Questions & Answers:

Q1: How much does a private investigator cost in Sacramento?

Investigation costs vary based on case complexity and duration. Basic surveillance typically ranges from $175-$275 per hour. Most family law investigations cost $2,500-$7,500 for comprehensive evidence collection. We provide free consultations and transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Q2: Are private investigators legal in California?

Yes. Private investigators must be licensed by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. Lance Casey holds California PI License #27617 and operates in full compliance with California law. All investigations are conducted legally and ethically.

Q3: What can a private investigator legally do in California?

California private investigators can conduct surveillance from public locations, locate people through skip tracing, perform background checks, gather evidence for legal cases, serve legal documents, and testify in court. We cannot trespass, hack computers, wiretap phones, or impersonate law enforcement.

Q4: How long does a private investigation take?

Investigation timelines vary by case type. Simple background checks may take 1-3 days. Surveillance cases typically require 7-14 days to establish patterns. Complex investigations can take several weeks. We provide timeline estimates during your free consultation.

Q5: Is everything I tell you confidential?

Yes. All client communications and case information are kept strictly confidential. We never discuss your case with anyone except you and parties you authorize (such as your attorney). Attorney-client privilege protects investigations conducted at attorney request.

Q6: Do you work with attorneys?

Yes. We regularly work with Sacramento family law attorneys, criminal defense attorneys, and civil litigation attorneys. We understand attorney evidence requirements, court deadlines, and litigation support needs throughout Northern California.

Q7: Can you testify in court?

Yes. Lance Casey regularly provides expert witness testimony in Sacramento County Superior Court, Placer County Superior Court, and throughout Northern California. We testify regarding investigation methodology, surveillance findings, and evidence authentication.

Q8: What areas do you serve?

We serve Sacramento, Roseville, Elk Grove, Folsom, Citrus Heights, Rancho Cordova, West Sacramento, Davis, Woodland, and all Sacramento County, Placer County, Yolo County, and El Dorado County communities. Statewide California services available for complex cases.

Q9: How do I get started?

Call 800-683-4769 or email info@lancecasey.com to schedule a free confidential consultation. We’ll discuss your situation, explain investigation options, answer questions, and provide honest recommendations with no obligation.

Q10: What if surveillance is detected?

Professional surveillance uses discreet techniques making detection extremely unlikely. We use unmarked vehicles, telephoto lenses, and proven counter-detection methods. In 25+ years, detection is rare due to our experience and professional approach.

Q11: What will the investigation report include?

Your report includes an executive summary, detailed timeline of observations, professional photographs with date/time stamps, video when appropriate, subject identification, locations documented, and investigator credentials. Reports are formatted for court presentation.

Q12: Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Payment plans are available for qualified clients in extended family law and corporate investigation cases. We work with your budget while providing professional investigation services. Discuss payment options during your free consultation.

Q13: Can you find anyone?

While we have high success rates with skip tracing and people location, we cannot guarantee finding every person. Success depends on available information, how long they’ve been missing, and their efforts to remain hidden. We provide honest assessments of location feasibility.

Q14: What’s the difference between surveillance and GPS tracking?

Surveillance involves physically following and observing a subject with investigators. GPS tracking uses devices on vehicles you own or have legal authority to monitor. California law strictly regulates GPS tracking – we only provide it for legally authorized situations.

Q15: How quickly can you start my investigation?

Most investigations begin within 24-48 hours of retainer payment. Emergency cases involving child safety or urgent business matters may receive same-day response. We maintain investigator availability for time-sensitive Sacramento-area investigations.