clients informed of progress and any changes to the timeline.

Question 12

Can you provide references or examples of past successful cases?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  professional and reputable investigators should be willing to provide  references or share anonymized case studies that demonstrate their  experience, capabilities, and track record, while always respecting  client privacy and confidentiality obligations. Speaking with past  clients or reviewing testimonials can help prospective clients gauge an  investigator's experience, work ethic, professionalism, and reliability.
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At  Locaters International, we maintain client testimonials without  divulging the name of a client, business, or governmental agency and are  happy to connect prospective clients with satisfied former clients who  have agreed to serve as references, where appropriate and with their  permission. Due to the sensitive nature of many investigations and our  strict confidentiality policies, we may provide general case summaries  or redacted examples that protect the identities and privacy of those  involved.
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In  addition to client references, our reputation within the professional  community speaks for itself. We are proud members in good standing of  the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Port Orange South Daytona  Chamber of Commerce, and the Better Business Bureau of Central Florida  and many state and foreign investigative associations as part of our  extensive network developed in our being one of the oldest continually  operating private investigative agencies in the State of Florida, in  excess of 50 years.  These memberships reflect our commitment to ethical  business practices, community engagement, and professional  accountability. We encourage prospective clients to verify our  credentials, review our standing with these organizations, and speak  with us directly about how our experience aligns with their  investigative needs.

Question 13

What are your qualifications or experience in handling cases like mine?

Accepted Answer

Our  agency has been proudly serving Volusia County for over 50 years as a  family-owned business, originally founded in the early 1970s by Harvey  Morse. Harvey established the foundation of our investigative practice  and served as a consultant to Florida's Division of Licensing for many  years, and its expert witness, contributing his expertise to regulatory  oversight and professional standards.
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Today,  Ari Morse continues that legacy as a member of the Private  Investigative, Recovery, Security Advisory Council with the Florida  Division of Licensing, where policy and best practices for the  investigative profession are shaped. Our entire team remains committed  to professional development—regularly attending industry conferences and  staying current on the latest investigative techniques, legal updates,  and emerging trends to ensure we deliver the most effective and informed  services to our clients.
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With  decades of experience in missing persons, heir location, surveillance,  background investigations, among the many other civil matters we have  the knowledge, resources, and proven track record to handle cases like  yours with professionalism and discretion.

Question 14

In what situations do we collaborate with attorneys or law enforcement?

Accepted Answer

We often collaborate with attorneys and sometimes law enforcement, especially in legal support work such as serving subpoenas, gathering evidence for lawsuits, or criminal defense investigations. Private investigators can help attorneys build cases, locate witnesses, and deliver research that supports courtroom strategy. While we work directly with our clients, we often prefer to collaborate with their attorneys to ensure we meet client expectations and align with the attorney's needs for the case.

Question 15

Can the person being investigated discover the surveillance?

Accepted Answer

Our professional investigators are highly trained to conduct surveillance discreetly, but there is always some risk of being noticed. We use various covert techniques to avoid detection, such as rotating surveillance agents, maintaining an optimal distance, and blending into different environments. Despite taking every precaution, it is impossible to ensure with absolute certainty that the individual being investigated will remain unaware of the surveillance. We discuss these risks with clients beforehand, explaining how we manage exposure and setting realistic expectations about the possibility of discovery. This transparency ensures that clients are fully informed about both the safeguards and limitations involved.

Question 16

Can you do a background check or asset search? ​

Accepted Answer

Background  checks and asset searches are core services that we offer. There are  several types of background checks we can perform, including criminal,  civil, employment, educational, and financial reviews, each tailored to  your specific needs and the requirements of your case. Depending on  jurisdiction, our investigators access a wide range of public records,  court filings, professional licensing databases, property records, and  business ownership information to develop a thorough profile.  Some of  the more common reasons we are hired to conduct background checks  include employment, dating, business partnerships, business  opportunities, and many other scenarios.  
 
