How much does a private investigator cost in a family law case?

Family law cases are some of the most emotionally and financially draining experiences a person can go through. Navigating the complexities of divorce, child custody, or support disputes become even more challenging when a spouse or ex-spouse is hiding assets or lying about their circumstances. Our experienced family lawyers at Varghese Summersett know how to leverage the use of professionals like private investigators to uncover favorable evidence. While investigators are not inexpensive, their rates are considerably less than lawyers, so it also makes financial sense to have investigators do what they are best at: adding to the tools your attorney has at their disposal.

In high-net-worth divorces, it is not uncommon to see one spouse try to hide assets. Investigators – in the form of financial forensic accountants – are proficient at putting together an accurate picture of the actual assets of your spouse or ex-spouse.

The Rise of the Use of Investigators in Family Law Cases

The use of investigators in family law and divorce cases has become increasingly common, as they can play a crucial role in gathering evidence and uncovering information that can greatly impact the outcome of a case. Having a true understanding of all the assets, financials, and facts can be the difference between a fair settlement and a long, drawn-out legal battle. In this article, we’ll discuss the need for and costs of hiring a private investigator in a family law case.

Understanding the Role of Investigators in Family Law and Divorce Cases

Private investigators are professionals who information and evidence for a wide range of purposes. In family law cases, private investigators can be used to uncover relationships outside of the marriage, verify witness testimony, and find proof as to why the court should give you a better than standard division.

Understanding the Role of Forensic Financial Analysts in Family Law and Divorce Cases

In more involved cases involving obfuscation of assets, we will use a financial forensic analyst. A financial forensic analyst is a professional who specializes in conducting financial investigations and analyses to uncover fraud, embezzlement, and hidden assets. They can provide expert analysis of financial records, contracts, and the movement or concealment of assets.

The Cost of Hiring a Private Investigator in a Family Law Case

The cost of hiring a private investigator in a family law case can vary greatly depending on the services needed and the duration of the investigation. On average, private investigators in Texas charge between $75 and $200 per hour. Forensic analysts are often also certified public accountants, and their rates are at the high end of that range.

Benefits of Using an Investigator in Family Law and Divorce Cases

There are often good reasons to use an investigator in a family law proceeding. One of the reasons an investigator is so helpful is that an investigator, unlike a lawyer who is representing the client, can take the stand and testify to their findings. This makes investigators particularly valuable in a number of ways:

1. Surveillance: Private investigators can perform surveillance on individuals to gather evidence of their behavior and activities. This is also valuable when a spouse suspects but has not confirmed there is infidelity or a breach of a prenuptial agreement.
2. Obtaining evidence for court proceedings: Private investigators can gather evidence that can be used in court to support your case. This can include surveillance footage, financial records, and witness testimony.
3. Locate Missing Persons: Private investigators can assist in locating individuals who may be in hiding or avoiding contact with the court.
4. Uncovering hidden assets: A spouse or ex-spouse may be hiding assets to avoid paying support or settling a divorce. A private investigator can help uncover these assets, which can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
5. Verifying witness testimony: Private investigators can interview witnesses and gather evidence to verify their testimony. This can be especially important in child custody cases where the testimony of witnesses may be critical.
6. Protecting the rights and interests of the client: Private investigators can help protect a client’s rights and interests by uncovering information that may otherwise be missed. This can be especially important in divorce cases where one spouse may be hiding assets or lying about their circumstances.
7. Conducting background checks: Private investigators can conduct background checks to uncover a spouse’s financial history, criminal record, and other important information.
8. Utilizing technology and databases: Private investigators can use technology and databases to uncover information that may otherwise be missed. This can include tracking financial transactions, locating hidden assets, and more.

Call Varghese Summersett for your family law needs

At Varghese Summersett, our experienced family law attorneys offer free consultations and case evaluations to help you make an informed decision about your case. If you need the assistance of a private investigator in a family law case, we can assist you in finding one that fits your needs and budget. Call Varghese Summersett today at (817) 900-3220 or contact us online for your free consultation and case evaluation.