In the realm of private investigation, possessing law enforcement experience can be a critical asset. Private investigators (PIs) are often called upon to solve complex cases that require a unique blend of skills, knowledge, and intuition. These attributes are honed through years of experience in law enforcement which EXCALIBUR Private Investigation possesses. This article explores the various reasons why having a background in law enforcement is invaluable for private investigators, covering aspects such as expertise, credibility, networking, and ethical standards.
 
Expertise and Skillset
 
One of the primary benefits of law enforcement experience is the expertise and skillset that former officers bring to the table. Law enforcement professionals are trained extensively in various aspects of investigation, including surveillance, interrogation, evidence collection, and crime scene analysis. These skills are directly transferable to private investigation, allowing former officers to approach cases with a depth of knowledge that is difficult to replicate through other means. EXCALIBUR Private Investigation was founded by just such an individual who came to the private investigation industry with over 25 years’ experience. Lee Walters, founder and President, served 25 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and has worked in the private investigation industry for 12 years bringing that wealth of experience to all the firm’s clients.
 
For instance, surveillance is a crucial component of many private investigations, whether it involves tracking a missing person or monitoring a subject for infidelity. Law enforcement officers are trained to conduct surveillance in a discreet and effective manner, utilizing techniques that ensure they remain undetected while gathering critical information. This expertise can significantly enhance the quality and accuracy of a private investigation. Lee served as team leader of the Special Operations Group (SOG) in the Chicago Division of the FBI for over 5 years and was assigned to some of the highest profile investigations in the country. All of EXCALIBUR's investigators are trained in the techniques that were used to much success by the SOG during Lee's service.
 
Credibility and Trust
 
Credibility is a cornerstone of the private investigation industry. Clients seek out private investigators they can trust to handle sensitive and often personal matters. A background in law enforcement lends a significant degree of credibility to a private investigator. Many private investigators, especially in states such as Colorado that don’t require licensing, don’t have the kind of experience former law enforcement officers do. EXCALIBUR’s team of private investigators have a strong ethical foundation, discipline, and a commitment to upholding the law. Unfortunately that can’t be said for some of our competitors.
 
Moreover, law enforcement experience often means that the investigator has undergone rigorous background checks and has maintained a high standard of conduct throughout their career. This can be reassuring to clients who need to share confidential information and rely on the investigator's integrity.
 
 
Networking and Resources
 
Another critical advantage of law enforcement experience is the network of contacts and resources that former agents can access. Throughout their careers, law enforcement professionals build extensive networks within the criminal justice system, including relationships with other officers, forensic experts, and legal professionals. These connections can prove invaluable in private investigations, where collaboration and access to specialized knowledge can make a significant difference. In a recent case we were able to reach out to former FBI Agents in four different states to gather the evidence our client needed. Connections worldwide are just one of the byproducts our firm can offer that other firms just can’t.
 
For example, our private investigators have access to databases and resources that are not readily available to the general public, allowing us to gather information more efficiently and comprehensively.
 
Understanding Legal Boundaries
 
Navigating the legal landscape is a critical aspect of private investigation. Investigators must operate within the confines of the law to ensure that the evidence they collect is admissible in court and that they do not infringe on individuals' rights. Law enforcement officers are well-versed in legal procedures, search and seizure laws, and the rules of evidence. This knowledge helps us conduct investigations that are both effective and legally sound.
 
A private investigator with law enforcement experience is more likely to understand the importance of obtaining warrants, when necessary, the implications of privacy laws, and the proper methods for documenting and preserving evidence. This can prevent legal complications and ensure that the findings of an investigation hold up under scrutiny. Far too many times we’ve had clients who’ve spent hard earned money with one of our competitors in Colorado Springs who don’t have law enforcement experience, hire us after the individual they hired wasn’t able to get what they needed.
 
Handling High-Stress Situations
 
Private investigators often find themselves in high-stress situations that require quick thinking and calm decision-making. Law enforcement officers are trained to handle such situations with composure and professionalism. Whether it involves diffusing a potentially volatile confrontation or making split-second decisions during a stakeout, the ability to remain calm under pressure is a critical skill that former law enforcement officers possess.
 
This ability is particularly important when dealing with cases that involve potential danger, such as investigations into criminal activities or missing persons. A former officer's experience in dealing with dangerous situations can enhance their effectiveness and safety in the field.
 