For  asset searches, we specialize in identifying both visible and  potentially hidden assets. This is particularly valuable in divorce,  probate, or lawsuit situations where discovering undisclosed property,  accounts, or investments is critical. All research and searches we  conduct are handled discreetly, in full compliance with local and  federal laws, and with strict respect for privacy regulations.  We  conduct these services for clients wishing to enter into a business  venture with an unfamiliar person, rent a home or apartment, political  background intelligence and for people in anticipation of wedlock.

Question 17

How do you update clients during an active investigation?

Accepted Answer

Communication  protocols are established at the outset of every investigation, and we  recognize that each client's preferences vary. Some clients prefer  frequent updates, while others wish to be contacted only for significant  developments. Updates can be provided via email, phone, or secure  messaging, depending on what works best for each situation and the  method of communication the client allows.
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For  the safety of all parties involved, our investigators typically do not  provide real-time updates during active surveillance operations. This  practice helps us maintain the integrity of the investigation and  ensures that no confrontation or compromise occurs. However, our  investigators remain fully accessible for urgent concerns, major case  milestones, or any matters involving the health and safety of  individuals connected to the investigation. We are committed to keeping  clients informed without ever leaving them in the dark about critical  developments.

Question 18

What happens if you’re discovered or confronted during surveillance?

Accepted Answer

Our  investigators are extensively trained to handle situations where they  may be discovered or confronted during surveillance operations. Safety  and discretion are always the top priorities. If confronted, our team  follows established protocols to de-escalate the situation calmly and  professionally, withdrawing from the scene if necessary to avoid any  risk to themselves, the subject, or the integrity of the investigation.  
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If  surveillance is compromised, we immediately inform the client and work  collaboratively to assess the situation, discuss alternative strategies,  and determine the best path forward to achieve the investigation's  objectives while maintaining the highest ethical and legal standards.

Question 19

Are there cases you will not accept?

Accepted Answer

Yes,  as licensed and ethical investigators, we adhere to strict professional  and legal standards, and there are certain types of cases we will  decline. We will not accept any investigation that requires illegal  conduct, violates privacy laws, Court Orders, or presents a conflict of  interest. Our firm does not handle criminal defense investigations or  matters that involve adversarial actions against law enforcement  agencies.
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Additionally,  we may decline cases involving harassment, certain domestic disputes  that fall outside appropriate legal boundaries, or matters beyond our  area of expertise. We are committed to transparency and will be honest  about our limitations. If a case is not suitable for our services, we  will recommend alternative resources or clearly advise whether the  desired outcome can realistically be achieved through investigative  means.
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For  example, we have been asked to obtain unauthorized access to emails,  break into computer accounts, or engage in other illegal activities. We  will not participate in such requests under any circumstances, as they  violate both the law and our professional code of ethics.

Question 20

What sets you apart from other investigators or agencies?

Accepted Answer

Our  agency is among a select few investigative firms in Florida that have  been continuously operating for over 50 years. This longevity reflects  not only our stability and reputation but also the depth of experience  we bring to every case. Many of our investigators are former law  enforcement officers or federal agency personnel who have transitioned  into private sector work, bringing specialized training in investigative  techniques and a deep understanding of complex case management.
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What  truly distinguishes us, however, is our client-centered approach.  Before accepting any engagement, we take the time to speak directly with  each client to set realistic expectations, understand their specific  goals, and verify that we can deliver the results they need. We believe  in transparency from the start, which builds trust and ensures alignment  throughout the investigative process.
Our  strengths include decades of combined experience, proven success in  handling difficult and high-stakes cases, advanced investigative  technology, active participation in professional organizations, and  extensive local knowledge paired with a network of trusted contacts  across law enforcement, legal, and industry professionals. These  elements allow us to provide exceptional service, deliver reliable  results, and demonstrate measurable value to our clients.
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We  are the founders of the Florida Association of Private Investigators  and as such we adhere to the association's comprehensive ethical and  legal rules in addition to local, state and federal law.

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