Ethical Standards and Professionalism
 
Ethical conduct and professionalism are paramount in the field of private investigation. Law enforcement officers are held to high ethical standards throughout their careers, and this commitment to integrity often carries over into their work as private investigators. Clients can trust that a former officer will handle their case with the utmost professionalism and respect for the law.
 
Furthermore, law enforcement experience instills a strong sense of duty and responsibility. Former officers are accustomed to working in environments where accountability is paramount, and this mindset translates well to the private investigation industry. They are more likely to conduct thorough, unbiased investigations and present their findings with honesty and transparency.
 
Conclusion
 
In conclusion, having law enforcement experience is immensely valuable for private investigators. The expertise and skills developed through years of training and practice in law enforcement provide a strong foundation for conducting effective investigations. Credibility, networking opportunities, (we used that network recently in a case that required an investigator in Kenya to gather evidence), legal knowledge, and the ability to handle high-stress situations further enhance the capabilities of former officers in the private investigation field. Ultimately, clients seeking reliable and professional private investigators are likely to find that those with law enforcement backgrounds are exceptionally well-equipped to meet their needs. EXCALIBUR Private Investigation, presently serving Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, and soon to be opening an office in South Carolina, employs a team of investigators from a diverse set of backgrounds including FBI, Secret Service, State Police, Military Police and Academia. Our motto has always been, “There is no substitute for experience,” and all of our investigators have it. Call us today at 719.208.4088 and schedule a free, no-obligation, video or telephone consultation, and learn how we can put our law enforcement experience to work on your case.

A private investigator can provide valuable assistance to a law firm in various ways. Here are some ways the private investigators of EXCALIBUR Private Investigation help law firms we partner with:

1. Gathering Evidence: Private investigators are skilled at collecting evidence that can support legal cases. We conduct thorough investigations, gather witness statements, take photographs, and collect other forms of evidence that can strengthen a law firm's case.
2. Background Checks: The professional private investigators of EXCALIBUR conduct background checks on individuals involved in a case, including parties, witnesses, and opposing counsel. This information can help our law firm partners better understand the people involved and uncover any relevant information.
3. Locating Witnesses: Finding and interviewing witnesses is crucial in many legal cases. Our team has the tools and techniques to locate hard-to-find witnesses and persuade them to cooperate.
4. Surveillance: In cases where surveillance is necessary, such as in personal injury or insurance fraud cases, EXCALIBUR's investigators conduct discreet and legal surveillance to gather information about the activities of individuals involved.
5. Asset Searches: Our professional investigators help our law firm partners locate and identify assets, which can be important in cases involving divorce, financial disputes, or collections.
6. Verifying Information: EXCALIBUR's investigators verify the authenticity of documents, statements, and other information that is pertinent to a case. This can help ensure the accuracy and credibility of the information presented in court.
7. Expert Testimony: Our investigators can provide expert testimony in court based on our investigative findings. With over thirty years of experience in investigations, EXCALIBUR's investigators can easily be qualified as experts. Our professional opinions can lend weight to a law firm's arguments and provide a clearer understanding of complex investigative matters.
8. Research and Due Diligence: Private investigators can conduct in-depth research to uncover information that may not be readily available through public sources. This can assist law firms in building a stronger case strategy.
9. Mitigating Risks: By conducting thorough investigations, EXCALIBUR's team of investigators help our law firm partners identify potential risks, weaknesses, or pitfalls in their cases. This allows the firm to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies.
10. Assisting in Criminal Defense: Private investigators can play a crucial role in criminal defense cases by uncovering new evidence, identifying inconsistencies in the prosecution's case, and helping build a strong defense strategy.
11. Intellectual Property Protection: In cases involving intellectual property infringement or trade secrets, our investigators gather evidence of unauthorized use and help protect a client's valuable assets.

Overall, private investigators can be invaluable allies to law firms by providing specialized skills and resources that enhance their ability to build strong cases, gather evidence, and achieve favorable outcomes for their clients. However, it's important for the law firm to collaborate closely with the investigator, ensuring that all work is conducted ethically, legally, and in alignment with the firm's goals and values which the professional private investigators at EXCALIBUR adhere to on every case.

Need investigative support for your cases? Give us a call today at 719.208.4088 and let us put our experience to work on behalf of your clients. Remember, there is no substitute for experience! And we've got it.

Lee Walters
President - Lead Investigator
​Colorado Springs, Colorado